Kolar and Chikkaballapur are two notoriously drought-prone districts in Karnataka. Inspite of this, there are green patches and waterfalls much to the relief of the people residing here. The people here can partake in the joys of nature, thanks to these rare gifts bestowed here.

Infact, there is no need to go to Malnad to enjoy the waterfalls. Ketenahalli village in Chikkaballapur taluk, has been generously bestowed with thick forests and greenery. Amidst this is the beautiful and breathtaking Jaramadagu waterfalls, which gives the visitors the pleasure of Malnad waterfalls.

The Jaramadagu waterfalls is at its best during monsoon. The breathtaking waterfalls leaves the onlookers spell-bound. It mirrors the beauty of this region and once can recollect the Abbi waterfalls of Kodagu district.

The waterfalls is surrounded with greenery. A long valley is marked amidst the greenery, which is marked with trees on either sides. And the vibrant sound of the water which falls here. The waterfalls is located in the north of Chikkaballapur, on the way to Ketenahalli, in the forest area which is about 14 kms away. Amidst the five mountains - Nandagiri, Skandagiri, Brahmagiri, Divyagiri and Vishnugiri, Jaramadagu water falls at the height of 90 feet.

During monsoon, when the waterfalls is surrounded by mist, the beauty of the falls can be heard from far off. And when the curtains of fog dilute, the waterfalls makes its presence felt through its breathtaking flow.

A walk

Vehicles can go upto Jangamarappanahalli, which has a concrete road, on the way to Ketenahalli. From there, one should turn to the left and take a three-km walk upto the waterfalls, which is marked with small streams and forest. The way from here is quite difficult to tread, however, the view of the waterfalls makes one lose all the fatigue.

The rainfall in the valley region of Ketenahalli, flows and falls as Jaramadagu falls. Here, every year, the rainwater flows to Gowribidnur and from there, it further flows to the borders of Andhra.
Thus water is wasted during monsoon.

About two kilometres away from the waterfalls, there is an area called Soodikunta Tadi. According to the people residing here, if a small dam is constructed here and the water is collected here, this could be utilised for drinking water purpose, to the entire Chikkaballapur City and also, to almost all the villages in Chikkaballapur taluk.

An elder from Jangamarappanahalli village says, Sir M Vishweshwaraiah had visited these forests and had stayed here for a week’s time and had instructed the engineers then to construct a dam here.

From what the old man says, probably there could be truth in the matter, since, even today, water during monsoon is seen flowing in the valley, which further assumes the size of a big river. Several elderly people in the village have spotted this river, who visit the forest for grazing animals here.

Even during the most dry seasons, water is said to be available here. The cattle and other animals quench their thirst from the river.

Even during some of the extreme periods of dry spell, for the last four years, animals could find water here, the villagers say. Infact, if the Government decides on constructing a dam here, it would be one of the best ideas, if implemented. A review of the entire area is required in this regard.