India is blessed with plenty of breathtaking waterfalls that transform even the simplest landscape into a magical one. The waterfalls in India are scattered from the snowy north to the tropical south of the country and these turn rocky cliffs as well as forest paths into magical sights. Watching a waterfall is like watching nature breathe- a sight that takes your breath away. Some fall from high cliffs with a roaring sound, others meanderingly pass through green valleys. In this blog, we will take you through a list of some of the most beautiful waterfalls across the country so that you can experience the beauty of nature like never before.
15 Best Waterfalls in India You Must Visit
Be it tall, thunderous falls or hidden forest streams, the famous waterfalls in India promise pure magic. These natural wonders are perfect for adventure lovers, photographers and anyone who finds peace in nature’s embrace.
1. Kunchikal Falls
The Kunchikal Waterfalls cascade down over approximately 455 meters of rugged terrain in the Western Ghats of Karnataka and is helped by the powerful flow of the Varahi River. It is known as the highest waterfall in India. The surrounding forest and the restricted hydroelectric zone give it a remote, untouched feel that nature-lovers cherish. A trip here means walking on gentle slopes, breathing fresh air, and listening to the roar of water in a deep green setting. You will feel you are far from crowds and close to wilderness.
Location: Shimoga (Shivamogga) district, Karnataka
Height: 455 metres
Best time to visit: July to October
2. Barehipani Falls
Barehipani Waterfall is inside Simlipal National Park in Odisha where the Budhabalanga River falls about 399 metres in two steps. This makes it one of the highest and most gorgeous waterfalls in India. This is the 2nd highest waterfall in India, attracting trekkers into thick forest and remote terrain. The setting is wild and green, with flora and fauna adding to the drama of falling water. Here, one feels a sense of adventure and the might of nature. It's best visited in post-monsoon when the flow is strong and the weather is pleasant.
Location: Mayurbhanj district, Odisha
Timings: Daylight hours only; national park guidelines apply
Entry Fees: Park entry + guide charges apply as per park rules
3. Nohkalikai Falls
Located in Meghalaya near Cherrapunji, one of the wettest places on Earth, the Nohkalikai Falls is the highest waterfall in Meghalaya and plunges about 340 m straight down into a turquoise pool. It's often called the tallest waterfall in India when counting single-drop or plunge falls, and the scene is dramatic indeed: Mist rises, cliffs surround you, and the waterfall seems almost surreal in the lush green hills. A local legend adds mystery to its name, making it not just beautiful but also full of stories.
Location: East Khasi Hills, Meghalaya
Height: 340 metres
Best time to visit: October to December
4. Chitrakote Falls
On the Indravati River in Chhattisgarh you can find the Chitrakote Falls - what many call the longest waterfall in India because it stretches nearly 300 metres wide during the monsoon. The "horseshoe" shape has helped it earn the name “Niagara of India.” It is transformed into a wide sheet of falling water that roars and sprays. Its height is modest, but its breadth and setting in wilderness make it unforgettable. Visitors can enjoy boat rides close to the falls in the calmer season
Location: Bastar district, Chhattisgarh
Height: 30 metres
Best time to visit: July to October
5. Dudhsagar Falls
This four-tiered cascade, which drops around 310 m, lies on the border between Goa and Karnataka. This is one of the most beautiful waterfalls in India creating a milky white appearance and hence its name, “Dudhsagar,” meaning “sea of milk.” With considerations of height, volume and visual impact combined, many term the Dudhsagar Waterfalls as the biggest waterfall in India. It is located within a national park, so getting here involves some amount of adventure by train route, forest trek or jeep safari. The reward? A spectacular gorge filled with mist and one of India's most iconic waterfall in Goa
Location: Goa-Karnataka border
Height: 310 metres
Best time to visit: June to September
6. Jog Falls
In Karnataka, the Sharavathi River forms what is considered one of the most spectacular sights in the Western Ghats: the Jog Falls. The water splits into four distinct streams, known as Raja, Rani, Roarer and Rocket, before plunging nearly 253 meters into the gorge below. It is often described as the largest waterfall in India by volume during the peak monsoon season and its roar can be heard from afar. Surrounded by lush forests and mist, Jog Falls is one of the best waterfalls in India that offers the most breathtaking natural views in the country.
Location: Shivamogga district, Karnataka
Height: 253 metres
Best time to visit: July to September
7. Khandadhar Falls
Khandadhar Falls is located in the Sundargarh district of Odisha and is known for its unique shape. IBeing one of the most gorgeous waterfalls in India, it gently slides down from rocky cliffs from a height of approximately 244 meters. It is widely regarded as the second largest waterfall in India in terms of volume, mainly during monsoon seasons. The water falls in a slender, beautiful line, depicting a silvery streak across the dark rock face. The surrounding woods add to the serenity, making this place apt for silent nature walks and quiet contemplation.
Location: Sundargarh district, Odisha
Height: 244 metres
Best time to visit: August to October
8. Thoseghar Falls
Tucked away near Satara in Maharashtra, Thoseghar Falls is a stunning sight during the rains when countless small streams merge into one powerful cascade. Surrounded by thick forests and misty hills, it’s often called the best waterfall in Maharashtra. The viewpoint gives an amazing panoramic view of the falls and the cool breeze makes it just the perfect monsoon get-away. Thoseghar is one of the best waterfalls in India that is loved by photographers and nature enthusiasts looking for a quiet break close to nature.
Location: Satara district, Maharashtra
Height: 200 metres
Best time to visit: July to November
9. Hogenakkal Falls
Located on the Kaveri River along the Tamil Nadu-Karnataka border, Hogenakkal Falls is one of the most beautiful waterfalls in India. The water flows through rocky gorges and forms several cascades and misty sprays. It is one of the most popular falls in Tamilnadu and has been renowned for its coracle boat rides and healing mineral waters. The view of the foaming water and the echo of the river create a memory to be carried by every traveler.
Location: Dharmapuri district, Tamil Nadu
Height: 66 metres
Best time to visit: July to October
10. Elephant Falls
This three-tier marvel lies near Shillong and is one of the most visited waterfalls in Meghalaya. The water gushes down over dark rocks, framed by green ferns and trees. During the monsoon, it becomes even more powerful and photogenic. Easy to reach and beautifully maintained, Elephant Falls is a favorite picnic spot and a must-visit for anyone exploring Meghalaya's natural wonders. The name comes from a rock that once resembled an elephant, though it was destroyed in an earthquake years ago.
Location: Near Shillong, Meghalaya
Timings: 9 AM - 5 PM
Entry Fees: ₹30 per person (approx.)
11. Nohsngithiang Falls
Popularly known as the Seven Sisters Falls, this amazing natural feature near Cherrapunji represents one of the most beautiful waterfalls in India. The water splits into seven separate streams that flow side by side from a height of about 315 metres. The setting of sunrays on the falling water acts as a rainbow-like shimmer, which is thrilling to watch. The view from the cliff presents a sweeping sight of lush valleys, rolling clouds and flowing streams below - pure Meghalaya magic.
Location: East Khasi Hills, Meghalaya
Height: 315 metres
Best time to visit: August to October
12. Hundru Falls
Hundru Waterfall is located near Ranchi in Jharkhand, which is formed by the Subarnarekha River falling almost 98 meters down on the rugged rocks. Ranchi is often called the City of Waterfalls in India and Hundru stands as one of its finest. The sound of water echoing through the valley gives a peaceful and refreshing atmosphere. A perfect spot for a picnic or photography, it is surrounded by forests and rocky trails perfect for short treks.
Location: 45 km from Ranchi, Jharkhand
Height: 98 metres
Best time to visit: July to October
13. Thalaiyar Falls (Rat Tail Falls)
Thalaiyar Waterfalls, in the Devathanapatti region of Tamil Nadu, falls about 297 metres from a high cliff and is one of the most stunning waterfalls in India. A narrow stream leaps straight down into a deep gorge, and the view from the edge gives a thrilling sense of height. Many people combine it with hikes in the surrounding hills and forests. Because of its steep pathway that can be slippery, it is best visited during dry and clear weather.
Location: Theni District, Tamil Nadu
Height: 297 metres
Best time to visit: December to February
14. Meenmutty Falls
Meenmutty Falls is nestled in Wayanad district, Kerala, falling a distance of about 300 meters in three tiers. It is considered one of the most beautiful waterfalls in India and has thick rainforest and wildlife enveloping it. A trekking route that passes through streams, stones, and greenery leads to this waterfall. As the region remains in its natural, wild stage, the best time is during strong flow but when the paths are safe to use. A perfect destination for nature lovers looking for a short trip off the beaten path.
Location: Wayanad District, Kerala
Height: 300 metres
Best time to visit: October to January
15. Kune Falls
Kune Falls are located near Lonavala in Maharashtra and fall about 200 meters over a set of steps, surrounded by plateaus and greenery. During and just after the monsoon, when the waterfalls in India fill up, it is a sight to behold with strong flow and mist rising around the rocks. A viewpoint at the top gives a lovely panorama of the valley below. Since it's relatively accessible from Mumbai/Pune, it works well for a short getaway in the cooler season.
Location: Lonavala, Pune District, Maharashtra
Height: 200 metres
Best time to visit: August to November
Conclusion
India is full of spectacular waterfalls, which demonstrate the real beauty of nature, on the enormous Karnataka cliffs, to the foggy Meghalaya hills. Some of them are high and roaring, others serene and elegant. A trip to these famous waterfalls in India will make you experience the power and harmony of water simultaneously. Be it the highest waterfall in India concealed in the western Ghats or the beautiful waterfalls flowing through the green valleys- every trip is a treasure to be remembered. Therefore, pack your bags and run after the rushing water and discover the most beautiful natural wonders all throughout the country.
















































































































































































