10 Important Waterfalls In India: Nature’s Grand Spectacle

An image showing Pothupara Waterfalls, one of the most important waterfalls in India.

There are many important waterfalls in India, each offering something unique. Some are known for their height, while others are famous for their majestic flow. These best waterfalls in India attract visitors looking for adventure and nature experiences. If you love to travel to water-based destinations, these locations are worth exploring, whether deep in forests, mountains, or national parks. This list of waterfalls in India includes ten well-known waterfalls, with details on what to do and how to reach them.

Top 10 Important Waterfalls In India

Here are India’s 10 most important waterfalls, where roaring cascades plunge from great heights, showcasing nature’s raw beauty, strength, and mesmerizing grandeur.

1. Jog Falls

An image showing Jog Falls in Karnataka, it is among the largest waterfalls in India.

Photo: channakeshava koffee / Wikimedia Commons

Jog Falls is one of the most impressive and largest waterfalls in India. The Sharavathi River forms it and drops from 253 metres without touching any rocks, making it one of the tallest plunge waterfalls in the country. During the monsoon season, the waterfall is at its most powerful point, creating a roar and a misty effect. The area around the falls has viewpoints that offer clear views. Visitors often trek down to the base to see the waterfall up close, but climbing back up can be tiring.

Location: Karnataka
How To Reach: Nearest railway station: Talaguppa; Nearest airport: Hubli; Buses and taxis are available

2. Dudhsagar Waterfall

An image showing Dudhsagar Waterfalls in Goa considered among the best waterfalls in India

Photo: Manisitlani / Wikimedia Commons

Dudhsagar Waterfall is known to be one of the best waterfalls in India. Its name refers to “Sea of Milk” because of the white water, which looks like flowing milk. The four-tiered waterfall is in the middle of a forest, making it a thrilling destination for trekkers and nature enthusiasts. It becomes even more powerful during the monsoon when the water gushes down from 310 metres. Many people enjoy taking a train ride over the bridge by the waterfall, offering a close-up view of its subliminal force.

Location: Goa-Karnataka border
How To Reach: Nearest railway station: Kulem; Nearest airport: Goa; Jeeps and taxis are available

3. Athirappilly Waterfall

An image showing the famous waterfall of Athirapally Falls during the monsoon season

Photo: Jan Joseph George / Wikimedia Commons

Athirappilly Waterfall is often called the “Niagara of India” and is one of India’s most visited famous waterfalls. It falls from a height of 80 feet, creating a wide curtain of water that flows with great force. The waterfall is near thick forests, where different birds and animals can be spotted. Many Indian films have been shot here because of its impressive appearance. Visitors can walk down to the waterfall’s base, offering a closer view and a better experience of its strength.

Location: Kerala
How To Reach: Nearest railway station: Chalakudy; Nearest airport: Cochin; Buses and taxis are available

4. Nohkalikai Falls

An image showing Nohkalikai Falls in Meghalaya, India, with water flowing from a cliff.

Photo: Jyotishkardey / Wikimedia Commons

Nohkalikai Falls is one of the biggest waterfalls in India, falling from a height of 340 metres. It is located in Meghalaya and is considered the tallest plunge waterfall in the country. The waterfall gets its water from rain, so it flows strongest during the monsoon season. At the base of the waterfall is a small pool that is vibrant green in colour. The name “Nohkalikai” comes from a local legend about a woman named “Likai” who, according to the story, jumped off the cliff where the waterfall is located. Hence, it is named “Nohkalikai Falls”.

Location: Meghalaya
How To Reach: Nearest railway station: Guwahati; Nearest airport: Shillong; Taxis are available

5. Bhagsu Waterfall

An image showing a close view of Bhagsu Waterfall with water cascading down rocky terrain.

Photo: Ravi Kumar / Wikimedia Commons

Bhagsu Waterfall is one of the most visited India waterfalls in Himachal Pradesh. It is smaller than other waterfalls on this list, but its location near McLeod Ganj makes it a popular tourist stop. The waterfall flows down in different steps, and people often climb on the rocks to get a closer view. It is located near the Bhagsunath Temple, which adds to its attraction. There are also small cafes nearby where visitors can rest and enjoy simple food.

Location: Himachal Pradesh
How To Reach: Nearest railway station: Pathankot; Nearest airport: Gaggal; Taxis are available

6. Hogenakkal Falls

A magnificent view of the Hogenakkal Falls, with water flowing through rocky formations.

Photo: Mukesh Barnwal / Wikimedia Commons

Hogenakkal Falls, located on the Kaveri River, is one of the best waterfalls in India for adventure lovers. The waterfall is famous for its unique rock formations, among the oldest in the world. The waterfall creates several small streams, and visitors can take a traditional round boat called a coracle to explore the area. Some sections of the falls are known for their strong water flow, and the area also offers local oil massages. The best time to visit is after the high water levels in the monsoon.

Location: Tamil Nadu
How To Reach: Nearest railway station: Dharmapuri; Nearest airport: Bangalore; Buses and taxis are available

7. Chitrakote Falls

An image showing Chitrakote Falls in India with water cascading over a wide rock formation

Photo: Shaswat Nimesh / Wikimedia Commons

Chitrakote Falls is the largest waterfall in India by width and is often compared to Niagara Falls. It spans nearly 300 metres and looks most impressive during the monsoon when the water spreads across its entire width. The Indravati River forms the waterfall, and the water falls from a height of 30 metres. Visitors can take boat rides near the falls, which offer a fantastic experience. The area around the waterfall is peaceful, with small temples and caves nearby that add to its attraction.

Location: Chhattisgarh
How To Reach: Nearest railway station: Jagdalpur; Nearest airport: Raipur; Taxis and buses are available

8. Kunchikal Falls

An image showing a waterfall surrounded by green plants, resembling the Kunchikal Falls.

Photo: Simon Berger / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only

Kunchikal Falls is the highest waterfall in India, dropping from a height of 455 metres. It is located in the Western Ghats and is one of the lesser-known famous waterfalls in India due to its location in a restricted area. Visitors need special permission to see the waterfall up close. The fall is created by the Varahi River and is surrounded by dense greenery. The nearby Agumbe Rainforest is known for being one of the wettest places in India, adding to the area’s charm.

Location: Karnataka
How To Reach: Nearest railway station: Udupi; Nearest airport: Mangalore; Private taxis are available

9. Meenmutty Falls

An image showing Meenmutty Waterfalls cascading down rocky terrain with greenery.

Photo: Shubhammaurya94 / Wikimedia Commons

Meenmutty Falls is one of the tallest waterfalls in India, dropping from 300 metres in three separate tiers. It is located in Wayanad, Kerala, and requires a short trek through a forest to reach. The waterfall has a strong flow, and visitors should be careful while walking near the rocks. The best time to visit is after the high water levels in the monsoon. Birdwatchers often visit the area to see different species that live in the nearby forests.

Location: Kerala
How To Reach: Nearest railway station: Kozhikode; Nearest airport: Calicut; Buses and taxis are available

10. Barehipani Falls

An image showing the serene view of Barehipani Waterfall in Simlipal Biosphere Reserve

Photo: Nihar.race / Wikimedia Commons

Barehipani Falls is one of the biggest waterfalls in India, with a height of 399 metres. It is located inside Simlipal National Park and is a two-tiered waterfall, which adds to the beauty of this natural landscape. Dense forests surround the waterfall, the habitat of various animals and birds. Since it is inside a national park, visitors can also explore the wildlife in the area. The best time to visit is during the monsoon when the water flow is strongest. Due to its location, the waterfall remains less crowded than other famous waterfalls.

Location: Odisha
How To Reach: Nearest railway station: Baripada; Nearest airport: Bhubaneswar; Buses and taxis are available

There are many important waterfalls in India, each offering something unique. From the largest waterfalls in India, like Chitrakote Falls, to the famous waterfalls in India, like Jog Falls, these waterfalls attract many visitors. If you want an adventure or a place to relax, this list of waterfalls in India offers great options. Plan your trip with TripXL and explore these incredible waterfalls.

Cover Photo: Ingo Mehling / Wikimedia Commons

Frequently Asked Questions

Kunchikal Falls in Karnataka is the highest waterfall in India, with a height of 455 metres. It is in a restricted area, and visitors need special permission to see it.
The best time to visit most waterfalls in India is during or after the monsoon season, from July to October. The water flow is stronger, making the waterfalls more impressive.
Some waterfalls inside national parks or protected areas, like Meenmutty Falls and Barehipani Falls, may have an entry fee. Others, like Jog Falls and Bhagsu Waterfall, are free to visit.
Swimming is allowed in some waterfalls with calm pools, like Hogenakkal Falls and Chitrakote Falls. However, strong currents and slippery rocks can make it unsafe in certain areas.
Guided tours are available for waterfalls located in forests or national parks, such as Dudhsagar Waterfall and Athirappilly Waterfall. These tours include trekking, jeep rides, or wildlife safaris.

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