A trip to a waterfall is, by all means, one of the most soothing experiences ever. While getting to them can turn out to be a little exhausting, the outcome is always terrific. Since the city of Bangalore generally follows a fast-paced, sophisticated culture, it becomes all the more important to take a breather every now and then. When you feel like the mundane work routine is weighing you down, set out on a refreshing journey to explore the waterfalls near Bangalore
There are plenty of waterfalls near Bangalore where you get to immerse yourself in tranquillity and relish Mother Nature’s gifts to the fullest. Most of these waterfalls and the nearby water places are best-visited post rainy season when they are running at full capacity and are a treat to the senses.
Waterfalls near Bangalore – within 100 km
1. Thottikallu Falls
Thottikallu Falls, also known as ‘Swarna Mukhi Falls’, is one of the best waterfalls near Bangalore within 50 km which offers mesmerizing views and attracts several visitors during the post-monsoon season.
Thottikallu Falls is located along the Kanakapura main road, making it one of the best waterfalls near Bannerghatta. Few accommodation options are available for those wanting to spend more than a night here.
- Distance from Bangalore: 33.5 km
- How to get to Thottikallu Falls: Board a bus from the Majestic Bus stand or drive/ride your own car/bike. It is one of the few waterfalls near Bannerghatta, so you can get a bus from the Bannerghatta Bus Station as well (if you are visiting the national park).
- Things to do: At the starting point of these falls is the Muneshwara Temple, which lends a spiritual appeal to the place.
- Best time to visit: October to March
2. Muthyala Maduvu Falls, Anekal, Bangalore
Muthyala Maduvu or Anekal waterfalls, also known as Pearl Valley, is a short drive from Bangalore and is a popular tourist destination. This waterfall is located amidst hills, making it a great picnic spot. For trekking enthusiasts, the nearby hillocks should appear challenging enough. What’s more? Anekal Waterfalls is one of the most captivating waterfalls near Bangalore within 50 km.
- Distance from Bangalore: 43 km
- How to get to Anekal waterfalls: Bus or drive/ride your own car/bike.
- Things to do: Overlooking the falls is a small shrine of Lord Shiva where rituals are conducted every morning.
- Best time to visit: October to March
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3. Chunchi Falls, Kanakapura, Bangalore
Chunchi Falls, situated near Shivanahalli, is a renowned picnic destination not too far from the heart of Bangalore. This is one of the best Kanakapura Falls, so popular among tourists because of its 100-foot plummet of water into a small plunge pool. Taking a dip in the pristine waters here is sure to rejuvenate the mind and body.
The rock formations and lush greenery (around the falls) render Chinchu Falls Bangalore an ideal getaway for some fun and relaxation. Also, it is one of the most sought-after waterfalls near Bangalore within 100 kms.
- Distance from Bangalore: 90 km
- How to get to Chunchi Kanakapura Falls: Drive/ride your own car/bike.
- Things to do: Camping, trekking, and swimming.
- Best time to visit: October to March
4. Mekedatu Falls, Kanakapura, Ramanagara
Known by its other name ‘Goats Leap’, these waterfalls near Bangalore are the result of the river Kaveri flowing through a deep, narrow gorge of solid granite rock. This is yet another one of the Kanakapura Falls that surprises tourists with its gushing speed and vibrancy. Reaching the waterfall involves a short trek through rocky terrain and the undercurrents here are said to be very strong. Therefore, caution is advised while venturing out into the falls or the nearby water places.
- Distance from Bangalore: 99 km
- How to get to there: Drive/ride your own car/bike.
- Things to do: Trekking, and fishing.
- Best time to visit: October to March
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Waterfalls near Bangalore – within 100-200 Km
1. Shivanasamudra Falls, Mandya
The island of Shivanasamudra splits the Kaveri River into two waterfalls – Gaganachukki and Bharachukki, collectively called the Shivanasamudra Falls. Get the best views of the waterfalls near Bangalore from the Shivanasamudra watchtower. Swimming is strictly prohibited here.
If you are searching for Kengeri waterfalls or tourist spots near Kengeri, Shivanasamudra Falls is one of them.
- Distance from Bangalore: 130 km
- How to get to Shivanasamudra Falls Bangalore: Bus or drive/ride your own car/bike.
- Best time to visit: September to January
- Where to stay: Hotels In Kengeri Bangalore
2. Hogenakkal Falls, Dharmapuri
Hogenakkal, which translates to “Smoky Rocks”, is one of the waterfalls near Bangalore having 14 channels with drops varying between 15ft and 65ft. Located in the Dharmapuri District of Tamil Nadu, these waterfalls are also known as “Niagara of India”. They were formed as a result of the Kaveri River’s descent down an extremely lofty landscape. Also, the carbonatite rocks found near these falls are said to be some of the oldest in the world.
- Distance from Bangalore: 146 km
- How to get to Hogenakkal Falls: Boat ride once you get close to the falls, as there is no road access.
- Things to do: Camping, Photography. While food options may be limited, several lodges and mid-range accommodation options can be found in the vicinity.
- Best time to visit: July to October
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3. Balmuri Edmuri Waterfalls, Mysore
Balmuri Edmuri Falls Bangalore is located in proximity to Mysore city and on the way to the Krishna Raja Sagar Dam. Precaution must be taken while trekking to this waterfall or the nearby water places due to jagged stones and deepening waters in the location.
- Distance from Bangalore: 175 km
- How to get to Balmuri Edmuri Waterfalls: Bus or drive/ride your own car/bike.
- Things to do: Photography, majorly. The place is also frequented by those looking to indulge in water sports. Numerous films and music videos have been shot here.
- Best time to visit: March to August
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4. Chunchanakatte Falls, Mysore
Located in the Krishnarajanagara Taluk of Mysore District, these waterfalls near Bangalore originate from the Kaveri River. There’s an interesting story (associated with Hindu mythology) behind the turmeric shade of the waters.
The surroundings are beautifully green, and the nearby attractions include a hydropower plant which has been set up to utilize its full potential.
- Distance from Bangalore: 190 km
- How to get to Chunchanakatte Falls: Bus or drive/ride your own car/bike. Take a diversion at Krishnarajanagar along the Mysore – Hassan Highway.
- Best time to visit: October to March
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Waterfalls near Bangalore – 300+ km
1. Talakona Falls, Tirupati
Talakona (meaning “Head Hill”) waterfalls near Bangalore are located at the Sri Venkateswara National Park in the state of Andhra Pradesh. These waterfalls are indeed a spectacular sight as it drops deep into a valley with an altitude close to 270 ft.
The region is considered a Biosphere Reserve owing to its variety of endangered wildlife species such as the Indian giant Squirrel, Golden Gecko, and the Mouse Deer.
- Distance from Bangalore: 241 km
- How to get to Talakona Waterfalls: Bus or drive/ride your own car/bike.
- Things to do: Visit Tirumala Tirupati Temple; do some sight-seeing.
- Best time to visit: October to January
- Where to stay : Hotels in Tirupati
2. Irupu Falls, Coorg
Locally known as ‘Lakshmana Tirtha’ Falls, as they are formed by the Lakshmana Tirtha tributary which joins the Kaveri River, Iruppu Falls have an exciting origin story attached to them. You can find out all about the religious history of the waterfalls near Bangalore when you visit the place. The roaring waters fall from an elevation of 170 ft and are surrounded by thick forests of the Western Ghats.
- Distance from Bangalore: 248 km
- How to get to Irupu Falls: Bus or drive/ride your own car/bike.
- Things to do: These waterfalls are a popular spot for tourists and pilgrims alike, who stop by to visit the Shiva Temple, especially during Shivaratri.
- Best time to visit: August to January, while peak season runs from September to December.
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3. Mallali Falls, Coorg
Mallalli Falls is located in the foothills of the Pushpagiri Mountains in the Coorg district. Dropping from a height of 200 feet, it is considered one of the most beautiful waterfalls near Bangalore.
The atmosphere around the falls offers a spectacular view of the valleys, lush forests and mountain ranges. While visiting Mallalli falls, it’s best advised to carry your own food packets as shops are lacking in this area.
- Distance from Bangalore: 251 km
- How to get to Mallali Falls: Bus or drive/ride your own car/bike. Take a diversion at Krishnarajanagar along the Mysore – Hassan Highway.
- Best time to visit: Monsoon or post-monsoon season.
4. Abbey Falls, Coorg
Named after the daughter of Madikeri’s first British Captain, Abbey Falls, is positioned amidst private coffee/spice estates, offering a picturesque backdrop for visitors. Abbey Falls, making a rapid descent from 70 feet, is best viewed from the hanging bridge connecting two sections of the estate. You might have to walk a little to reach these waterfalls near Bangalore but the struggle is worth your time. This is yet another one of the Kengeri waterfalls, splendid cascades that are closer to the Kengeri suburb.
- Distance from Bangalore: 268.4 km
- How to get to Abbey Falls: Bus or drive/ride your own car/bike.
- Things to do: Camping and trekking. Devotees of Goddess Kali can also pay a visit to the nearby Kali Mata temple.
- Best time to visit: September to January
- Check hotels in Coorg for a perfect stay during your trip there
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5. Hebbe Falls, Chikmagalur
Situated inside the Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary, Hebbe Falls drops from a height of 550 ft. Encircled by coffee estates and spice plantations, Hebbe Falls is a photographer’s/nature-lover’s paradise. Govt government-approved forest jeep is the best mode of transport to reach Hebbe Falls.
The final kilometre on the way to the falls involves trekking through forests. Staying in Hotels in Chikmagalur is a great idea if you want to relax post your return from these waterfalls near Bangalore.
- Distance from Bangalore: 276.9 km
- How to get to Hebbe Falls: Bus or drive/ride your own car/bike.
- Things to do: Photography
- Best time to visit: November to January
6. Pykara Falls, Ooty
The Pykara River, considered sacred by the Toda community, flows through a series of waterfalls near Bangalore, with the final two (of 55 metres and 61 metres respectively) collectively called Pykara Falls. Considering that the location of these falls is in Ooty which is also a popular honeymoon destination, the trip will prove to be a splendid getaway spot for couples.
- Distance from Bangalore: 288.3 km
- How to get to Pykara Falls: Bus or drive/ride your own car/bike.
- Things to do: Sightseeing, photography, and bird-watching.
- Best time to visit: July
- Stay in a hotel in Ooty for a memorable stay
7. Jog Falls, Shimoga
Formed by the Sharavathi River dropping at a height of 830 ft, Jog Falls is the second-highest plunge waterfall in the country. Currently a major tourist attraction, Jog Falls is situated on the Sagara and Uttara Kannada border. The Tourist Dept of Karnataka has, time and again, been trying its best to promote it as one of the best waterfalls near Bangalore.
- Distance from Bangalore: 414.3 km
- How to get to Jog Falls: Bus/train or drive/ride your own car/bike.
- Things to do: Photography and sightseeing, mostly.
- Best time to visit: Post monsoons.
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8. Unchalli Falls, Uttara Kannada
Aghanashini river drops from a height of 381 ft to form the Unchalli Falls. British Collector J. D. Lushington discovered this waterfall in the year 1845. It has received the name ‘Keppa Joga’ owing to the roaring sound it makes. A 5 km trek through dense forests from Heggarne will take you to one of the most mesmerising waterfalls near Bangalore – Unchalli Falls.
- Distance from Bangalore: 440.2 km
- How to get to Unchalli Falls: A combination of buses, jeeps, and treks.
- Things to do: Sightseeing and photography.
- Best time to visit: Throughout the year.
9. Kaigal Falls, Chittor
Kaigal is one of the perennial waterfalls near Bangalore, dropping from a height of 40 feet. It is situated amidst undisturbed surroundings with a great deal of wildlife, exotic birds, and trees. Several natural ponds can be found below the waterfall. The falls form a significant part of the Koundinya Wildlife Sanctuary. So, before visiting, it is of paramount importance to seek approval or get police assistance.
- Distance from Bangalore: 119.8 km
- How to get to Kaigal Falls: Bus or drive/ride your own car/bike. A two-kilometre jungle walk is also required.
- Things to do: Picnics, photography, and sightseeing
- Best time to visit: Between June and September (monsoon)
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10. Kalhatti Falls, Chikmagalur
Lying just 10 km away from the Kemmangundi hill station, Kalhatti Falls provides visitors with a magnificent view of water cascading from Chandra Drona Hill, right in front of the Veerabhadreshwara Temple. Plunging from a height of 400 ft, the water at Kalhatti Falls is believed to possess healing powers.
- Distance from Bangalore: 245 km
- How to get to Kalhatti Falls: Bus/train or drive/ride your own car/bike.
- Things to do: Photography, trekking, picnics, taking dips.
- Best time to visit: Monsoon season
11. Dudhsagar Falls, Sonaulim
Forming the border between the states of Goa and Karnataka, Dudhsagar (which literally translates to ‘Sea of Milk’), is one of India’s tallest waterfalls near Bangalore, is situated in the Bhagwan Mahaveer Sanctuary and Mollem National Park amidst the Western Ghats. The four-tiered waterfall looks spectacularly beautiful during the monsoons when it gets fed by heavy rains. It’d be best to leave mobile phones switched off during your trek to Dudhsagar as there won’t be any signal anyway.
- Distance from Bangalore: 550 km
- How to get to Dudhsagar Falls: Bus/train or drive/ride your own car/bike, followed by a long walk/trek.
- Things to do: Photography, trekking.
- Best time to visit: Monsoon / Post monsoon season.
12. Meenmutty Waterfalls, Wayanad
This is a three-tiered waterfall boasting an elevation of 300 metres. Meenmutty can be reached through a 2 km hike through the forest after taking a diversion from the Wayanad-Ooty road. Separate viewing points are available for each of the three decks. Meenmutty is best ignored during the rainy season as the strength of inflow can heighten to dangerous levels.
- Distance from Bangalore: 279.5 km
- How to get to Meenmutty Waterfalls: Bus/train until Kalpetta/Calicut or drive/ride your own car/bike, followed by an uphill trek.
- Things to do: Photography, trekking.
- Best time to visit: Between October and May
13. Hanuman Gundi Falls, Chikmagalur
Situated in the mountainous vicinity of the Kudremukh National Park, Hanuman Gundi Falls possesses a height of 996 metres. Falling from an elevation of about 72 feet, this is one of the tiered waterfalls near Bangalore. There is a clear path comprising about 300 stone steps to get to the waterfall. It has also been deemed safe for baths and swims.
- Distance from Bangalore: 348.2 km
- How to get to Hanuman Gundi Falls: Bus/cab or drive/ride your own car/bike.
- Things to do: Photography, swimming, bathing, and walks.
- Best time to visit: Post monsoon season.
14. Chelavara Falls, Virajpet
If a combination of unblemished nature and quiet solitude is what you seek, a trip to Chelavara Falls may turn out to be the best thing ever. The drive to Chelavara itself is quite thrilling with plenty of estates, forest reserves, and hillocks en route. These waterfalls near Bangalore are positioned near Tadiandamol, the highest point in Kodagu. While its beauty is worth admiring, several warning signs have been put up asking visitors not to enter a certain section of falls as its plunge pool is known to be as deep as 100 feet.
- Distance from Bangalore: 256.9 km
- How to get to Chelavara Falls: Drive/ride your own car/bike.
- Things to do: Photography, trekking, and relaxing.
- Best time to visit: Monsoon season
15. Soochipara Falls, Wayanad
Dropping from an altitude of nearly 200 metres is Soochipara, a three-tiered waterfall in Vellarimala. Flanked by evergreen and deciduous forests, the drive from the nearby village of Meppadi to Soochipara offers wonderful views of the tea estates in Wayanad. The cliff face at the waterfall is considered great for rock climbing. The walkway to the falls, supervised and managed by the Tourism Department, is completely plastic-free.
- Distance from Bangalore: 307.3 km
- How to get to Soochipara Falls: Drive/ride your own car/bike. Jeep rides are also offered from nearby towns.
- Things to do: Photography, rock-climbing, bathing, and relaxation.
- Best time to visit: October to March
16. Siruvani Waterfalls, Coimbatore (West)
Located on the Siruvani River about 37 km away from the heart of Coimbatore, this waterfall is frequented quite a lot by the students of Karunya University (which is just 6 km away). An entry fee of Rs. 50 is charged at the Sadivayal check-post which is the gateway to the waterfall. The forest department has arranged vehicles for tourists to get to the trek point from where they’ll be required to walk a kilometre to reach the falls.
- Distance from Bangalore: 400.3 km
- How to get to Siruvani Waterfalls: Drive/ride your own car/bike. There are buses running from the Gandhipuram Central Bus Station all the way to the check-post.
- Things to do: Photography, bathing, and swimming.
- Best time to visit: October to March
17. Sirimane Falls, Sringeri
One among the many waterfalls near Bangalore on the Western Ghats, Sirimane Falls is a lovely tourist spot with delightful views. The water from the falls feeds the paddy fields and coffee estates found downstream. The best thing about paying a visit to Sirimane Falls is that it can be easily clubbed with visits to the Uluve bird sanctuary, Agumbe, and Sringeri Temple.
- Distance from Bangalore: 341.6 km
- How to get to Sirimane Falls: Drive/ride your own car/bike.
- Things to do: Photography and bathing (in the pool). You can also visit Hari & Sharada temples, apart from the nearby town of Kigga.
- Best time to visit: September to February (i.e. post monsoons).
18. Ubbalamadugu/Tada Falls, Chittor
The falls are situated in a forest known as Siddaiah Kona, associated primarily with Lord Shiva. The festival of Maha Shivaratri brings hordes of devotees to the site where they perform their celebratory pujas. Trekking towards Tada Falls has become one of the favourite activities of tourists visiting the region. The trek spans about 10 km and comprises rocky tracts and uneven terrain, rendering it an adventure of its own.
- Distance from Bangalore: 334.9 km
- How to get to Ubbalamadugu Falls: Drive/ride your own car/bike.
- Things to do: Trekking and photography mostly.
- Best time to visit: August to December
19. Thusharagiri Falls, Kozhikode
Situated in the Kozhikode district of Kerala, Thusharagiri Falls is the result of the convergence of two streams that originate from the Western Ghats, eventually forming the Chalippuzha River. The river branches off into three, creating the impression of a snowy sprinkle, hence receiving the name ‘Thusharagiri’ (which translates to ‘snow-capped mountain’).
- Distance from Bangalore: 322.1 km
- How to get to Thusharagiri Falls: Bus/train to Kozhikode and thereafter, drive/ride a rented car/bike.
- Things to do: Trekking, rock climbing, wildlife sanctuary visits, and photography.
- Best time to visit: September to December
20. Manikyadhara Falls, Chikmagalur
Found at a distance of 7 km from Baba Budangiri Dattatreya Peeth, Manikyadhara Falls positions itself amid thick jungles offering impressive scenery of the Baba Budangiri hills. Referred to as ‘Nellikai Theertha’ by locals, the waterfall is regarded as sacred by both Muslims and Hindus. The water here is said to possess medicinal value, owing to the religious appeal of the place.
- Distance from Bangalore: 276.2 km
- How to get to Manikyadhara Falls: A 4WD is best suited for the terrain surrounding Manikyadhara Falls. Otherwise, hail a local jeep. A 3-4 km trek is required to reach the waterfall.
- Things to do: Trekking, photography, taking dips.
- Best time to visit: September to December
21. Kailasakona Waterfalls, Chittoor
These perennial waterfalls near Bangalore are situated amidst the valley of Nagari hills in the district of Chittoor. Falling from a height of about 30 metres, the water at Kailasakona falls is supposedly rich in minerals and used to treat several ailments. A Shiva temple can be found close to the waterfall and has a fascinating legend attached to it. With ample transportation facilities and accommodation choices, a visit to Kailasakona falls can be planned easily.
- Distance from Bangalore: 256.8 km
- How to get to Kailasakona Waterfalls: APSRTC buses or own vehicles.
- Things to do: Swimming, nature photography.
- Best time to visit: Between October and February
22. Catherine Falls, Kotagiri
The second-largest waterfall in the Nilgiris is presently one of the major tourist attractions at Coonoor hill station. Cascading down from an elevation of nearly 250 feet, the waterfall gets its name from Catherine Cockburn, the wife of M.D. Cockburn, who was responsible for introducing coffee as a major crop in the Yercaud and Kotagiri districts.
- Distance from Bangalore: 395 km
- How to get to Catherine Falls: Drive/ride your own car/bike. 2-3 km trek is required.
- Things to do: Trekking and photography. The views from the top of the falls are breathtaking.
- Best time to visit: October to May
Planning to explore some of the best waterfalls near Bangalore? We have a remarkable tourist spot hosting its own falls in the heart of Bangalore city. Lalbagh Botanical Garden is a famous waterfall park in Bangalore that has a man-made cascade amidst dense greenery.
That being said, make sure you are carrying your DSLR with you to capture the beauty of each of these waterfalls near Bangalore.
If you are planning to come to Bangalore soon and explore these splendid waterfalls, book your stay at Hotels in Bangalore for an elevated travel experience.
