Ermai Falls, a secret multi-layered waterfall hidden in the foothills of the Ballalarayana Durga range of western ghats in Dakshina Kannada. It is a seasonal waterfall, which comes to full glory in the peak monsoon season. Thick foam-like water slides down the rocky terrain from 75ft and forms a pool at the bottom. The pool is about 5 ft deep and you can waive off the day by going for a swim or taking dip water. However, avoid getting too close to waterfalls during monsoon as the water level tends to increase along with strong currents.
Apart from this, if you are an adventure freak then you can even climb up to different levels of Ermai falls. Usually, you will spot a few of them sitting behind waterfalls and clicking some great pics by making a climb till the middle layer. But, be careful and watch out every step you take as the rocks here are slippery and covered with moss. In fact, don’t climb without the guidance of locals or experienced trekkers as plenty of people have lost their life
In addition to this, there are 2 other waterfalls near Ermayi which can be trekked with the help of locals. However, avoid getting into the jungle on yourself because it is very confusing to find a way out.
This is a remote place and as per locals, gentle giants ”The Elephants” visit this place at night to drink water. Hence, you will not be able to camp anywhere near Ermayi falls, Moreover, there are no eateries or restaurants in and around the corner, so it will be better to carry food.
Ermai Falls Trek Route
Ermai falls are just 3 to 4 Kilometers from Kajoor Darga( masjid) which lies on the main road. You can either hike all the way or take a 2 Kilometer ride, followed by a hike to reach waterfalls. As this waterfall is stuck in dense forests it can only be approached by foot after a certain point.
Once you get down the vehicle, ask the locals for directions, as there are no signboards to guide. Trekking trails involve crossing a few streams, hiking along with some private farms, and strolling parallel to streams amidst jungles for 1.5 Kilometers to reach Ermai Falls. If in case, you are heading to this place during monsoon, when water flow is high, then you can take footbridges built of areca nut logs to cross the stream. Even though you can hear the sound of water gushing down from a distance, waterfalls can only be seen when to get to the final point.
How To Reach Ermayi Waterfalls
Ermayi is 40 mins ride from Ujire town near Dharmastala.No frequent bus services, so it is always better to hire a jeep from Ujire. If you are heading to this destination in your own vehicle, be careful as roads are not in great condition. You have to take a left turn before Mundaje village in the Kajoor Darga route for 10 Km. And, just before the Darga, take the right in Ermayi falls route. Try heading on this road for 1.5 km, followed by a 1.5 Km hike that will lead you to waterfalls.
Rember there are no signboards to guide and even google map routes might miss guide. So, it is better to ask the locals for an accurate route.
Ermayi Falls Information
Timings: 7 Am to 5 Pm
Entry Fee: Rs 20/ head
Trek Distance: 1.5 Km
Difficulty Level: Easy
Trek Duration: 30 Mins
Camping: Not Allowed
Location: Near Kajoor Darga
Distance From Bangalore: 320 Km
Also, read: Didupe Falls Trek
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