If you are planning a trip to Karnataka to visit the fascinating waterfalls, you won’t get disappointed. We are listing only 10 of them, but there are more. Pay heed to the beauty of these and you will never regret it! Read on to know more-
List of 10 Best Must-Visit Waterfalls in Karnataka:
1. Jog Waterfalls
Being the second highest in the country, Jog Waterfall has caught the limelight since its inception. The Cascadian waterfall falls from a great height of 253 meters and falls on the rocky terrain to create a phenomenal sound. Located on the border of Shimoga, this waterfall is formed on River Sharavathi.
The waterful is a splendid view to watch as four small cascades emerge from the Jog Waterfall and create a wonderful view. These four small cascades are Rocket, Raja, Rani, and Roarer. The best time to visit the waterfall is from August to December.
- Best Time to Visit: August to December (post-monsoon for full flow).
- How to Reach: Located in Shimoga district, around 30 km from Sagara town. The nearest railway station is Talaguppa.
- Key Attractions: One of India’s highest waterfalls, with a spectacular 253-meter drop, split into four distinct streams – Raja, Rani, Roarer, and Rocket.
- Travel Tips: Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds. Carry rain gear during monsoon visits as the area can get misty and wet. There are viewpoints from both the top and bottom of the falls.
2. Shivanasamudra Waterfall
Originated from River Kaveri and located in Mandya District, Shivanasamudra Falls is one of the most important waterfalls in Karnataka. Visiting the waterfall should always be on your itinerary when you are on a trip to Karnataka.
Local people and tourists visit the falls for trekking, fishing, camping on the rocky terrain, etc. Shivanasamudra Waterfall is also the home of popular hydroelectric projects. The view of this waterfall is breathtaking and you can experience it just by visiting there.
- Best Time to Visit: July to October (during monsoon for maximum flow).
- How to Reach: Located 130 km from Bangalore, it is accessible by road via Mysore Road. The nearest railway station is Mysore.
- Key Attractions: Divided into two falls, Gaganachukki and Bharachukki, creating a stunning sight amidst lush greenery.
- Travel Tips: There are multiple viewpoints; Gaganachukki is best viewed from the Dargah Hazrath Mardane Gaib. Boating is available at Bharachukki for a close view of the falls.
3. Iruppu Waterfall
Irupu Waterfall in Karnataka is also known as Laksmana Tirtha Falls. It has been formed from a stream that originated from Brahmagiri Hill and then joined River Kaveri. This rapid waterfall has fallen from a great height of 170ft and it has come along through several steps.
Surrounded by the dense forest of the Western Ghats, this waterfall creates a surreal beauty. You can enjoy your trip to Irupu Falls by standing beneath the waterfall and playing in the pool, created by it. A day picnic nearby the falls is the best idea to bathe in the beauty of this waterfall.
- Best Time to Visit: August to January.
- How to Reach: Located in the Coorg district, about 80 km from Madikeri. The nearest railway station is Mysore.
- Key Attractions: The waterfall cascades down from the Brahmagiri Range, offering a serene and picturesque spot, especially after the monsoon.
- Travel Tips: A short trek through the forest is required to reach the falls. Ideal for combining with a visit to the nearby Rameshwara Temple.
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4. Gokak Waterfall
Gokak Waterfall is located in the Belgaum District. It falls from the height of 171 feet through a sandstone cliff and often is compared with Niagara Falls. Formed by River Ghataprabha, the horseshoe edge of the waterfall is a view to watch. You can watch the thrilling beauty of this waterfall from the hanging bridge at 201 meters in height.
Standing on it and viewing the ravishing waterfall is a lifetime memory to have! You will also find an old temple of Lord Mahalingeshwara near the waterfall. This temple holds the spectacular Chalukyan architecture to amaze you. To visit the waterfall at its fullest, you can visit it from July to October.
- Best Time to Visit: July to October.
- How to Reach: Located 60 km from Belgaum, the nearest railway station is Ghataprabha.
- Key Attractions: Resembling the Niagara Falls, this waterfall has a 52-meter drop and is known for its reddish-brown water.
- Travel Tips: The hanging bridge near the falls offers an excellent viewpoint. Visit the nearby Gokak Fort and temples for a complete day trip.
5. Abbey Waterfall
Located almost 90kms from Mangalore, Abbey Waterfall is a visual retreat for the viewers. This beautiful waterfall falls from a great height of a mountain and creates a quaint lake below. If you want to spend a day in Karnataka in a relaxed mood and have a picnic with your friends at a lovely spot, visiting Abbey Waterfall can be the best idea.
When you are here, don’t forget to visit the nearby coffee plantation. Sipping through the freshly brewed coffee and enjoying the beauty of the waterfall will always be in your memory. You will love this spot also for amazing photographic prospects.
- Best Time to Visit: November to February.
- How to Reach: Located 8 km from Madikeri in Coorg, easily accessible by road.
- Key Attractions: A popular spot in Coorg, surrounded by coffee plantations and pepper vines, making it a scenic and refreshing visit.
- Travel Tips: The falls are more of a quick stop rather than a full-day activity. Combine your visit with a trip to Raja’s Seat and Madikeri Fort.
6. Achakanya Waterfall
If you want to avoid the common crowd of tourists and want to spend your time in solitary, visiting Achakanya Waterfall in Shimoga can be the perfect destination. This waterfall is less explored and therefore, its beauty of it is almost untouched.
Formed from River Sharavathi, this waterfall takes a leap of 6 to 7ft. and creates a pleasant view for travelers. During the monsoon, you can watch the gorgeous beauty of this waterfall when the gushing white stream speedily falls through the dark green forest. It is a heavenly beauty to experience!
- Best Time to Visit: July to October.
- How to Reach: Located near Thirthahalli in Shimoga district, accessible by road from Shimoga.
- Key Attractions: A lesser-known waterfall, offering a peaceful environment amidst dense forests, ideal for nature lovers.
- Travel Tips: The area is less commercialized, so carry your own food and water. The approach road can be rough, so a vehicle with good ground clearance is recommended.
7. Hebbe Waterfall
To enlist the next waterfall on the list of famous waterfalls in Karnataka, we found Hebbe Waterfall quite apt. The lush greenery around the waterfall is soothing to your eyes while the pool under the waterfall is perfect for having a bath. Plating with water and having fun is regular over here.
Besides, the water of this waterfall has medicinal properties, so it can heal several ailments. When you are planning to visit Hebbe Falls, don’t forget to keep your camera ready!
- Best Time to Visit: October to February.
- How to Reach: Located near Kemmanagundi in Chikmagalur district. The nearest town is Chikmagalur, about 60 km away.
- Key Attractions: The falls are split into Dodda Hebbe (Big Falls) and Chikka Hebbe (Small Falls), cascading through coffee estates.
- Travel Tips: The falls require a jeep ride and a short trek to reach. The terrain can be challenging, so wear proper trekking shoes. Jeep rides can be arranged from Kemmanagundi.
8. Sathodi Waterfall
Have you seen ‘The Jungle Book’? You must have remembered the waterfall that appears from the dense forest and flows over the rocky terrain, right?
Once you visit Sathodi Falls in the Yellapur District of Karnataka, you can revive your memories of watching that movie. This waterfall creates a magnificent view while the forest gives you a thrilling adventurous trip through it.
- Best Time to Visit: November to April.
- How to Reach: Located in Uttara Kannada district, around 32 km from Yellapur. Accessible by road.
- Key Attractions: A hidden gem surrounded by dense forests, the 15-meter high falls create a serene picnic spot.
- Travel Tips: The road to the falls can be rough, especially during the monsoon. Pack food and essentials as there are limited facilities nearby.
9. Kalahasti Waterfalls
The Kalahasti Waterfall from the height of 400ft through the Chandra Drona Hills. The rapid waterfalls in front of the Veerabhadreshwara Temple and it is a view to watch. The entrance of the temple has two gigantic elephant statues and the water from the waterfalls falls on those, creating a mystical scenery.
The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and many people visit the temple while watching the waterfall. The adjacent mountain is home to exquisite flora and fauna. It is believed that the water has healing power for all ailments.
- Best Time to Visit: October to February.
- How to Reach: Located near Agumbe, in the Shimoga district, about 90 km from Udupi.
- Key Attractions: Also known as the mini-Niagara of Karnataka, the falls are surrounded by lush greenery, making it a perfect spot for nature lovers.
- Travel Tips: Requires a short trek through a forested area. Best combined with a visit to Agumbe, known for its stunning sunsets and rainforest biodiversity.
10. Unchalli Waterfall
Unchalli or Lushington Waterfall is only 50km away from Jog Waterfall and a worthy view to watch. Situated amidst the thick forest, this waterfall cascades from 380 feet to create a huge pool beneath.
You need to trek to the waterfall from the entry point and it takes half an hour to reach the waterfall. If you are an adventurist, you can also trek downwards to the falls, but it is only recommended during summer and winter.
- Best Time to Visit: September to February.
- How to Reach: Located near Sirsi in Uttara Kannada district, about 35 km from Sirsi town.
- Key Attractions: Known as Lushington Falls, it plunges from a height of 116 meters, creating a misty spray that is a sight to behold.
- Travel Tips: The trek to the falls can be challenging and slippery. There are multiple viewpoints, but the best view is from the bottom of the falls.
Hopefully, these 10 famous waterfalls in Karnataka are enough to make you interested to plan a trip to Karnataka. These are not enough as there are several other wonderful waterfalls to make your trip even more happening. Make your own list and set on for a journey.
Q: How many famous waterfalls are there in Karnataka?
A: Karnataka is home to numerous famous waterfalls. Some of the well-known ones include Jog Falls, Abbey Falls, Shivanasamudra Falls, and Irupu Falls, among others.
Q: Where is Jog Falls located?
A: Jog Falls, one of the most famous waterfalls in Karnataka, is located in the Shimoga district. It is situated on the Sharavati River.
Q: Are the waterfalls accessible throughout the year?
A: The accessibility of waterfalls in Karnataka may vary depending on the season. It is advisable to check the current conditions before planning a visit. Some waterfalls may have restricted access during the monsoon season due to heavy rainfall.
Q: How tall is Jog Falls?
A: Jog Falls is one of the tallest waterfalls in India, with a height of approximately 830 feet (253 meters). It is a breathtaking sight to behold.
Q: Can I swim or bathe in the waterfalls?
A: The feasibility of swimming or bathing in the waterfalls depends on the specific waterfall and safety guidelines in place. While some waterfalls may allow such activities, others may restrict them due to strong currents or safety concerns. It is recommended to follow any rules or instructions provided by the authorities.
Q: Are there any accommodation options near the waterfalls?
A: Yes, there are usually accommodation options available near popular waterfalls in Karnataka. Many hotels, resorts, and guesthouses can be found in the vicinity, providing a convenient stay for visitors.
Q: How can I reach Abbey Falls?
A: Abbey Falls is located near the town of Madikeri in Coorg district. It can be reached by road from Madikeri, and a short trek is required to access the falls.
Q: Are there any entry fees for visiting these waterfalls?
A: Entry fees, if applicable, may vary for different waterfalls. Some waterfalls may have nominal entry charges or parking fees, while others may be free to visit. It is advisable to check the specific details for each waterfall before your visit.
Q: Can I take my own vehicle to the waterfalls?
A: In most cases, you can take your own vehicle to the waterfalls. However, some waterfalls may have limited parking facilities, and you may need to park your vehicle at designated areas. It is recommended to inquire about parking arrangements beforehand.
Q: Are there any nearby attractions to visit along with the waterfalls?
A: Yes, many waterfalls in Karnataka are located amidst scenic landscapes and offer opportunities to explore the surrounding areas. You may find nearby attractions such as viewpoints, trekking trails, wildlife sanctuaries, or historical sites that can enhance your overall experience.
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