Waterfalls in India: India boasts a rich collection of breathtaking waterfalls that highlight the country’s diverse geography and natural charm. From the towering Himalayan waterfalls in the north to the scenic cascades of the Western Ghats in the south, each waterfall offers a unique and memorable experience.
These natural wonders attract nature lovers, photographers, and travelers from across the world. This article provides detailed list of waterfalls in India, along with important information about their height, location, and key features.
Waterfalls in India
A waterfall is created when river water flows rapidly from a higher elevation to a lower level, usually over steep and rocky terrain. In India, waterfalls are commonly found in the upper courses of rivers, where mountains, plateaus, and uneven landscapes shape their flow.
Many waterfalls emerge from small streams or tributaries and flow over hard bedrock, which makes them seasonal in nature. These waterfalls are at their most impressive during the monsoon season, when heavy rainfall increases water volume.
List of Waterfalls in India
India is famous for its magnificent waterfalls, each known for its natural beauty, height, and scenic surroundings. Spread across different states, these waterfalls reflect the country’s diverse landscape, from dense forests and hills to plateaus and valleys. Below is a well-organized list of major waterfalls in India, highlighting their locations and heights for general awareness.
| Waterfall Name | Location | Height (Metres/Feet) |
|---|---|---|
| Kunchikal Falls | Shimoga district, Karnataka | 455 metres (1,493 ft) |
| Barehipani Falls | Mayurbhanj district, Odisha | 399 metres (1,309 ft) |
| Nohkalikai Falls | East Khasi Hills district, Meghalaya | 340 metres (1,115 ft) |
| Nohsngithiang Falls (Mawsmai Falls) | East Khasi Hills district, Meghalaya | 315 metres (1,033 ft) |
| Dudhsagar Falls | Karnataka and Goa | 310 metres (1,017 ft) |
| Kynrem Falls | East Khasi Hills district, Meghalaya | 305 metres (1,001 ft) |
| Meenmutty Falls | Wayanad district, Kerala | 300 metres (984 ft) |
| Thalaiyar Falls | Dindigul district, Tamil Nadu | 297 metres (974 ft) |
| Barkana Falls | Shimoga district, Karnataka | 259 metres (850 ft) |
| Jog Falls | Shimoga district, Karnataka | 253 metres (830 ft) |
Top 10 Highest Waterfalls in India
India’s varied geography, ranging from high mountains to dense forests, gives rise to some of the tallest and most spectacular waterfalls in the world. These waterfalls are not only natural attractions but also play an important role in supporting tourism and local livelihoods. Below is a list of the Top 10 Highest Waterfalls in India, along with their locations and key highlights.
1. Kunchikal Falls
Kunchikal Falls is the highest waterfall in India, with a total height of about 1,493 feet. It is located near Agumbe in the Shimoga district of Karnataka, a region known for heavy rainfall. The waterfall flows through the Western Ghats and is surrounded by rich biodiversity and dense forests.
2. Barehipani Falls
Located inside Simlipal National Park in Odisha’s Mayurbhanj district, Barehipani Falls is the second-highest waterfall in India. It has two major drops and reaches a height of around 1,309 feet. The waterfall is best viewed during the monsoon season when the forest comes alive.
3. Nohkalikai Falls
Nohkalikai Falls, situated near Cherrapunji in Meghalaya, is India’s highest plunge waterfall, dropping from nearly 1,120 feet. Surrounded by steep cliffs and green valleys, it is one of the most photographed waterfalls in the country.
4. Nohsngithiang Falls (Seven Sisters Falls)
Also located in the East Khasi Hills of Meghalaya, Nohsngithiang Falls falls from a height of about 1,033 feet. The waterfall splits into seven distinct streams during the monsoon, which is why it is called the Seven Sisters Falls.
5. Dudhsagar Falls
Dudhsagar Falls, meaning “Sea of Milk,” lies on the Goa–Karnataka border. With a height of around 1,020 feet, it is one of the most famous waterfalls in India. The white water rushing down the rocky cliffs creates a dramatic and memorable sight.
6. Kynrem Falls
Kynrem Falls is a stunning three-tier waterfall located in Cherrapunji, Meghalaya. It drops from a height of nearly 1,000 feet and is surrounded by lush greenery, making it one of the most scenic waterfalls in Northeast India.
7. Meenmutty Falls
Situated in Wayanad district of Kerala, Meenmutty Falls is the tallest waterfall in the state, with a height of about 984 feet. The waterfall flows in three stages and is especially powerful during the monsoon season.
8. Thalaiyar Falls (Rat Tail Falls)
Thalaiyar Falls, also known as Rat Tail Falls, is located in the Dindigul district of Tamil Nadu. With a height of around 974 feet, it is one of the tallest waterfalls in India. Due to its remote location, the waterfall remains largely untouched.
9. Barkana Falls
Barkana Falls is found in the Shimoga district of Karnataka and has a height of about 850 feet. Formed by the Seetha River, the waterfall is located near Agumbe and is closely linked to hydroelectric projects in the region.
10. Jog Falls
Jog Falls, created by the Sharavathi River in Karnataka, drops from a height of approximately 829 feet. It is one of India’s most popular plunge waterfalls and attracts thousands of tourists every year, especially during the rainy season.
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Waterfalls in India FAQs
Q.1. Which is the highest waterfall in India?
Ans. Kunchikal Falls in Karnataka is the highest waterfall in India, standing at 1,493 feet.
Q.2. Where is Dudhsagar Falls located?
Ans. Dudhsagar Falls is located on the Goa–Karnataka border and is famous for its milky-white cascading waters.
Q.3. What is the tallest waterfall in Kerala?
Ans. Meenmutty Falls in Wayanad district, Kerala, is the tallest waterfall in the state at 984 feet.
Q.4. Why are many Indian waterfalls seasonal?
Ans. Many waterfalls emerge from small streams and flow over hard bedrock, making them most prominent during the monsoon season.
Q.5. Which waterfall is called the Seven Sisters Falls?
Ans. Nohsngithiang Falls in Meghalaya is known as the Seven Sisters Falls because it splits into seven streams during the monsoon.
