Karnataka is one of the most beautiful states in India which is famous for its natural beauty. Hes The state is known for its forests, hills of the western ghats, coffee plantation, beaches, historic monuments, river and waterfalls. Nature has bestowed state of Karnataka with of the grand waterfalls that will leave any tourist in awe of nature. These waterfalls spread across the state but mostly around the western ghats and the state capital of Bangalore is the staging point for most of the waterfalls. These waterfalls are perfect for planning a weekend getaway with friends and family for a picnic as well as sightseeing..
Karnataka has over 40 waterfalls. Most of these waterfalls are known for their scenic beauty and hence are prime tourist locations attracting huge numbers of tourist all throughout the year especially during and after monsoon, from July to February when the waterbodies are in their maximum flow and as such waterfalls have maximum water level in them and are most intense during this period and are in full spate. Most of these waterfalls have gained immense popularity because of them being used as shooting l0ocations for various films. There are numerous big small waterfalls spread across the state, the most favoured by tourist. are as follows:-
- Jog Falls
Jog Falls is one of the most famous waterfalls of Karnataka because of being the highest in the state and second highest in the country. The waterfall cascades from a height of 253 meters on the rocks. Located on the border of Shimoga, the fall is formed on the River Sharavathi. You can see four falls that emerge from the Jog Falls, which are called Raja, Rani, Rocket, and Roarer.
- Hebbe Falls
Hebbe Falls is one of the must-visit waterfalls in Karnataka. Situated near Chikmaglur, Hebbe Falls is surrounded by greenery and create a pool when it falls on the ground. It is believed that the water in this waterfall has curative powers; therefore, you can take a bath under this fall. To reach the fall, you have to trek to at least 2 km. This is one of the most beautiful waterfalls in the state, and you must not forget to carry your camera before you start your trip.
- Chunchi Falls
If you are starting from Bangalore, you will reach this popular tourist destination in a few hours. You can visit this waterfall over the weekends. It falls on the Akhavati River and forms a small pool. You can enjoy your time around the pool or choose to trek to the waterfall. The trekking trail is surrounded by lush greenery, which looks absolutely soothing to the eyes.
- Shivanasamudra Falls
One among the many weekend getaways from Bangalore is the Shivanasamudra Falls. This is one of the stunning waterfalls that you will see in the state of Karnataka. However, it is better if you do not try going very near the waterfall as the gorge is deep and the current of water is very strong. It also makes for one of the best Road trips to visit the waterfalls in Karnataka.
- Abbey Falls
Abbey Falls, popularly called as Jessy Falls, is one of the places to visit in Coorg, Karnataka, especially during the weekend. Many small streams come together and make the Abbey Falls. The waterfall cascades through the rocky slopes and makes its way to a verdant coffee plantation and spice estate. You can take your car till the entrance of the plantation, but to reach the waterfalls, you have to walk.
- Kalhatti Falls
Kalhatti Falls is one of the popular waterfalls, located at a distance of 82 km from Chikmaglur. Falling from an altitude of more than 400 feet through the Chandra Drona Hills, right in front of the Veerabhadreshwara Temple, this waterfall looks extremely picturesque. The mountain that adjoins this waterfall is rich in flora and fauna; thus, it is one of the best places for nature lovers to visit on any weekend.
- Sathodi Falls
As you make the list of waterfalls in Karnataka, do not forget including Sathodi Falls. Formed by many streams, the Sathodi Falls cascade from an altitude of 50 feet. The fall is located near Dandeli and often called as Mini Niagara by the locals here. You can try swimming in the pool that is formed by the waterfall. It is better to avoid making any plan to this waterfall during the monsoon season as the condition of the roads worsens during the rainy months.
- Arasina Makki Falls
Arasina Makki Falls or Arisina Gundi Falls, as called by the locals, is a stunning waterfall that is situated inside the area of Mookambika Wildlife Sanctuary in Karnataka. To make it to the waterfall, you have to walk for at least 1-2 km in the woods of Kodachadri Hills.
- Burude Falls
Also popularly called as Dodmane Falls, it is one of the most spectacular waterfalls located near Kyadgi in Uttara Kannada. It is a five-step waterfall where you can reach through a small creek that remains dry during the summer season.
- Kudlu Theertha Waterfalls
Located near Agumbe, Kudlu Theertha Waterfalls is one of the most beautiful waterfalls you will see. It drops from an altitude of 300 feet into a pond. It is believed that several years ago Hindu sages used to meditate near this waterfall.
- Unchalli Falls
Located about 54 km away from the Jog Falls, near Sirsi in Uttar Kannada district is the Unchalli Falls, also known as the Lushington Falls. This waterfall is 380 feet high and is situated amidst thick forests. Formed by the Aghanashini, this waterfall is also known as Keppa Joga owing to the sound the stream makes.
- Godchinamalaki Falls
The Godchinamalki Falls is also known as the Markandeya falls and is situated in the Belgaum district which is about 35 km away from the famous Gokak falls. The falls streams into two sections, one plunging at a height of 25 meters and passing by a rough ragged valley and the other taking a plunge at the height of 20 meters.
- Chelavara Falls
The Chelavare waterfall near Mangalore is a stunning one located about 43kms from Madikere. It is also known as Emepaare by the locals. This falls cascades from a height of 150 feet and is surrounded by lush coffee and fragrant orange plantations. This is one of the popular weekend getaways and also hugely popular among trekkers.
- Gokak Falls
Gokak falls is a waterfall known for its beauty. It is at a distance of 60 Kms from Belgaum and 10 kms from Gokak town. Located right on the main road is a celebrated tourist center in the district. This waterfall has a height of about 170 feet, or 52 meters. The falls formed by river Ghataprabha is famous for its spread and shape. Similar to; Niagara” falls the waterfall is horse shoe shaped at the crest, with a flood breadth of 177 metres. During rainy season the water sweeps far over the brink of the cliff with a dull roar that can be heard from some distance.
- Mallalli Falls
Located in the Western Ghats at the foot of the Pushpagiri range. This falls about 25km from Somwarpet in the Kodagu district of Karnataka. Fed by the Kumaradhara River, the water from this river falls over 200 feet in two steps to create the Mallalli Falls. From here the river goes on to flow through Kukke Subrahmanya before merging with the Netravati River in Uppinangadi and empties into the Arabian Sea at Mangalore. The waterfall is a stunning sight in itself but it also gives tourists a beautiful view of the steep valleys and lush green mountains around it.
