Karnataka is a beautiful state known for its natural beauty. From aromatic coffee plantations and the verdant green western ghats to sandy beaches and cascading waterfalls, Karnataka has plenty to see.
Come monsoon and the state comes alive with lush greenery and babbling waterfalls. From stepped waterfalls that invite people to jump into tall waterfalls that create the perfect Instagramable backdrop, there are innumerable waterfalls waiting to be explored. These spots make for ideal weekend getaway destinations.
Planning weekend getaways to Karnataka’s waterfalls
One of the plus points of living in Karnataka is that there’s always a waterfall not too far from your town. Many of these spots are just a few hour’s drive away. The scenic route to the waterfall is a treat in itself – you won’t even realize the hours go by.
Many of Karnataka’s waterfalls are located in the proximity of villages and small towns with homestay options. From here, you can plan a trek to the waterfalls and a picnic around them. Some waterfalls also have mythical associations and temples nearby. You can also enjoy an afternoon swim in some of these waterfalls. Of course, you must make sure that the waterfalls you’re going to are safe for a swim.
Popular waterfalls in Karnataka
- Abbey Falls, Coorg
- Achakanya Falls, Shimoga
- Alekhan Falls, Chikmagalur
- Apsarakonda Falls, Honnavar
- Arasinagundi Falls, Kollur
- Balmuri Falls, Mysore
- Bandaaje Arbi Falls, Chikmagalur
- Barachukki & Gaganachukki Falls, Shivanasamudra, Mandya
- Barkana Falls, Shimoga
- Benne Hole Falls, Karwar
- Burude Falls, Karwar
- Cauvery / Shivasamudram Waterfalls, Mysore
- Chunchanakatte Falls, Mysore
- Chunchi Falls, Kanakapura
- Dabbe Falls, Shimoga
- Dondole falls, Mangalore
- Godachinamalki Falls, Belgaum
- Gokak Falls, Belgaum
- Hebbe Falls, Kemmanagundi
- Hidlumane Falls, Shimoga
- Honnamma Falls, Kemmanagundi
- Honnemaradu Falls, Shimoga
- Iruppu falls, Mysore
- Jaramadagu Falls, Chikkaballapur
- Jog Falls, Shimoga
- Jomlu Theertha Falls, Udupi
- Kalhatta Giri Falls, Kemmanagundi
- Kadambi Falls, Kudremukh
- Koodlu Theertha Falls, Agumbe
- Kudumari Falls, Udupi
- Kunchikal Falls, Shimoga
- Lalguli Falls, Karwar
- Magod Falls, Karwar
- Mallalli Falls, Coorg
- Muthyala Madu, Bangalore
- Nisargadhama Falls, Coorg
- Sathodi Falls, Haveri
- Shanti Falls, Chikmagalur
- Shiv Gange Falls, Shimoga
- Sirimane Falls, Chikmagalur
- Sural Falls, Belgaum
- Unchalli Falls, Shimoga
- Viboothi Falls, Karwar
- Watta Halla Falls, Karwar
Travel tips for trekking at Waterfalls
| Dos | Don’ts | Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Go for forest friendly coloured clothes like green/browns | Litter | Don’t jump into water pool as there could be boulders beneath |
| Flat, comfortable walking shoes | Tease animals | Before plunging into stream for swimming seek locals’ advice |
| Camera preferably with a tele photo lens | Talk loudly/make noise | Carry a bottle of kerosene to smear over the shoes to avoid leeches |
| Torch, sunglasses and hat | Get off the vehicle unless asked | Do not step on bounlders covered with algae as they might slip |
| Essential Medicines | Use strong perfumes | Stay away from alcohol and liquor |
| Binoculars | Pick up anything as Souvenir | Do not go too close to the falls, as the water pressure could gush you out |
| Light jacket for winter | Touch insects/birds nest | |
| Listen to sounds of nature | Wear bright coloured clothes | |
| Observe/obey safety rules during safaries, coracles/boat rides and rafting | Play music | |
| Always be alert | Disturb the tranquivility of the place | |
| Feed animals |
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