Placed in South Coorg, amidst Brahmagiri Ranges, Iruppu falls lie beside Rajiv Gandhi National Park (Nagarole National Park). One of the main tourist attractions of near Coorg, these waterfalls are also called Lakshmana Tirtha Falls, because of being the originating point of River Lakshmana Tirth, a tributary of Kaveri River. This freshwater fall is 60 m in height and gushes swiftly downwards from lush green mountains. It also holds religious importance because of a mythological connection.
During the monsoon season, the fall cascades with greater speed and forms a wonderful sight. A flight of stairs leads you to a bridge that offers nice views of the surroundings. There is a bench also, where you can sit and relax. The forest department has made the arrangements for the same.
Historical Significance
According to legends, Lord Rama and his brother Lakshmana, from the great Hindu epic Ramayana, passed from the region when they were searching for Devi Sita, wife of Lord Rama. When they came at the spot of the falls, Lord Rama felt thirsty and asked Lakshmana to fetch some water for him. Lakshmana shot an arrow into hills and this where Iruppu falls emerged from, the source of the holy River Krishna Tirtha.
The devotees take a dip in the holy waters of the falls to wash away all their sins. There is a temple on the banks of the river, which is near the waterfalls. The temple is Rameshwara Temple, devoted to Lord Shiva. Another temple here is dedicated to Lord Rama.
