Best Waterfalls in Karnataka: Jog Falls, Abbey Falls & Hidden Gems

Karnataka is a nature’s masterpiece, designed by its majestic mountain ranges, surreal hill viewpoints, incredible traditions & culture, warm-hearted people, serene coffee estates, pristine shorelines, roaring waterfalls, and the list never ends! Where tourists are drawn in large numbers for its stunning Dasara celebrations and historic sites, many also come here to marvel at its treasure trove of natural wonders. 

One place where you can find truly breathtaking nature views, serenity, and adventure at the same time is the waterfalls in Karnataka. Read on to know more. 

Discover the List of 14 Popular & Must-Visit Waterfalls in Karnataka 

Here is the list of top waterfalls in Karnataka where nature’s raw magic collides. Let us start with our well-designed list, one-by-one: 

Jog Falls

The first up in our list is the Jog Falls, regarded as one of Karnataka’s renowned and powerful waterfalls. Dropping straight from a height of ~253 metres, this stunning waterfall ranks among the highest plunge waterfalls in India. Not only that, but during the monsoon, the water’s intensity increases, adding to the thunder of the falls. 

The Jog Falls splits into four cascades, namely Raja, Rani, Roarer, and Rocket, where each fall offers a dramatic plunge into the main pool. For an enriching journey, consider visiting a well-maintained viewing gallery near Jog village, which offers stunning vistas and is a must-visit for adventure lovers. 

Abbey Falls

Abbey Falls in Coorg is a scenic, most photogenic waterfall, located 8 km from Madikeri. The falls’ strategic location amidst coffee plantations and spice estates adds to the allure of the entire scenery. The water cascades from a height of 70 feet, creating an illusion of a white curtain during the monsoon. The main highlight of these waterfalls is its short, well-laid walking trail that leads to the falls, ending at a suspension bridge that offers close-up views and misty photo opportunities.

The Abbey Falls in Coorg are not as massive as other waterfalls in Karnataka, but touring them will be a real treasure for photography and nature enthusiasts. 

Irupu (Iruppu) Waterfalls 

The Irupu waterfalls are among the most breathtaking waterfalls in Karnataka, located in the Brahmagiri Range. The Lakshmana Tirtha River forms this incredible waterfall, dropping 170 feet over rocky steps. The scene of the water powerfully dropping from these rocky steps, rather than plunging straight, creates a visually delightful experience for visitors. 

The waterfall’s proximity to Nagarhole National Park often gives travelers a mixed experience, first encountering ferocious wildlife and then relaxing in nature’s lap. Please note that a short forest trail leads to the base, but rocks can be slippery during peak rains.

Mallalli Waterfalls 

This is another one of the most fantastic and best waterfalls in Karnataka, which is less crowded, yet packed with incredible natural views. The strategic location of this waterfall in Pushpagiri Wildlife Sanctuary near Somwarpet, Coorg, makes it a must-visit destination for amazing nature experiences. Falling from a height of 200 feet, the Mallalli waterfalls create a purely visual thunder for the visitors. The ferocious speed and the isolation are what set this waterfall apart from others. Tourists seeking solitude can add this destination to their bucket list.

Please note that reaching the waterfall base requires descending a steep flight of steps, which can be slippery and demanding. It’s best attempted (safely) with caution and good footwear.

Hebbe Falls 

Hebbe Falls is one of the spectacular Karnataka nature spots where there are abundant natural vistas. This is particularly a twin-tier waterfall featuring mineral-rich water, located hidden inside the Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary, near Kemmangundi in the Chikmagalur district. Mountain streams from the Western Ghats feed this scenic waterfall and fall in two phenomenal streams: Dodda Hebbe (upper fall) and Chikka Hebbe (lower fall).

Reaching here is not just allowed openly. Tourists will have to either take a forest department jeep ride or trek through dense rainforest terrain, making the journey as rewarding as the destination. 

Magod Falls 

This is one of the under-visited waterfalls in Karnataka, located near Yellapur (Uttara Kannada District). This visually striking waterfall is formed by the Bedti River, falling from a height of around 200 metres. The most notable aspect of the falls, which makes it compelling, is that it is not a single-stream fall; it cascades through a multi-tiered cascade, spread across rocky cliffs. This waterfall is best for those who desire a crowd-free, raw nature setting. 

Sathodi Falls 

Here comes a more serene, jaw-dropping Sathodi Falls, located inside the forests near Yellapur. This waterfall is also recognised as the ”Mini Niagara of Karnataka” formed by the Kali River’s tributaries. The Sathodi Falls cascade beautifully over multiple rocky steps rather than a single vertical drop. Moreover, the breadth and rhythm of these falls are worth appreciating, creating a panorama that is spectacular beyond words. 

Unchalli Falls

The Unchalli Falls, also known as the Lushington Falls, is regarded as one of the best waterfalls in Karnataka, due to its dramatic horseshoe-shaped drop. This waterfall is located near Siddapur in the Uttara Kannada district and falls 116 metres into a deep, mist-filled gorge. You can hear the waterfalls roaring from miles away, building that perfect excitement even before you reach here. Tourists will have to embark on a thrilling trek to reach the viewpoint, merging adventure with nature’s vistas in a single experience.  

Unchalli stands out for its raw intensity and scale, and tourists desiring a less-crowded experience can visit this waterfall. 

Shivanasamudra Falls

This is one of the best waterfalls in Karnataka, which is basically a river waterfall, located on the Kaveri River near Malavalli (close to Bengaluru and Mysuru). This is not a single stream waterfall; it rather splits into two cascades: Gaganachukki and Bharachukki, both worth admiring. In fact, Shivanasamudra also holds historical importance as the site of Asia’s first hydroelectric power station (1902). 

The falls create a thunderous spectacle, especially during the onset of the monsoon, drawing nature aficionados. Moreover, the scale and accessibility of the Shivanasamudra waterfalls are simply perfect, making it a top tourist spot in Karnataka. 

Before you map your journey, don’t forget to check out our Karnataka Travel Guide for insider tips and top attractions.

Apsara Konda Falls

This is another one of the most spectacular Karnataka nature spots, located near Honnavar (Uttara Kannada District). This is not a large-scale, massive waterfall. The Apsara Konda Falls flows gently through forested terrain before meeting the Arabian Sea, making its setting truly unique. Reaching the viewpoint requires a short and simple walk from the parking area, and whoo-hoo, you are all set to witness nature’s visual gut-punch!

Sirimane Falls 

Sirimane waterfall is one of the best, family-friendly Karnataka nature spots to visit. This waterfall is mainly fed by perennial streams from the Western Ghats, dropping an average of 40 feet over a smooth, rocky surface. There’s well-managed access, including entry tickets, pathways, changing rooms, and controlled viewpoints, making it a perfect destination for a scenic and enjoyable family-friendly getaway. 

Dabbe Falls 

Image credit: Tripadvisor

This is another one of the raw and adventure-driven waterfalls in Karnataka, gracefully formed by the Sharavathi River. This is an isolated, more intense, 110-metre-tall waterfall that creates one of the most scenic panoramas. Reaching this waterfall requires a long trek through the forest or a guided jeep ride, followed by a hike. This destination is truly the best for tourists seeking thrilling adventures and natural vistas. 

Barkana Falls

Image credit: Tripadvisor

The Barkana Falls in Karnataka are situated deep in the Western Ghats near Agumbe, in the Shivamogga district. Its power is generated by a tributary of the Sharavathi River, which gives a mighty display as it plummets nearly 259 metres straight down, an absolute vertical drop that’s hard to get your head around. Visit this waterfall if you earnestly desire awe-inspiring nature vistas. 

Kudlu Theertha Falls 

This is a hidden gem, located near Udupi, best for a refreshing escape in Karnataka. The Kudlu Theertha Falls requires a short yet scenic trek to reach, perfect for travellers seeking a quiet nature escape near the coast. The falls are less commercial and offer surroundings packed with native flora. 

Hey, wanderer? Are you ready to soak in the magical vistas of the waterfalls in Karnataka? Let’s not keep you waiting: Book your best Karnataka Tour Package today with JustWravel. 

All you require to make your getaway truly memorable is to let our experts know about your travel style and preferences, and we’ll design a perfect itinerary for you. Don’t wait, reach out to us today! 

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