Chikmagalur is secluded in the grandeur of Western Ghats of Karnataka, a serene haven where coffee plantations wind across lush forests, hazy mountains and melodies of roaring waterfall. Still commonly referred to as the coffee land of Karnataka, this hill station is not all about sweet smelling cups and the stunning treks, and the fact that this is where some of the most stunning waterfalls in the South exist.
Are you an experienced hiker on the hunt of off-the-beaten-path trails, a photographer in search of the beatific misty picture, or a traveler who will only relax in the company of flowing water, you will find a way to enjoy Chikmagalur waterfalls. Widely known cascades such as Hebbe Falls, Jhari Falls to lesser known but no lesser cascades such as Shankar Falls, every cascade has a story.
In case you are on a monsoon vacation or you have gone out there to enjoy nature after rain, this guide can take you through the must visit waterfalls in Chikmagalur, best time to visit, reach them, and how to make it the best endeavor.
Read: Top Tourist Places to Visit in Chikmagalur: Coffee, Hills & Hidden Gems
Best Time to Explore Waterfalls in Chikmagalur
The best season to have the adventure of waterfalls in Chikmagalur is in the monsoon months (June to September) and after monsoon months (October to November). At this time the falls are at their full stream, with all nature about them in a state of fresh growth. Monsoons on the other hand are intensive although the month(s) after the Monsoons are safer in terms of trekking and also the view is clearer.
Must-Visit Waterfalls in Chikmagalur
1. Hebbe Falls
Hebbe Falls is one of the most talked about waterfalls in Chikmagalur which is within the Bhadra Tiger Reserve just off Kemmanagundi. This is a two-tiered waterfall (551-foot height) that is divided into Dodda Hebbe (Big Falls) and Chikka Hebbe (Small Falls) which provides mesmerizing experience.
Visitors to Hebbe Falls must go by hiring a forest jeep to reach that place by meandering around through thick forests and rough terrains then by a short walk to reach the site. It is an adventurous trip and full of beautiful views which makes it a memorable trip as it gets to the destination.
Note: There are medicinal plants in the water which are believed to have curative power.
2. Jhari Falls (Buttermilk Falls)
Probably because of its white watery light, this falls is also called the Buttermilk Falls. Jhari Falls is a favorite tourist destination as it is easily accessible and yet so very beautiful. The falls run down steep rock structures in the midst of coffee estates, thus they appear as milk being poured down by the skies.
Jhari Falls, which are located about 23 km off Chikmagalur, can be reached by means of jeep rides between plantations. It is good to take photos, to relax and have a natural shower.
Note: The best time to visit is early a.m. or in the weekdays to find the museum less crowded.
3. Kalhatti Falls
Kalhatti falls (or Kalahasti falls) falls under the category of spiritual interest with a strange twist of a natural beauty as it comes close to the Veerabhadreshwara Temple. The entrance of the temple is decorated by water falling down at 120 feet height and offering divine ambiance.
Not only do pilgrims and nature lovers crowd this place to have a taste of the beauty but also to honour. Its surroundings are good for trekking and bird watching.
Note: It is recommendable to visit the waterfall after monsoon as it would be safer to visit.
4. Manikyadhara Falls
The Manikyadhara Falls is a religious waterfall to Hindus and Muslims because it is found in Baba Budangiri hills. The name literally means the string of pearls which is ideal in defining crystal-clear drops that flow down rocks.
This fall is located in misty mountains and green valleys, it does not become dry even in summer. It has local stalls and changing areas, thus it is a friendly place to stop with families.
Note: Here, it is believed that bathing washes away sins and illnesses.
5. Shankar Falls
Shankar Falls is Indian states best-kept industrial secret and it is hidden deep in the forests. The distant nature means few people; therefore, it is the perfect choice for people who want to spend time in solitude and pristine nature.
The hike to get to this cascade is quite challenging and involves a tour guide but it is well worth it as the watercourse is a peaceful, untouched sight accompanied by only the wilderness that constitutes everything around it.
Adventure Alert: Suitable to the trekkers, and maverick explorers.
6. Honnammana Halla Falls
Honnammana Halla Falls is a small but very beautiful waterfall cuddled in the foothills of hills, right by the roadside, near Kemmanagundi. The fall cascades across rocks and shapes little pools that one can dip their feet in and watch the scenery.
It is so readily accessible that it forms an amazing pit stop during a visit to other sites in the area. In monsoon it becomes a playful stream where a new fresh cool water comes.
Travel Tip: Use a wide- angle lens as you can take the full breadth in it.
7. Kadambi Falls
The waterfall Kadambi Falls Kudremukh National Park is one of the most beautiful and pure untouched nature with a rich variety of different plants and animals. Water falls approximately 30 feet into a rock basin which provides a calm environment.
Being located on a preserved land, the environment is clean with lots of flora and fauna stock and ideal in eco-touring. and you may find some rare birds on the way.
Travel Tip: Entrance into the Kudremukh Park might need permissions; prior confirmation needed.
8. Sirimane Falls
Though not strictly speaking in Chikmagalur, Sirimane Falls is near enough (near Sringeri) to be worth a visit. The simple but beautiful trek to the falls would give you the eco-adventure feeling, as you climb down stone steps covered with bamboo trees which then lead you to the flowing stream.
At the bottom of the waterfall there is a small natural pool where one can not fear to play around, splash. It is ideal to spend a half-day trip there as there is bare minimum in the way of amenities nearby.
Travel Tip: Visit this place along with the renowned Sringeri Sharada Peetham.
Also read: Top Homestays in Chikmagalur with Waterfalls
Tips for Visiting Waterfalls in Chikmagalur
Any visit to waterfalls in Chikmagalur adds to your lifetime experience, yet to enjoy your tour and stay safe, such valuable tips and practical advice are given below:
1. Safety First- Be Careful near Waterfalls
- Be careful not to reach the edge of cliffs or gushing rivers, particularly under monsoons.
- It is dangerous to even think of swimming in the unknown, deep pools and even deep pools when the water is flowing.
- Avoid slippery rocks, mossy stones and bumpy paths.
- Obey all warning notices, protection, and area instructions.
2. Use the Proper Clothing and Shoes
- Wear solid trekking shoes or anti-slippery sandals, which are needed on wet and rocky paths.
- The cotton choices should be light or dry quickly; the heavy apparel that becomes wet is not advisable.
- Also, carry an extra pair of clothes just in case you decide to have a dip or get drenched.
3. Transportation Adventure Gear
- Waterproof phone, camera and electronic device cases or dry bags.
- Remote battery charger that places power banks in remote areas that lack charging capabilities.
- Replenishable containers to drink water- Do not dispose of plastics.
- Snacks or energy bars, more so in the long treks.
4. Camera and Photography Hints
- A wide-angle camera is to be used to show the whole massiveness of the falls.
- Take a microfiber cloth to clean the lenses during hazy days.
- It can use a tripod to record long exposure of running water.
- Apply rain sleeves on DSLR or action cameras.
5. Hire Jeeps for Remote Waterfalls
- Other waterfalls include Hebbe Falls and Jhari Falls that are found in the forest areas and need rides on jeeps into coffee plantations or reserves.
- Take advantage of services provided by local jeeps at specified locations; the costs might differ according to distance and the amount of passengers.
- Do not engage in self-driving to areas that are not easily reachable.
6. Be Environment-Friendly
- Leave no trace- bring all non-biodegradable packages and bottles up.
- Show respect to flora and fauna in the area: do not harvest plant species, disrupt animals etc.
- Keep to the paths to avoid soil erosion by reducing biodiversity.
7. Learn the Best Time and Weather Conditions
- Go in the months of monsoon or after monsoon (June to November) so as to get the best views.
- Never trek without having checked the weather forecasts first- heading out trekking on a path which will later be washed out by downpour.
- In rainy months, bring a poncho or a pullover light rain jacket.
8. Look at Local Guides of Offbeat Trails
- Deep forest paths or water falls such as Shankar Falls might even need local mountain guides.
- Guides are also useful to offer safety and navigation and insightful local knowledge.
- Local hiring also goes to aid the local community and embraces sustainable tourism.
Suggested Itinerary for a Waterfall Trail
1-Day Plan: Popular & Accessible
- Morning: (Buttermilk Falls) at Jhari Falls.
- Afternoon:The Kalhatti Falls and Temple
- Evening: Honnammana Halla Falls (on the way towards Kemmanagundi)
It is great with family tourists or visitors who go on a short trip.
2-Day Plan: Deep Dive into Nature
Day 1
- Hebbe Falls (Jeep safari must start early)
- Manikyadhara Falls (Baba Budangiri Spiritual stop)
Day 2:
- Shankar Falls (Early morning Trek)
- Kadambi Falls (Visit inside Kudremukh Park)
- Optional: If going to Sringeri Falls, you can go to Sirimane Falls via drive
It is ideal when you are an explorer and love photography.
Here is the full Ultimate 2-Day Chikmagalur Itinerary for Nature and Coffee Lovers
Final Thoughts
The waterfalls in Chikmagalur are experiences in stone and time etched out by nature itself unto which it wants to take its visitors. Every fall be it loud or soft, it promises to show the untouched beauty of the Western Ghats. Whether it is the spiritual tranquillity of Manikyadhara Falls, adventurous hike to Shankar Falls, or the postcard scenic fall of Jhari Falls, these water bodies are sure to find a distillation of reprieve to erupt chaos.
Chikmagalur needs to be experienced slowly, letting the terrain be your guide-run to catch the fog, follow the roar of tumbling water, drink down freshly brewed coffee on a pier, and inhale the damp, solid smell of rain-washed earth.
You may have been there once or you can have been there five times, but waterfalls of Chikmagalur will always have something new to share with you and somewhere to come back.
