We’ve gathered a list of places to visit near Hogenakkal Falls. Hogenakkal Falls, often called the “Niagara of India,” is a stunning natural wonder on the Kaveri River in Tamil Nadu. This article is here to provide some fascinating places to visit near the falls and provide key information about the waterfall itself. Near Hogenakkal, you’ll find the ancient Mettur Dam, an engineering marvel and popular picnic spot. The nearby Pennagaram village offers a glimpse into rural South Indian life. Nature enthusiasts can explore the Cauvery Wildlife Sanctuary, home to diverse flora and fauna. The 8th-century Hogenakkal Vinayagar Temple and the impressive Krishnagiri Fort are must-visit attractions for history buffs. The best time to visit is post-monsoon (October to March) when the water flow is optimal. The falls offer breathtaking views and support the livelihoods of many in the region through tourism and small-scale industries.
About Hogenakkal Falls
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Hogenakkal Falls is a scintillating waterfall on the Kaveri River in the Dharmapuri district of Tamil Nadu. The place gets its name from Hogenakkal, which means ‘smoking rocks’, owing to the unique rock arrangement that exists around it. The gushing beauty of this cascade is one of a kind and is often quoted as being the “Niagara Falls of India”. The Kaveri River forks into multiple streams and falls through various steps, making the sight a mesmerising thing to behold. The carbonatite rocks by these falls are the oldest in South Asia and one of the oldest in the world.
Drinking water can also be obtained from the falls, and interestingly enough, the water here is believed to possess medicinal properties, owing to the numerous herbs that grow in its path. Known for its pristine appeal, the Hogenakkal Falls are the prime attraction in the region. Tourists can also enjoy the Coracle boat ride from one end of the river to the other, or they can find a quaint spot to perch upon and revel in the marvels of the enchanting beauty of Hogenakkal Falls.
Must Read: Tourist Places In Hogenakkal Falls
Activites And Places To Visit Near Hogenakkal Falls
Hogenakkal Falls is a scintillating waterfall on the Kaveri River in the Dharmapuri district of Tamil Nadu. The place gets its name from Hogenakkal, which means ‘smoking rocks’, owing to the unique rock arrangement that exists around it. Here is the curated list of things to and Places to visit near Hogenakkal Falls:
1. Mettur Dam
Image Credit: Srini297 for Wikimedia Commons
Mettur Dam, situated 30 miles from Salem in a small Mettur Village, is one of the largest dams in India. Built across the River Cauvery at the canyon, Mettur Dam was constructed in 1943 and is a sight of sheer beauty. Verdant hills and picturesque natural beauty surround the dam, which is quite popular among tourists. One of the most extraordinary features of the dam is its design, which is a testament to the country’s engineering genius. Mettur Dam is a substantial human-made marvel that spans a massive length of 1700 meters and is a significant hotspot where tourists visit from all across the country to relax and seek solitude. Together with Ellis Park and the hydroelectric power plant, the Mettur Dam is a favourite among tourists. To visit this facility, one must obtain permission from authorities in advance.
Timings: 11 am To 6 pm
Distance: 35 km from city centre
2. Melagiri Hill
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After seeing the breathtaking falls, the next most attractive place of Hogenakkal is the Melagiri Hills. The hills are a few km away, and various trekking options up the hill add to the thrill of finally seeing the ranges. The hills are where the Eastern and Western Ghats meet each other. The view is sublime, with two mountain ranges converging from both sides and dense forests around the place. You can also spot one-horned antelopes in these valleys.
Distance: 33 km from city center
Best time to visit: October to March
3. Boating In Hogenakkal
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The place has many boating options, including a unique kind of boat. Often referred to as basket boats, the circular vessels are called Coracles. They have round bamboo frames and are covered in black plastic, frequently compared to black mushrooms. It is one of the best things to do in nearby lake of Hogenakkal Falls.
Timings: 8 am to 5 pm
Price: INR 750 onwards
Suggested Read: Best Tourist Places In TamilNadu
4. Trekking In Hogenakkal Falls
Another enthralling activity that you can pursue at the Hogenakkal Falls is trekking, which is a wonderful experience in its own right. The hike overlooking the falls is a beautiful sight to behold, and one cannot help but get mesmerized by the place’s verdant foliage and virgin charms. The hike takes you through a maze of gentle rocks and lush greenery, and tackling the route as it comes is fun-filled and adventurous at the same time. The difficulty level of this trek is not much, so both beginners and seasoned trekkers can enjoy this activity at the Hogenakkal Falls.
Timings: 6 am to 6 pm
Distance: 2 km from the city centre
5. Theerthamalai Temple
Image Credit: Theerthamalai Temple for Wikimedia Commons
Theerthamalai is one of the most popular places near Hogenakkal Falls. One of its most popular destinations is the Theerthamalai temple. Lord Theerthagireeswar, a form of Lord Shiva, is the worshipping deity. It is believed that Lord Rama worshipped Lord Shiva at this temple after his victory over Ravana to absolve him of the sin of killing so many demons. Therefore, a dip in these holy waters is believed to help man rid himself of wrongs committed against others.
Timings: 6 am to 6 pm
Distance: 88 km from city center
Further Read: Salem Muthumalai Murugan Temple
Now that you have a list of things to remember for your next vacation to see the beautiful places to visit near Hogenakkal Falls, make sure you plan your trip to Tamil Nadu to these fabulous spots for the experience of a lifetime. Don’t miss out on these opportunities, and book your tickets now!
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Cover Image Source: Mithun Kundu for Wikimedia Commons
Frequently Asked Questions About Places To Visit Near Hogenakkal Falls
What are the best day trips from Hogenakkal Falls?
Some excellent day trips include visiting Mettur Dam (65 km), exploring the Cauvery Wildlife Sanctuary (40 km), and touring Krishnagiri Fort (80 km). These destinations offer diverse experiences, from engineering marvels to wildlife encounters and historical sites.
Is there any religious site worth visiting near Hogenakkal?
Yes, the Hogenakkal Vinayagar Temple, an 8th-century shrine dedicated to Lord Ganesha, is located near the falls. It's known for its unique architecture and peaceful atmosphere, making it a must-visit for both spiritual seekers and history enthusiasts.
Where can I experience local culture near Hogenakkal Falls?
Pennagaram village, about 20 km from Hogenakkal, offers an authentic glimpse into rural South Indian life. Here, you can observe traditional farming practices, and local crafts, and possibly participate in cultural activities if arranged in advance.
Are there any adventure activities available in the surrounding area?
While Hogenakkal itself offers coracle rides, nearby areas provide additional adventure opportunities. The Cauvery Wildlife Sanctuary offers trekking and wildlife spotting. Some tour operators also organize rock climbing and rappelling activities in the region.
What's the best time to visit the attractions near Hogenakkal Falls?
The ideal time to visit Hogenakkal and nearby attractions is from October to March. During this period, the weather is pleasant, and the fall water flow is optimal. However, if you're interested in wildlife spotting at Cauvery Wildlife Sanctuary, the summer months (April to June) might be better as animals frequently visit water sources.
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