We understand now what old people mean when they say that once you bathe under a waterfall, your life changes a bit. Luckily for us, while we're all still young and wishing to travel and find ourselves, India is known to have some of the most stunning waterfalls in the world! From the Himalayas to the Western Ghats, here's a round-up of the best of the best you need to check out at least once in your lifetime.
15 Waterfalls In India That Every Nature Lover Should Bookmark
Overview
Dudhsagar Falls
Literally meaning sea of milk, this magnificent waterfall in Goa is four-tiered on the Mandovi River and has a height of 310 meters, making it one of the highest waterfalls in India. The water falling down from the fall creates a milky foam at the bottom, which is where it gets its name from. Although avoid visiting during the monsoon season (June - Mid-September) as the trek to the waterfall becomes dangerous due to slippery terrains.
LBB Tip: Folks travelling to Goa also tend to travel via train, which is where you can watch the waterfalls almost up close in all its glory, all while the train winds down the bridge!
Height: 310 meters (1,017 feet)
How to Reach: By road: Through Panaji, nearest railway station: Kulem Station, nearest airport: Dabolim Airport
Best Time To Visit: October - May
Nohkalikai Falls
This 340-meter-high fall is considered to be the tallest plunge waterfall (falls vertically and does not make contact with the rocks at the surface) in the country. It is situated in the northeast state of Meghalaya, close to Cherrapunji, which is known to be one of the wettest places in the world. The waterfall drops into a small pool-like base, which reflects a unique green colour. The waterfall is mostly in its full form during the monsoon season, as the rainwater is collected on the plateau summits and is at its lowest form during the dry seasons. There is also an observing gallery made to view the waterfall from where you can also hear the mighty sound of the waterfall descending.
Height: 340 m (1,115 feet)
How to Reach: By road: Government buses run from Shillong, nearest railway station: Guwahati Railway Station, nearest airport: Borjhar Airport in Guwahati
Best Time To Visit: June - September
Jog Falls
Another plunge waterfall on the list, the Jog Falls are located in Shimoga, Karnataka, and are largely dependent on the rains to form. The waterfall is also the third-highest waterfall in India that has a height of 335 meters. The waterfall originates from the Sharavati River; further, it is covered with lush greenery all around, and the surrounding areas are ideal for a pleasant trekking experience. Also, you can take a dip at the base of the waterfall, too!
Height: 335 meters (830 feet)
How to Reach: By road: Cabs and buses run from major cities such as Bangalore and Mangalore, nearest railway station: Shimoga Railway Station, nearest airport: Hubli Airport
Best Time To Visit: June to September
Kunchikal Falls
This waterfall is also based in the Shimoga district of Karnataka, with a height of 455 meters and is created by the Varahi river. Due to the construction of a dam nearby and an underground power station, the waterfall's flow has been greatly decreased, and now it largely depends on the rains to form a heavy flow. Nonetheless, the waterfall makes for a picturesque place that still can't be missed!
Height: 455 meters (1,493 feet)
How to Reach: By road: Private buses are connected with major cities, nearest railway station: Udupi Railway Station, nearest airport: Mangalore Airport
Best Time To Visit: July to September
Athirappilly Falls
This waterfall is also called the Niagara Falls of South India, and rightly so! It stands 25 meters tall and gushes down to connect with the Vazhachal forest. This waterfall has been a backdrop in many feature films, one of the most famous being Bahubali. The waterfall is surrounded by the Vazhachal forest, which houses many indigenous flora and fauna and looks like something straight out of a movie.
Height: 25 meters (81.5 feet)
How to Reach: By road: private and govt. buses are well-connected with the city, nearest railway station: Athirapally Railway Station, nearest airport: Kochi International Airport
Best Time To Visit: June to September
Elephant Falls
Elephant Falls is a three-tiered waterfall located near Shillong in Meghalaya. Even though it is only 30 meters, it is surrounded by lush greenery. Further, it is named as such because of an elephant-shaped rock that was once found at its base. If you are planning on visiting Shillong, then don't forget to add it to your itinerary.
Height: 30 meters (98 feet)
How to Reach: By road: private and govt. buses from Shillong, nearest railway station: Guwahati Railway Station, nearest airport: Guwahati Airport
Best Time To Visit: October to February
Chitrakote Falls
Known as the Niagara Falls of India, located in Chhattisgarh, the Chitrakote Falls has a height of 29 meters with a whopping width of 300 meters. Apart from how stunning it is, the width itself makes it the widest in India. The falls originate from the Indravati River and are shaped like a horseshoe.
Height: 29 meters (95 feet)
How to Reach: By road: govt. buses from Jagdalpur, nearest railway station: Jagdalpur Railway Station, nearest airport: Raipur Airport
Best Time To Visit: July to September
Bhimlat Falls
A waterfall in the desert state of Rajasthan might come as a surprise to few, but the Bhimlat falls are a natural beauty worth checking. The fall has a height of 60 meters and has gained popularity as a tourist spot in recent years. If you happen to be in Rajasthan and want to escape from the dreadful summers of the state, then do make a point to visit this waterfall!
Height: 60 meters (197 feet)
How to Reach: By road - Bus or cab from Bundi, nearest railway station: Bundi Railway Station, nearest airport - Udaipur Airport
Best Time To Visit: July to September
Nuranang Falls
Located in Jang near the Tawang district of Arunachal Pradesh, the waterfall has become one of the major attractions of the place. The fall has a total height of 100 meters and is formed by the slopes of the Sela Pass. The waterfall encompasses thick green forests of the hills and offers a pleasing sight that looks like a scene out of a Bollywood movie!
Height: 100 meters (328 feet)
How to Reach: By road: Private taxis or govt. buses from Tawang, nearest railway station: Tezpur Railway Station, nearest airport: Guwahati Airport
Best Time To Visit: March to October
Hogenakkal Falls
Sitting on the border of Dharmapuri district, Hogenakkal Falls is a treat for the eyes, and honestly, for the soul too. Formed by the Kaveri River, the waterfalls tumble down rocky terrain, creating a stunning sight, especially during the monsoon when everything feels ten times more dramatic. You can even hop on a boat or take a coracle ride to get up close to the falls. And if you’ve got a bit of an adventurous streak, there are trekking routes that take you right to the waterfall.
Height: 700 meters (2,300 feet)
How to Reach: By road: take a bus from the Dharmapuri Bus Stand, nearest railway station: Dharmapuri Railway Station, nearest airport: Bangalore International Airport
Best Time To Visit: October to February
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Shivanasamudra Falls
This one’s home to one of the first hydroelectric power stations in Asia! Shivanasamudra Falls is actually a cluster of waterfalls formed by the Kaveri River, and it sits right on the border of Malavalli (Mandya) and Kollegala (Chamarajanagara) in Karnataka. Scattered around the base are little islands with streams running through them, perfect spots where you can dip in and take a refreshing bath. The weather here stays pretty consistent throughout the year, so you can plan a visit whenever the mood strikes.
Height: 98 meters (322 feet)
How to Reach: By road: take a bus from Bangalore or Mysore to Kollegala, nearest railway station: Mysore Junction, nearest airport: Mysore Airport
Best Time To Visit: June to September
Talakona Falls
Talakona, in Tirupati district, holds the title of being the highest waterfall in Andhra Pradesh. Situated inside Sri Venkateswara National Park, a biosphere reserve teeming with flora and fauna, it’s a real treat for nature lovers. Nearby, you’ll also find two more waterfalls, Gundalakona and Gunjana. What really makes Talakona Falls worth the trip is how easily accessible it is, and once you’re there, it’s all about splish, splash, and soaking up the nature for as long as you like.
Height: 82 meters (270 feet)
How to Reach: By road: direct buses are available, nearest railway station: Tirupati Railway Station, nearest airport: Tirupati Airport
Best Time To Visit: June to September
Dhuandhar Falls
When the Narmada River flows through the iconic marble rocks of Bhedaghat, it narrows and plunges into what we know as the Dhuandhar Falls. The force of the drop is so intense, it kicks up a thick mist, so much so that you can hear the roar from quite a distance. For a bird’s-eye view, hop on a cable car (INR 300, running from 7 AM to 6 PM) for a total sensory treat. You can also take a peaceful boat ride through the marble canyons and end the day on a spiritual note with the evening aarti at Panchvati Ghat, which begins at 7 PM.
Height: 30 meters (98 feet)
How to Reach: By road: Bus services are available from Jabalpur, nearest railway station: Jabalpur Railway Station, nearest airport: Dumna Airport
Best Time To Visit: September to March
Thusharagiri Falls
Located in the scenic Western Ghats of Kozhikode district, this spot is actually a series of waterfalls: Erattumukku, Mazhavil Chattom, and Thumbithullum Para. The trails leading to them wind through dense forests, making it an ideal getaway for trekking, birdwatching, and nature photography. At the mountain top, a mist often settles in the shape of a crown, which is exactly why the place is fondly known for its "mist-capped peaks."
Height: 75 meters (246 feet)
How to Reach: By road: take a bus from Kozhikode to Thusharagiri, nearest railway station: Kozhikode Railway Station, nearest airport: Calicut International Airport
Best Time To Visit: September to February
Dabhosa Falls
Located near Nashik in Maharashtra, Dabhosa is a perennial waterfall that consistently flows all year round. It’s one of the highest waterfalls near Mumbai, cascading over the Lendi River. With views all around, it’s the perfect spot to relax, swim around, and just soak in nature. Getting there involves a breezy 30-minute trek from Ghatshila village, which is surrounded by lush greenery, making the journey just as rewarding as the destination.
Height: 92 meters (300 feet)
How to Reach: By road: Public transportation is limited; one will have to trek through a village, nearest railway station: Jawhar Road Railway Station, nearest airport: Ozar Airport
Best Time To Visit: June to September
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