introduction
The Dudhsagar waterfall trek is one of the most popular monsoon treks in South India. Located on the Mandovi River in the Western Ghats, Dudhsagar is amongst India's tallest waterfalls with a height of 310 metres. The name 'Dudhsagar' literally translates to 'Sea of Milk' which is owed to the milky white appearance of the water as it gushes down the rocky cliffs.
The Dudhsagar falls trek offers stunning views of the majestic waterfall, the railway tracks passing right next to it, and the surrounding lush green forests of the Bhagwan Mahaveer Wildlife Sanctuary. The moderate difficulty level of the trek makes it doable for most beginners and families. The starting point of the trek is usually the Kulem village which is generally reached from Dudhsagar trek from Bangalore by overnight train.
Here is everything you need to know to plan and undertake the memorable Dudhsagar falls trek from Bangalore:
How to reach Dudhsagar Falls
The Dudhsagar waterfall is located in the South Goa district of Goa, about 60 km from the state capital of Panaji. To reach here from Bangalore, you first need to arrive at the starting point of the trek which is Kulem village in Goa. Here are the details:
By Train from Bangalore - The most convenient way to reach is to board an overnight train from Bangalore to Kulem Road railway station. Some good trains for this route are Rani Chennamma Express, Dudhsagar Express, or Vasco Da Gama - Kulem Passenger. The journey takes around 11-12 hours.
By Flight - You can take a flight from Bangalore to Goa Airport which takes around 1 hour. From the airport, you will need to take a taxi to Kulem village which takes 2-3 hours.
By Bus from Bangalore - There are direct buses from Bangalore to Kulem run by KSRTC which take around 12-14 hours.
Once you arrive at Kulem, you can freshen up before the trek at any of the basic lodges and hotels there. Make sure you reach early in the morning to begin the trek by 7-8 am.
Dudhsagar Trek Routes
There are three main routes to reach Dudhsagar falls, each with varying difficulty levels:
1. Kulem Route (Via Train Tracks):
This is the most popular route taken by most trekkers. The 14 km long trail passes through the Bhagwan Mahaveer Sanctuary. It involves walking on the railway tracks for around 11 km before you reach the waterfall. Though illegal, this route offers the most scenic views of the waterfalls from up close.
Difficulty level: Easy to Moderate
Time taken: 6 hours
2. Trek from Castle Rock:
You can reach the Dudhsagar falls from Castle Rock station which is one stop before Kulem. This involves a guided trek of around 15-16 km through dense forests and streams. The route offers great views but there is no train track walking involved.
Difficulty level: Moderate
Time taken: 7 hours
3. Jeep Track from Mollem:
From Mollem village, shared jeeps can take you on the bumpy off-road track through Bhagwan Mahavir Sanctuary. This 10 km route ends at the Dudhsagar view point. Though shortest, the jeep ride can be very bumpy.
Difficulty Level: Easy
Time taken: 2 hours
Of all routes, we recommend taking the Kulem route for the most memorable experience. Whichever route you take, make sure you go with an experienced guide.
Dudhsagar Trek Itinerary from Bangalore
Here is a sample 2 day itinerary to go on the Dudhsagar falls trek from Bangalore:
Day 1:
- Take overnight train from Bangalore to Kulem (11 hours)
- Arrive at Kulem station early morning
- Freshen up and have breakfast at a lodge
- Start the trek by 8 am through the Kulem route
- Walk along the railway tracks and enjoy jungle views
- Take plenty of breaks to click photos and enjoy nature
- Visit the Dudhsagar waterfall and spend an hour there
- Start descending and reach Kulem by 3-4 pm
- Check into a hotel and relax for the evening
Day 2:
- Wake up early and catch the Kulem to Bangalore return train
- Arrive back in Bangalore by evening
Dudhsagar Trek Permits
To trek in the Bhagwan Mahavir Sanctuary, you need to obtain proper permits and permissions from the Forest Department. Your guide usually takes care of this but make sure to carry valid ID proofs.
The permit fees per person are:
- INR 100 for Wildlife Sanctuary entry
- INR 300 for camera
- INR 50 for Jeep Safari ride from Mollem
Things to Carry
- Trekking shoes - Sports shoes with good grip will also work
- Rucksack bag
- 2 liters of waterbottle
- Some food - dry fruits, snacks, chocolate
- Extra pair of clothes
- Raincoat or poncho (for monsoon)
- Basic medical kit, torchlight
- Cash for food, permits and any emergencies
Tips for Dudhsagar Trek
- Do this trek only during monsoon season (July to Oct) for best views
- Go with a knowledgeable local guide
- Choose the Kulem train route for most fun experience
- Carry minimal luggage and wear comfortable trekking clothes
- Respect nature and do not litter or make noise
- Get permits beforehand to avoid last minute hassle
- There are leeches during monsoon, so wear covered shoes and tuck your pants in socks
- Avoid trekking alone in the wilderness and go in a group
Conclusion
The Dudhsagar waterfall trek is perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers visiting Bangalore. With proper planning as per the tips mentioned, it promises to be a rejuvenating retreat away from city life. The feeling of accomplishment upon conquering this Moderate trek along with memories of spectacular views of Dudhsagar falls will stay with you forever. So pack your bags and embark on this unique Western Ghats sojourn.