Ermayi and Didupe Falls Trek from Bangalore (2026) – Waterfalls, Fort & Booking Guide
A glorious waterfall trek surrounded by enchanting countryside views, situated in Dakshin Karnataka, creates soothing and tranquil atmosphere for trekkers
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₹4,999
₹3,999/ person
Trek at a Glance
Duration
2 Days / 1 Night
Distance
8 km
Difficulty
Easy
Pickup → Drop
Bangalore → Bangalore
Category
Waterfall Trek
Ermayi and Didupe Falls Trek Highlights
- Twin waterfall experience – Didupe Falls (4,500 ft) and multi-tiered Ermayi Falls (4,950 ft) both covered in one weekend trip
- Gadaikallu Fort hike – panoramic views from an ancient hilltop fort surrounded by Western Ghats forest
- Shri Sadashiva Rudra Temple – sacred Shiva shrine set in serene forest surroundings on the return route
- Scenic Charmadi Ghat drive – one of Karnataka's most spectacular mountain passes on the return journey to Bangalore
- Homestay in the Western Ghats – dorm or twin-sharing with home-cooked meals, bonfire and complete hills immersion
- All-inclusive at ₹3,999 – transport, meals (Day 1 full board, Day 2 breakfast), accommodation, forest permit & guide; 20% off
Ermayi and Didupe Falls Trek from Bangalore – Distance, Difficulty, Itinerary & Complete Booking Guide
Ermayi and Didupe Falls Trek is a two-day waterfall and nature trek set deep in the Western Ghats of Dakshina Kannada district, Karnataka, near the village of Bollaje. The trek combines two distinct waterfall experiences — Didupe Falls cascading at approximately 4,500 ft and the dramatic multi-tiered Ermayi Falls at 4,950 ft — with a fort hike to Gadaikallu Fort, a visit to the Shri Sadashiva Rudra Temple, and a scenic return drive through Charmadi Ghat. For trekkers from Bangalore, this is one of the most complete waterfall experiences within a single overnight drive of the city.
Trek Basics at a Glance
Trek Name: Ermayi and Didupe Falls Trek
Location: Near Bollaje village, Dakshina Kannada district, Karnataka
Waterfalls: Didupe Falls (~4,500 ft) and Ermayi Falls (~4,950 ft)
Distance: ~8 km total (Day 1: ~4 km to Didupe; Day 2: ~3 km to Ermayi)
Difficulty: Easy
Duration: 2 Days / 1 Night
Accommodation: Homestay (dorm or twin-sharing)
From Bangalore: ~200 km via Charmadi Ghat (overnight drive)
Why Ermayi and Didupe Falls Trek Is a Must-Do
The appeal of this trek is its combination — two completely different waterfalls, each in its own valley and ecosystem, connected by an overnight homestay experience in the hills. Didupe Falls is known for its serene, undisturbed surroundings and the rocky gorge it flows through. Ermayi Falls is the more dramatic of the two — a multi-tiered cascade descending through dense Western Ghats forest with multiple pools and drops. The Gadaikallu Fort hike adds a historical dimension to Day 1, and the Charmadi Ghat scenery on the return drive turns the journey home into an attraction in its own right.
About Didupe Falls
Didupe Falls cascades over rugged rock formations at approximately 4,500 ft in the Dakshina Kannada hills. The surrounding forest is dense and undisturbed, and the approach trail passes through lush forest paths and paddy fields before reaching the base of the falls. The area is known for its clean water, quiet surroundings, and near-complete absence of commercialisation — a genuine off-the-beaten-path waterfall destination.
About Ermayi Falls
Ermayi Falls is the larger and more dramatic of the two waterfalls. Located at approximately 4,950 ft in the Western Ghats, the falls descend in multiple tiers over dark basalt rock, creating a series of cascades and natural pools. The surrounding forest is rich with birdlife and the trail passes through bamboo groves and mixed shola forest typical of the Dakshina Kannada highlands.
Gadaikallu Fort
The Day 1 itinerary includes a hike to Gadaikallu Fort — a ruined hill fort perched on a rocky outcrop with panoramic views over the Western Ghats. The fort provides historical context to the landscape and its vantage point is one of the best viewpoints on the entire trek. The ruins, rocky outcrops, and sweeping green valleys make this a rewarding warm-up before the Didupe Falls trail.
Permits and Regulations
The trek passes through Karnataka Forest Department territory and a forest entry permit is required. Backpackers United includes the forest permit in the package price. Trekkers must carry a valid government-issued photo ID. Swimming at the falls is subject to guide discretion based on current water levels and safety conditions.
Ermayi and Didupe Falls Trek Itinerary
The following detailed itinerary provides a day-by-day breakdown of your exciting Didupe and Ermayi Falls Trek. From your late-evening departure from Bangalore to the moment you arrive back home, we've outlined your activities and experiences to make the most of your trip. Let's dive into the specifics.
Overnight Departure from Bangalore
Your Ermayi and Didupe Falls adventure begins in the late evening. Board the Backpackers United vehicle from your chosen pickup point in Bangalore — Indiranagar Karachi Bakery, Domlur Union Bank, Yeshwanthpur Metro Station, or Gorguntepalya People Tree Hospital. Travel is in a non-AC pushback seater, comfortable for overnight journeys.
Pickup Points:
- Indiranagar – Karachi Bakery
- Domlur – Union Bank
- Yeshwanthpur – Metro Station (market exit)
- Gorguntepalya – People Tree Hospital
The drive to Bollaje village near Dakshina Kannada covers approximately 200 km through the highway and up into the Charmadi Ghat corridor. Arrive at the homestay in the early morning hours, freshen up, and rest briefly before the Day 1 programme begins at breakfast.
Gadaikallu Fort Hike and Didupe Falls Trek
Begin the morning with a hot breakfast at the homestay, taking in the surrounding Western Ghats landscape. The homestay is set in the hills near Bollaje village — the quietude and fresh mountain air are a stark contrast to Bangalore.
Morning – Gadaikallu Fort Hike (~2 km):
Short ascent to the ruined Gadaikallu Fort on a rocky hilltop above the valley
Sweeping panoramic views over forested Western Ghats ridges from the fort vantage point
Historical ruins and boulder outcrops — an engaging warm-up before the main trail
Afternoon – Didupe Falls Trek (~4 km, ~4,500 ft):
Descend from the fort and head to the Didupe Falls trailhead
Trail passes through paddy fields, forest paths and seasonal stream crossings
Reach the base of Didupe Falls — a serene cascade over rugged rocks in an undisturbed forest gorge
Time at the falls for photographs and rest before returning to the homestay for lunch
Evening at the Homestay:
Freshen up and enjoy high tea at the homestay
Dinner with home-cooked local Karnataka cuisine
Bonfire under the hills (weather permitting) to close the day
Ermayi Falls Trek, Shri Sadashiva Rudra Temple & Return
Wake up to your second morning in the hills. Have breakfast at the homestay, then gear up for the day's main trek to Ermayi Falls — the dramatic multi-tiered waterfall that is the centrepiece of Day 2.
Morning – Ermayi Falls Trek (~3 km, ~4,950 ft):
Trail winds through bamboo groves and dense Western Ghats shola forest
Ermayi Falls descends in multiple tiers over dark basalt rock — each level reveals a new cascade and pool
Reach the base for photographs and time by the water before ascending back to the trailhead
Shri Sadashiva Rudra Temple:
Sacred Shiva shrine set in serene forested surroundings, dedicated to Lord Shiva
Known for its spiritual atmosphere and traditional Karnataka temple architecture
Brief stop for blessings or to appreciate the site before continuing the return journey
Return via Charmadi Ghat:
Drive back to Bangalore through the scenic Charmadi Ghat mountain road
Charmadi Ghat — roadside waterfalls, dense forest canopy and hairpin curves with valley views
Self-sponsored lunch stop en route
Arrive back in Bangalore by evening
Best Time to Visit
The best time to do Ermayi and Didupe Falls Trek is from October to February, when both waterfalls are flowing strongly from residual monsoon rains and the Western Ghats forest is at its most lush and photogenic.
Jun – Sep: Monsoon – Waterfalls at Peak
Mar – May: Dry Season
The prime window for Ermayi and Didupe Falls. Both waterfalls carry strong volume from residual monsoon rains, the forest is intensely green, and temperatures are pleasant (15°C–25°C). Clear skies make for excellent photography at the falls and from Gadaikallu Fort. This is the most popular and recommended season.
Jun – Sep
Monsoon
The falls are at their most powerful and dramatic. Ermayi Falls in full monsoon flow is a spectacular multi-tiered cascade. However, trails are slippery, leeches are highly active, and stream crossings can be hazardous after heavy rain. Recommended for experienced trekkers with waterproof gear and leech socks.
Mar – May
Summer
The falls have lower water volume and the forest is less green, but trails are completely dry and leeches are absent. Temperatures climb to 28°C–33°C in the afternoons; the early morning start makes the trek manageable. Accessible for trekkers who cannot travel in other seasons.
Trek Route Breakdown
Homestay Base to Gadaikallu Fort
~2 km approx. 45 minsThe Day 1 morning hike begins from the homestay and ascends a rocky trail through scrub forest to the ruins of Gadaikallu Fort. The ascent involves some rocky scrambling near the top. The fort's hilltop position gives a sweeping panoramic view over the surrounding Western Ghats ridges and forested valleys — the best viewpoint of the entire trek.
Gadaikallu Fort to Didupe Falls
~4 km approx. 2 hrsAfter descending from the fort, the trail follows forest paths through paddy terraces and mixed woodland. The route involves gentle stream crossings and shaded forest walking before descending into the rocky gorge where Didupe Falls cascades at approximately 4,500 ft. The falls are undisturbed and serene — the surrounding forest is dense and sees few visitors compared to more commercial waterfall destinations.
Ermayi Falls Trailhead to Base of Falls
~3 km approx. 1.5 hrsThe Day 2 trek descends from the trailhead into the forested valley of Ermayi Falls at approximately 4,950 ft. The trail passes through dense bamboo groves and mixed shola forest before the sound of the falls signals the destination. Ermayi Falls descends in multiple tiers over dark basalt rock — reach the base of the lowest tier for the full dramatic impact of the cascade.
Inclusions & Exclusions
What's Included
- Transportation from Bangalore and back (non-AC pushback seater)
- Homestay accommodation (dorm or twin-sharing)
- Breakfast, Packed Lunch and Dinner on Day 1
- Breakfast on Day 2
- Forest entry permit
- Local certified guide
- Experienced Backpackers United trek lead
- Sightseeing as per itinerary (Gadaikallu Fort, Shri Sadashiva Rudra Temple)
What's Excluded
- Entry charges to sightseeing locations
- Additional adventure or water activities
- Dinner on Day 2
- Self-sponsored lunch on Day 2 return journey
- Personal expenses
- Anything not mentioned in inclusions
What to Expect
Ermayi and Didupe Falls Trek is one of the rare two-day treks near Bangalore that earns its overnight component entirely on merit. Day 1 is designed as a build — the Gadaikallu Fort hike is a short, energising warm-up with long views over the Western Ghats ridgelines, and Didupe Falls at the end of it is a genuine reward. The forest around Didupe is unusually quiet and undisturbed, and the cascade feels private in a way that more commercial waterfalls do not. Returning to the homestay in the late afternoon, with a day of hills and water behind you and a bonfire ahead, is exactly the kind of reset that a weekend away from Bangalore is supposed to deliver.
Day 2 shifts gears. The Ermayi Falls trail goes deeper into the Western Ghats forest and the falls themselves are more architecturally dramatic — multi-tiered, loud, cold, and framed by dark basalt rock and dense bamboo canopy. The forest on this trail is thick with birdsong and the air carries the smell of wet earth and shola vegetation. By the time you reach the base of Ermayi, you have been in the Western Ghats for almost 36 hours, and the landscape has had time to settle into memory rather than just flicker past.
The return journey via Charmadi Ghat is not an afterthought — it is one of the most scenic mountain drives in Karnataka. The road climbs and descends through a succession of roadside waterfalls, forested cliffs, and hairpin curves with valley views that open and close as the road turns. By the time you reach the Bangalore plains, you have had a genuinely complete two-day experience — two distinct waterfalls, a fort, a temple, a homestay, and a mountain pass — all within a single weekend.
Accommodations
Homestay accommodation near Bollaje village, Dakshina Kannada. Rooms available in dorm or twin-sharing format. Home-cooked local Karnataka meals provided as per the itinerary. Set in the Western Ghats hills with views of the surrounding forest and valleys.
Backpackers United Team
Backpackers experts will accompany the entire trip, and local backpackers will join us along the way.
Forest Entry Permit
Protected forest reserves here operate on a strict slot-based entry system. Every trekker must carry a valid permit issued through the Aranya Vihara portal before the checkpost.
Permit
Included in Package
Certified Guide
Mandatory & Arranged
How Forest Entry Permits Work
Your forest entry permit is pre-arranged and fully included — no separate booking needed on your end.
Permits are issued by the Karnataka Forest Department through the official Aranya Vihara portal.
Carry a valid government-issued photo ID on trek day — Aadhaar, passport, or driving licence.
Your assigned guide will hold the group permit and present it at the forest checkpost on arrival.
Daily entry slots are strictly limited; confirming your booking locks in your permit slot automatically.
Your permit is sorted. Just keep a valid photo ID handy on trek day. Prefer to arrange your own? Follow our step-by-step guide.
Things to Carry
- Trekking shoes with grip (trails involve wet rock and stream crossings at both falls)
- Raincoat or waterproof poncho (essential — waterfall spray and forest drizzle are constant)
- Quick-dry trekking trousers or shorts (avoid jeans — they stay wet for hours)
- 2–3 litres of water (refill at homestay; no water points on trail)
- Light snacks or energy bars for both trek days
- Leech socks (strongly recommended Oct–Feb and Jun–Sep when leeches are active in Western Ghats forest)
- Head torch with extra batteries (for overnight drive arrival and early morning start)
- Sunscreen SPF 50+ and sunglasses
- Power bank and fully charged phone
- Government-issued photo ID (mandatory for forest permit check)
- Personal medicines and basic first-aid
- Change of clothes and dry bag (clothes will get wet at the falls — pack a full spare set)
- Small backpack (20–30 L) for trail essentials; leave main luggage at homestay
Starting from
₹4,999
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Frequently Asked Questions
17 questionsHow can I reserve my slot ?
You can directly reserve your slots by booking on the website, please ensure proper dates are selected before confirming your booking.
How can you confirm your booking?
You can reach out to Backpackers United to get details about your booking and other important information related to your tour packages.
Is it safe for Women travellers ?
Safety and Security Guidelines are followed at all times, and it is our topmost priority. We have certified trek leads (Male/Female) accompanying the participants at all times and our stay follows well-rounded safety measures.
What payment options do I have ?
We have multiple payment options on the website that you can refer to.
Do I need to carry my luggage all the way during Ermayi and Didupe Falls trekking?
You don't have to carry all your extra belongings along the trek. Instead, you can leave them at the campsite or homestay and only take the essential items for the trek, such as raincoats, a flashlight, a water bottle, a lunchbox, and any valuables.
Are there any restroom facilities available along the Trekking route?
Restroom facilities are not available along the trekking route, so it's recommended to utilize these facilities before commencing the trek.
Where is Ermayi and Didupe falls located?
Ermayi and Didupe Falls are located near the village of Bollaje in the Dakshina Kannada district of Karnataka, India.
What is best time to do Ermayi and Didupe falls trek?
The ideal time for the Ermayi and Didupe Falls trek is during the cooler months of October to February when the weather is pleasant and rainfall is minimal.
How far are Ermayi and Didupe Falls from Bangalore?
Ermayi and Didupe Falls are located near Bollaje village in the Dakshina Kannada district of Karnataka, approximately 200 km from Bangalore. The drive takes around 4.5–5.5 hours via the Charmadi Ghat route. Backpackers United operates overnight departures from Bangalore so trekkers arrive at the homestay base in the early morning, maximising time in the Western Ghats.
Is Ermayi and Didupe Falls Trek suitable for beginners?
Yes, this is an Easy-rated trek and is suitable for beginners, families, and first-time overnight trekkers. The trails to both Didupe Falls and Ermayi Falls are well-defined and the total trekking distance across two days is approximately 8 km. No prior trekking experience is required. The main physical requirements are basic fitness for walking on uneven forest terrain and the ability to manage wet rock sections near the waterfalls.
What is the altitude of Ermayi and Didupe Falls?
Didupe Falls is located at approximately 4,500 ft (1,370 m) above sea level, while Ermayi Falls is at approximately 4,950 ft (1,510 m). Both falls are set in the Western Ghats of Dakshina Kannada, and the elevation means temperatures are noticeably cooler than Bangalore — particularly in the mornings and evenings from October to February.
What is included in the Ermayi and Didupe Falls Trek package?
The ₹3,999 per person package includes: transportation from Bangalore and back (non-AC pushback seater), accommodation at a homestay (dorm or twin-sharing), Breakfast + Packed Lunch + Dinner on Day 1, Breakfast on Day 2, forest entry permit, local guide, and experienced Backpackers United trek lead. Not included: Dinner on Day 2, entry charges to sightseeing locations, personal expenses, and additional adventure or water activities.
What is the homestay accommodation like?
Accommodation is at a homestay near Bollaje village in the Dakshina Kannada hills. Rooms are available in dorm or twin-sharing format. The homestay provides home-cooked local Karnataka meals included in the package — breakfast, packed lunch, and dinner on Day 1, and breakfast on Day 2. The setting is quiet, surrounded by Western Ghats forest and hills. A bonfire is arranged in the evening on Day 1 depending on weather conditions.
Can I do Ermayi and Didupe Falls Trek during monsoon?
Yes, the trek is possible during monsoon (June to September) and both falls are at their most powerful and dramatic during this season. However, you should be prepared for slippery trails, active leeches in the forest, and stream crossings that may be higher after heavy rain. Carry waterproof trekking shoes, a rain poncho, leech socks, and a dry bag for valuables. The monsoon version of this trek is recommended for experienced trekkers rather than beginners.
What is Gadaikallu Fort?
Gadaikallu Fort is a ruined hill fort perched on a rocky outcrop near the trek base area in Dakshina Kannada. The fort offers one of the best panoramic views over the surrounding Western Ghats landscape on the entire trek. The hike to the fort (approximately 2 km) is done in the morning of Day 1 as a warm-up before the Didupe Falls trail. The ruins, rocky outcrops, and sweeping valley views make it a worthwhile stop in its own right.
What is the Shri Sadashiva Rudra Temple?
Shri Sadashiva Rudra Temple is a sacred Hindu shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva, visited on the return journey on Day 2 after the Ermayi Falls trek. The temple is known for its serene spiritual atmosphere and traditional Karnataka temple architecture, set amid the forested hills of Dakshina Kannada. It is a brief stop for trekkers who wish to seek blessings or appreciate the site before continuing the return drive via Charmadi Ghat.
What are the pickup points from Bangalore for this trek?
Backpackers United picks up trekkers from four locations across Bangalore: Indiranagar (Karachi Bakery), Domlur (Union Bank), Yeshwanthpur (Metro Station market exit), and Gorguntepalya (People Tree Hospital). Pickups are in the late evening — confirm the exact time with the Backpackers United team after booking. All passengers travel together in a non-AC pushback seater vehicle for the overnight journey to Dakshina Kannada.
Transparent cancellation policy
Good to know
- Once a flight or train is booked, it is non-refundable.
- Minimum 8 trekkers required for group departures. If the group falls below 8, you'll be offered an alternative.
- In case of weather, strikes or government restrictions, trips may be modified. Cash refunds aren't issued in such cases.
- 5% GST + 3% booking fee is non-refundable on all bookings.
| Days before | Charge | Refund |
|---|---|---|
| 15–30 days | 25% | 75% refunded |
| 7–15 days | 50% | 50% refunded |
| 3–7 days | 75% | 25% refunded |
| 0–3 days | 100% | No refund |