Tragedy in Chikkamagaluru: Missing 15-Year-Old Palakkad Girl Found Dead in Manikyadhara Valley

CHIKKAMAGALURU: The intensive four-day search for 15-year-old Sreenanda, a Class 10 student from Palakkad, Kerala, ended in heartbreak on Friday. Search teams located her body deep within a steep valley near the Manikyadhara waterfalls in the Chandradrona mountain range.

The Discovery

After nearly 90 hours of trekking through treacherous terrain, a 100-member rescue team—comprising the Chikkamagaluru police, fire services, forest officials, and local volunteers—spotted the body approximately 1,200 to 1,500 feet below the viewpoint.

Authorities utilized advanced thermal drones and a dog squad to navigate the dense fog and rocky cliffs that had hampered search efforts since Tuesday evening.

Background of the Incident

Sreenanda, a resident of Kadambazhipuram in Palakkad, was visiting the popular tourist destination as part of a 40-member group consisting of family and friends. She was reported missing around 5:30 PM on Tuesday after she reportedly stepped away from the group to take photographs near the cliffside.

When she failed to return to the parked bus, her family alerted the local police, triggering one of the largest search operations the district has seen in recent years.

Investigation Details

Chikkamagaluru Superintendent of Police, Jitendra Kumar Dayama, confirmed the recovery of the remains. “The body was found in a highly inaccessible part of the valley. Preliminary observations suggest a fatal fall from the viewpoint,” officials stated.

While the primary theory points toward an accidental slip while taking photos, the police have registered a case and are investigating all angles, including the possibility of a deliberate act. The body has been moved to a local hospital for a post-mortem examination before being handed over to the grieving family.

Safety Concerns at Manikyadhara

The incident has once again raised concerns regarding tourist safety at the Baba Budangiri and Manikyadhara viewpoints. Frequent heavy mist and lack of high-level fencing in certain steep sections make the area high-risk for visitors. Local authorities are expected to review safety protocols and restricted access zones following this tragedy.