Sometimes, all you need is a short escape from the noise of the city. A place where the only sound you hear is water crashing over rocks and birds calling from the trees. Luckily, there are many waterfalls near Bangalore where you can find the kind of peace you may be looking for.
Bangalore might be known for its fast-paced life and traffic, but beyond its outskirts lie hidden corners of beauty, such as tall waterfalls surrounded by forests, cool streams flowing through hills, and quiet picnic spots where you can spend time with your loved ones and can also plan other things to do in Bangalore on your trip.
Whether you want to go on a road trip with friends, plan a peaceful day out with family, or simply sit by the water to clear your mind, these falls near Bangalore are a great choice. In this blog, we'll provide you with insights into when to go, what to do, and how to make the most of your trip memorable.
20 Waterfalls to Visit Near Bangalore
During your visit to Bangalore, there could be multiple things planned on your itinerary, however, missing out on the nearest falls to bangalore, could be a huge miss. Every waterfall here could give you the best experience that you deserve, away from the hectic work schedule. So, let us take a look at some of the waterfalls near bangalore:
1. Thottikallu Falls
Places that make you slow down and breathe are special. One of these places to visit in Bangalore is Thottikallu Falls, which is about an hour's drive from Bangalore. People in the area call it TK Falls or Swarna Mukhi Falls, which means "Golden Face." This name is perfect because when the sun hits the falling water, it glows like liquid gold.
You can see small villages and green fields along the way to the falls. When you get to the base, you have to walk a short distance through muddy paths and thick trees to hear the sound of water rushing down rocks. There isn't much to see at this waterfall, but it's still pretty because it's so simple. Two thin streams flow slowly next to each other in a quiet, peaceful area. A lot of the time, families are sitting on rocks with their feet in the cool water, or kids are trying to get the best picture.
Location: Nallakkana Doddy village, off Kanakapura Road
Height: Around 30 meters (seasonal flow)
Distance from Bangalore: 32 km
Things to do in Thottikallu falls: Walk through forest trails, visit the nearby Muneshwara Temple, relax by the rocks, and enjoy some quiet photography moments
2. The Pearl Valley Muthyala Maduvu Falls
If you want to feel like nature is giving you a gentle hug, Muthyala Maduvu Falls, also called Pearl Valley, is the place to go. It's only 40 kilometers from the main city of Bangalore, but as soon as you get there, it feels like you're in a whole new world.
The water here doesn't fall from very high up, but it flows smoothly down the rocks, making little streams that sparkle in the sun. The word "Muthyala," which means "pearls" in Kannada, is where the waterfall gets its name.
Location: Anekal Taluk, Karnataka
Height: Gentle, shallow waterfall
Distance from Bangalore: 43 km
Things to Do in Pearl Valley: Relaxing picnics, light trekking, visiting the Shiva temple, and nature walks
3. Shivanasamudra Falls
Shivanasamudra Falls is one of the most famous waterfalls near Bangalore. It is on the Cauvery River, about 135 km from the city. Gaganachukki and Bharachukki are two powerful waterfalls that the river splits into. Both offer stunning views. You can hear the falls from far away, and during the monsoon season, the water flows down with full force, making a misty, magical scene.
There is also an old hydroelectric power plant in Shivanasamudra, as well as small viewpoints that give you a full view of the river valley. Weekends are busy, so mornings or weekdays are better times to go if you want to avoid crowds.
Location: Mandya district, Karnataka
Height: About 90 meters tall
Distance from Bangalore: 135 km away from Bangalore
Things to do in Shivanasamudra Falls: viewpoints, taking pictures, visiting a nearby temple, and a short drive to the Gaganachukki and Bharachukki sides.
4. Hogenakkal Falls
People often call Hogenakkal Falls the "Niagara of India." It is about 180 km from Bangalore. It is on the line that separates Karnataka from Tamil Nadu. The Cauvery River flows through rocky land here, where it makes a number of waterfalls before falling into deep gorges. The name "Hogenakkal" comes from the sound of the water crashing and the mist rising from the rocks.
Visitors can take coracle boat rides to get a close look at the falls when the water level is safe. There are also local stands that sell fried fish and snacks, which makes it feel more like home.
Location: Dharmapuri district in Tamil Nadu
Height: About 66 feet (20 meters)
Distance from Bangalore: The distance from Bangalore is 180 km.
Things to do in Hogenakkal Falls: ride coracles, take pictures, eat local food, and see the sights
5. Chunchi Falls
Chunchi Falls is one of the best waterfalls near Bangalore if you like quiet places with rocks and trees around them. This waterfall is on the Arkavati River and is about 90 km from the city. It's a short drive from Mekedatu and Sangama. The path to the viewpoint is beautiful, with winding roads and small villages along the way.
The waterfall falls beautifully through rocky cliffs into a deep pool, making a perfect picture during the monsoon. The area is great for a quiet picnic or a quick photo stop on a weekend drive, but swimming is not allowed because of the strong currents.
Location: Kanakapura Taluk, Ramanagara district is where it is.
Height: About 50 feet (15 meters) tall
Distance from Bangalore: 90 km from Bangalore
Things to do in Chunchi falls: Take pictures of nature, go on a short hike to the viewpoint, and have a picnic.
6. Mekedatu Falls
Mekedatu Falls, which means "Goat's Leap" in Kannada, is another natural wonder that is only a few kilometers from Chunchi. It is among the must see waterfalls near bangalore. The Cauvery River flows through a narrow gorge of hard rocks here, making a strong, swirling flow that is both beautiful and powerful.
According to local legends, a goat jumped across the gorge to get away from a tiger. This is how the place got its name. Nature lovers will love this stop because of the deep, carved rocks and the loud sound of the water. For a full riverside experience, you can visit Sangama (where the Arkavati meets the Cauvery) and Mekedatu on the same day.
Location: Near Kanakapura, in the Ramanagara district
Height: Moderate gorge waterfall (about 20 to 25 feet)
Distance from Bangalore: 100 km from Bangalore
Things to do in Mekedatu Falls: Go to Sangama, take pictures, drive through beautiful scenery, and see the river.
7. Abbey Falls
Abbey Falls is one of the most popular waterfalls near Bangalore. It is in the beautiful Coorg region, not far from Madikeri. The drive from the city takes you through coffee farms and foggy hills. When you get to the falls, you can hear the sound of rushing water. The water falls from a height of about 70 feet into a pool of rocks that is surrounded by thick plants.
A bridge that hangs over the falls offers a breathtaking view, especially during the monsoon season when the water flows with full force. The coffee-scented air, the thick forest, and the roaring water all make Abbey Falls a must-see for anyone who is visiting Coorg.
Location: Madikeri, Coorg district, Karnataka
Height: The height is about 70 feet (21 meters).
Distance from Bangalore: 270 km away from Bangalore
Things to do in Abbey Falls: Take in the view, take pictures, and visit the nearby Raja's Seat and Madikeri Fort.
8. Iruppu Falls
Iruppu Falls is located in the Brahmagiri range, which is a little further into the Western Ghats. The Lakshmana Tirtha River makes the waterfall, which people in the area think is holy. Many people think that swimming in the cold, clear waters of Iruppu can wash away their sins. This attracts both religious people and people who love nature.
There are tall trees and chirping birds along the path to the falls, and the mist from the water feels good after the short walk. It has the perfect mix of natural beauty and peace of mind.
Location: Karnataka, Coorg district, Kurchi village
Height: About 170 feet (52 meters) tall
Distance from Bangalore: 250 km
Things to do in Iruppu Falls: take a short walk in the woods, take pictures, and go to the Rameshwara Temple nearby.
9. Hebbe Falls
Hebbe Falls is a two-tiered wonder that looks like a scene from a painting. It's hidden deep in the forests of Chikmagalur. This waterfall, which has two parts, Dodda Hebbe (Big Falls) and Chikka Hebbe (Small Falls), is surrounded by coffee farms and misty hills. The two parts together make a beautiful sight.
Getting to the falls is an adventure on its own. Most of the time, visitors take a short jeep ride through rough forest paths, and then they walk a little bit. The smell of wet earth and coffee leaves and the sound of water rushing make this one of the best ways to get away from the city.
Location: Karnataka, Chikmagalur district, near Kemmangundi
Height: About 551 feet (168 meters)
Distance from Bangalore: It is 330 km from Bangalore.
Things to do in Hebbe Falls: take a jeep ride through the woods, go on a short hike, take pictures, and visit a coffee plantation.
10. Jogi Gundi Falls
Jogi Gundi Falls is a small but beautiful waterfall in the thick rainforest near Agumbe, which is known as the "Cherrapunji of the South." This waterfall is different from most because it comes out of a natural cave instead of falling from a great height. The stream then widens into a calm pool below, which is great for relaxing or putting your feet in cool water.
The way to Jogi Gundi Falls goes through wooded trails that are full of the sounds of birds and cicadas. It has the perfect balance of nature and solitude, making it a great place to go if you want to get away from it all for a day.
Location: Karnataka, Shimoga district, Agumbe
Height: About 20 feet (6 meters) tall
Distance from Bangalore: 340 km from Bangalore
Things to do in Jogi Gundi Falls: Go for a short hike in the woods, take pictures, and see the nearby Onake Abbi Falls and Agumbe sunset point.
11. Abbi Falls, Mookana Mane
Mookana Mane Abbi Falls is a beautiful place that few tourists know about. It's hidden away in the forests near Sirimane Falls in the Agumbe region. The name means "the falls near Mookana's house," which makes it even more charming in the area. The waterfall flows smoothly through thick green woods, making the area feel calm and almost like a meditation space.
You can hear the water long before you see it. It feels like time slows down here because of the cool air, earthy smell, and natural sounds. It's one of those places that makes you remember how good nature can be for you.
Location: Near the village of Kigga, not far from Agumbe, Karnataka
Height: About 60 feet (18 meters) tall
Distance from Bangalore: Bangalore is 365 km away.
Things to do in Abbi Falls, Mookana Mane: Walk in the woods, take pictures, watch nature, and go to Sirimane Falls nearby.
12. Sathodi Falls
Sathodi Falls is often called the "Mini Niagara of Karnataka." It is hidden deep in the Uttara Kannada district. This beautiful waterfall is made up of many small streams that come together to make a wide, frothy curtain of water that falls over rocky boulders. The waterfall is surrounded by thick forests.
The trip to Sathodi is just as beautiful as the place itself, with winding roads, thick forests, and birds singing in the valley. The air is cool and clean, and the view of water falling between trees and plants looks like something out of a painting. It's not just a place to see; it's an experience that makes you feel better and calmer.
Location: In Karnataka, near Yellapur in the Uttara Kannada district
Height: About 50 feet (15 meters)
Distance from Bangalore: 430 km
Things to do in Sathodi Falls: take pictures of nature, have a picnic, go for a scenic drive, or visit Magod Falls nearby.
13. Devaragundi
Devaragundi, also called “God’s Pool,” is a hidden waterfall spot that feels like a secret made for nature lovers. To reach it, you walk through a small arecanut farm, cross a couple of streams, climb gently uphill, and then you hear the water before you see it. When it finally comes into view, its clean stream falling into a natural pool is calming ;almost like the world paused for a moment. Be careful though: the water’s depth there is unknown, so enjoy safer spots.
Location: Near Thodikana, Chikmagalur district, Karnataka
Height: Moderate (not very tall, more about the pool and falls together)
Distance from Bangalore: 270-300 km (Chikmagalur area)
Things to do in Devaragundi: Trek through farms and forest, dip (carefully), photography, enjoy peace and quiet
14. Jhari Falls
Jhari Falls is another gem tucked in the misty hills of Chikmagalur, near Mullayanagiri/Baba Budan Giri. The water falls in a wide, thin white sheet over steep rocks; it’s graceful. One part of the journey is magical: a jeep ride followed by a small trek through cool forests, with smells of damp earth and coffee plants around. The view of water and mist together makes it feel like being in a dream.
Location: Chikmagalur district, Karnataka
Height: About 50-70 meters
Distance from Bangalore: 260-270 km
Things to do in Jhari Falls: Forest trek, ride by jeep, soak in the view, click pictures, maybe rest in nearby guesthouses surrounded by hills
15. Manikyadhara Falls
The Baba Budangiri hills near Chikmagalur hide Manikyadhara Falls, a peaceful and spiritual place. The water falls from high rocks that are surrounded by trees. It feels like a secret getaway, the kind of place you go when you want to be alone with the sound of water and birds. Many people come to bathe or pray because they think the water is holy and healing.
Location: Baba Budangiri Hills, Karnataka's Chikmagalur district
Height: Average (not very tall)
Distance from Bangalore: About 300 km away from Bangalore (in the Chikmagalur area)
Things to do in Baba Budangiri hills: Hike through the hills, take nature walks, take pictures, and visit temples nearby.
16. Mallalli Falls
Mallalli Falls is one of the big waterfalls near Bangalore. It is in Kodagu (Coorg). The water falls from a great height through thick forests, which makes the view dramatic and powerful. When it rains and the flow is strong, it sounds like nature is clapping. The way to get there is beautiful, with streams, rocks, and green hills along the way. The journey is just as exciting as the destination.
Location: In the Kodagu/Coorg area of Karnataka, near Kukke Subramanya
Height: About 300 feet (very tall)
Distance from Bangalore: about 260-280 km
Things to do in Mallalli falls: It includes trekking, taking pictures of nature, exploring forests, and enjoying views.
17. Sirimane Falls
Sirimane Falls is a calm place where time seems to stand still. This waterfall flows softly through green hills and areca plantations before falling into a clear pool below. It is hidden near the Sringeri Mutt in Chikmagalur. The way to get there is easy, with tall trees on either side and birds singing from above. There aren't many people there, so you can sit quietly, put your feet in the cool water, and just enjoy the peace.
Location: Kigga village, which is close to Sringeri in the Chikmagalur district of Karnataka, is where it is located.
Height: About 40 feet (12 meters) tall
Distance from Bangalore: About 320 km away from Bangalore
Things to do in Sirimane falls: Take pictures, relax by the pool, and go to Sringeri Sharada Peeth, which is close by.
18. Barkana Falls
Barkana Falls is one of the tallest waterfalls in India and one of the most beautiful near Bangalore. It is deep in the Agumbe Rainforest. The water falls from a height of about 850 feet into a thick green valley, making clouds of mist that sparkle in the sun. The view from the top is unforgettable: you can see layers of forest as far as the eye can see. To get to Barkana, you'll have to hike through thick jungle trails for a while. You'll probably hear the forest long before you get to the falls.
Location: Place: Agumbe, in the Shivamogga district of Karnataka
Height: About 850 feet (259 meters)
Distance from Bangalore: About 340 km from Bangalore
Things to do in Barkana falls: Go on a trek, take pictures, walk through the forest, and see the sunset from Agumbe's nearby points.
19.Kalhatti Falls
Kalhatti Falls is a beautiful place where nature and faith meet. It is near the peaceful Kemmangundi hills. The Veerabhadreshwara Temple, which is dedicated to Lord Shiva, is right below the waterfall. It feels almost magical to watch the stream flow over old rocks before it touches the temple's walls. It's like nature is praying. The area is calm, with rolling hills, birds singing, and a light mist that makes it feel cooler and fresher.
Location: Karnataka, Chikmagalur district, near Kemmangundi
Height: About 120 feet (36 meters)
Distance from Bangalore: About 270 km from Bangalore
Things to do in Kalhatti falls: go to the temple, take short hikes, and check out the Kemmangundi viewpoints nearby.
20. Gokak Falls
Gokak Falls will blow your mind if you've ever wanted to see a waterfall that looks like a smaller version of Niagara Falls. The Ghataprabha River's water rushes down from a height and spreads out as it falls over reddish-brown sandstone cliffs. It's hard to forget how the water thunders down while an old hanging bridge sways gently nearby. During the monsoon, the falls become a force of nature that attracts travelers and photographers from all over Karnataka.
Location: Karnataka's Belagavi district
Height: About 170 feet (52 meters)
Distance from Bangalore: About 530 km from Bangalore
Things to do in Gokak falls: Walk on the bridge that hangs, go to the nearby town of Gokak, and check out the Godachinmalki Falls.
Conclusion
A trip to the waterfalls near Bangalore is more than just a short getaway; it's a reminder of how beautiful and healing nature can be. Some waterfalls are hidden in quiet forests, while others roar through valleys. A few are tucked away behind small villages that still feel like they've never been touched by time.
It feels like time slows down when you stand in front of a waterfall and feel the cool mist on your face and hear the deep rumble of the water. It's that moment of calm that we often look for in the busy city. These are the best waterfalls near Bangalore for a one-day trip or a long weekend. They offer a mix of calm, adventure, and memories that will last a lifetime. You'll come back feeling lighter, calmer, and full of a new kind of energy that only nature can give you.
