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Where to Go to See Waterfalls in India?

Where to Go to See Waterfalls in India?
Last Updated: June 28, 2018

Says who, that for getting the best views of waterfalls you have to go to the Niagara Falls?? In fact, India has a number of gorgeous cascading waterfalls that are no less than any Niagara Falls! South India is best known for its high altitude waterfalls that are usually set amidst spectacular lush green mountains in utter pristine environs. However, it is not only the South that allures tourists; North East, Central and even West India have a sizable number of waterfalls that attract a large number of nature enthusiasts. Since travelling is all about exploring something new every now and then, we thought this list can prove to be helpful in your further exploration ventures in India.

Here is the list of best 20 waterfalls that you can see in different states in India:

Kerala:

True…that the backwaters, beaches, tea gardens and ayurveda welcomes you at Kerala. BUT if you look a bit further waterfalls in Kerala are definitely worth seeing and praising. Here are the best 4 waterfalls in Kerala:

Athirapally:

AthirapallyReckoned to be the Niagra Falls of India, Athirapally Falls in Thrissur district of Kerala is a delight to see. Falling from a height of 80 feet to finally merge into Chalakudy River, this fall is amongst the most beautiful waterfalls in India. The best time to visit Athirapally Falls is during the monsoon when the waterfall is at its best! This fall has become quite popular amongst tourists and did not stay unnoticed by Bollywood as well. Movies like Dil Se, Guru and Raavan have quite a few scenes that had been shot at Athirapally Waterfalls.

Vazhachal:

Vazhachal At a short distance of about 5kms from Athirapally Falls is the waterfall called Vazhachal. This waterfall also drops from a great height and has a beautiful backdrop of lush green Sholayar ranges. Vazhachal like Athirapally is a popular picnic spot. The scenic view, pristine beauty of the nature and the unparalleled tranquillity makes this place popular amongst nature lovers and photographers.

Thommankuthu:

thommankuthu-falls The seven-step waterfall, Thommankuthu is located about 27kms from Thodupuzha in Idukki district. Nature lovers come to this place to witness the falling of silvery water through seven descending rocks with an incredible backdrop of verdant green rolling hills. The origin of this waterfall is a small stream that snakes through the hills of the nearby area. Trekking is the best way to reach here, one has to take up 12kms of laborious trekking that eventually brings you to a place that is nothing short of a reward!

Meenmutty Falls:

Meenmutty-Fall Falling from the height of 300m, Meenmutty falls is the second largest waterfall in Kerala. A 2kms trek takes you to a place where you can takesome of the most extraordinary views in the state. This beautiful waterfall is situated about 29kms from Kalpetta in Wayanad district. It is regarded as a three-tiered waterfall as the water cascades in steps to finally touch the pool beneath. Amidst the lush deciduous forest and irreplaceable serenity, Meenmutty Falls is the nature lovers’ paradise.

Karnataka:

Undeniably the state of Karnataka blends in the best flavours of culture, tradition, landscape; hospitality and timelessness, wherein the scenic waterfalls in the state unquestionably add further grace. Here are the very best of Karnataka’s waterfalls:

Jog Falls:

jog-falls This is one scenic view that you would not forget for a long time. Jog Falls, which is situated on the border of Shimoga and North Kanara in Karnataka, is spectacular piece of nature. It is the River Sharavati that untiered cascades from a height of 829ft in the form of four different waterfalls. The names of these four waterfalls are Raja, Rani, Roarer and Rocket. Gerusoppaa Falls, as it is popularly called, is one of the tallest waterfalls in India and also one of the most famous. During the monsoon season, Jog Falls comes to life during the monsoon and as soon as the weather changes to winter, the bright sun enables to see a beautiful rainbow around the fall.

Iruppu Falls:

Iruppu-falls Said to have originated from the arrow that Lord Rama’s brother shot at the hill, Iruppu Falls is one fascinating places to see in Karnataka. Situated in Coorg in the Brahmagiri range of hills, Iruppu is one of the most popular places in Coorg. Taking a plunge of about 60ft, Iruppu Falls offers an incredibly scenic picture to the nature lovers. The highway to Nagarhole leads to the feet of the Iruppu Falls, where a pair of well-maintained staircase takes you up to the hill. From here the view of the waterfall is magical! At some distance from the fall is the famed Rameshwara Temple, where it is believed that Lord Rama himself made the Shiva Linga. Truly a gorgeous place to visit, Iruppu Falls should be in the list of all tourists thinking of a holiday in Karnataka.

Shivasamudram Falls:

shivasamudram-falls The whimsical Kaveri cascades from a height of 320ft into a deep gorge to offer an unlikely view of Shivasamudram Falls. Situated about 80kms from Mysore in Mandya district, Shivasamudram Falls is amongst the most beautiful waterfalls in Karnataka. The fall has twin jumps; the western falls is called Gagana Chukki and the eastern falls is known as Bara/Bhara Chukki. The nature enthusiasts come here to enjoy the breathtaking view and to click beautiful pictures of nature.

Kunchikall Falls:

Kunchikal-falls Being one of the less explored waterfalls in India, Kunchikall Falls have been able to maintain a serene ambiance around it. Situated in Masthikatte-Hulikal under the Hosanagara taluk of the Shimoga district in Karnataka, the fall is formed by the Varahi River. Plunging 455m down the boulders and rocks, Kunchikall Falls also ranks as one of the highest waterfalls in India. Camera-yielders are going to love this place as it offers brilliant opportunity for photography. Jogi Gundi Falls, Agumbe Hill Station, Nibhani Gudda are the attractions near the Kunchikall Falls.

Meghalaya:

Reckoned to be the abode of clouds, Meghalaya has been the true reflection of the beauty of India. Blessed with the very best of nature, the state is also the abode of some mesmerizing waterfalls. Here are the two most famous ones:

Nohkalikai Falls:

Nohkalikai-falls Absolutely one of the most stunning waterfalls in India, Nohkalikai is one waterfall that you must witness once in your lifetime. A streak of white water flowing down from a height of 335m, Nihkalikai Falls is one scenic view! Situated close to Chherapunji, Meghalaya, the waterfall is located amidst a green gorge that looks massive. It is believed that the waterfall got its name from the aftermath of the incident in which a Khasi tribe woman name Ka Likai threw herself into the waterfall after realizing that she has eaten her own daughter. A tragic story as it is, it has, however, earned this waterfall a lot of fame.

Langshiang Falls:

Langshiang--falls Truly spectacular! Langshiang Falls that are situated in the West Khasi Hills district of Meghalaya are worth seeing. Created by the River Kynshi, the fall takes a plunge into a pool from a height of 337m and thus is one of the highest waterfalls in India. Cascading amidst the lush green deep gorge, Langshiang proffers a beautiful picture that is cherished by all who has the good fortune of witnessing it. The falls are just at a distance of about 10kms away from Nongkhnum Island (Meghalayas’s biggest river island).

Maharashtra:

Diversity comes natural to Maharashtra; this dynamic state is simply beautiful in all senses. Along with hosting a number of impeccable tourist destinations, Maharashtra is also home to some lovely waterfalls. Here are the two best destinations of the state:

Kune Falls:

Kune-falls Situated in the heart of Lonavala Khandala Valley, Kune Falls is amongst the most popular waterfalls in Maharashtra. It is a three tiered waterfall that drops down from a height of 200m. Kune falls attracts lots of tourists and is often crowded with weekenders and other nature lovers almost all through the year. The best time to visit this fall would be during the monsoon, when the fall is in its full swing!

Thoseghar Falls:

Thoseghar-falls Monsoon in India brings many a waterfalls in the country alive; amongst such waterfalls is the Thoseghar Falls that is situated around 20kms away from Satara city. This waterfall has been the popular haunt of many people in Maharashtra; in other words it is one of the most preferred places in the state. It is also one of the lesser explored falls and has thus managed to keep its natural environs calm and immaculate. Thoseghar Falls can be the best escape for calm and quite outings in Maharashtra.

Tamil Nadu:

The land of temples, splendid culture and traditions, Tamil Nadu has been bestowed with nature’s best as well. Along with forming India’s southern tip, it is the home to many beautiful waterfalls like these:

Hoggennakal Falls:

Hoggennakal-falls Amidst the Melagiri Hills the water spills with a great force =into deep pool,often this view gives out an impression of smoke rising up to the mountains. Hoggennakal Falls is a scenic waterfall that is situated in Dharamapuri district of Tamil Nadu. Dropping down from an elevation of about 250m, Hoggennakal Fall not only offers a scenic picture but also has proven to have medicinal benefits. Therefore a large number of people come here in the hope of getting healed. Oil massages near the waterfall also is an important attraction of the place. Also, the boat ride in the nearby area on locally made boats called Teppa is yet another major alluring factor here.

Thalaiyar Falls:

Thalaiyar--falls Thalaiyar Falls or Rat Tail Falls, as it is popularly called, is amongst the tallest and most beautiful waterfalls in Tamil Nadu. Pouring down from a height of 297m, this waterfall actually looks like a rat tail when viewed from a distance. The waterfall is situated in Palani Hills of Dindigul District in Tamil Nadu. Trekking is the only way to reach here; however, there are restrictions to the distance that one can cover (due to many accidents during hiking). Offering some of the most magical natural views, Thalaiyar Falls is absolutely a nature lover’s paradise!

Arunchal Pradesh:

Arunachal Pradesh, which receives the first rays of the sun, blossoms like a sunflower! A surreal land that captivates the heart of many, Arunachal is the land of some lesser known yet magnificent waterfalls as well. Here is one of the best:

Jang Falls:

Jang--falls Reckoned to be one of the most gorgeous waterfalls in India, Jang Falls in Arunachal Pradesh is definitely a place that you should visit. Also known as Nuranang Falls, it is situated about 40kms from Tawang town and thus makes for a major attraction in the state. It is created by Nuranang River that originates from the nearby area of Sela Pass that finally drops down amidst the green mountains from a height of 100m. This stunning fall came into the limelight after the song from the movie Koyla featuring Madhuri Dixit was filmed here.

Rajasthan:

As vivacious is the culture of Rajasthan, so is the beauty of its landscape. Often called as a land of desert, Rajasthan is surprisingly possesses few scenic waterfalls as well. Here is one of the most popular one:

Bhimlat Falls:

bhimtal-fall Cutting off the stereotypical image of Rajasthan, where it is considered a dry, arid area with scanty water, Bhimlat Falls is yet another pride of Rajasthan. Merely 60m in height, this fall can be good competition to any of the waterfalls in India in terms of beauty. Situated on Bundi-Chhitorgarh road, this beautiful waterfall has a mythological story related to its origin. It is believed that Bhim (one of the Pandava brothers) created it for his mother Kunti. However, according to history, the waterfall came into being after an earthquake.

Odisha:

Vibrant and culturally rich Odisha is nothing short of a heritage to India. Adorned with resplendent architecture and dotted with natural beauty, this east coast state of India is also the shelter for a few attractive waterfalls. Here is one of the most popular one that you must visit:

Barehipani Falls:

barehipani-falls Simlipal National Park has another attraction other than its abundant wildlife and it is called the Barehipani Falls. Formed by the Budhabalanga River, the fall is situated in the Meghasan mountain of Mayurbhanj district. Gurgling its way down from an altitude of about 399m and located amidst lush green mountains, Barehipani offers a spectacular view. It has indeed caught the eyes of many tourists who have visited the national park in Odisha. A two tiered waterfall, Barhipani is absolutely a stunning piece of nature one can visit in a lifetime.

Goa:

Sun, Sand and Beach is not only what Goa is known for; the state has some fair amount of known and lesser known waterfalls that enhance its beauty. The below mentioned waterfall is the best Goa has to offer:

Dudhsagara Falls:

dudhsagar-waterfall Behold the milk flows from the mountains! Dudhsagar Falls do not need any introduction; this ever so gorgeous fall has been the most famous waterfalls in India and is amongst the most anticipated ones as well. Located on Goa and Karnataka border, this fall is a four-tiered fall that drops from the height of 310m. The water falls with such a force that from a distance is looks as if milk has been spilt and that is apparently how the fall has got its name. The best time to visit Dudhsagar Falls is during the monsoon, when the waterfall is at its best view. Most people like to trek to the waterfall for a better view and if you are willing you can do the same.

Mizoram:

Tucked in the quiet corner of North East, Mizoram is one rejuvenating place. Known for its dreamlike landscape and vivacious culture, the state has been quite famous for its waterfalls also. Here is one of the most gorgeous waterfalls in the state for you:

Vantawng Falls:

Vantawng-falls Set amidst perfect and pristine nature, Vantawng Falls is the perfect example of the beauty of lesser explored Mizoram. The fall is situated about 137kms from Aizawl and said to be created by Vanva River. The height of the fall is about 750ft and it is named after an excellent swimmer who could swim even in the cascading waters. Unfortunately, Vantawng lost his life in the same place as well. Vantawng FFalls is one of the major attractions in Mizoram and definitely one place that you as a tourist should visit!

Chhatisgarh:

Often understated, Chhatisgarh is in fact one place that every traveller must see. With pristine nature that abounds in waterfalls, dense forests and streams and rivulets, this central state is worth giving a try. Here is one of the best waterfalls in Chhatisgarh.

Ghatrani Waterfalls

ghatarani-waterfalls Situated near the famed Jatmai Temple in Chhatisgarh, Ghatrani waterfalls are known for their eye catching beauty. The best time to witness this stunning waterfall is between September and November. The fall is also an ideal hangout for many locals and is not at all a bad deal for tourists from other parts of the country as well.

Do you still feel the need of going to see the Niagara Falls?? Well, of course you should go if you have a chance! But if you can’t, you don’t have to regret it as there are plenty of options in India that can compensate pretty well. The next time you let yourself loose in any of the states mentioned above; make sure to witness the respective waterfall there.

“Waterfall tour in India can be exhilarating if planned right and that is why we at Tour My India lend our hand to help you. All you have to do is contact us on info@tourmyindia.com. Drop your preference and inquiry and let us take care of the rest then! You are promised a memorable trip for sure!”

Published: 19 Sep, 2014
Nidhi Singh

About

From the Lake District, Nainital, Nidhi Singh is a travel writer whose love for mountains can be seen in her write ups. Talk about solo travelling, indulging in adventure activities, binging on good food, planning budget trips or the Aurora Borealis and you will get all her attention. It is the wanderlust that keeps her going and if at all she could get one wish granted she would love to live a life less ordinary. Follow her on Twitter, Facebook & Instagram.

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