The river originates in the Western Ghats and flows into the Arabian Sea. It is originates at a place called “Hebbagilu” near Agumbe in Thirthahallitaluk in the district of Shivamogga,[1] from an elevation of 730 metres (2,400 ft) above mean sea level. Many tributaries join Varahi at places such as Shettykoppa,[2] Halige, Kollavadi, and Bangaragalli. The annual rainfall varies from 20–1,280 centimetres (7.9–503.9 in).[3] The river joins the Arabian Sea near Kundapura in the district of Udupi in Karnataka.
Kunchikal Falls
The major waterfall is in Hosanagara Taluk, Shimoga. It is about 25 kilometres (16 mi) from the origin of the river. There are falls of 455 metres (1,493 ft) in cascades, popularly known as Kunchikal Falls.[1] The falls do not directly drop, but jump through rocks and boulders. After construction of the dam near Mani village for Varahi Hydro electric project, the water flow in these falls was greatly reduced. Now the falls operate only during the rainy seasons.
Varahi Hydro-electric Project
A hydroelectric dam, called Mani Dam (as it is constructed near Manibail village),[4]
across the Varahi river. Power generation takes place underground.[5] An underground power station built by KPCL uses water from this river near Hosangadi in Udupi district.[1] The dam is near Yadur near Masthikatte, Shimoga District. Many villages got surrounded by water of this dam. Varahi lift irrigation project, using the waters of Varahi river is being constructed since 1979 near Siddapura village of Udupi district.
