Daijiworld Media Network – Sagara

Sagara, Apr 27: The iconic Jog Falls, one of India's tallest and most spectacular waterfalls, will reopen for tourists and the public from May 1. The entry was temporarily restricted due to major development work being undertaken at the main entrance and surrounding areas, forest minister Eshwar Khandre confirmed.

After nearly four months of dedicated work, the Jog Falls premises are now equipped with enhanced facilities for visitors, including a new viewing tower, improved parking arrangements, and a modernised entry gate. Access to the falls had been restricted till April 30 to ensure the smooth completion of these projects.

Speaking about the developments, Shivamogga deputy commissioner Gurudatta Hegde announced through an official release that with all works completed, tourists would be permitted to visit Jog Falls from May 1 onwards.

Earlier, the entrance was closed from January 1 to March 15. However, as construction work remained unfinished, authorities extended the restriction till April 30.

Entry fees and parking charges revised

Jog Falls, renowned for its breathtaking beauty, especially during the monsoon season, continues to be a magnet for nature lovers and families alike. Visitors keen to experience the splendour of the falls will now have to adhere to revised entry and parking charges.

The entry fee for Indian nationals is Rs 20 per person, while foreign tourists are charged Rs 100. Students between 6 to 16 years of age can enter for a concessional fee of Rs 10.

Parking charges have been updated as follows:

•    Bus – Rs 20

•    Tempo traveller, Mini bus – Rs 150

•    Auto rickshaw – Rs 40

•    Two-wheeler – Rs 30

Photography enthusiasts will need to pay Rs 100 for cameras, while those wishing to use drone cameras will be charged Rs 500.

Adding to this, visitors will now be allowed to view the falls for a maximum of two hours per visit — a measure introduced to regulate crowd movement and ensure a smooth experience for all.

Jog Falls, formed by the Sharavathi River, is a jewel in Karnataka’s tourism crown, and the newly enhanced facilities are expected to further enrich the visitor experience as the monsoon season approaches.