Daudas ūdenskritums

Daudas ūdenskritums is a waterfall in a narrow canyon near Sigulda where water drops about two meters into the depths below. The water flows through a steep-sided valley that the Dauda river has carved into the landscape over centuries.

The Dauda river once carried older names like Jurbrenčupīte and Ķillupīte, words from the Livonian language that reflect the region's connection to its original inhabitants. These names faded over time as the river became known by its current designation.

The waterfall resides within the Nurmiži ravine reserve of Gauja National Park, where special permission from the Nature Protection Board enables scientific research.

To reach this waterfall, follow the Sigulda to Nurmiži road and look for markers that point toward it, which lies roughly 500 meters from the main road. The path itself is straightforward to locate if you watch for the signs along the way.

In winter the water freezes and forms icy structures that cover the canyon walls, creating a completely different sight from other seasons. This transformation gives the location an entirely new appearance depending on when you visit.

GPS coordinates: 57.16940,24.90360

Latest update: December 14, 2025 18:02