Guide to India’s Waterfalls

Introduction

India has many different types of land, from tall mountains to old hills. In these areas, you can find many waterfalls. These are not just water flowing down; they are parts of forests, mentioned in old stories, and show nature’s look. This guide will take you across India, showing you some of its well-known waterfalls. We’ve put them into regions, giving you details, local stories, and useful travel tips to help you plan your visit.

Waterfalls of Northeast India

• This area receives a lot of rain. In fact, Meghalaya, located in Northeast India, is home to Mawsynram and Cherrapunji, which are globally recognized as among the wettest places on Earth, receiving average annual rainfall exceeding 11,000 mm. The region as a whole experiences significantly higher precipitation compared to other parts of India, largely due to the monsoon winds.
• It features natural bridges made of roots, green hills, and large waterfalls that are full during the rainy season.

1. Nohkalikai Falls, Meghalaya

• Height: 340 meters (1,115 ft) – India’s Highest Plunge Waterfall.
• Type: Plunge (water drops straight down).
• Location: Near Cherrapunji (Sohra), East Khasi Hills.
• Best Time to Visit: June to October.
• The Experience:
  • Seeing Nohkalikai is a notable experience.
  • One clear stream of water drops from a cliff with trees into a blue pool.
  • A local story tells of a woman named Likai, who jumped from the cliff.
  • The falls are named “Jump of Ka Likai.”
• How to Reach:
  • Easy to reach by road from Shillong (about 55 km).
  • A viewing area offers a good view.
• Nearby Attractions: Mawsmai Caves and other smaller waterfalls in the Cherrapunji area.

2. Nohsngithiang Falls (Seven Sisters Falls), Meghalaya

• Height: 315 meters (1,033 ft).
• Type: Segmented (multiple streams).
• Location: Near Cherrapunji (Sohra), East Khasi Hills.
• Best Time to Visit: July to September.
• The Experience:
  • This waterfall has seven separate streams flowing side-by-side down a wide limestone cliff.
  • During the peak monsoon season, it is a large sight.
  • The falls look best in the afternoon when the sun lights up the water.
• How to Reach:
  • Located a short drive from Mawsmai village.
  • Several viewing spots are available.
• Nearby Attractions: Close to Kynrem Falls and Thangkharang Park.

3. Kynrem Falls, Meghalaya

• Height: 305 meters (1,001 ft).
• Type: 3-Tiered (falls in three steps).
• Location: Thangkharang Park, East Khasi Hills.
• Best Time to Visit: July to September.
• The Experience:
  • Kynrem is one of the taller waterfalls in Meghalaya.
  • It flows down in three steps.
  • Located inside Thangkharang Park, its sound can often be heard before it’s seen.
  • The park offers a good view of the falls and the plains of Bangladesh in the distance.
• How to Reach:
  • Situated inside a well-kept park.
  • About 12 km from Cherrapunji.
• Nearby Attractions: The park itself is a good spot for a picnic.

4. Vantawng Falls, Mizoram

• Height: 229 meters (751 ft).
• Type: 2-Tiered.
• Location: Near Thenzawl, Serchhip district.
• River: Vanva River.
• Best Time to Visit: September to January.
• The Experience:
  • This is the highest waterfall in Mizoram.
  • Vantawng Khawhthla is a two-tiered waterfall with thick bamboo forests around it.
  • Its name means “falls that touch the heavens.”
  • Due to the steep area and many trees, it is viewed from a distance from a special tower.
• How to Reach:
  • Located about 137 km from Aizawl, the state capital.
  • The viewing tower is a short drive from Thenzawl town.
• Nearby Attractions: The town of Thenzawl is known for its cloth products.

Waterfalls of the Western Ghats

• The Western Ghats, a UNESCO World Heritage site, has many different plants and animals.
• It’s also where important rivers start, leading to some of India’s well-known waterfalls.

5. Kunchikal Falls, Karnataka

• Height: 455 meters (1,493 ft).
• Type: Tiered/Cascading (falls in many steps over rocks).
• Location: Nidagodu village, Shimoga district.
• River: Varahi River.
• Best Time to Visit: July to September.
• The Experience:
  • This waterfall is often said to be the tallest in India.
  • Kunchikal is not one single drop, but a series of steps where water flows down a rocky hillside.
  • This area has a power plant, so you need permission to enter.
  • The falls are in a protected rainforest.
• How to Reach:
  • The closest town is Agumbe.
  • Permission from the forest department and local people is needed.
• Nearby Attractions: Agumbe, sometimes called the “Cherrapunji of the South,” has good sunset views and places for walking in the rainforest.

6. Dudhsagar Falls, Goa-Karnataka Border

• Height: 310 meters (1,017 ft).
• Type: 4-Tiered.
• Location: Bhagwan Mahaveer Sanctuary and Mollem National Park.
• River: Mandovi River.
• Best Time to Visit: October to May (Monsoon for full flow, but access can be difficult).
• The Experience:
  • Dudhsagar means “Sea of Milk.”
  • This four-tiered waterfall creates a sight of white foam and mist.
  • Its most known feature is the railway line that crosses the falls midway, giving a view.
• How to Reach:
  • Not accessible by private cars.
  • The main way is a registered jeep safari from Kulem.
  • Walking along the railway line is possible, but requires caution.
• Nearby Attractions: The Mollem National Park around it has many types of animals.

7. Jog Falls, Karnataka

• Height: 253 meters (830 ft).
• Type: Segmented/Plunge.
• Location: Sagara, Shimoga district.
• River: Sharavathi River.
• Best Time to Visit: August to December.
• The Experience:
  • One of the well-known waterfalls in India, Jog Falls is a large sight.
  • The Sharavathi River drops into a deep valley in four separate parts—Raja, Rani, Roarer, and Rocket.
  • Good viewing platforms are available, including one at the bottom (reached by over 1400 steps).
• How to Reach:
  • Easy to reach by road.
  • The nearest train station is in Sagara.
• Nearby Attractions: The Linganamakki dam, built on the Sharavathi River, is nearby.

8. Bhambavli Vajrai Waterfall, Maharashtra

• Height: ~260 meters (853 ft).
• Type: 3-Tiered.
• Location: Near Bhambavli village, Satara district.
• River: Urmodi River.
• Best Time to Visit: July to October.
• The Experience:
  • This three-tiered waterfall is one of Maharashtra’s notable ones.
  • It flows all year, but is largest during the monsoon season.
  • The trip to the falls goes through the green lands near the Kaas Plateau.
• How to Reach:
  • Requires a short distance walk (trek).
  • About 28 km from Satara city.
• Nearby Attractions: The Kaas Plateau, a UNESCO World Natural Heritage site known for its “valley of flowers,” is a good place to visit.

9. Meenmutty Falls, Kerala

• Height: 300 meters (984 ft).
• Type: 3-Tiered.
• Location: Wayanad district.
• Best Time to Visit: October to May.
• The Experience:
  • The name “Meenmutty” means “where fish are blocked,” suggesting its multi-tiered structure.
  • Reaching the falls involves a challenging 2 km walk through thick forest.
  • Each of its three tiers offers a unique view.
• How to Reach:
  • The walk starts from the main Ooty-Wayanad road.
  • Hiring a local guide is helpful.
• Nearby Attractions: Edakkal Caves and Soochipara Falls are other popular spots in Wayanad.

10. Athirappilly Falls, Kerala

• Height: 25 meters (82 ft).
• Type: Segmented (wide spread).
• Location: Thrissur district.
• River: Chalakudy River.
• Best Time to Visit: June to October.
• The Experience:
  • Often called the “Niagara of India” because of its wide shape during the monsoon.
  • Athirappilly is a notable waterfall that spreads across several rock formations.
  • It’s not very tall, but its width and flow, especially during monsoon, are noticeable.
  • The forest around it has different kinds of wildlife, including hornbills.
• How to Reach:
  • Easy to reach by road from Kochi (about 70 km) and Thrissur (about 55 km).
• Nearby Attractions: Vazhachal Falls is a short distance away, and the Sholayar forests are good for people who like nature.

Waterfalls of East and Central India

• The old plateaus of Eastern and Central India have waterfalls of large size.
• They are often found in untouched, protected forests.

11. Barehipani Falls, Odisha

• Height: 399 meters (1,309 ft).
• Type: 2-Tiered.
• Location: Simlipal National Park, Mayurbhanj district.
• River: Budhabalanga River.
• Best Time to Visit: October to June.
• The Experience:
  • Falling deep within the Simlipal National Park, India’s second-highest waterfall is a large sight.
  • It drops in two steps within a big area of forest, which has tigers and elephants.
  • The untouched nature of its surroundings makes it a notable place.
• How to Reach:
  • A permit is needed to enter the national park.
  • Best visited as part of a park trip.
• Nearby Attractions: Joranda Falls is another big waterfall within the same park.

12. Lodh Falls (Burha Ghagh), Jharkhand

• Height: 143 meters (469 ft).
• Type: Tiered.
• Location: Latehar district.
• River: Burha River.
• Best Time to Visit: October to February.
• The Experience:
  • The highest waterfall in Jharkhand, Lodh Falls is a tiered cascade.
  • Located in the quiet and far-off forests of the Chota Nagpur Plateau.
  • The sound of the falls can be heard through the valley, creating a quiet setting.
• How to Reach:
  • Located in a far-off area, about 60 km from Netarhat town.
• Nearby Attractions: The hill station of Netarhat offers good sunrise and sunset views.

13. Bahuti Falls, Madhya Pradesh

• Height: 198 meters (650 ft).
• Type: 2-Tiered.
• Location: Rewa district.
• River: Sellar River.
• Best Time to Visit: September to January.
• The Experience:
  • The tallest waterfall in Madhya Pradesh, Bahuti is a two-tiered waterfall.
  • It flows through the Rewa plateau.
  • It’s a large waterfall, especially after the monsoon season.
• How to Reach:
  • Easy to reach by road from Mauganj town.
• Nearby Attractions: The Rewa region has several other large waterfalls, including Keoti and Chachai Falls.

14. Chitrakote Falls, Chhattisgarh

• Height: 29 meters (95 ft).
• Type: Horseshoe-shaped, Segmented.
• Location: Bastar district.
• River: Indravati River.
• Best Time to Visit: July to October (monsoon for full flow), October to March (for good weather).
• The Experience:
  • Often called the “Niagara of India” because of its horseshoe shape and wide spread during the monsoon.
  • Chitrakote Falls is a large sight.
  • The water drops over a wide cliff, creating a noticeable display.
  • You can even take a boat ride to get closer to the falls.
• How to Reach:
  • Easy to reach by road from Jagdalpur (about 38 km).
• Nearby Attractions: Tirathgarh Falls and Kutumsar Caves are other popular spots in the Bastar region.

Essential Tips for Waterfall Visits

Visiting waterfalls can be a rewarding experience, but preparing properly ensures a safe and enjoyable trip. Here are some essential tips to keep in mind:

• Safety First:
  • Always stay on marked trails and follow any local signs or warnings.
  • Paths near waterfalls can be very slippery due to mist and algae; walk carefully.
  • Never attempt to climb on slippery rocks or get too close to the edge of a waterfall. Currents can be strong, especially during monsoon.
  • If swimming is allowed, be aware of strong undercurrents and sudden depth changes.
  • Inform someone of your travel plans, especially if heading to remote areas.
• What to Pack:
  • Footwear: Wear sturdy, closed-toe shoes with good grip. Avoid flip-flops or smooth-soled sandals.
  • Clothing: Dress in comfortable, quick-drying clothes. If visiting during monsoon, light rain gear (poncho or waterproof jacket) is essential.
  • Water & Snacks: Carry enough drinking water, especially if hiking is involved. Pack energy-boosting snacks.
  • First-Aid Kit: A basic kit with bandages, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, and any personal medications.
  • Sun Protection: Sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses, even on cloudy days.
  • Insect Repellent: Especially important for waterfalls located in forested areas.
  • Camera Protection: If you plan to take photos, ensure your camera/phone is waterproof or kept in a dry bag.
• Respect Nature and Local Culture:
  • Leave No Trace: Do not litter. Carry all your trash back with you, including food wrappers and plastic bottles.
  • Avoid Plastics: Try to minimize the use of single-use plastics.
  • Wildlife: Do not disturb local wildlife or feed animals.
  • Local Customs: If visiting waterfalls near local communities or religious sites, be respectful of local customs and dress codes.
• Check Conditions and Accessibility:
  • Weather: Always check the weather forecast before your visit, especially during monsoon. Flash floods can occur.
  • Access: Some waterfalls might require special permits, guide services, or involve challenging treks. Research this beforehand.
  • Timings: Note the entry and exit timings of parks or waterfall areas.

Conclusion: A Call for Careful Exploration

India’s waterfalls are parts of nature and places people care about. As you plan your visit, please be a responsible traveler. Follow local rules, especially in national parks and protected areas. Do not use plastics, do not litter, and respect local ways. By exploring with care, we can help ensure these natural spots continue to be seen by people in the future.

Waterfall Quick Guide

Key Pointers: Waterfalls in India

• Kunchikal Falls in Karnataka (455 m) is generally considered the tallest tiered waterfall in India and is part of a hydroelectric project. Special permission may be required.
• Nohkalikai Falls in Meghalaya (340 m) is the tallest plunge waterfall in India.
• Barehipani Falls in Odisha (399 m) is a significant two-tiered waterfall inside Simlipal National Park.
• Dudhsagar Falls on the Goa–Karnataka border is known for its milky appearance and the railway track view.
• Jog Falls, also in Karnataka, is one of the most popular tourist waterfalls.
• Many tall waterfalls are located in the Western Ghats, Northeast India, and Eastern Ghats regions.
• The best time to visit most waterfalls is during or right after the monsoon season (July–October) for maximum flow.
• Some waterfalls lie within national parks and sanctuaries, offering scenic treks and requiring entry permits.

FAQs: Waterfalls in India

Q1. Which is the tallest waterfall in India? A1: Kunchikal Falls in Karnataka, at 455 meters, is generally considered the tallest tiered or cascading waterfall in India.

Q2. Which is the highest plunge waterfall in India? A2: Nohkalikai Falls in Meghalaya is the highest plunge waterfall with a vertical drop of 340 meters.

Q3. Are all these waterfalls perennial? A3: No, some waterfalls like Nohsngithiang Falls and Soochipara Falls are seasonal, with maximum flow during the monsoon season. Others like Kunchikal and Dudhsagar have significant flow year-round but are fullest during monsoon.

Q4. Do I need permission to visit any of these waterfalls? A4: Yes, for places like Kunchikal Falls (due to hydro projects) and waterfalls inside protected areas like Simlipal National Park, entry permits or local permissions may be required.

Q5. Which Indian state has the most tall waterfalls? A5: Karnataka and Meghalaya lead the list with multiple tall waterfalls like Jog Falls, Barkana Falls, Kunchikal, Nohkalikai, and Kynrem Falls.

Q6. What is the best time to visit waterfalls in India? A6: The best time is July to October, right after the monsoon season, when most waterfalls are at their peak flow.

Q7. Which waterfalls are suitable for family trips or picnics? A7: Waterfalls like Dudhsagar, Thoseghar, Kune Falls, and Coutrallam Falls are generally well-developed tourist spots and are suitable for families.

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