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Best Waterfalls in Karnataka

Chelavara Falls in Karnataka is claimed to be one of the most enthralling falls here in the South. A large volume of water gushes down from a height of 150 ft. At the bottom of these falls, there is a tortoise-shaped rock which receives the falling water; thus, imparting a local name of Embepare.

Monsoons give a vibrant look to the Waterfalls as this is the period when the water level rises, and surrounding forests bloom to their maximum potential. It is naturally formed by a tributary of River Kaveri. Being seasonal in nature, Chelavara Falls are best to visit in monsoons.

Location: Cheyyandane village, Chelavara, Karnataka 571212

Height: 150 ft

Activities: Sightseeing, visit to Kakabbe, Chomakund Hills, and Nalknad Palace, trekking, white water rafting. 

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The most picturesque waterfall cascade nestling amidst the Brahmagiri Mountain Range is Iruppu Falls. These Waterfalls have a religious significance due to which it came to be well-known as Lakshmana Tirtha Falls. 

Also, there is a profound peace in the entire region, which makes it the best place for relaxation. Plan your trip to Iruppu falls anywhere in between October to May.

Location: Brahmagiri, Kurchi, Karnataka 571250

Height: 52 m

Activities: Visit Rameshwara temple and shivlinga near it, enjoying hiking at 500 m uphill to reach the first fall, holy dip in the sacred water of Iruppu falls, the best place to seek silence and serenity. 

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Showcasing a splendid appearance, Devragundi Waterfalls is known for its picture-perfect views. Being an output of Thodikana mountain streams, Devragundi falls are alternatively known as God’s pool.

The beauty of this falls appears multi-fold right after the monsoon periods making August to December the best season to visit here.

Location: Devaragundi, Aranthodu- Main Road, Thodikana, Thodikana, Karnataka 574314

Height: 70 ft.

Activities: Due to its sacredness, this fall has been protected against all forms of human activities and interventions. Other activities in the nearby places are inclusive of strolling through the jungle, capturing beautiful moments, visit to Madapatti, Dubare Elephant Camp, and Raja’s Seat.

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Napandapole Waterfalls in Karnataka is present at a distance of 12 and 40 km from Madapura and Madikeri town respectively. Situated at the foothills of Kote Betta Hills, this waterfall is surrounded by three more sub Waterfalls.

There is an inspiring landscape and lush greenery to soothe your eyes.

Location: Kote Betta Hills, Karnataka

Height: 120 feet

Activities: Sightseeing, exploring, trekking, capturing photos, hiking, strolling, relaxation.

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Located at a distance of around 20 km from Siddhapur, Burude Falls is a real paradise for all the photographers. Alternatively, it is also known as Illimane Falls as it is the outcome of a rivulet named Illimane.

As Siddhapur is a favourite tourist spot, there are heaps of visitors visiting this fall throughout 365 days of the year. As soon as you land here, you can witness a sense of fantastic tranquillity. November to February is the most ideal time to plan your adventurous trek here.

Location: Kyadagi, Karnataka 581355

Height: 90 feet

Activities: Sightseeing, trekking, try ayurvedic spa and massage, shopping, boating and fishing, Jeep safari, river rafting at Dubare. 

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Alternatively known as Suthanabbi Falls, Hanumangundi Falls is Karnataka’s beautiful waterfall where the stream makes its way through thick greenery in the surrounding. This waterfall stands close to Mangalore- Solapur National Highway.

Forest Department charges you a small entry fee to take you to the base of Hanumangundi Waterfalls. You can plan your visit to Hanumangundi Waterfalls anywhere in between October to May.

Location: Kalasa Main Road, Sheerlu, Karnataka 577142

Height: 100 m

Activities: enjoy sightseeing at Hanumangundi Waterfalls, visit to Kudremukh National Park, Sirimane Falls, Lakhya  Dam and Karkala, trekking at Kudremukh Peak, shopping at Janta Market, strolling along Lakya Dam. 

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Recognized as a unique trekking destination amidst other trekking points, Kalhatti Falls stands high at an elevation of about 2000 m.

Trekkers have a chance of witnessing incredible trails till they achieve their final aim of fantastic fascination. It represents a cascade of water flowing down the Chandra Drona Hills lying opposite to Veerbhadra temple.

Location: Tarikere Taluk (Kalhattigiri), Chikmagalur district, Karnataka, India.

Height: 2000 m above sea level

Activities: trekking, sightseeing, photography, visit to Veerbhadra temple, Chandra Drona Hills. 

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Lying amidst the ranges of Sringeri and Kudremukh, Kadambi Falls is easily visible from a nearby bridge. As the water falls from a height on to the rocks, you can clearly witness a sparkling white stream making its way through abounding greenery.

It is a perfect place to rejuvenate your soul and mind. October to May is the best season for Kadambi lovers. 

Location: Kudremukh National Park, Chikmagalur district, Karnataka, India 

Height: 30 feet

Activities: Trekking, Relaxation, Camping, wildlife spotting, sightseeing, and enjoying at Kadambi Falls. 

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Situated within the private coffee plantation property, Ukkada Waterfalls in Karnataka is around 40 km away from Chikmagalur. It is an ideal place for those who seek peace and tranquillity.

To reach here, you need to take a chauffeured drive which begins from Chikmagalur and drives you through the Moothodi forests. You can get glimpses of wildlife inhabiting in this forest as you trespass it.

Location: Moothodi, Chikmagalur, Karnataka

Height: 20 m

Activities: Sightseeing, strolling along the coffee plantations, chauffeur drive, relaxation, wildlife spotting, trespassing Moothodi forest. 

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For those who love to engage in the beauty of nature for hours and hours, Kallathigiri Falls is a must place to visit in South India. Water flowing through both the sides of Veerbhadra Temple shall leave you spellbound. Veerbhadra temple itself attracts heaps of tourists as it adds on to the peaceful ambience of Kallithagiri Falls.

Religiously, the water gushing from these falls is known to have healing power and is used to cure a myriad of diseases. Last but not least, it is a trekker’s paradise with September to February being the safest season for adventurous trekking.

Location: Chikmagalur, Kallathgiri, Karnataka 577129

Height: 122 m

Activities: Trekking, sightseeing, visiting Veerbhadra temple, trekking at Kemmangundi Peak, visit Baba Budangiri, trailing at Doddabale Siddaragudda Peak. 

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One of the lovely Waterfalls of Chikmagalur district, Honnamana Hall Waterfalls is as gentle as the feel of a pearl. You can easily have a glimpse of the Baba Budangiri Hills by standing at the base of Honnamana Halla Waterfalls.

This waterfall is situated near Kemmangundi which is acknowledged to be the best destinations of Karnataka. October to April makes the best season to visit here in groups.

Location: Thippanahalli Estate Road, Inam Dattathreya Peeta, Karnataka 577131

Height: 30 ft

Activities: Strolling along the green lawn surrounding the waterfall, trekking to Baba Budangiri Hills, visit to Raj Bhavan, Shiva Temple, Z Point, Rajendra Hill, Rock Garden. 

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Standing at a distance of around 4 and 66 km from Kemmangundi and Chikmagalur, Shanti Falls is one of the famous Waterfalls in Karnataka. Shanti Falls is a refreshing stop point along the trekking route to Z point. It is located amidst Kemmangundi forest cover. Shanti Waterfall gives a resemblance of a cascade and creates a natural water pool right at its foothills.

It is blessed with immense healing properties. Also, do not miss on this golden opportunity to witness the adorable Shola grasslands which are situated just near to the Waterfalls. You can either plan your visit to Shanti Falls in the late monsoons or during early winters.

Location: Z Point, Chikmagalur, Karnataka 577129

Height: 12 feet

Activities: Sightseeing, capturing photos, strolling along surrounding lush green cover, visiting the nearby Shola Grasslands.

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Alternatively known as Buttermilk Waterfalls, Jhari falls are located near Attigundi and are 12 km away from Baba Budangiri. Surrounded by lush green dense forests and coffee plantations, Jhari Falls provides the most serene environment for those who want to spend some time alone.

Do not exhaust all your energy in visiting the surrounding coffee plantations, as the place has tea plantations too. However, make sure that you do not bring your private vehicle here as entry is restricted for them. Although people prefer to visit here in between August to January, this region has its peak time between September to December.

Location: Datha Peetha Road, Athigundi Village, Chickmagaluru, Karnataka, 577131, India

Height: 100 meters apprx 

Activities: Dipping in the cold waters of Jhari Falls, sightseeing, photoshoots, strolling along coffee and tea plantations. Besides, you can even plan your visit to Mulyanagari, Baba Budangiri, Datta Peetha, Seethalayanagari, Kavakalgundi viewpoint, Mahatma Gandhi national park. 

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Situated amidst the dense forests of Baba Budangiri Hills, Manikyadhara Falls resembles as a holy place for both Hindus as well as Muslims. The literal meaning of its name is a string of pearls which itself defines how charming the falls will be. It is one of the most ideal sites for people who seek serene and tranquil atmosphere.

Locals of Baba Budangiri Hills consider bathing in the waters of this falls to be sacred due to its healing properties. If you plan to visit here in the monsoons, you will have to hire a jeep from Baba Budangiri shrine to the actual site of Waterfalls.

Location: Manikyadhara Falls, Baba Budangiri Hills, Karnataka

Height: 30 ft.

Activities: Biking, trekking, an ideal destination for picnic, photographers, and sightseeing.

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Nestling amidst the lush green blanket of Saravathi Wildlife Sanctuary, Dabbe Falls, is a real hidden gem blessing to Karnataka. Alluring forest and a gorgeous water stream make a perfect blend to appeal the nature strollers.

As you start your journey through the road that takes you to the actual fall location, you will come to know that it is a walking track lying perpendicular to the cliff. Exhibiting a pleasant sight for all the onlookers, Dabbe Falls remains the most unpolluted environment to date.

Location: Kunjuvalli, Kanapagaru, Karnataka 581384

Height: 110 m

Activities: Sitting aside the edge of Waterfalls with both legs dipped in the stream, photography, bird watching, visit to Saravathi Wildlife Sanctuary. 

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Located within the Shimoga district of Karnataka, Onake Abbi Falls has thick forest cover and rocky slopes. It is a trekker’s paradise wherein you can witness the highest waterfall after trekking for around 4 to 5 km.

It is best if you could plan your visit to Onake Abbi Falls between September and November as you can spot on a wide array of flora and fauna endemic to this region.

Location: SH 1, Agumbe, Karnataka 576112

Height: 500 m

Activities: Trekking, capturing pictures, trekking to Mandalpatti, visiting Nagarhole National Park, Omkareshwar temple. 

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Located in Nidagodu village, Kunchikal falls presents a cascade view as its water gushes down through the rocky boulders. Marking its point of origination as Varahi river, Kunchikal ranks 116th in terms of its height in the world rankings.

There is a hydroelectric power project built at the foothills of the Waterfalls which is reckoned for generating high electrical power. It is best if you plan your visit here in the monsoons.

Location: Nidagodu village, Karnataka

Height: 455 m

Activities: Sightseeing, picturesque landscape, trekking along Agumbe Hill Station, Jogi Gundi Waterfalls, Hulikal Ghati Temple, and Nibhani Gudda.

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Situated near Bellakka village, Hidlumane Falls stands on the trekking route to Kodachadri. It presents a beautiful cascade of around 6 falls gushing down from a height of 50 to 70 meters.

For the first half of your journey through Hidlumane Falls, you will have to hire a jeep. The remaining half can easily be covered by making your way through forest covers and rock climbing. On average, you will require around 90 minutes to complete your entire trekking. 

Location: Kodachadri road, Hosanagara, Kattinahole, Karnataka 577452

Height: 50 to 70 feet. 

Activities: Trekking, bathing, capturing panoramic views of the cascade waterfalling from six falls, trekking along Godachadri Peak, strolling along Mookambika National Park, visit to Sarvajna Peetha, Mookambika Temple, Arasinagundi Waterfalls. 

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Shivanasamudra Waterfalls reside beside River Kaveri and hold popularity for one day trip from the city of Bangalore. Due to several parallel streams of water flowing adjacent to each other, it gives a resemblance of a segmented waterfall.

Gaganchukki and Barachukki form two differentiated segments of Shivanasamudra Falls. You can enjoy breath-taking sights during the peak season of monsoons. 

Location: Mandya district, Karnataka, India 

Height: 90 m 

Activities: Sightseeing, photography, weekend getaway, visit nearby temples of Shivanasamudram and Somnathpur, visit to Bharachukki, Dargah and Gaganchukki viewpoints.

Nothing sounds more spectacular than your visit to this four-tiered waterfall lying amidst the states of Karnataka and Goa. As indicated from its name itself, the stream of water which gushes down with a turbulent speed gives the appearance of a sea of milk.

The area surrounding the Dudhsagar Waterfalls is forested reserves of Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary. Monsoons are best to witness the magnificence of these falls.

Location: Sonaulim, Goa (Border of Karnataka and Goa) 403410.

Height: 320 m

Activities: Trekking, sightseeing, jeep safari and a visit to Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary

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Fed by river Arkavati, Chunchi Falls exhibits a cascade of crystal-clear falls and labelled as one of the most beautiful Waterfalls of Bangalore. Post monsoon and early winters make it a great season to mark your presence at the Chunchi Falls of Kanakapura.

As the falls experience strong underwater currents and have crocodiles, swimming is prohibited.  

Location: Kanakapura, Karnataka 562119

Height: 50 ft. 

Activities: Sightseeing, relaxation spot with family and friends, visit to Sangam, Mekedatu Falls, Bheemeshwari, and Galibore Fishing Camp. 

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Unchalli Falls are formed by Aghanashini River near Hegganur. Situated amidst a dense forest cover, Unchalli Falls exhibits several cascade levels before ending its fate into a big pool at its bottom. From the point of entry or parking area, you have to trek for a minimum duration of 30 minutes.

The trekking path is quite broad, and hence, you do not need to worry. However, you won’t be able to reach to the bottom of the falls, and any attempt in that direction could take a heavy toll on your life. The best season to visit here is between July to August. 

Location: Sirsi, Karnataka, India

Height: 450 m

Activities: Trekking from Hegganur village, occasional rainbow sightseeing. 

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One of the famous tourist destinations of Chikmagalur, Sirimane Falls, offers a splendid view. Water gushing from the Waterfalls feeds the adjacent coffee plantations and paddy fields which are present at the downstream.

You can couple your visit to Sirimane Falls with visits to Sringeri Temple, Uluve Bird Sanctuary, and Agumbe. The road that leads you from Sringeri to Sirimane Waterfalls itself is so beautiful to keep you relaxed throughout your journey. Post monsoon season is by far the best season to plan your visit to Sirimane Falls. 

Location: Sirimane Falls Road, Yedadalli, Karnataka 577139

Height: 40 ft. 

Activities: Sightseeing at Kigga, Hari Temple, and Sharada Temple; suitable for a picnic spot.

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Chunchanakatte Falls of Mysore is a well-known getaway around the city of Bangalore greeting thousands of visitors from all around. As the water gushes down, you can witness multiple tiers which creates a water pool right at its bottom.

You can either choose to swim or play or relax at the water pool. All around, you can see huge, naturally formed rocks. However, make sure that you wear comfortable footwear while you reach here. The water flowing through the rock surface gives it a slippery appearance. These Waterfalls have a close connection with Ramayana. 

Location: Krishnarajanagar Taluka, Mysore district, Karnataka, India. 

Height: 100 ft. 

Activities: Swimming, Relaxation with family or friends, visit to Sangama (merger point of Kaveri and Arkavati rivers), Lord Kodanda Rama temple, Mekedatu, and Fish Camp. 

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The famous scenic tourist destination of Murudeshwar, Apsarakonda Waterfalls in Karnataka stands unique amongst all. Apasarakonda faces the seaside and still gives the appearance of a lagoon.

This waterfall derives its name from the fact that once this place was meant for Angel’s to bath.

Location: Apsara Konda Road, Apsara Konda, Karnataka 581342

Height: 10 m

Activities: Swimming, photography, visit to Idagunji Maha Ganapathi Temple, Kodlamane Shree Vishnumurthy Temple.

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Benne hole Falls is an outcome of a tributary of Aghashini river which makes its way through a dense forest cover of Devimane Ghats. This waterfall derives its name from its creamy white appearance falling from a height of around 200 feet.

Once you are here, do not miss on spotting various bird species such as jungle owlet, grey jungle fowl, black headed oriole, plum-headed parakeet, and orange minivet. Whether it is post monsoon or early winter visits, jeep safari is the best way to reach to your destination. 

Location: Hebre, Karnataka 581315

Height: 200 feet 

Activities: Jeep safari, monsoon weekend getaway, picnic spot, trekking through Devimane Ghats. 

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Muthyala Maduvu Waterfalls in Karnataka is a small waterfall well-known for half day trips. In Kannada, Muthyala signifies pearls, and Maduvu means pond and hence the name due to its pearl-like resemblance. Nestling down a deep valley surrounded by a thick forest cover, Muthyala Maduvu Falls makes a fantastic picnic spot.

With crystal clear water, the stream flows silently making it an excellent point to seek tranquillity. August to November is the best season to plan your visit to Muthyala Maduvu Falls. 

Location: Hammanaikanahalli, Bengaluru, Karnataka 562106

Height: 100 ft. 

Activities: picnic spot, relaxation, visit to Shiva shrine which overlooks these falls, strolling along with the Nilgiri plantation that lies close to the topmost portion of Muthyala Maduvu Falls.

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Jogigundi Waterfalls in Karnataka are situated in between the dense forest cover of Western Ghats. Unlike others, you will witness this waterfall originating from the mouth of a cave and making its way through a hill. The route for trekking is not a difficult one to endure and can easily be covered within a half day.

At the actual site of foothills of the Waterfalls, you can see eroded rocks, lush green forests and a naturally formed pool which serves as a source of waterbody for tourists to swim.

Location: Agumbe, Karnataka 577411

Height: 20 ft

Activities: Sightseeing, trekking, photography, swimming in the pond.