India, renowned for its diverse landscapes, is home to some of the most breathtaking waterfalls in the world. From the majestic Jog Falls to the enchanting Dudhsagar Falls, the country’s natural beauty is highlighted through these stunning water cascades. Here’s a detailed look at the top 10 waterfalls in India, showcasing their unique charm and allure.
1. Jog Falls, Karnataka
Jog Falls, located in Shimoga district of Karnataka, India, is one of the most stunning waterfalls in the country and is formed over the Sharavathi River. Jog Falls happens to be one of the highest waterfalls in the country. It has been noted as the second highest plunge waterfall in India. Visiting Jog Falls allows you to experience the raw force of nature. The surrounding lush greenery adds to the charm of the place, making it a perfect spot for picnics and sightseeing. This falls in separated into 4 falls which gives the view more adventuring.
How do I get there?
Jog Falls is nicely connected with different parts of the country via all modes of transport.
By Flight: The nearest airport is Mangalore Airport, located almost 195 km from Jog Falls and from the airport, you can hire a taxi or book a cab to complete your journey.
By Rail: Sagara Railway Station is the nearest railway station to Jog Falls and from there you can easily hire a cab for your onward journey.
By Road: Jog Falls is nicely connected with different cities in Karnataka and other states of the country via well-maintained roads. There are regular buses running between different cities and the falls.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Jog Falls is during the monsoon months, i.e. between June to September, as the intensity of water falling from the fall increases during these months. And yeah, every waterfall unlocks its actual beauty in the time of monsoon. Besides you can visit any time just avoid summer because it is too hot and not worthy to visit.
Travel Tips
Avoid visiting the site in time of heavy rainfall especially in monsoon months as the area becomes extremely slippery and therefore, unsafe for the travelers. Wait for rain to stop and try to visit there in the time of no rain. Keep your essentials close to you and don’t forget to wear comfortable footwear.
2. Kunchikal Falls, Karnataka
Kunchikal Falls, found in Karnataka in the Agumbe Valley, India, is another incredible waterfall to explore. It is reckoned as the highest waterfall in India also Asia’s 2nd highest waterfall with 1493 feet above the sea level. The valley where this beautiful waterfall is located is believed to receive heavy rainfall in the monsoon months. It happens to be the only permanent rain forest research station in the country and this makes it more popular. This highest waterfall in Karnataka is believed to be fed or formed by Varahi River and the area is quite famous for reptiles, squirrels, rare reptiles, a variety of unique birds, and many more bizarre wild animals. The flow of water falling from the mountains has been reduced since the time the hydroelectric power station has set up closer to the fall. There are many others small yet beautiful waterfalls established near Kunchikal Falls that make it one of the perfect sightseeing destinations in Karnataka.
How do I get there?
By Flight: The nearest airport to the destination is Mangalore Airport that lies at a distance of almost 142 km. The drive from the airport to Kunchikal Falls is quite smooth as the airport provides great connectivity to the areas lying in Shimoga district.
By Rail: Udupi is the nearest railway station established at a distance of 67 km from Agumbe. Shimoga Railway Station is the other closest railhead that lies almost 97 km away from the falls.
By Roadways: Established almost 49 km away from Thirthahalli, Kunchikal Waterfalls is accessible from Hosanagar. On reaching Hosanagar drive towards Hulikal town that is located on state highway 52 and then from there take a left turn to reach your desired destination. You need to drive 5 extra km from the main road to reach Kunchikal Falls and you can also opt for the trekking trail.
Best Time to Visit
Avoid Summer and point to be noted the intensity of water falling from the fall used to was very high but after the construction of Mani Dham, there has been a huge reduction in the speed of water flow. Similar to Jog Falls, Kunchikal Falls is at its most impressive during the monsoon season, when heavy rains swell the flow of water, intensifying its roar and magnificence.
3. Dudhsagar Falls, Goa
The translation of Dudhsagar is, “Sea of Milk,” which perfectly describes the appearance of the waterfall as it cascades down from a height, resembling a foamy white milk stream. Falling from an altitude of 1020 feet above the sea level. Goa is mainly famous for its beaches but Dudhsagar Falls also plays a great role in enriching Goa’s tourism. However, the falls look very normal but during the monsoon months, the falls are transformed into one of the most powerful and alluring falls in the country.
How do I get there?
Dudhsagar Waterfall is established at a distance of almost 71 km from Panaji, the capital city of Goa, and can be reached by following any of the transportation mode.
By Flight: Located at a distance of almost 69.6 km, Goa International Airport is the nearest airport from where you can hire a taxi or book a cab to reach the waterfall.
By Train: Sonalium Railway Station is the nearest railway station to Dudhsagar Waterfall and there are other two railway stations in the city that you can select for your train journey.
By Road: If you are traveling by road then you need to reach Kulem first and then from there hire a 4-wheeler to cover an hour-long distance.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Dudhsagar waterfalls is to visit during September to October because you can also enjoy the sunny beaches of Goa in this time. With one visit to Goa you can enjoy both.
Travel Tips
Don’t try to take a bath or swim here during high rainfalls.
4. Nohsngithiang Falls, Meghalaya
Nohsngithiang Falls, also known as the Seven Sisters Waterfalls, is a beautiful waterfall in Meghalaya, India. It’s called “Seven Sisters” because it’s made up of seven separate streams of water flowing down the rocky cliffs which symbolizes the seven sister states of North East India – Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, Manipur, Nagaland, Tripura, Mizoram, and Meghalaya. Visitors can admire the falls from a viewpoint in Cherrapunji, which is a town known for its lush greenery and rainy weather. The magnificence of this stunning waterfall is unparalleled, especially during sunset when sunlight casts a perpetual rainbow upon it.
How can I reach there?
Cherrapunjee is well connected to Shillong by road, with numerous public and private buses operating regularly between the two cities.
By Air: Guwahati Airport stands as the nearest airport, situated 133 km away from Cherrapunjee and approximately 100 km from Shillong. The airport facilitates regular flights to and from various major cities across the country.
By Rail: The closest railway station to Nohsngithiang Falls is in Guwahati. Upon arrival, tourists can easily find buses or hire cabs for onward travel.
By Road: Regular buses ply between Shillong and Cherrapunjee at frequent intervals. Upon reaching Cherrapunjee, take a short taxi ride to Mawsmai Village, from where a 1 km walk will lead you to the destination.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit this place is from May to September and this place remains crowded throughout the year. So there is no best time for less crowded but definitely visiting in monsoon is better. It is during this period that the true splendor of nature and these falls can be witnessed and captured through your travel lenses.
Travel Tips
Check the weather forecast before your tour and pack accordingly to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience!
5. Nohkalikai Falls, Meghalaya
Nohkalikai Falls is one of India’s tallest waterfalls, dropping from a height of 1115 feet. It is located near Cherrapunji in Meghalaya and is named after a local legend about a woman named Likai. The waterfall plunges into a deep pool surrounded by lush greenery, creating a stunning and dramatic view.
How do I get there?
- By Air: The closest airport is Guwahati Airport, about 133 km away.
- By Rail: The nearest railway station is in Guwahati.
- By Road: You can drive to Cherrapunji, and then take a short taxi ride to the falls.
Best Time to Visit:
The monsoon season, from May to September, is the best time to see the falls in full flow.
Travel Tips:
The paths around the falls can be slippery, so wear sturdy shoes and be careful.
6. Thalaiyar Falls, Tamil Nadu
Thalaiyar Falls, also known as the Rat Tail Falls, is located in the Dindigul district of Tamil Nadu. With a height of 297 meters, it is one of the tallest waterfalls in India. The falls got their name because they resemble a rat’s tail. The surrounding area is lush with forests, making it a scenic spot.
How do I get there?
- By Flight: Madurai Airport is the nearest, about 80 km away.
- By Rail: Dindigul Railway Station is the closest.
- By Road: You can drive from Dindigul using well-maintained roads.
Best Time to Visit:
The best time to visit is after the monsoon season when the water flow is good and the weather is pleasant.
Travel Tips:
The roads leading to the falls can be winding, so make sure your vehicle is in good condition.
7. Barehipani Falls, Odisha
Barehipani Falls, located in Similipal National Park in Odisha, is the highest waterfall in the state and the second highest in India, with a height of 399 meters. Surrounded by dense forests, the falls offer a majestic view as the water cascades down rugged terrain.
How do I get there?
- By Flight: The nearest airport is in Bhubaneswar, about 250 km away.
- By Rail: The closest railway station is in Jashipur. You can hire a taxi from there.
- By Road: Accessible from Jashipur via well-marked roads through the forest.
Best Time to Visit:
November to December, when the water flow is strong and the weather is pleasant.
Travel Tips:
Book your stay in advance as accommodation options near the falls are limited. Also, make sure you have enough fuel for the journey through the forest.
8. Athirappilly Falls, Kerala
Athirappilly Falls, often called the “Niagara of India,” is the largest waterfall in Kerala, with a height of 80 feet. It is located in the Thrissur district on the Chalakudy River and is surrounded by lush tropical forests.
How do I get there?
- By Flight: Cochin International Airport is about 60 km away.
- By Rail: Thrissur Railway Station is the nearest.
- By Road: You can drive from Thrissur using well-maintained roads.
Best Time to Visit:
June to September, during the monsoon season when the water flow is at its best.
Travel Tips:
Bring rain gear as the area can be quite wet during the monsoon.
9. Courtallam Falls, Tamil Nadu
Courtallam Falls, located in the Tirunelveli district of Tamil Nadu, is known as the “Spa of South India” because of its therapeutic properties. The falls are a series of cascades, with the main one being about 60 meters high. The area is famous for its pleasant climate and natural beauty.
How do I get there?
- By Flight: Tuticorin Airport is the nearest, about 80 km away.
- By Rail: Tirunelveli Railway Station is the closest.
- By Road: Accessible by road from Tirunelveli with well-maintained routes.
Best Time to Visit:
June to September for the best water flow and weather.
Travel Tips:
Visit during the monsoon season to experience the falls at their fullest.
10. Kumbhe Waterfall, Maharashtra
Kumbhe Waterfall, located in the Satara district of Maharashtra, is a lesser-known but beautiful waterfall. Surrounded by lush greenery, it offers a peaceful retreat and is known for its natural beauty.
How do I get there?
- By Flight: Pune International Airport is about 120 km away.
- By Rail: Satara Railway Station is the closest.
- By Road: Accessible by road from Satara using well-maintained routes.
Best Time to Visit:
June to October, during the monsoon season for the best water flow and lush surroundings.
Travel Tips:
Be ready for some off-road driving and ensure your vehicle is suitable for the terrain.
India’s waterfalls are natural wonders that highlight the country’s diverse landscapes and ecosystems. Each waterfall, with its unique features, adds to India’s rich tapestry of natural beauty. Whether you’re looking for adventure, tranquility, or simply a chance to enjoy stunning scenery, these waterfalls offer an unforgettable experience.