Muthyala Madu, Waterfall near Bangalore
Also see: Riverside picnic places around Bangalore
If you are in and around Bangalore, have a half day at your disposal and would want to visit some nice waterfalls or a quite place near the town, head to Muthyala Madu(Muthyala Maduvu, and also sometimes awkwardly called pearl valley). But keep in mind that you can find water in the falls only for some days after it rains. As of writing this, there is good amount of water and I expect it might last for another month.
I was there yesterday and it was my first visit. I was not expecting much and presumed it could be no more than just a small stream. It actually is a small stream but very beautiful, nevertheless. There are a couple of waterfalls in a small narrow valley. The falling water hits the rocks and bounces up in droplets of water all through these waterfalls. And the bouncing and falling droplets in the backdrop of the sun are a visual treat, appear like drops of pearl which brings in the name for Muthyala Madu(Muthu is pearls in Kannada, Madu is a small water body).
If you have not seen the place yet, do not miss being there as early as possible since the amount water should be reducing by the day and you may not get to see much in winter. Of course the fall will come alive next rainy season.
Muthyala Madu Information
It is an hours drive from Bangalore and must be almost 40kms. Its in the periphery of Banneraghatta National Park. To reach the place, head out on Banneraghatta Road, continue beyond Banneraghatta National Park and reach Anekal. Take a right from Anekal and drive for an other 10 minutes to reach the valley. Don’t expect good roads, but you should be able to manage without much problems. An alternate, slightly longer road is to reach Anekal via Attibele by taking Hosur Road. Don’t expect to find any food or accomodation, but unfortunately you can find some one selling beer and soft drinks!! Start early and reach by 8 or 9am to enjoy the quiteness of the valley in early morning and also to avoid noisy day trippers who arrive later in the day.