Belthangady: Trekking, waterfall restrictions to be lifted from June 1

Mangalore Today News Network

Belthangady, May 25, 2026: Trekking destinations and major waterfalls across Belthangady taluk will once again be open to tourists from June 1. The Wildlife Division of the Forest Department had earlier imposed restrictions in January on visits to popular spots such as Netravathi Peak, Bandaje Falls and Gadayikallu.

The restrictions were primarily enforced to prevent forest fires during the summer months and to facilitate tiger census activities. Malavanthige village in the taluk, which falls under the Kudremukh National Park limits, is home to several tourist attractions. While the region attracts a large number of trekkers and nature lovers, the risk of forest fires in the dense forest areas increases significantly during summer. Since visitors often ignored safety precautions, the Forest Department imposed the ban as a strict preventive measure.

Following recent summer rains, the forest areas have now become moist and lush green, while streams have started flowing normally again. With the threat of forest fires subsiding, authorities have decided to lift the restrictions. Kadamagundi and Bolle waterfalls have already been reopened to the public, while Ermayi Falls, located on private property, did not face such entry restrictions.

Gadayikallu in Nada-Laila village, another major trekking destination situated at an altitude of 1,700 feet above sea level, will also be accessible from June 1. Entry to the site had been banned in February due to fire alerts and tiger census operations. However, officials said access to Gadayikallu may once again be restricted during peak monsoon if heavy rains make the rocky terrain dangerously slippery.

The Forest Department has issued strict guidelines for visitors:

* Tourists and trekkers must give priority to maintaining environmental cleanliness.
* Strict action will be taken against those involved in illegal or undesirable activities.
* Entry will be allowed only during designated daytime hours, from morning till evening. Night stay is strictly prohibited.
* Visitors must strictly follow all rules prescribed by the Forest Department.
* Wandering outside areas designated by the department is not permitted.
* Every visitor must carry a valid original identity card. Entry will be denied without valid identification.