10 Major Waterfalls In India That Will Leave You Spellbound

An image of Athirapally Waterfalls, recognised as one of the major waterfalls in India.

Waterfalls in India are some of the most fascinating wonders of the country. Many major waterfalls in India are spread across different landscapes, from thick forests to rocky hills, making each one unique. Some are known for their height, while other waterfalls impress with their wide water flow. Many waterfalls also have nearby trekking trails, viewpoints, or boating spots, making them great places to visit. In this guide, we will explore some of the best waterfalls in India, their locations, Things To Do, and the best ways to reach them.

10 Major Waterfalls In India

Explore some of India’s biggest and most famous waterfalls, known for their beauty and splendour:

1. Chitrakote Falls

An image showing Chitrakote Falls, recognised as among the largest waterfalls in India

Photo: Shaswat Nimesh / Wikimedia Commons

Chitrakote Falls is known as the “Niagara Falls of India” because of its wide horseshoe shape. It is one of the largest waterfalls in India, especially during the monsoon season when the Indravati River is in full flow. The waterfall drops from a height of about 30 metres and extends nearly 300 metres in width. The view differs in each season, with powerful water flow in the rainy months and a calmer sight in the dry months.

Location: Bastar District, Chhattisgarh
Things To Do: Boating, Visit nearby caves, Photography

2. Nohkalikai Falls

Image of Nohkalikai Falls in Meghalaya, counted among the biggest waterfalls in India

Photo: Sujan Bandyopadhyay / Wikimedia Commons

Nohkalikai Falls is one of the biggest waterfalls in India, dropping from a height of 340 metres. It is located near Cherrapunji, which is known for its high rainfall. The water falls from a cliff and forms a pool below. The colour of the pool changes depending on the season, appearing blue in summer and green in monsoon. The waterfall is linked to a local legend about a woman named Likai who, driven by madness, jumped from the falls, making it even more interesting for visitors.

Location: Meghalaya
Things To Do: Visit viewpoints, Trekking, Photography

3. Athirappilly Falls

An image of Athirapally Falls during monsoon, one of the famous waterfalls in India

Photo: Jan Joseph George / Wikimedia Commons

Athirappilly Falls, located in Kerala, is often called the “Niagara of India.” It is one of the famous waterfalls in India, standing at a height of 80 metres. The Chalakudy River creates this waterfall, which flows strongly during the monsoon. The area around the waterfall is home to many species of birds and animals, making it an interesting place for nature enthusiasts. Many Indian films have been shot here, attracting tourists from all over. The waterfall can be viewed from multiple points, and a short trek leads to the base, offering a closer look.

Location: Thrissur District, Kerala
Things To Do: Visit Vazhachal Falls, Birdwatching, Trekking

4. Dudhsagar Falls

An image of the three-tiered flow of Dudhsagar Falls, capturing its water streams

Photo: Purshi / Wikimedia Commons

Dudhsagar Falls is one of the best waterfalls in India. It gets its name from its milky white appearance, which means “Sea of Milk,” from its white water that looks like flowing milk. The waterfall is 310 metres high and flows down in multiple tiers. The surrounding area is part of the Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary, adding to its natural appeal. The waterfall is most powerful during the monsoon, and its railway bridge view is a popular attraction.

Location: Goa-Karnataka Border
Things To Do: Trekking, Jeep safari, Visit nearby spice plantations

5. Jog Falls

An image showing the segmented streams of Jog Falls, highlighting its vertical drop

Photo: channakeshava koffee / Wikimedia Commons

Jog Falls is one of the biggest waterfalls in India, standing at a height of 253 metres. Unlike many waterfalls that flow over sloping rocks, Jog Falls plunges directly into a deep valley. The Sharavathi River forms it and consists of four streams—Raja, Rani, Roarer, and Rocket. The waterfall is at its best during the monsoon, when water flow is at its peak. A viewpoint allows visitors to see the entire waterfall, and a trek down to the base offers a different perspective.

Location: Shivamogga District, Karnataka
Things To Do: View the waterfall from different vantage points, Trek down to the base, Visit Linganamakki Dam

6. Meenmutty Falls

An image showing Meenmutty Waterfalls cascading over rocky terrain in multiple stages

Photo: Shubhammaurya94 / Wikimedia Commons

Meenmutty Falls is one of the largest waterfalls in India. Its height is 300 metres, and it is a three-tiered waterfall. Visitors must trek through forest trails to reach the falls, making it an adventurous destination. The monsoon season brings a strong water flow, and the falls remain a major attraction throughout the year. The area around the waterfall is home to rich wildlife, making it a good spot for photography.

Location: Wayanad, Kerala
Things To Do: Trekking, Explore Banasura Sagar Dam, Photography

7. Kunchikal Falls

An image of a waterfall flowing through mountains with water similar to Kunchikal Falls

Photo: Anonymous / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only

Kunchikal Falls is the tallest waterfall in India, standing at 455 metres in Karnataka’s Western Ghats. The Varahi river forms it and flows down rocky slopes, creating a striking sight. However, since a dam controls the water flow, the appearance of the falls changes with the seasons. The area receives heavy rainfall and is close to Agumbe, known for its sunset views and wildlife. Visitors need special permission to enter because the falls are in a restricted zone.

Location: Udupi District, Karnataka
Things To Do: Trekking, Photography, Exploring nearby Agumbe Rainforest

8. Barehipani Falls

An image showing Barehipani Falls cascading down a rocky cliff in multiple tiers.

Photo: Samarth Joel Ram / Wikimedia Commons

Barehipani Falls is one of the largest waterfalls in India, dropping from a height of 399 metres in two tiers. It is located in Simlipal National Park, Odisha, which is known for its wildlife and dense forests. The Budhabalanga River forms this waterfall, creating a stunning sight, especially during the monsoon. The area around the waterfall is home to tigers, elephants, and many bird species. Visitors often explore the national park along with the falls. Due to its location within a protected area, the waterfall remains undisturbed and maintains its natural charm.

Location: Mayurbhanj District, Odisha
Things To Do: Wildlife safari, Photography, Explore Simlipal National Park

9. Kune Falls

Image of a waterfall flowing down a surface, surrounded by trees, like Kune Waterfall.

Photo: psaudio / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only

Kune Falls is one of the famous waterfalls in India, located in the Lonavala region of Maharashtra. It has a height of 200 metres and flows in three tiers. The waterfall is surrounded by the green hills of the Sahyadri range, making it a popular destination for tourists. During the monsoon, the water flow is strongest, attracting many visitors. The region is also known for its forts, caves, and viewpoints. Kune Church, which is nearby, is another attraction that visitors often explore.

Location: Lonavala, Maharashtra
Things To Do: Visit viewpoints, Explore nearby forts, Photograph

10. Soochipara Falls

An image of Soochipara Falls in Wayanad, Kerala, with water cascading down rocky terrain

Photo: Yjenith / Wikimedia Commons

Soochipara Falls, also known as Sentinel Rock Waterfalls, is one of the best waterfalls in India. The waterfall is about 200 metres high and surrounded by forests. A short trek is required to reach the base of the falls, making it a great spot for adventure seekers. The rock formations around the waterfall are unique, and the pool at the base allows visitors to enjoy the water. The waterfall is seasonal, with the best flow during the monsoon months. The nearby tea plantations add to the attraction of this place.

Location: Wayanad, Kerala
Things To Do: Trekking, Visit tea plantations, Photography

Major Waterfalls in India are spread across different regions, each offering something special. These natural wonders attract visitors yearly, from tall and powerful falls to ones hidden in forests. Some are great for adventure activities, while others are perfect for a relaxing visit. No matter which one you choose, they all leave a lasting impression. Plan your trip with TripXL and explore these stunning waterfalls.

Cover Photo: Souradeep Ghosh / Wikimedia Commons

Frequently Asked Questions

The best time to visit waterfalls in India is from June to September, when the water flow is at its highest. However, some waterfalls remain accessible year-round, with varying water levels in different seasons.
Some waterfalls, especially those in national parks or protected areas, may have an entry fee. The charges vary depending on the location and facilities available. It’s best to check official sources before visiting.
Swimming is allowed at some waterfalls where the water flow is safe and there are designated areas. However, swimming is restricted at many waterfalls due to strong currents and safety concerns. Always follow local guidelines.
No, not all waterfalls require trekking. Some, like Kune Falls and Chitrakote Falls, are easily accessible by road, while others, such as Meenmutty Falls and Soochipara Falls, require a trek through forested areas.
Yes, many waterfalls have nearby accommodations ranging from hotels to guesthouses. Locations like Lonavala, Wayanad, and Cherrapunji offer various stay options close to waterfalls.

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