Which Are the Best Waterfalls in India to Explore?

India is home to some of the most beautiful waterfalls in the world. From Jog Falls in Karnataka and Dudhsagar Falls at the border of Goa and Karnataka to Nohkalikai Falls in Meghalaya and Athirappilly Falls in Kerala, there are plenty of waterfalls in India that leave you mesmerized. The natural beauty of waterfalls draws many tourists, nature lovers, adventure enthusiasts, photographers, and travelers. Whether you like to travel with your family, solo, or in a group, a trip to any of the most beautiful waterfalls in India will leave you spellbound with its breathtaking views.

Waterfalls are most enchanting during and after the monsoon when the streams and rivers are full of water. The greenery around the waterfalls also adds to their beauty. However, the beauty of waterfalls varies from one season to another depending on the waterfall.

If you are planning a trip to any of the most beautiful waterfalls in India, here are some suggestions that you might find useful.

10 Best Waterfalls in India That You Shouldn’t Miss

India’s varied topography ranges from mountains to valleys and forests to grasslands which creates the perfect habitat for waterfalls. The geographical beauty of regions such as the Western Ghats, Himalayan foothills, Northeastern hill ranges, central Indian forests, and southern plateaus is incomplete without the presence of waterfalls.

Here is a list of some of the most enchanting waterfalls in India:

1. Jog Falls, Karnataka

Jog Falls in Karnataka is one of the most visited waterfalls in the state. Jog Falls is also referred to as the Raja-Rani Falls because it comprises four sub-waterfalls, namely Raja, Rani, Roarer, and Rocket. Jog Falls is located in the Shivamogga district of Karnataka. It is formed by the Sharavathi River that flows down the Western Ghats and jumps off the cliff.

It produces a deafening roar that can be heard from a mile away. During the monsoon and post-monsoon season, the Jog Falls become even more beautiful as the streams and rivers get filled.

The waterfall is ideally located for nature lovers and photographers. It is surrounded by the Western Ghats on both sides which makes it a prime attraction for tourists.

Best time to visit: Monsoon and post-monsoon

Best for: Nature lovers, Photography, Sightseeing, Road trips

2. Dudhsagar Falls, Goa-Karnataka border

Dudhsagar Falls is one of the most famous falls in India. It is one of the tallest waterfalls in India and is located in the Western Ghats along the border of Goa and Karnataka. It is believed that Dudhsagar Falls got its name from the white foam that the falls produce which makes it look like a sea of milk.

The falls are beautifully surrounded by dense forest on either side. It becomes even more magnificent during the rainy season when the water rises exponentially. The best thing about this fall is that it is adventure-friendly. However, it is advisable to keep a tab on the local alerts before planning your trip to Dudhsagar Falls.

Best time to visit: Monsoon and post-monsoon (local alerts)

Best for: Adventure, Trekking, Photography, Nature lovers

3. Athirappilly Falls, Kerala

Athirappilly Falls is one of the most visited natural attractions in Kerala. Surrounded by lush greenery, Athirappilly Falls is a must-visit tourist spot in the state. It is situated in Thrissur district on the river Chalakudy. It has one of the most substantial continuous sheets of water in India that flows down the dense hill forest.

This beautiful fall is preferred by many tourists who love to travel with their families as there are relatively fewer steps and a short climb to view the falls.

Waterfalls become more spectacular during the rainy season and Athirappilly Falls is no different. The beauty of the fall gets enhanced many folds during the monsoon season.

Best time to visit: Monsoon and post-monsoon

Best for: Family travel, Couple trips, Photography, Nature lovers

4. Nohkalikai Falls, Meghalaya

Nohkalikai Falls in Meghalaya is one of the most beautiful waterfalls in the country. It plunges down from the cliffs and rocks in a narrow rocky valley near Cherrapunji.

It is said that the beauty of Nohkalikai Falls gets doubled during the cloudy month of the monsoon season when the mist rises from the fall. It is one of the prime attractions in Meghalaya alongside the caves, forests, and root bridges.

The beauty of nature and its ability to create such masterpieces is truly astonishing. If you are planning a trip to Meghalaya, make sure to include Nohkalikai Falls in your itinerary.

Best time to visit: Monsoon and post-monsoon

Best for: Photography, Sightseeing, Nature tour, Adventure

5. Elephant Falls, Meghalaya

Elephant Falls is one of the best places to visit in Meghalaya for nature lovers and wildlife lovers. This beautiful fall is situated near Shillong and is one of the easily accessible waterfalls in the state.

The falls are so picturesque that you cannot resist clicking pictures here. Elephant Falls is quite popular among tourists because of its proximity to Shillong. A tourist visiting Shillong can decide to go to Elephant Falls on the same day.

There are many steps and platforms along the way that offer a spectacular view of the fall. Although Elephant Falls can be visited all year round, it is more beautiful during the rainy season.

Best time to visit: Monsoon and post-monsoon

Best for:Sightseeing, Family, Photography and Short trips

6. Hogenakkal Falls, Tamil Nadu

Hogenakkal Falls is situated in the Kaveri district of Tamil Nadu. This fall is created when the Kaveri River rushes from the mountain into the valley below in the form of cascades. The white color of the Hogenakkal Falls gets mixed with the river water and creates a spectacular view.

Hogenakkal Falls is also called the ‘smoke waterfall’ as the river produces a lot of vapor when it hits the rocks below. This small village is also famous for the coracle ride that one can experience on the Kaveri River during the monsoon season when the water level rises.

However, one should be aware of the local alerts before taking a coracle ride as it can be risky sometimes.

Best time to visit: Post-monsoon and winter (local alerts)

Best for:Day trips, Sightseeing, Photography and Nature lovers

7. Shivanasamudra Falls, Karnataka

Shivanasamudra Falls is another spectacular waterfall in Karnataka. It is a beautiful fall formed by the Cauvery River that flows down the Western Ghats. Shivanasamudra Falls is formed due to the division of the river in two parts around the rock formation. It comprises two waterfalls namely the Gaganachukki and the Bharachukki.

The beauty of Shivanasamudra Falls lies in its mix of nature, rocks, waterfalls, and vegetation. It offers a quick get-away option for people residing in Bengaluru and Mysuru.

Best time to visit: Monsoon and post-monsoon

Best for:Family or couple weekend getaways, photography, sightseeing

8. Soochipara Falls, Kerala

Soochipara Falls also called Sentinel Rock Waterfalls is one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Kerala. It is located in the Wayanad district of Kerala.

This waterfall is quite famous among tourists as it is surrounded by a dense forest and is situated amidst the hills. The thick canopy of the trees creates a perfect environment for the fall.

If you are planning a trip to Kerala, make sure that you save a day to witness the beauty of Soochipara Falls. The path covered while going to the fall is an adventure in itself as you have to walk barefoot on the mossy stones.

Although Soochipara Falls can be visited all year round, it is more pleasant during the rainy season.

Best time to visit: Monsoon and post-monsoon

Best for:Trekking, Adventure sports, Photography, Nature lovers

9. Dhuandhar Falls, Madhya Pradesh

Dhuandhar Falls is one of the prime tourist attractions in Madhya Pradesh. This spectacular fall is situated near Bhedaghat in the Dindori district of Madhya Pradesh.

Dhuandhar Falls is formed by the Narmada River that rushes down from the hills in a free fall of 40 meters. The beauty of the fall lies in the white color of the mist that comes from the fall and mixes with the river water.

The strange beauty of the marble rocks that surround the fall attracts many tourists.

Bhedaghat is a perfect place for tourists who love to capture moments with nature. This place offers the perfect blend of waterfalls, rocks, rivers, and mist that makes it a fantastic picnic spot.

Best time to visit: Monsoon and post-monsoon

Best for: Photography, Family, Sightseeing, Nature lovers

10. Chitrakote Falls, Chhattisgarh

Chitrakote Falls is one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Chhattisgarh. This wonderful waterfall is situated in the Bastar district of Chhattisgarh on the Indravati River.

The fall creates a spectacular view with its wide horseshoe shape that attracts many tourists. Chitrakote Falls is quite famous during the monsoon season as the river level rises exponentially.

You can plan a quick trip to Chitrakote Falls if you are visiting the Bastar region.

Best time to visit: Monsoon and post-monsoon

Best for:Nature lovers, Photography, Road trips, Adventure sports

Why are waterfalls in India so popular?

Waterfalls in India have been attracting tourists, nature lovers, and adventure enthusiasts for decades. The magnificence of waterfalls combined with the beauty of nature is what makes them so special and unique. Let’s discuss the factors that contribute to the popularity of waterfalls:

Spectacular Natural Beauty

Waterfalls are usually surrounded by rocks, mountains, valleys, and vegetation which gives them a picture-perfect view. Many of these waterfalls can only be accessed by through a difficult path which makes it adventurous and attractive for many tourists.

Monsoon Beauty

Waterfalls become more beautiful during the rainy season as the river and stream levels rise. The lush greenery caused by rainfall also adds to the beauty of the waterfalls.

If you are a nature lover or a photographer, monsoon season is the best time to witness waterfalls in their absolute beauty. However, it is better to check the local alerts before planning a trip to any waterfall destination as it can be unsafe during the monsoon season.

Adventure

Many waterfalls require hiking and trekking to access which makes it adventurous. Therefore, waterfalls are preferred by tourists who like to explore and go on adventures.

Getaways

Waterfalls make a great picnic spot for people living in cities. They prefer visiting waterfalls to get away from the constant hustle and bustle of the city.

Photography

The mix of rocks, waterfalls, mountains, valleys, and vegetation is what attracts photographers towards it. The reflections of the waterfalls in the river water also amaze many tourists and photography lovers.

Best time to visit the best waterfalls in India

The best time to visit waterfalls is completely dependent on the destination and preference of tourist. Different waterfalls have different seasons that make them stand out from the rest. Let’s discuss the seasons:

Monsoon

The months of June to September are monsoon months across India. Monsoon season is preferred by many tourists as it brings out the magnificence of the waterfalls. Although it is very hot during these months, the beauty of the waterfalls is unparallel.

Post-Monsoon

The months after monsoon season are favorable for a lot of waterfalls in India. They offer a mix of beauty and comfort to the tourists. Therefore, these months are considered to be the best waterfalls visiting months.

Winter

November to February is generally winter all over India. The weather is pleasant and comfortable which makes it easier to travel. The combination of waterfalls and greenery is perfect during these months.

Summer

Summer months are usually hot all across India. The water level of streams and rivers decreases during this season which can affect the waterfalls. Although, some waterfalls are perennial and can be visited all year long.

How to choose the right waterfall for your trip?

Depending on your preferences, you can choose from a variety of waterfalls:

For easy sightseeing, choose falls that are easily accessible without much hiking and climbing. Falls such as Elephant Falls and Athirappilly Falls, are perfect if you want to enjoy the beauty of waterfalls without much difficulty.

For the best view, choose falls such as Nohkalikai, Jog, and Chitrakote. They offer you a magnificent view of the waterfalls amid nature’s embrace.

For adventure and trekking, you can opt for falls such as Dudhsagar and Soochipara. However, make sure to keep a tab on the local alerts before visiting them.

For a quick weekend getaway, falls such as Shivanasamudra and Hogenakkal are a great option. They are easily accessible and perfect for a quick trip from nearby cities such as Mysuru, Bengaluru, and Pune.

For photography, falls such as Nohkalikai, Dudhsagar, Jog, and Chitrakote offer a perfect view of the beauty of waterfalls with rocks, mountains, valleys, and trees.

Safety tips for waterfall tourism

Waterfalls are truly captivating but you should always keep a few safety measures in mind to ensure a pleasant experience:

• Always follow the safety guidelines and avoid trespassing.
• Do not risk swimming in unfamiliar and untamed waters.
• Avoid slippery surfaces. Always wear sports shoes with good grip.
• Keep the safety of children in mind. Avoid keeping them close to dangerous cliffs.
• Do not visit restricted or risky places. Always follow the directions given by the authorities.
• Always carry medicines and water with you on a trail.
• Do not carry any unnecessary items while trekking.
• Do not litter. Avoid harming the flora and the fauna in and around the waterfalls.

Although waterfalls are a favorite tourist spot, they can be dangerous. Therefore, it is better to keep a few safety measures in mind while visiting any falls. Waterfalls can become slippery during the rainy season. The rising water level can also be dangerous. Hence, it is always better to double-check the local alerts before planning a trip to any waterfall.

Tips for visiting waterfalls

Some tips can help you to prepare for a pleasant waterfall trip:

• Carry a waterproof bag to keep your phone, camera, and other electronics safe and secure.
• Wear comfortable clothes and shoes. If you are trekking, carry sports shoes with a good grip.
• Keep your tent, flashlight, and survival gear handy in case of any emergency.
• If you have a car, reach the nearest possible point before trekking to the falls.
• Always carry drinking water and food with you.
• Carry medicines with you in case of any medical emergency.
• Set off early in the morning. It is safer and the weather is comfortable.
• Always carry weather forecasts with you before heading out to any fall adventure.
  

  FAQS

Here are some of the most common questions asked about the best waterfalls in India which have been answered below:

1.Which are the most famous waterfalls in India?

Some of the most famous waterfalls in India are Jog Falls, Dudhsagar Falls, Athirappilly Falls, Nohkalikai Falls, Chitrakote Falls, Hogenakkal Falls, Shivanasamudra Falls, and Dhuandhar Falls.

2.Which waterfall is the best to visit during the monsoon?

Monsoon season is the best time to witness the beauty of waterfalls. Dudhsagar, Jog Falls, Athirappilly, Nohkalikai, and Chitrakote are some of the waterfalls that are best visited during the monsoon season. However, always keep a tab on the local alerts as it can be dangerous during the rainy season.

3.Which is the tallest waterfall in India?

Kunchikal Falls in Karnataka claims to be the tallest waterfall in India. Nohkalikai Falls in Meghalaya is said to be the tallest plunge waterfall in India.

4.Which waterfall is best for a family trip?

Some of the best waterfalls for family trips are Elephant Falls, Athirappilly Falls, Dhuandhar Falls, and Shivanasamudra. It is advisable to keep your kids away from the unsafe or risky areas.

5.Which waterfalls are best for trekking?

Dudhsagar and Soochipara are best for trekking and hiking. Always keep a tab on local restrictions and weather conditions before planning your trip.

6.What should I carry while visiting a waterfall?

You should carry comfortable clothes and shoes, raincoat, medicines, food and water, and a waterproof bag to keep your electronics safe. If you are trekking, carry only the essential items.

7.Are waterfalls safe during the monsoon?

During the monsoon season, waterfalls can become dangerous due to rising water levels. The weather conditions can also affect the safety of a waterfall visit. Hence, it is better to double-check the local weather conditions and restrict yourself from visiting unsafe waterfalls.

8.Which state has the most beautiful waterfalls in India?

India has a diverse range of waterfalls with varying degrees of beauty. It is hard to pick the best state with waterfalls but Karnataka, Kerala, Meghalaya, Maharashtra, Goa, Madhya Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, and Chhattisgarh are some of the states that offer a diverse range of waterfalls.

Final thoughts

India has a rich variety of waterfalls across various states that attract thousands of tourists every year. From Jog Falls in Karnataka and Dudhsagar Falls on the Goa-Karnataka border to Nohkalikai Falls in Meghalaya and Athirappilly Falls in Kerala, there are plenty of waterfalls that offer a spectacular view. The enchanting beauty of waterfalls draws many tourists, nature lovers, adventure enthusiasts, photographers, and travelers. Waterfalls are preferred by many tourists who like to travel with their families, alone, or in a group. A waterfall visit can also be a perfect weekend getaway for many tourists. The beauty of these falls lies in their ability to offer a mix of nature, adventure, excitement, and a tranquil experience. Although the monsoon season offers the most enchanting view, every season has its charm. Waterfalls can be dangerous during the monsoon season.

Whether you are traveling with your family or alone, a trip to waterfalls will be a great experience for you. If you are planning a family trip, a trip to waterfalls can be a great option. You can also share this article with your friends and family so that they can also enjoy the Best waterfalls in India.