Mangalore, one of the commercial pivots of Karnataka, possesses deep cultural roots. Known for its sun-drenched beaches, exquisite temples, and monumental architecture, Mangalore never fails to amuse its visitors.

Apart from owning an array of humane finesses, there are a handful of natural wonders, like waterfalls near Mangalore that are waiting to be discovered.

Bordered by the Western Ghat range on one side, Managole boasts a host of stunning waterfalls. Let's take a tour of some of the top falls near Mangalore that a traveller must not miss at any cost.

1. Hanuman Gundi Waterfalls, Sheerlu

About 81.4 km from Mangalore lies one of the most surprising splendours of Karnataka, the Hanuman Gundi Waterfalls. Foaming water cascades from a great height over rocky edges combining into a spectacular sight.

Since it is located in the province of the Kudremukh National Park, it packs myriad adventurous opportunities.

More Details:

• Height of Waterfall:  3268 ft
• Entry Fee: ₹50 per person
• Timing: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
• How to Reach: After reaching the spot by cabs or personal vehicles, visitors have to trail down more than 300 steps to its viewpoint
• Best Time to Visit: October to May
• Things to Do: Take a refreshing bath at the foot of the fall or dive into its temperate pool and visit the biodiversity-rich Kudremukh National Park
• Ideal trip duration: 1 to 2 hours

2. Adyar Falls, Adyar

Residing within a distance of 15.2 km from Mangalore, Adyar Waterfalls is the most accessible among the list of Mangalore waterfalls. Being a relatively unpopular one, this hidden paradise is worth a visit. Its unspoiled serenity is sure to mesmerise you.

Your Mangalore trip will remain imperfect if you do not witness its immaculate charm.

More Details:

• Height of Waterfall: 30 ft
• Entry Fee: No entry fee
• Timing: 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM
• How to Reach: Via rental cabs, regular buses, or personal vehicles
• Best Time to Visit: July to November
• Things to Do: Sit beneath the fall for a reviving bath, visit the local forest, and indulge in having a picnic with your friends and family
• Ideal trip duration: 1 hour

3. Bandaje Arbi Falls, Belthangady

Created on the course of the Netravati River’s tributary, Baraje Arbi Falls is nothing but spectacular. Being home to a wide range of flora and fauna, a trip to this waterfall will allow you to have a sneak peek of Karnataka’s wildlife.

Simply sit next to its gushing stream to unfold the true sense of serenity.

More Details:

• Height of Waterfall: Approximately 200 ft
• Entry Fee: No entry fee
• Timing: 07:00 AM to 06:00 PM
• How to Reach: Via regular buses or taxis
• Best Time to Visit: November to May
• Things to Do: Trek through its lush forest, explore the nearby Ballalarayana Durga, and arrange a picnic at its landing point
• Ideal trip duration: 1 to 2 hours

4. Devaragundi Falls, Doddakumeri

Adorned in the woodland of the mighty Western Ghat Range, Devaragundi Falls seems like the glorious tears of Mother Nature. Formed by the confluence of mountain streams, this Mangalore waterfall is a combination of beauty and wonder.

Bordered by moss-ridden grasslands on both sides, a trip here is a  true pleasure to the eyes. Being in proximity to the Sri Malikuranja temple, it is also a popular pilgrimage destination.

More Details:

• Height of Waterfall:  Approximately 5 ft
• Entry Fee: No entry fee
• Timing: NA
• How to Reach: Take a bus or cab to reach its nearest village Thodikana. From there, you have to opt for a short trek to get to the fall
• Best Time to Visit: August to December
• Things to Do: Go trekking, unveil the surrounding forest, and take a refreshing bath at its temperate pool
• Ideal trip duration: 2 to 3 hours

5. Dondole Falls, Dharmastala Road

Dondole Falls, another significant one in the list of falls near Mangalore, is located 72.6 km from the city. Though it is comparatively lesser known, it encompasses enchanting beauty making its visitors reluctant to leave the fall.

Being veiled under lush greenery, it packs a host of surprises for naturists and adventurers. The sound of the cascade echoes throughout the region. With inexplicable beauty and purling outflow, Dondole Falls is a treat to the eyes and ears.

More Details:

• Height of Waterfall:  50 ft
• Entry Fee: No entry fee
• Timing: NA
• How to Reach: Visitors must reach the nearest node via jeep, bus, or other personal vehicles. From there, travellers have to trek through a moderate trail for about 2 km to get to the fall.
• Best Time to Visit: June to September
• Things to Do: Go rock climbing, camping, trekking, and rappelling
• Ideal trip duration: 1 to 2 hours

6. Mallalli Falls, Kumarahalli

Filled with the stream of the Kumaradhara River, Mallalli Falls cascades from the peak of Pushpagiri Hills. Its exquisite charm brings forth the fulfilment of your heart. Tucked in the hillocks, this mesmerising cataract soothes your senses.

The steeping valleys accompanied by rich greenery add to its charming appeal. It encapsulates a stunning serenity that cures your mind with optimum peace.

More Details:

• Height of Waterfall:  120 ft
• Entry Fee: No entry fee
• Timing: 8 AM to 5:30  PM
• How to Reach: Being well-connected via roads, tourists can reach Mallalli by regular buses, rental cabs, and personal vehicles
• Best Time to Visit: June to September
• Things to Do: Indulge in a host of adventurous activities, like rafting and trekking. Go sightseeing.
• Ideal trip duration: 3 to 4 hours

7. Kudumari Waterfalls, Chaktikal

The range of Western Ghats boasts a cascade of picturesque waterfalls and Kudumari waterfalls holds a special significance among all. Being amidst the crowning crest and dense forest, this waterfall offers a breathtaking view.

Tourists of all kinds come to this place to witness the beauty of nature in all its glory. Not only does its sparkling flow unload your mind off everything, but also its enigmatic appearance is truly enthralling to the eyes.

More Details:

• Height of Waterfall:  300 ft
• Entry Fee: No entry fee
• Timing: 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM
• How to Reach: Rent a taxi or a bus to reach its nearest village, Kundapura. A short trek from there will lead to Kudumari Waterfalls.
• Best Time to Visit: June to August
• Things to Do: Go trekking and rock climbing. Enjoy a relaxing bath at the foot of the falls
• Ideal trip duration: 2 to 3 hours

8. Koosalli Waterfalls, Sharavathi Valley

Resting in an unexplored corner of Karnataka, Koosalli is a confluence of six different streams. This tiered waterfall gushes through the canopies resulting in a spectacular vision. Its powerful outflow results in a crashing sound that halts your mind.

Ensconced in the luscious fringes, it mostly goes unnoticed. Situated about 174.8 km from Mangalore, this natural splendour is a must-visit.

More Details:

• Height of Waterfall: 470 ft
• Entry Fee: ₹25 per person
• Timing: NA
• How to Reach: Via regular buses or cabs
• Best Time to Visit: November to December
• Things to Do: Arrange a picnic, go sightseeing
• Ideal trip duration: 40 minutes to 1 hour

9. Kadambi Waterfalls, Chikmagalur

Placed right in front of abounding greenery, the Kadambi waterfall is a sight to remember. Its crystal clear sparkling stream hurdles over jagged hillocks revealing a shrill. A peerless one among falls in Mangalore, Kadambi Waterfalls is 96.4 km away from Mangalore.

While it packs exciting water sports for adventure fanatics, naturists can simply sit beside the falls and marvel at its gorgeous beauty.

More Details:

• Height of Waterfall: 30 ft
• Entry Fee: No entry fee
• Timing: 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM
• How to Reach: Regular bus and taxi services to Kadambi Waterfalls are available since it is very close to Sringeri-Kudremukh main road
• Best Time to Visit: October to April
• Things to Do: Take a refreshing bath under the falls, go fishing, and explore the nearby dense forest
• Ideal trip duration: 2 hours

10. Chelavara Falls, Coorg

One of the scenic falls near Mangalore, Chelavara Falls is widely known for its unique appearance. Formed by a tributary of Karnataka, its powerful torrent rushes from a great height on tortoise-shaped rock unfolding a paradisiacal sight.

Watching its dynamic outflows releases all anxiety from your mind, giving you the relaxing escape you have been craving for. It is situated 165.6 km from Mangalore.

More Details:

• Height of Waterfall: 150 ft
• Entry Fee: no entry fee
• Timing: 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM
• How to Reach: Via buses, cars, and personal vehicles
• Best Time to Visit: June to September
• Things to Do: Take a refreshing bath in its temperate pool, explore the region, arrange a picnic, and go rock climbing
• Ideal trip duration: 2 to 3 hours

11. Abbey Falls, Coorg

Immersed in abundant greenery, Abbey Falls is another hidden yet striking Mangalore waterfall. Resting peacefully at a nook of the Western Range, this falls is 143 km from the centre of Mangalore.

Packed with tranquillity and old-world charm, this quaint waterfall is a perfect destination for nature lovers as well as adventure fanatics. The sight of this wonder will stay etched in your memory for a long time.

More Details:

• Height of Waterfall: 70 ft
• Entry Fee: ₹15 per person
• Timing: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
• How to Reach: Take cabs or buses to reach the nearest junction. Visitors have to climb down approximately 200 steps to the viewpoint of the falls.
• Best Time to Visit: July to October
• Things to Do: Arrange a picnic, trek to the top, and go sightseeing
• Ideal trip duration: 2 to 3 hours

12. Apsarakonda Falls, Apsarakonda

Nestled in the coastal region of Karnataka, Apsarakonda Falls is another stunning Mangalore waterfall. Boasted with a clear sky, lush greenery, and tranquil surroundings, this waterfall beckons its visitors with a mesmerising charm.

The term ‘apsarakonda’ literally means ‘a pond for angels’, and its beauty signifies why it is called so. Since it is located within 177.9 km of Mangalore, do not forget to unwind this paradisiacal cataract during your trip.

More Details:

• Height of Waterfall:  32.80 ft
• Entry Fee: ₹10 per person
• Timing: 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM
• How to Reach: Via regular buses, taxis, and personal vehicles
• Best Time to Visit: October to February
• Things to Do: Enjoy a relaxing bath at its foot, go sightseeing, and explore the local forest
• Ideal trip duration: 1 to 2 hours

13. Sirimane Falls, Yadadahalli

Residing 122 km from Mangalore, Sirimane is another natural jewel of Mangalore. Though it does not have a lofty height, this multi-tiered fall roars and splashes over an extensive range creating a breathtaking view.

With its pleasant ambiance, persistent outflow, and thunderous roar, this fall never fails to spellbind its visitors.  Since Rishyashringa temple is in proximity, it is a widely recognised pilgrimage spot.

More Details:

• Height of Waterfall: 40 ft
• Entry Fee: ₹50 per person
• Timing: 8.30 AM to 5:00 PM
• How to Reach: Via roadway buses, jeeps, and other types of four-wheelers
• Best Time to Visit: September to February
• Things to Do: Go rock climbing and trekking, visit the local temple, and explore the nearby forest
• Ideal trip duration: 2 to 3 hours

14. Hidlumane Falls, Shimoga

Follow the trail of waterfalls near Mangalore to reach another serene stop, the Hidlumane Falls. Located at a distance of 157.5 km from Mangalore, Hidlumane Falls is a series of stepped waterfalls snuggled at the foot of the Kodachadri Hills of Western Ghats.

Being tucked inside the dense forest, its white frothy outrush significantly enhances the appeal of rich green surroundings. The thunderous appearance of this cascade will surely awaken the adventurous spirit of each individual.

More Details:

• Height of Waterfall: Approximately 70 ft
• Entry Fee: ₹100 per person
• Timing: NA
• How to Reach: Take a bus or cab to reach the nearest node. From there, go for a short trek to arrive at the Hidlumane Falls.
• Best Time to Visit: September to February
• Things to Do: Go for trekking, forest exploration, and sightseeing
• Ideal trip duration: 2 hours