The Best Known Waterfalls in India

India’s vast and diverse terrain, combined with its abundant water resources, have given rise to some of the most impressive waterfalls in the world. India is home to hundreds of waterfalls, with the states of Karnataka, Maharashtra, Kerala, and Tamilnadu hosting the majority of them. So, what are India’s best waterfalls?

We’re exploring some of the best and largest waterfalls in India, starting with what might be the highest of all Indian waterfalls.

Nestled in the Satara district of western Maharashtra, the Bhambavli Vajrai Waterfall is believed to be the highest waterfall in India. This majestic cascade thunders down three tiers and drops a staggering total of 1,840 feet.

Hogenakkal Falls, often compared to Niagara Falls due to its width and power, is numbered amongst the biggest waterfalls in India. Straddling the border of Karnataka and Tamil Nadu, it’s set amid South Asia’s oldest carbonatite rocks. There, the Kaveri River plunges off a craggy cliff in fourteen distinct spouts, ranging from 15 to 66 feet in height, creating a captivating array of falls.

A segmented marvel nestled within the Chalakudy River, Athirappilly is the biggest waterfall in Kerala and ranks amongst the largest Indian waterfalls. Spanning nearly 330 feet wide and dropping around 80 feet, the waterfall’s might is amplified by the region’s wet tropical climate. The stunning falls have also served as a backdrop for various Malayalam and regional films.

Dudhsagar Falls, meaning “sea of milk,” straddles the Goa-Karnataka border in western India. Towering at approximately 1,017 feet and 100 feet wide, the cascade spills over mossy rocks in multiple streams, fueled by monsoon rains.

Located in Cherrapunji in the eastern state of Meghalaya, Nohkalikai Falls is often cited as the highest waterfall in India. It’s in fact the country’s tallest plunge waterfall, plummeting 1,110 feet in one fell swoop. This rain-fed spectacle is at its most mesmerising during the monsoon season.

One of India’s best waterfalls is found amidst the dense forests and towering mountains of the Western Ghats in Karnataka. Jog Falls is formed by the Sharavati River as it plunges 830 feet, approximately 18 miles before it reaches its mouth. The water cascades at a rate of 5,400 cubic feet per second, dividing into four streams known as the Horseshoe, the Roarer, the Rocket, and the Queen.

Tucked within Sri Venkateswara National Park in Chittoor, Andhra Pradesh, Talakona Falls cascades 270 feet down mossy green rocks amidst lush forest.

Regarded as the widest waterfall in India, Chitrakot Falls in Chhattisgarh spans an incredible 980 feet at its fullest. The majestic cascade attracts visitors and pilgrims alike, and is steeped in natural beauty.

The waterfalls of India rank among the most colossal and powerful in the world. And indeed, even those that don’t count amongst the largest Indian waterfalls, are incredible natural sights.