Karnataka is a gem of a place if you’re looking for quick getaways from the maddening everyday life. The state has multiple nature retreats that instantly rejuvenate your soul and put you back in the game. From serene hills to lush forests, and vibrant beaches to scenic waterfalls, the state has it all. The waterfalls in Karnataka in particular are a nature lover’s paradise.
By the end of this blog, you’ll be ready to explore some of the most spectacular waterfalls in Karnataka that are the perfect union of serene and calm. While these waterfalls can be visited throughout the year, visitors often crowd them during monsoons. Here is everything you need to know about the popular waterfalls of the state.
Waterfalls in Karnataka offer a magnificent view
1. Iruppu Falls, Coorg
Just 50 km away from Madikeri lies the mesmerizing Iruppu Falls. The Iruppu Falls, Coorg is about 20 km away from Nagarahole National Park and originates in the Brahmagiri peaks. One of the picturesque waterfalls Coorg takes pride in, the Iruppu Falls dives 170 ft in two different sections of its course and finally merges into the Kaveri River. Interestingly, these falls are also mentioned in the Hindu epic Ramayana. The best time to visit the Iruppu Falls is from August to January.
Location: Brahmagiri range, Kurchi, Karnataka
Entry fee: Rs 60 per person
Timings: 6:00 am to 6:00 pm
2. Abbey Falls, Coorg
One of the most enchanting waterfalls Coorg can amuse you with is the Abbey Falls. The Abbey Falls are just 90 km away from Mangalore and 10 km away from the town of Madikeri. These are some of the most tourist-frequented waterfalls in Karnataka that show a beautiful amalgamation of multiple small streams into a waterfall from the rough steep rocks of the Western Ghats. With spice and coffee plantations all around, the Abbey Falls serve as the perfect getaway spot near Mysore and are at a height of 70 feet. The best time to visit these falls is from September To January.
Location: Abbey Falls Rd, Hebbettageri, Karnataka
Entry fee: Rs 15 per person
Timings: 9:00 am to 5:00 pm
3. Godchinamalaki Falls, Belgaum
Yet another of the riveting waterfalls in Karnataka is the Godchinamalaki Falls in Belgaum district. These waterfalls are located on a lush green and deep valley. The Godchinamalaki Falls branch out into two sections and serve as a blissful escape from mundane city life. The best time to visit the Godchinamalaki Falls is between July and October.
Location: Belgaum, Karnataka
Entry fee: NA
Timings: 6:00 am to 6:00 pm
4. Hebbe Falls, Chikmagalur
If you’re looking for a Sakleshpur waterfall then, no place like the Hebbe Falls for a refreshing nature retreat. One of the famous waterfalls in Karnataka, the Hebbe Falls offers the best sceneries in and around Chikmagalur. Located just 8 km away from Kemmangundi, these falls flow in two stages - Dodda Hebbe and Chikka Hebbe. This Sakleshpur waterfall is heaven on earth and visiting it between November to February might get you a sight of its colourful and pristine natural landscape of flowers and lush greens.
Location: Kesavinamane, Karnataka
Entry fee: NA
Timings: 6:00 am to 6:00 pm
5. Hogenakkal Waterfalls
Another of the enthralling waterfalls in Karnataka is the Hogenakkal waterfalls. Located on the Kaveri River in Dharmapuri, this picturesque destination gets its name from its appearance of smoky rocks. The Hogenakkal Waterfalls is often compared to Niagara Falls due to its stark resemblance with the mighty Falls and legend has it that drinking water from this fall can cure many ailments. The best time to visit these falls is between July and November.
Location: Madeshwara Betta - Hogenakkal Falls Rd, Gopinatham, Karnataka
Entry fee: NA
Timings: 9:00 am to 6:00 pm
6. Shivanasamudra
If you’re looking for a waterfall in Bangalore to visit over a weekend, the Shivanasamudra Falls might be the answer for you. This waterfall in Bangalore is a popular destination among travellers and is situated in the Mandya district of Karnataka, just 3 hours away from Bangalore city. You’ll be surprised to know that the island of Shivanasamudra is divided into two parts with two waterfalls, namely the Gaganachukki and Bharachukki Falls. Together, both these falls are known as the Shivanasamudra Falls and the best time to visit them is between October and December.
Location: Malavalli taluk, Mandya district, Karnataka
Entry fee: Rs 30 per person for Indians & Rs 50 for foreigners
Timings: 8:00 am to 5:00 pm
7. Jhari Waterfalls
Finally, one of the Chikmagalur Falls that you cannot miss is the Jhari Waterfalls. These falls are also known as Buttermilk waterfalls and are located just 23 km away from Chikmagalur. The Jhari waterfalls are undoubtedly one of the best tourist spots in Chikmagalur which is located in the heart of dense forests and coffee plantations. The highlight of a trip to these Chikmagalur Falls is being able to spend quality time with loved ones playing and clicking pictures in the natural pool that lies beneath the waterfalls. The best time to visit the Jhari Falls is between August and January.
Location: Attigundi, Inam Dattathreya Peeta, Karnataka
Entry fee: NA
Timings: 6:00 am to 6:00 pm