What are the best waterfalls in South India?



What Are the Best Waterfalls in South India? A Complete Travel Guide (2025)

South India is blessed with a lush landscape, majestic hills, and abundant rainfall—making it home to some of the most beautiful waterfalls in the country. Whether you are a nature enthusiast, an adventure seeker, or someone simply looking to unwind, the cascading waterfalls of South India promise a refreshing escape.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll take you through the best waterfalls in South India that are worth visiting in 2025. From misty falls tucked deep in Western Ghats to mighty cascades near serene forests, this blog covers everything—locations, travel tips, best time to visit, and hidden gems.

🌊 1. Athirappilly Waterfalls – Kerala’s Niagara Falls

Location: Thrissur district, Kerala
Height: 80 feet
Best Time to Visit: June to October (monsoon)

Athirappilly is often dubbed as the "Niagara of India," and rightly so. The sheer force of the Chalakudy River cascading down 80 feet amidst thick greenery is a sight to behold. Featured in numerous films like Baahubali and Dil Se, this waterfall has cinematic grandeur.

Why Visit?

  • Lush forests and wildlife (elephants, hornbills)

  • Close to Vazhachal Waterfalls and Sholayar Dam

  • Trekking opportunities

Travel Tip: Hire a local guide if you’re planning to explore nearby forest trails.

🌊 2. Hogenakkal Falls – The Smoky Waterfall of Tamil Nadu

Location: Dharmapuri district, Tamil Nadu
Height: 66 feet
Best Time to Visit: July to November

Hogenakkal, derived from Kannada meaning "Smoky Rocks," gets its name from the mist created when the water hits the rocks. Often compared to Niagara Falls for its grandeur, Hogenakkal is also known for its therapeutic baths and boat rides on coracles (round boats).

Why Visit?

  • Famous for medicinal baths

  • Boating between falls

  • Authentic fish fry sold by locals

Travel Tip: Visit on a weekday to avoid heavy crowds.

🌊 3. Jog Falls – The Highest Plunge Waterfall in Karnataka

Location: Shimoga district, Karnataka
Height: 830 feet
Best Time to Visit: August to December

Jog Falls is India's second-highest plunge waterfall and a crown jewel of Karnataka tourism. Created by the Sharavathi River, the water splits into four distinct cascades—Raja, Rani, Roarer, and Rocket.

Why Visit?

  • Second-highest plunge waterfall in India

  • Scenic viewpoints and photography

  • Easy access via Shimoga and Sagar

Travel Tip: Try to witness the falls during or after monsoons for the full majestic view.

🌊 4. Dudhsagar Waterfalls – A Milky Spectacle on the Goa-Karnataka Border

Location: Goa-Karnataka border (Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary)
Height: 1017 feet
Best Time to Visit: July to September

"Dudhsagar" literally translates to "Sea of Milk." True to its name, the falls resemble a stream of frothy milk gushing down the cliff. It gained immense popularity after being featured in the movie Chennai Express.

Why Visit?

  • Trekking via Castle Rock route

  • Iconic train journey alongside the falls

  • Jeep safari through dense forests

Travel Tip: The route is closed during heavy rains, so check ahead before planning your visit.

🌊 5. Talakona Waterfalls – Tallest in Andhra Pradesh

Location: Chittoor district, Andhra Pradesh
Height: 270 feet
Best Time to Visit: October to January

Located in the Sri Venkateswara National Park, Talakona is a hidden gem that offers not only a majestic waterfall but also an adventurous jungle setting. It is the highest waterfall in Andhra Pradesh.

Why Visit?

  • Surrounded by thick forest and rare herbs

  • Spiritual visit (nearby temples)

  • Camping and trekking options

Travel Tip: Ideal for nature lovers and spiritual seekers alike.

🌊 6. Siruvani Waterfalls – The Sweetest Waterfall in Tamil Nadu

Location: Near Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu
Height: 200 feet
Best Time to Visit: June to September

Siruvani is famed not just for its beauty but also for having the second-sweetest water in the world. Nestled amidst lush hills, it supplies drinking water to Coimbatore.

Why Visit?

  • Ideal for weekend getaway from Coimbatore

  • Picturesque views and forest ambience

  • Eco-tourism and tribal culture

Travel Tip: Carry light snacks and water, as shops are scarce near the falls.

🌊 7. Meenmutty Waterfalls – A Triple Treat in Wayanad, Kerala

Location: Wayanad district, Kerala
Height: 984 feet
Best Time to Visit: October to May

Meenmutty is the largest waterfall in Wayanad, falling in three tiers. Reaching it requires a thrilling 2 km trek through a dense tropical forest, making it a must-visit for adventure lovers.

Why Visit?

  • Offbeat and crowd-free

  • Close to Banasura Sagar Dam

  • Amazing trekking trails

Travel Tip: Hire a local guide for a safe and informative trek.

🌊 8. Pykara Waterfalls – The Hidden Gem of Ooty

Location: Ooty, Tamil Nadu
Height: 180 feet
Best Time to Visit: July to September

Located 20 km from Ooty, Pykara Falls is a lesser-known yet incredibly scenic spot. The river flows gently through the forest before forming these magnificent cascades.

Why Visit?

  • Close to Pykara Lake and boating point

  • Less commercialized

  • Ideal for couples and photographers

Travel Tip: Avoid visiting during peak Ooty tourist seasons for a peaceful experience.

🌊 9. Kutralam Falls – The Spa of South India

Location: Tirunelveli district, Tamil Nadu
Height: Varies (from 60 to 300 feet)
Best Time to Visit: June to September (Season of “Saaral” or drizzle)

Kutralam, also spelled as Courtallam, is revered as the "Spa of South India" due to its herbal water known to have healing properties. It is a set of nine waterfalls, each with unique charm and accessibility.

Why Visit?

  • Medicinal water from the Western Ghats

  • Visit temples and enjoy local cuisine

  • Ideal for families and senior citizens

Travel Tip: Plan a visit during “Season Saaral” for the light drizzle and festive feel.

🌊 10. Soochipara Waterfalls – The Sentinel Rock Falls of Kerala

Location: Wayanad district, Kerala
Height: 656 feet
Best Time to Visit: September to March

Also known as Sentinel Rock Waterfalls, Soochipara offers a thrilling 1.5 km trek to reach the base. Surrounded by tea estates, the waterfall is perfect for rock climbing and swimming during lean water flow.

Why Visit?

  • Ideal for adventure lovers

  • Surrounded by green tea plantations

  • Great for photos and picnics

Travel Tip: Wear comfortable shoes as the trek can be slippery.

🌊 Other Noteworthy Mentions

Waterfall State Highlight
Thusharagiri Falls Kerala Adventure hub with multiple falls
Hebbe Falls Karnataka Accessible by jeep rides through coffee estates
Mallalli Falls Karnataka Gorgeous during monsoons, near Coorg
Bharachukki and Gaganachukki Falls Karnataka Twin waterfalls, part of Shivanasamudra
Iruppu Falls Karnataka Located en route to Nagarhole National Park

🗓️ Best Time to Explore Waterfalls in South India

The best time to visit waterfalls in South India is during or immediately after the monsoon season (June to October). However, some places like Talakona and Meenmutty are great all year round.

🧳 Essential Travel Tips for Waterfall Visits

  1. Footwear: Wear trekking or non-slip shoes.

  2. Weather: Always check the local weather forecast.

  3. Local Rules: Respect local culture and nature rules.

  4. Safety First: Avoid venturing into risky rock areas.

  5. Clothing: Carry an extra pair of clothes if you plan to get wet.

📸 Photography and Instagram-Worthy Shots

Most waterfalls mentioned here are photographer’s paradise. Early mornings and post-monsoon mist create magical shots. Don't forget:

  • Wide-angle shots from viewpoints

  • Drone footage (where permitted)

  • Slow shutter for silky water effect

🧭 Waterfall Road Trip Itinerary Suggestion

Kerala 5-Day Trail:

  • Day 1: Athirappilly + Vazhachal

  • Day 2: Travel to Wayanad

  • Day 3: Meenmutty + Soochipara

  • Day 4: Pykara Falls (Ooty)

  • Day 5: Return or proceed to Kutralam

Karnataka 5-Day Trail:

  • Day 1: Jog Falls

  • Day 2: Hebbe Falls (Chikmagalur)

  • Day 3: Mallalli Falls (Coorg)

  • Day 4: Iruppu Falls

  • Day 5: Dudhsagar via Castle Rock

🏁 Conclusion: A Splash of Heaven in South India

South India’s waterfalls aren’t just water bodies—they are natural spectacles, cultural experiences, and refreshing escapes from city life. Whether you're a solo traveler, family explorer, honeymooner, or an adrenaline junkie, there’s a waterfall here calling your name.

So pack your bags, charge your camera, and head south this monsoon to witness the best waterfalls in South India. Each fall has a story, a sound, and a serenity that will stay with you long after you’ve returned.

🔍 FAQs: Best Waterfalls in South India

Q. Which is the biggest waterfall in South India?
A. Jog Falls in Karnataka is the tallest plunge waterfall in South India.

Q. Which waterfalls can I swim in safely?
A. Soochipara, Siruvani, and parts of Meenmutty are safer for swimming, but always check local advisories.

Q. Are these waterfalls accessible by road?
A. Most waterfalls have road access, though some require short treks.

Q. Can I visit waterfalls in South India during summer?
A. Yes, but the flow may be minimal. Monsoon and post-monsoon are better.


Location: South India

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