Nestled in the heart of South India, Karnataka is a state that boasts of breathtaking natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and a plethora of tourist attractions. Among its many hidden gems are the magnificent Karnataka waterfalls that cascade down from the majestic Western Ghats, captivating the hearts of nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike. So, pack your bags, grab your camera, and prepare for an unforgettable adventure as you discover the mesmerising Karnataka waterfalls.
Top 8 Karnataka Waterfalls
Karnataka is renowned for its diverse and stunning waterfalls. Here is a list of the 8 most famous Karnataka waterfalls:
1. Jog Falls
Image Credit: Manikanta1973 for Wikimedia Commons
One of the most well-known Karnataka waterfalls is Jog Falls, in the Shimoga district. The Sharavathi River created the waterfall, which has four cascades that drop from around 830 feet. The falls provide amazing views and are encircled by verdant trees. Jog Falls does not run continuously throughout the year since it is not a permanent waterfall. Instead, the monsoon rains provide the water for this seasonal cascade.
Location: Jog Falls, Karnataka 577435
Best Time to Visit: August to December
Must Read: Offbeat Places In Mysore
2. Abbey Falls
Image Credit: Santhoshkumar Sugumar for Wikimedia Commons
Abbey Falls is one of the famous Karnataka waterfalls situated at a distance of about 7 Km from Madikeri the district headquarters of Kodagu in Karnataka and is a part of the Western Ghats. Surrounded by coffee gardens and spice gardens it falls from a height of about 70 feet. The natural environment of the place, the greenery around and the sound of the water give a serene and picturesque look. There is a hanging bridge that is positioned opposite the falls and this is a perfect spot for the visitors to take pictures of this natural wonder. Monsoons are particularly beautiful in Abbey Falls especially when the water is flowing at its highest.
Location: FP59+8R2, Abbey Falls Rd, Hebbettageri, Karnataka 571201
Best Time to Visit: July to October
3. Shivanasamudra Falls
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Shivanasamudra Falls is another splendid hidden Karnataka waterfall situated on the Kaveri River in the state of Karnataka. The falls are divided into two distinct cascades: Gaganachukki and Bharachukki, which, when combined, offer a beautiful sight to behold. The Gaganachukki falls 98 metres high, while the Bharachukki falls 69 metres high. The Shivanasamudra Falls also hosts one of the first hydro-electric power stations in Asia, making it an important tourist spot from both geography and history.
Location: 75V9+H6R, Shivanasamudra, Karnataka, Cauvery Beat
Best Time to Visit: September to January
Suggested Read: Vibhuti Falls Gokarna
4. Unchalli Falls
Unchalli Falls, also known as Lushington Falls, is a spectacular waterfall created by a 116-metre drop in the Aghanashini River. Located in the Uttara Kannada district of Karnataka, this waterfall is renowned for its breathtaking beauty and the rhythmic sound of water crashing down. The local name of this waterfall is “Keppa Joga.” Discovered in 1845 by J.D. A British office, the fall is surrounded by dense forests offering a serene and picturesque environment. The trek to the falls through greenery adds to the adventure and makes it one of the renowned Karnataka waterfalls among trekkers and nature lovers.
Location: Unchalli, Karnataka 581331
Best Time to Visit: January to April
5. Hebbe Falls
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Hebbe Falls is one of the most popular Karnataka waterfalls in the Chikmagalur district of Karnataka state near the Kemmangundi hill station. This is a tiered waterfall that has a height of 551 feet and it has two different sections namely Dodda Hebbe and Chikka Hebbe. It is also surrounded by large tracts of virgin forests and coffee-growing regions. Hebbe Falls is also a perfect place for chilling as it has a beautiful and heavenly view. The falls can be accessed by hiking through the forest or by using a jeep from the nearby village. It is not just the Hebbe Falls that is a marvel, the journey to get there is equally fascinating which is why this place is a hot favourite among trekkers and nature lovers.
Location: GPRG+J44, Kesavinamane, Karnataka 577131
Best Time to Visit: August to January
Suggested Read: Trekking Near Mangalore
6. Iruppu Falls
Image Credit: Samson Joseph for Wikimedia Commons
Iruppu Falls, also known as Lakshmana Tirtha Falls, is a cascading waterfall nestled amidst the lush greenery of Coorg, Karnataka. The falls plunge three tiers, creating a refreshing pool ideal for swimming and basking in the cool spray. To reach the falls, one has to descend about 100 steps, adding to its nickname “100 steps to heaven.” Tourists can enjoy a refreshing dip in the pool below the falls, picturesque picnics amidst the scenic beauty, or simply admire the cascading waters. The surrounding forest offers opportunities for nature walks and birdwatching. For a touch of adventure, one can try rappelling down the tiers of the falls.
Location: Brahmagiri Range, Kurchi, Karnataka 571250
Best Time to Visit: August to January
7. Sathodi Falls
Image Credit: Rohan Dhule for Wikimedia Commons
Sathodi Falls is a picturesque waterfall located in the Western Ghats of Karnataka near Yellapur in the Uttara Kannada district. Being one of the most beautiful Karnataka waterfalls, it is about 15 metres tall and is surrounded by dense forests and rugged terrain. The serene environment and the lush greenery make Sathodi Falls one of the hidden waterfalls in Karnataka, which is perfect for those seeking tranquillity and natural beauty. The waterfall flows into the backwaters of the Kodasalli Dam, which eventually joins the Kali River. Sathodi Falls is a must-visit for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers looking to explore the best waterfalls in Karnataka.
Location: Balagar, Karnataka 581337
Best Time to Visit: November to April
Suggested Read: Places To Visit In Shimoga Within 100 Kms
8. Hogenakkal Falls
Image Credit: Mithun Kundu for Wikimedia Commons
Hogenakkal Falls, located on the Kaveri River at the border between Karnataka and Tamil Nadu, is one of the most famous Karnataka waterfalls. Known as the “Niagara of India,” this beautiful waterfall drops from a height of 20 metres, creating a captivating sight. This waterfall is also noted for its unique carbonatite rocks, some of the oldest in South Asia. Hogenakkal Falls, a popular Karnataka waterfalls, also offers visitors a chance to go on coracle boat rides. It is thus one of the best waterfalls in Karnataka.
Location: 4Q6F+FGJ, Madheswara Betta – Hogenakkal Falls Rd, Gopinatham, Karnataka 571444
Best Time to Visit: October to February
Further Read: Trekking Near Tumkur
Karnataka is blessed with some of the most beautiful waterfalls in India. From the Jog Falls, the largest waterfall in the state, to the Unchalli Falls, one of the hidden waterfalls in Karnataka, the waterfalls in Karnataka are striking and offer unique experiences. So, are you ready to explore the mesmerising Karnataka waterfalls? Book your trip to Karnataka today and experience the heavenly magic of these hidden waterfalls in Karnataka.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Karnataka Waterfalls
Which is the biggest waterfall in Karnataka?
The biggest waterfall in Karnataka is Jog Falls, also known as Gerosoppa Falls or Joga Falls. It is situated on the Sharavathi River in the Shimoga district. Jog Falls is the second-highest plunge waterfall in India, with a drop of about 830 feet (253 metres).
Which are the two waterfalls in Karnataka?
Two famous waterfalls in Karnataka are Abbey Falls and Shivanasamudra Falls. Abbey Falls is located near Madikeri in the Coorg district and is nestled amidst lush coffee plantations and spice estates. The falls drop from a height of about 70 feet. Shivanasamudra Falls is situated on the Kaveri River in the Mandya district. Shivanasamudra Falls is famous for its twin cascades, Gaganachukki and Bharachukki. The falls are associated with the rich mythology of the Ramayana.
Which waterfall is called Niagara of Karnataka?
Gokak Falls is often called the 'Niagara of Karnataka' due to its horseshoe shape and the sheer volume of water that cascades down during the monsoon season. Located on the Ghataprabha River in the Belagavi district, the falls drop from a height of 170 feet (52 metres).
How high is Jog Falls in Karnataka?
Jog Falls in Karnataka is approximately 830 feet (253 metres) high, making it one of the highest waterfalls in India. The falls are composed of four distinct cascades named Raja, Rani, Rover, and Rocket, which create a spectacular view together. The height and the volume of water make Jog Falls a major attraction, especially during the monsoon season when the falls are at their most impressive.
Which river forms the largest waterfall in Karnataka?
The Sharavathi River forms the largest waterfall in Karnataka, Jog Falls. The river originates in the Western Ghats and flows through the region's rugged terrain before plunging down the cliff to create the magnificent Jog Falls.
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As a Travel Content Writer, I live to conquer the world of globetrotting with words. With my unquenchable thirst for storytelling, I believe that my words will inspire you to travel around the world’s breathtaking landscapes. As for me, I am an unapologetic selenophile, who loves to wander around in a starry night!
