Located between the Western Ghats, Kannad Coast, and Deccan Plateau, Karnataka boasts hills, forests, lakes, temples, caves, beaches, coffee plantations, waterfalls, etc. The waterfalls in Karnataka are incredibly gorgeous, allowing you a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life.

This article highlights the best waterfalls located in Karnataka to help you plan your trip accordingly.

Karnataka has around 40 waterfalls. Here is a list of some famous waterfalls in Karnataka that you can witness and enjoy during your tour.

1. Chelavara Falls, Cheyyandane

This stunning waterfall from River Kaveri is 16 km from Virajpet City. Chelavara Falls is called ‘Embepare’, which means tortoise in the Kodava language. The waterfall rests amidst coffee plantations making this location one of the most scenic. It is one of the popular weekend getaways for trekkers.

More Details:

• Height of Waterfall: 150 ft.
• Entry Fee: Free of cost
• Timing: 6:00 am to 6:00 pm
• How to Reach: Opt for an auto or taxi. Take a bus from Cheyyandane's local bus stop in Virajpet.
• Best Time to Visit:  Mid-June to September
• Things to Do: Go hiking and camping, visit Bhagvathi and Kekmani Bhagavathi Bhadrakali Temples, and go for a wildlife safari in Kabbe Hills
• Ideal Trip Duration: 2-3 hours

2. Abbey Falls, Asanabalu

Located near Madikeri, Abbey Falls is a famous waterfall that nature enthusiasts can visit. Also known as Abbi Falls, this waterfall is formed by many mountain springs and connects River Kaveri. You can get a beautiful view of this waterbody from the hanging bridge in front of Abbey Falls.

More Details:

• Height of Waterfall: 70 ft.
• Entry Fee: ₹15 per person
• Timing: 9:00 am to 5:00 pm
• How to Reach: Hire a cab or take an auto from Madikeri, which is 8 km away from the waterfall.
• Best Time to Visit: July to October
• Things to Do: Go trekking around the greenery and do photography, visit the shrine of Goddess Kali
• Ideal Trip Duration: 2-3 hours

3. Shivanasamudra Falls, Chamarajanara

This waterfall is a cluster of waterbodies resting on the borders of Mandya, Malavalli, and Kollegala. One of the famous waterfalls in Karnataka, ideal for a weekend getaway, Gaganachukki Falls and Baharachukki Falls, together form Shivanasamudra Falls. During monsoons, this waterfall and the surroundings provide a spectacular vista you will love to witness.

More Details:

• Height of Waterfall: 300 ft.
• Entry Fee: Free of cost
• Timing: 8:00 am to 5:00 pm
• How to Reach: Take public transportation from Malavalli village, which is 30 km from Shivanasamudra Falls.
• Best Time to Visit: September to January
• Things to Do: Sightseeing, photography, and weekend getaway; visit nearby temples
• Ideal Trip Duration: 2-3 hours

4. Iruppu Falls, Kurchi

Also known as Lakshmana Tirtha Falls, Iruppu Falls rests in the Bramhagiri Hills, between Srimangala and Kutta. This fall originates from the streams that flow from the Bramhagiri peaks and Lakshmana Teertha and, in the end, joins River Kaveri. Along with scenic attractions, it is also a famous pilgrimage where devotees come to worship the deity.

More Details:

• Height of Waterfall: 170 ft.
• Entry Fee: ₹50 per person
• Timing: 6:00 am to 6:00 pm
• How to Reach: Opt for a cab or taxi from Madikeri, about 50 km away. Take a bus from Kutta's bus stop.
• Best Time to Visit: August to January
• Things to Do: Go trekking, water rafting, and camping
• Ideal Trip Duration: 1- 2 hours

5. Gokak Falls, Belgaum

This waterfall passes through a sandstone cliff, often called mini Niagara Falls. Gokak Waterfall is also known as Godchinamalaki Falls and originates from River Ghataprabha. The Gokak Falls has a historical significance as this was the first place where electricity was generated first in India, in 1887.

More Details:

• Height of Waterfall: 170 ft.
• Entry Fee: Free of cost
• Timing: 7:00 am to 5:00 pm
• How to Reach: Opt for a car. The Belgaum rail line is the closest to this waterfall.
• Best Time to Visit: July to October
• Things to Do: Go hiking and boating, and visit the nearby temples and botanical gardens
• Ideal Trip Duration: 2-3 hours

6. Sathodi Falls, Uttara Kannada

Situated near Kallaramarane Ghat, Sathodi Waterfalls is one of the most beautiful falls in Karnataka. This waterbody joins the backwaters of the Kodasalli dam, built over the Kali River. Sathodi Waterfalls forms a part of the Ganeshgudi forest and is home to leeches that are active during the rainy season.

More Details:

• Height of Waterfall: 50 ft.
• Entry Fee: ₹5 per person
• Timing: 8:00 am to 5:00 pm
• How to Reach:  Take a bus up to Baraballi and trek for around 10 km from there. You can also opt for a taxi.
• Best Time to Visit: November to April
• Things to Do: Perfect for a picnic and relaxation, go trekking, photography
• Ideal Trip Duration: 1-2 hours

7. Hebbe Falls, Chikkamagaluru

Hebbe Falls, situated in the enchanting Chikmagalur District of Karnataka, is renowned for its breathtaking natural beauty. Nestled within the Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary, this hidden gem is surrounded by lush coffee estates, allowing you to enjoy the vista.

More Details:

• Height of Waterfall: 551 ft.
• Entry Fee: Free of cost
• Timing: 6:00 am to 6:00 pm
• How to Reach: Hire a taxi or cab from Chikmagalur. You need to trek 8 km afterwards to reach the site
• Best Time to Visit: November to February
• Things to Do: Go hiking, photography
• Ideal Trip Duration: 2-3 hours

8. Kalhatti Falls, Manchethevaru

Kalhatti Falls, also known as Kallathigiri Falls, boasts a serene and laid-back ambience, allowing you to spend quality time in a peaceful environment. Here, you will find a mesmerising backdrop of dense forests with exquisite flora and fauna.

More Details:

• Height of Waterfall: 400 ft.
• Entry Fee: Free of cost
• Timing: 7:00 am to 6:00 pm
• How to Reach: Take a cab, taxi, or bus
• Best Time to Visit: July to September
• Things to Do: Go trekking, plan a picnic, and visit the nearby temples
• Ideal Trip Duration: 1-2 hours

9. Unchalli Falls, Unchalli

Nestled in the Sahyadri forest, discover this captivating waterfall formed by River Aghanashini. It is also known as Lushington Falls and is named after a British district collector who discovered it. Locals refer to this natural wonder as Keppa Joga because of the overwhelming and thunderous sound it produces. When you are close to the waterbody, you admire the scenery at the top.

More Details:

• Height of Waterfall: 380 ft.
• Entry Fee: ₹10 per person
• Timing: 6:00 am to 6:00 pm
• How to Reach: Take a 6 km route from Hegganur in Siddappura to reach the falls.
• Best Time to Visit: July to January
• Things to Do: Go hiking
• Ideal Trip Duration: 3-4 hours

10. Jog Falls, Shimoga

Jog Falls is called the 'Niagara of India' due to its stunning height and breathtaking charm. The falls are formed by the Sharavathi River and broken into four segments—Raja, Rocket, Roarer, and Rani. Unlike many waterfalls in Karnataka, Jog Falls descend directly without cascading over rocks. It is also called Gerusoppe Falls, Gersoppa Falls, and Jogada Gundi.

More Details:

• Height of Waterfall: 850 ft.
• Entry Fee: Free of cost
• Timing: 8:00 am to 6:00 pm
• How to Reach: You can take a taxi 101 km from Jog Falls. You can also take a bus from Bangalore to Sagara, from where a local bus to Jog Falls is available.
• Best Time to Visit: September to February
• Things to Do: Kayaking, hiking, camping, and zorbing
• Ideal Trip Duration: 2-3 hours

11. Godchinamalaki Falls, Belgaum

The Godchinamalaki Falls, also recognised as Markandeya Falls originates from the Markandeya River. This beautiful waterfall is located in Belgaum and attracts many nature enthusiasts throughout the year. Emerald green valleys surround this waterbody and offer a perfect blend of tranquillity.

More Details:

• Height of Waterfall: 147 ft.
• Entry Fee: Free of cost
• Timing: Open 24 hours
• How to Reach: Take a taxi from Belagavi or Pachapur
• Best Time to Visit: Mid-June to September
• Things to Do: Go trekking and photography
• Ideal Trip Duration: 1-2 hours

12. Benne Hole Falls, Hebre

Near the Kasage village, along the Sirsi-Kumta road, lies the enchanting Benne Hole Falls. The sight of this creamy white waterfall is truly remarkable as it resembles churning. This waterbody originates from the tributary of the Aghanashini River, which flows through the beautiful 'Devimane Ghat' area of the Western Ghats.

More Details:

• Height of Waterfall: 200 ft.
• Entry Fee: Free of cost
• Timing:  6:00 am to 5:00 pm
• How to Reach: Via private Jeep
• Best Time to Visit: November to March
• Things to Do: Trekking, photography and sightseeing
• Ideal Trip Duration: 1-2 hours

13. Kunchikal Falls, Nidagodu

Kunchikal Falls, located in Shimoga, is the highest waterfall in Karnataka, formed by the River Varahi. It rests on the border between Shimoga and Udupi, making it one of Agumbe's most enchanting waterfalls. Additionally, there is a hydroelectric power project constructed at the base of this falls, renowned for generating a significant amount of electrical power.

More Details:

• Height of Waterfall: 1493 ft.
• Entry Fee: Free of cost
• Timing: 7:00 am to 5:00 pm
• How to Reach: Opt for private buses or taxis
• Best Time to Visit: July to September
• Things to Do: Sightseeing and trekking
• Ideal Trip Duration: 2-3 hours

14. Mallalli Falls, Kumarahalli

Mallalli Falls rests in the Coorg district of Karnataka, nestled within the Western Ghats. This waterfall begins from where the Kumaradhara River plunges for over 1000 metres before continuing its natural path towards the Arabian Sea. The presence of steep valleys and verdant mountains in the surroundings allows a lovely vista of Mallalli Falls.

More Details:

• Height of Waterfall: 200 ft.
• Entry Fee: Free of cost
• Timing: 9:00 am to 5:00 pm
• How to Reach: Take a jeep or a cab, taking the Kalahali Road via Somwarpet Taluk.
• Best Time to Visit: June to September
• Things to Do: Trekking and river rafting
• Ideal Trip Duration: 3-4 hours

15. Hanumangundi Falls, Sheerlu

This fall sits amidst the scenic hills of Kudremukh National Park in the Chikkamagaluru district. Hanuman Gundi Falls, or Suthanabbi Falls, rests in the hilly area between Karkala and Lakya Dam. The splashing water of this waterbody forms a foam on the rocky edges, and with the mist in the air, you can see rainbow-like effects as the sunlight gets distorted.

More Details:

• Height of Waterfall: 77 ft.
• Entry Fee: ₹40 per person
• Timing: 9:00 am to 5:00 pm
• How to Reach: Hire a taxi from Mangalore airport. You can also take a cab from Mangalore, which is 85 km away via National Highway 13
• Best Time to Visit: October to May
• Things to Do: Go trekking, sightseeing
• Ideal Trip Duration: 2-3 hours

16. Manikyadhara Falls, Chikmagalur

Located amidst the lush forests of Baba Budangiri Hills of Chikmagalur district, Manikyadhara Falls has a serene atmosphere. This waterfall holds significance for both Hindus and Muslims. Moreover, the locals residing in BabaBudangiri Hills believe bathing in the waters of Manikyadhara Falls is a sacred act due to its healing properties.

More Details:

• Height of Waterfall: 30 ft.
• Entry Fee: Free of cost
• Timing: 6:00 am to 6:00 pm
• How to Reach: Hire a taxi or bus
• Best Time to Visit: October to April
• Things to Do: Go trekking, indulge in photography
• Ideal Trip Duration: 2-3 hours

17. Kadambi Falls, Chikmagalur

This stunning waterfall is in the Chikmagalur district, within the picturesque Kudremukh National Park. It's a seasonal attraction that draws numerous tourists who seek the beauty of nature in the verdant Western Ghats, especially in the Kudremukh range. Kadambi Falls is conveniently situated near the main road connecting Sringeri and Kudremukh.

More Details:

• Height of Waterfall: 30 ft.
• Entry Fee: Free of cost
• Timing: 6:00 am to 6:00 pm
• How to Reach: Opt for a taxi or bus
• Best Time to Visit: October to April
• Things to Do: Trekking, photography
• Ideal Trip Duration: 1-2 hours

18. Ukkada Falls, Chikmagalur

Ukkada Falls is a hidden gem situated within the Muthodi forest range. This waterfall offers breathtaking views and a serene atmosphere to adventure enthusiasts travelling here. As you make your way through coffee plantations here, you will have the opportunity to witness herds of Sambar deer.

More Details:

• Height of Waterfall: 65 ft.
• Entry Fee: Free of cost
• Timing:  6:00 am to 6:00 pm
• How to Reach: Take a bus from the Chikmagalur KSRTC bus stand, which is about 40 km away from the fall
• Best Time to Visit: July to August and September to December
• Things to Do: Sightseeing, hiking, wildlife spotting
• Ideal Trip Duration: 2-3 hours

19. Shanti Falls, Chikmagalur

When you embark on a trek to Z Point in the scenic Kemmanagundi forest, you see the Shanti Falls. This waterfall offers a delightful sight as it gracefully cascades down and forms a natural pool beneath. The water of this pool possesses extraordinary medicinal properties.

More Details:

• Height of Waterfall: 12 ft.
• Entry Fee: Free of cost
• Timing:  6:00 am to 6:00 pm
• How to Reach: Hire private taxis, private buses and vehicles.
• Best Time to Visit: September to November
• Things to Do: Go swimming and trekking, sightseeing and photography
• Ideal Trip Duration: 2-3 hours

20. Onake Abbi Falls, Agumbe

Onake Abbi Falls, surrounded by dense forests and rocky terrain, sits in the Shimoga district of Karnataka. It is a haven for trekkers, who can embark on a 4 to 5-km trek to witness this magnificent waterfall. "Onake Abbi" originates from the local Kannada language, where "Onake" signifies a long pole used for grinding spices.

More Details:

• Height of Waterfall: 500 ft.
• Entry Fee: Free of cost
• Timing: 7:00 am to 5:00 pm
• How to Reach: Opt for a taxi or a bus
• Best Time to Visit: September to November
• Things to Do: Go trekking and indulge in photography
• Ideal Trip Duration: 3-4 hours

21. Chunchi Falls, Madarahalli

Formed by the River Arkavathi, Chunchi Falls rests near Harro Shivanahalli. This waterfall is embraced by rocky hills and abundant greenery, creating a picturesque scenario. It is the perfect spot to swim, play, and unwind. However, a power station ahead of this waterbody has significantly decreased the water flow at Chunchi Falls.

More Details:

• Height of Waterfall: 50 ft.
• Entry Fee: Free of cost
• Timing:  9:00 am to 6:00 pm
• How to Reach: Take a bus or a cab
• Best Time to Visit: October to February
• Things to Do: Sightseeing, trekking, fishing, photography
• Ideal Trip Duration: 2 hours

22. Kudlu Theertha Falls, Udupi

Kudlu Theertha is situated on Udupi-Agumbe Road and is the first waterfall from River Sita. Therefore, it is also known as Sita Falls. Travellers consider this waterfall one of Karnataka's most stunning and untouched waterfalls. This waterbody offers a picturesque sight of water plunging from the mountains and boasts a serene atmosphere that will leave you at peace.

More Details:

• Height of Waterfall: 300 ft.
• Entry Fee: ₹50 per person
• Timing:  9:00 am to 5:00 pm
• How to Reach: Take private vehicles
• Best Time to Visit: August to December
• Things to Do: Go trekking
• Ideal Trip Duration: 3-4 hours

These are the most prominent waterfalls in Karnataka that you should visit. While some waterfalls only reveal their splendour during the rainy season, you can see many throughout the year. The presence of gushing water and breezy surroundings creates an unforgettable experience. It is sure to leave a lasting impression on you.