Hogenekal
Falls : 14-1-2012:
Hogenekal Falls or smoky mountains is
situated some 190 kms from Mysore. The route: Mysore-T
Narsipura-Moogooru-Kollegal on NH 212. This stretch is in a good condition.
After Kollegal, roads become bad as you pass through Hannur, Kowdahalli till
Male Mahadeswara Betta on SH 79. After Male Mahadeswara Betta, the Ghat section
is in a bad shape due to some pipe work going on. However, once the ghat ends,
roads are good again, but bit narrow. So, around 60 % of the 190 kms is in bad
condition. It took me 5.5 hours of driving to cover these 190 kms which
included photo sessions and food breaks. The Ghats are
very scenic and one can see layers of mountains one after the other.
After reaching the falls, I took a small
boat (coracles). It took
about an hour (minimum time) to go to the falls and come back. If you want to
spend some time bathing and seating there, then add another hour to it. It was good
fun altogether in the coracle. After coming back I tasted the fish fry at the river
bank. The fish fry is very good at the Hogenekal falls. After the stomach Gods
were appeased, it was time to move back to Mysore. While returning back, I had
a lucky save in the Ghats. After I had crossed one section, there was a
dynamite blast. Thank God. Driving back in the evening was a chore with pesky
insects (attracted by the headlight) and high beam of oncoming vehicles
blinding your vision. But, still, this route does not have very heavy traffic.
Finally I reached the cozy confines of my room for a good sleep.
Notes:
- To and Fro from Mysore: 380 kms.
- There is a Rs 10 Entry and Exit Fee at Male Mahadeswara Betta.
