Chikmagalur is an all-season hill station in Karnataka. Boasting of many exotic attractions of the Western Ghats, this place will leave you awestruck and the waterfalls in Chikmagalur are one are something that will make your trip to Chikmagalur an unforgettable experience.
They are present amidst rainforests, rolling hills, Shola grassland, tea, and coffee plantations. Chikmagalur is a tourist-friendly place and a weeklong tour is necessary to explore the entirety of it. The best time to see with the full flow of water is from in-between July to December.
The waterfalls present in Chikmagalur are the best to visit by families, corporate teams, friends and a group of people seeking adventures too.
12 Best Waterfalls You Need To Visit While In Chikmagalur
If you are wondering about which are the best waterfalls in Chikmagalur then don’t wonder anymore. We have sorted it out for you. All of these waterfalls only have refreshing aura for you to embrace. Here is a list of some of the best Chikmagalur waterfalls that you should explore!
- Shanti Falls
- Alekan Falls
- Kallathigiri Falls
- Elaneeru Falls
- Jerry Falls
- Ukkada Falls
- Sirimane Falls
- Honnamana Halla Waterfalls
- Kalhatti Falls
- Hebbe Falls
- Jhari Falls
- Manikyadhara Falls
1. Kalhatti Falls
This is one of the beautiful waterfalls in Chikmagalur. Even though it is a small waterfall, it makes for a great view amid rocky boulders, mountain rock caves, and lush green vegetation. There is a Hindu temple adjacent to the waterfall. Yet, the water flow during the peak season will make this temple invisible.
You can visit this temple, which is inside a cave. The temple houses stone carvings of Lord Shiva and Vishnu in one place inside this temple. One can reach the top of this waterfall by a 30-minutes hike on the rocky mountain terrain.
Entry Fee: Nil
Timing: 06:00 AM to 06:00 PM
2. Hebbe Falls
This is an imposing waterfall in Chikmagalur, which drops from a 551-ft height amidst the coffee plantation in Chikmagalur. Hiking inside the coffee estate will give you the amazing views of the upper waterfall and the lower waterfall.
This two-tiered waterfall is accessible from its base to the top. Yet, you have to hike in this coffee state to view from the top of this waterfall. It is the best place to take photos in lush green surroundings and the heights of the Western Ghats.
Entry Fee: The Hebbe Falls in Chikmagalur is inside the private coffee estate. You need to pay a fee to reach the waterfall by SUV or own vehicle. The entry fees vary with season.
Timing: 06:00 Am to 06:00 PM
3. Jhari Falls
The other name of this hydro location is Buttermilk Falls. You can visit these Chikmagalur waterfalls to see why it is called so. This is a 328-ft high waterfall, which just spread its width from the narrow top from giant granite rock. One has to travel inside a private coffee estate to see Jhari waterfalls in Chikmagalur.
A day trip is necessary to see this aquatic attraction. The road to this waterfall is of rigid terrain. Hiking in the forest is the best way to reach its base. There are private jeeps to take you to this waterfall. The tourists can take a dip and swim in its large pool of water in its cascade. It is advisable to reach here in the morning to see the glittering rainbow color on the water droplets of this waterfall as the sun rays directly hit them.
Entry Fee: It will cost INR 100 per person.
Timing: 06:00 AM to 06:00 PM
4. Manikyadhara Falls
These are small or 32-ft beautiful waterfalls in Chikmagalur, and are definitely worth visiting. Locally it is called the Nellikai Theertham due to Hindu religious and mythic beliefs. It is believed that taking a bath under this waterfall will clear many skin diseases.
It has an ample amount of mineral content, as this waterfall is present in Bababudangiri hills, which are untouched by humans. This small waterfall forms a cascade and streams of flow so that you can take a dip and swim in its course towards the downstream.
Entry Fee: Nil
Timing: 06:00 AM to 06:00 PM
5. Shanti Falls
Shanti Waterfalls in Chikmagalur is a 1492-ft high waterfall, which engulfs from the Western Ghats rain forests. Taking a dip in its cascade can make a person energetic is the local belief. Yet, many of the city dwellers come here and swim in its cascade to get relief from stress.
This is the best place to spend a day as a picnic once in Chikmagalur. The visitors can hike from the main road inside the dense forest to reach the base of this waterfall. It is the best waterfall to visit by honeymoon couples, family, and a group of people seeking adventure.
Entry Fee: Nil
Timing: 06:00 AM to 06:00 PM
6. Alekan Falls
Disclaimer: The image is for representation purposes only.
Sitting in Chikmagalur, Alekan Falls is a hidden gem that appeals to many. One can witness these gushing white waterfalls when one is on their way to Charmadi by road. Surrounded by lush greenery and refreshing aura, these waterfalls are every nature lover’s dreams. Falling down from around 90 ft high above the ground, Alekan Falls is a delight for heart and soul.
Make sure you visit the falls early in the morning. The beautiful vistas under the perfectly bright sunlight is something that is worth capturing in your minds. The pool under the falls gives one a chance to soak their feet, sit by the rock, and just enjoy the melodious sounds of nature.
Entry Fee: Nil
Timing: 06:00 AM to 06:00 PM
7. Kallathigiri Falls
Disclaimer: The image is for representation purposes only.
Kallathigiri Falls are the waterfalls that offer something for both nature lovers and thrill-seekers. These waterfalls in Chikmagalur are perfect to visit for those who wish to engage in some hiking and trekking. The trekking trails that pass along the jungles, with the waterfall gushing on one side is nothing less than magical.
The panoramic landscapes are truly unforgettable. These falls also have a Hindu mythological significance latched to itself. It is believed that in the early days, Agasthya, a great sage, chose this exact spot for his contemplation. These falls attract various travelers because it is believed that the waters have powers to treat various ailments.
Entry Fee: Nil
Timing: 06:00 AM to 06:00 PM
8. Elaneeru Falls
Disclaimer: The image is for representation purposes only.
The Elaneeru Falls are beautifully located around 12 kilometers from the Kalasa town of Chikmagalur district. There is a deviation at Samse when one is driving on the Kalasa-Kudremukh road. This deviation leads one to the beautiful little Elaneeru Village. Translating to tender coconut in English, these waterfalls are white and frothy, and a treat for the eyes.
The laid-back atmosphere and the beautifully gushing falls are enough to make one feel refreshed and de-stressed on their vacation. The pools with chilly waters are idyllic to take a dip and get rid of all the fatigue. The surrounding lush grasslands are perfect to enjoy a little picnic with family and friends.
Entry Fee: Nil
Timing: 06:00 AM to 06:00 PM
9. Jerry Falls
Disclaimer: The image is for representation purposes only.
If you are one of those who wish to get off the beaten track and visit an unexplored and uncommercialized spot, Jerry Falls is perfect. This secret spot of Chikamagalur is magical to lose oneself in the wonders that mother nature blesses us all with. In order to reach these waterfalls, one might need to trek for around 2 kilometers. This trek is worth every step you take towards the falls.
There are two trails that lead you to the Jerry Falls. While the more adventurous and thrill-seeking enthusiasts can opt for a trail that is a little steep and slippery, families with kids can take the milder path that might be a little longer but it is safer. The monsoons make these falls a sight to behold.
Entry Fee: Nil
Timing: 06:00 AM to 06:00 PM
10. Ukkada Falls
Disclaimer: The image is for representation purposes only.
Chikmagalur is truly a treasure trove for nature lovers. Another one of the hidden gems of this destination is the Ukkada Falls. The unexplored and untouched beauty of this gem is absolutely stunning. The tranquility and serenity that exudes here leaves one in awe. Ukkada Falls is heaven on earth for both nature lovers and thrill seekers.
The journey to these falls is a little tricky and thrilling at the same time. Since it is not a popular destination, there are no clear signs that form a trail leading to the falls. While at some point the trails are steep, the other points call for crawling along a snaky path to reach the falls. These are nestled amidst the fragrant coffee plantations and are definitely worth every step taken.
Entry Fee: Nil
Timing: 06:00 AM to 06:00 PM
11. Sirimane Falls
Disclaimer: The image is for representation purposes only.
Waterfalls are one of the most magical wonders of the world. Sirimane Falls only justify this statement further. These breathtakingly beautiful waterfalls in Chikmagalur are a major part of the Wester Ghats that are dotted with lush green and dense jungles. These falls splash on rugged rocks, making cascades on the edges before falling down in the pool.
If the water is not gushing down ferociously, one can simply enjoy a freshwater bath, sit by the waters, or capture some pictures for their Instagram. The aesthetically pleasing landscapes are perfect to spend some time with mother nature. For those who wish to enjoy a rejuvenating holiday, this is the spot to not miss out on!
Entry Fee: Nil
Timing: 06:00 AM to 06:00 PM
12. Honnamana Halla Waterfalls
Disclaimer: The image is for representation purposes only.
Honnamana Halla Waterfalls are surrounded by lush greens in every nook and corner. These falls are one of the less visited destinations in Chikmagalur and thus idyllic for those who wish to avoid the common routes. These falls have been gushing ever since these were found. Away from all the commercialization, it is truly a tranquil escape.
The intriguing fact about this destination is that it has never really dried up since inception. The glistening waters of the gushing waterfalls, shining under the bright sunlight, hitting against the rugged crevices, and making melodious sounds is a feast for the souls. There are also various other popular attractions that surround this spot including Raj Bhawan, Shiva Temple, Z Point, and more.
Entry Fee:: Nil
Timing: 06:00 AM to 06:00 PM
These are some of the best waterfalls in Chikmagalur that you should explore to have a memorable experience! Check these out on your Chikmagalur trip for an incredible experience. If you are a nature lover and like being close to nature then these will be the perfect escape for you. The views they offer are a sight to behold and something that you will remember forever!
