Shivanasamudra is a small town located in the Mandya district of Karnataka, India.
It sits along the Kaveri River, which also marks the border with Chamarajanagar district.
The town is well known for housing one of Asia’s first hydroelectric power stations, set up in 1902.
Visitors usually get down at Satyagala Hand Post, which is just 2 km from the falls.
From there, you can easily reach the site by auto-rickshaw, as they frequently run between the Hand Post and the waterfalls.
places to visit in Shivanasamudra
Madhyaranga Temple
Located in Shivanasamudra, the Madhyaranga Temple is dedicated to Lord Ranganatha, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu.
It is one of the three sacred Ranganatha temples along the Cauvery River.
The temple is peaceful and surrounded by natural beauty.
Devotees come here for blessings and spiritual solace.
Its heritage and setting make it a quiet, soulful destination.
Gaganachukki Falls Viewpoint
This viewpoint offers breathtaking sights of the mighty Gaganachukki Falls.
The waterfall drops nearly 98 meters and is best visited during the monsoon.
It’s a popular spot for photography and nature lovers.
The thunderous sound of water is both thrilling and soothing.
There are safety railings and clear viewpoints for visitors.
Doddamakali Riverside
Doddamakali is a serene riverside destination in Karnataka.
It’s ideal for birdwatching, angling, and camping.
The area is known for its natural beauty and calm environment.
This offbeat spot is surrounded by hills and thick forest.
It’s perfect for a peaceful retreat in the lap of nature.
Ganalu Falls
Ganalu Falls is a hidden gem near Shivanasamudra formed by the Kaveri River.
Located in a small village, it offers a raw and untouched natural charm.
There are no official signboards, so local guidance is helpful.
The trek to reach the falls adds a touch of adventure.
It’s a great place for a quiet visit away from the crowd.
Shivanasamudra Falls
These majestic falls are formed as the Kaveri River splits into twin streams.
The segmented waterfalls crash down rugged cliffs, offering a grand spectacle.
It’s one of the most famous waterfalls in Karnataka.
During monsoon, the falls are at their most powerful.
It is also home to one of Asia’s first hydroelectric power stations.
Cauvery River
The Cauvery is a major river flowing through Karnataka and Tamil Nadu.
Known as “Ponni” in Tamil, it is sacred and supports agriculture.
The river feeds many waterfalls including Shivanasamudra and Barachukki.
It is also crucial for hydroelectric power and irrigation.
Its banks are home to temples, towns, and lush greenery.
Barachukki Falls
Barachukki is the broader and more popular counterpart to Gaganachukki.
It features graceful, segmented water streams falling over rocky terrain.
Access is easier with steps leading down to a closer view.
The area is surrounded by greenery, making it scenic.
It’s especially crowded during weekends and monsoon.
Talakad Temple
Talakad houses several ancient temples buried under sand dunes.
It has a mysterious history tied to legends and dynasties.
The temples are mostly dedicated to Lord Shiva.
It’s a spiritual site visited by pilgrims and history buffs.
The area is also known for its unique shifting sands.
Shimshapura Falls
Shimshapura Falls is created by the Shimsha River, a Kaveri tributary.
The river flows from Devarayanadurga hills and forms scenic waterfalls.
The falls are especially impressive during the rainy season.
The surrounding region is green and hilly.
It’s a calm and lesser-known destination for nature lovers.
Shimsha Dam (Markonahalli Dam)
This dam was built in the early 20th century for irrigation.
Located on the Shimsha River, it’s a feat of historic engineering.
It supplies water to over 6,000 hectares of farmland.
Constructed by Krishnaraja Wodeyar IV, it shows traditional design.
The site is peaceful and great for a short visit.
Cauvery Wildlife Sanctuary
This sanctuary protects the forest area along the Cauvery River.
It spans districts like Mandya and Chamarajanagar in Karnataka.
It shelters animals like elephants, leopards, otters, and fish species.
The sanctuary is great for nature walks and eco-tourism.
It plays a vital role in river and forest conservation.
Best Time to Visit Shivanasamudra
The ideal time to visit Shivanasamudra is during the monsoon season from June to September, when the Kaveri River is in full flow and the waterfalls—Gaganachukki and Barachukki—are at their most majestic. The heavy rains swell the river, turning the segmented falls into a thunderous and breathtaking sight. While the area remains accessible year-round, post-monsoon months (October–November) offer slightly calmer weather with scenic beauty, though the water volume begins to reduce. Summers (March to May) are hot and dry, and the falls are relatively subdued during this time.
