How to Access the Secret Bile Waters and Rotten Canals in Hollow Knight: Silksong

In addition to hidden items, Hollow Knight: Silksong also features entire secret levels. On the eastern side of the game map, there are two hidden locations connected to each other. Let’s say right away, these are not the most pleasant places — players will encounter a suffocating atmosphere, numerous traps, debuffs, and complex routes. These levels are quite large and packed with content, so you’ll definitely want to visit them. In this guide, we’ll explain how to access the Bile Waters and Rotten Canals.

To access this area, Hornet will need the ability to climb walls and an open path to the Valley of Sinners. Find the vertical shaft next to the character named Styx. On the right side of the shaft, there is a breakable wall that can only be reached by wall-jumping or using a double jump. Break the wall—behind it is a passage to the secret level.

The Bile Waters are a putrid swamp with murky tunnels and plenty of traps. There are two routes here, each leading to its own challenge. The southern path takes you into a maze called the Mist, where navigation is extremely difficult. At its end dwells the boss Phantom. Defeating him unlocks the parry mechanic. The second route is a long and exhausting platforming section, at the end of which Hornet gains access to the second secret area—the Rotten Canals.

To enter here, you’ll need to master the double jump and have access to the Choir Chambers in Act Two. Head to Memoriam—a zone at the top of the Citadel. To the west, near the Songclaw corridor, there is a section of ceiling leading to a hidden segment of Memoriam. You can only reach it with a double jump. Descend to the eastern lower part of Memoriam—there you’ll find the card room. In the ceiling, a secret passage is hidden, which leads outside to the outer part of the Citadel. Move right along the bridge to the stone wall at the eastern edge. Behind a breakable wall is the entrance to the Rotten Canals.

There is also an alternative route: the path through Bilwater. There you’ll have to overcome a vast vertical platforming section without a single bench for saving. At the zone’s border, Hornet will face a tough battle with an enemy and a boss—this route is only suitable for experienced players, as it is significantly more difficult than the standard one.

At the very bottom of the channels, you’ll meet the character Huntress, whose hut stands among water teeming with worms. She will offer you a series of Brood Feast quests—tasks that are noticeably harder than regular hunting assignments.

In addition, the area is filled with many secrets, rare items, and unique events, making exploration even more rewarding and expanding the Hollow Knight: Silksong experience.