Waterfall caves are some of nature’s most wholesome wonders, combining the range of beauty of falling water with the unknown underground landscapes. Burrowed beneath mountains or in distant forests, these caves provide surreal experiences for travellers alike. Some reach impressive heights from a waterfall to the dark depression of a cavern; others, sparkling in sunlight, reveal wonders of their own. Each has its charm from the frozen bowels of Eisriesenwelt, Austria, to the mystical glow of Goa Rangko Cave in Indonesia. An unforgettable exploration of Nature’s hidden treasures awaits you in this stunning waterfall cave, whether as an adventurer or a nature lover.
10 Breathtaking Waterfall Caves In The World
Waterfall caves hold a special sort of magic—secret worlds in which water pours through rock caverns, making surreal landscapes
1. Smoo Cave, Scotland
Photo: Florian Fuchs / Wikimedia Commons
Scotland’s Smoo Cave is a stunning sea cave featuring a magnificent 50-foot waterfall that plunges into its limestone cavern. It was formed through the action of seawater and freshwater erosion, with huge rock formations and an eerie yet breathtaking ambience. One can walk in or take a boat ride in and observe closely as tourists. The underground waterfall is visible to them. The gushing water is illuminated by natural skylights, offering a magical experience. A must-visit for thrill-seekers and nature lovers alike.
Location: Durness, Scotland
Best Time To Visit: May to September
2. Ruby Falls, USA
Photo: Jsfouche / Wikimedia Commons
Hidden inside Lookout Mountain, Ruby Falls is a stunning underground waterfall that stands 145 feet tall. Founded in 1928, this natural attraction is lighted with colorful lights, adding to its beauty. The trip to the falls involves walking through narrow tunnels filled with beautiful stalactites and stalagmites. Guided tours provide information about the history and geology of the cave. The cascading water, resonating throughout the cavern, provides a magical and unforgettable experience for people of all ages.
Location: Chattanooga, Tennessee, USA
Best Time To Visit: Year-round
3. Gua Air Jernih, Malaysia
Photo: Mikhail Nilov / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Gua Air Jernih, or “Clear Water Cave,” is the longest underground river cave in Malaysia. An awe-inspiring waterfall plunges inside, with magnificent limestone formations in attendance. The water is crystal-clear and surreal rock formations beckon thrill-seekers in search of an experience they’ll never forget. The caves are part of Gunung Mulu National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage area, which is famous for its diversity of life. Visitors can see the underground river by boat or trek along the cave’s naturally sculpted, rough pathways.
Location: Gunung Mulu National Park, Malaysia
Best Time To Visit: March to October
4. Baatara Gorge Waterfall, Lebanon
Photo: Lodo27 f / Wikimedia Commons
Baatara Gorge Waterfall, or the “Cave of Three Bridges,” is a breathtaking waterfall dropping 837 feet into a huge limestone sinkhole. It took thousands of years to create and is best seen during spring when snowmelt feeds the cascade. The waterfall flows through three natural bridges one above the other, creating a stunning view. The gorge’s interesting geological formations can be viewed by visitors while taking in the panoramic views of the surrounding mountainous terrain.
Location: Tannourine, Lebanon
Best Time To Visit: March to May
5. Hamilton Pool Preserve, USA
Photo: jcutrer / Wikimedia Commons
Hamilton Pool Preserve is an entrancing grotto in which a 50-foot waterfall cascades into a blue-green pool within a fallen limestone cave. Created thousands of years ago when an underground river dissolved the roof of the limestone cave, the cave today provides refuge for lush vegetation and interesting rock formations. This scenic swimming hole is nature’s haven, providing a cool respite from the heart of Texas. Swimming is permitted seasonally, and the picturesque hiking trails make it even better.
Location: Dripping Springs, Texas, USA
Best Time To Visit: Spring and summer
6. Mele Cascades Cave, Vanuatu
Photo: eGuide Travel / Wikimedia Commons
Mele Cascades is a secluded tropical haven where waterfalls cascade over a limestone cave, creating a natural shelter in the falling water. Travellers can trek along dense rainforest paths to access the falls, where crystal-clear pools at the foot welcome explorers for a cooling dip. The unusual rock formations inside the cave contribute to the mystical attraction of the site. With its peaceful atmosphere and breathtaking landscape, Mele Cascades is a perfect destination for relaxation as well as discovery.
Location: Efate, Vanuatu
Best Time To Visit: May to October
7. Trummelbach Falls, Switzerland
Photo: Eric Hill / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
The ten glacial waterfalls of the Trummelbach Falls majestically fall, hidden from sight within the belly of the mountain cave located deep in the Swiss Alps. Melted snow from Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau mountains flows via the waterfalls at incredible velocities as they pierce through rocks with a roaring voice. Walkways and network tunnels allow people to observe flowing water safely indoors. The ruggedness and immense force of scenery provided by the waterfalls turn the Trummelbach Falls into one of the most unexpected European natural sites of wonder.
Location: Lauterbrunnen, Switzerland
Best Time To Visit: April to October
8. Nohkalikai Falls Cave, India
Photo: Vijayakumarblathur / Wikimedia Commons
Nohkalikai Falls, which is among the highest waterfalls in India, plunges down over a concealed cave in Meghalaya. The cave can be accessed in the dry season when the water level drops and travellers are able to walk into the region behind the waterfall. Located in dense cliffs and foggy scenery, the location is renowned for its breathtaking views. Monsoon turns the falls into a deafening spectacle, for which it stands as one of the most spectacular and photogenic waterfalls in the world.
Location: Meghalaya, India
Best Time To Visit: June to September
9. Mooney Falls Cave, USA
Photo: Pete Seabolt / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Mooney Falls of the Havasu Creek of the Grand Canyon plunges 200 feet into a cave, forming a secret grotto at the rear of the falls. One has to go down through caves and tunnels formed out of the rock to get to the bottom, which provides an adventurous aspect. The blue-green colour of the waterfall set against the red canyon walls is a sightseeing sight, and hence it is a beautiful view. Mooney Falls is a paradise for hikers, a paradise for swimmers, and heaven for photographers.
Location: Arizona, USA
Best Time To Visit: Spring and autumn
10. Wat Khao Waterfall Cave, Thailand
Photo: Poompob Anantarak / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Wat Khao Waterfall Cave is a divine cave shrouded by a cascading waterfall, offering a secluded and romantic retreat. The limestone rock formations within the cave and rushing water create an otherworldly ambience. Guests can enter the spectre-like rock formation of the cave and listen to the gentle rhythm of cascading waters. The view around it is so breathtakingly green and lush that it further adds to the experience and makes it a perfect place for travellers who are looking for adventure and peace of mind in nature.
Location: Phetchaburi, Thailand
Best Time To Visit: November to February
The Waterfall Caves are the curtains of beauty by nature, where an amalgamation of adventure is blended with intrigue against the lovely background of the panoramic view. Each spot on that list stands as an artwork on its own; one set encapsulates the frozen beauty of Eisriesenwelt or the silver water of Goa Rangko cave. These caves would portray nature’s beauty, spellbinding to the tourists, in various forms. Trekkers will gear towards the hidden waterfall, or sneak into rivers underground-Hey! This will always linger long in the memory. Are you set and all to take in these lovely lands? Start your Trip with TripXL and visit the waterfall cave of the World!
Cover Photo: Andrey Andreyev / Unspalsh / Image For Representation Only