List of Important Waterfalls in India: Highest, Biggest, Largest, Facts

Dear Aspirants,

In this blog post, we will introduce you to some of the most important waterfalls in India, along with key facts about each one. Waterfalls are an interesting topic in Indian Geography and Static GK, making them important for competitive exams.

India is home to many stunning and famous waterfalls. From the towering Kunchikal Falls in Karnataka to the beautiful Dudhsagar Falls in Goa, there are waterfalls in India that will capture everyone’s attention.

What is Waterfall?

A waterfall is a place in a river or stream where water flows over a steep drop or vertical cliff. Waterfalls can also form when meltwater flows off the edge of an iceberg or ice shelf.

Waterfalls are created through a process where water from a river flows over strong, hard rock. Over time, the water erodes the softer rock beneath, causing the water to fall from a higher point, creating the stunning waterfall drop. This natural process forms many of the world’s most beautiful waterfalls.

The impact of waterfalls on local plants, animals, and ecosystems has been widely studied. Waterfalls provide a unique habitat for various species and are important to the environment around them.

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What makes a waterfall important?

Waterfalls are important for several reasons, making them significant not just for their beauty but also for their environmental and economic value:

• Hydroelectric Power: Many waterfalls are harnessed to generate hydroelectric power, providing energy to surrounding areas.

• Ecosystem Support: Waterfalls play a vital role in ecosystems, offering habitats for a variety of plants and animals.

• Water Regulation: Waterfalls help regulate the flow of water in rivers and streams, which is crucial for maintaining balanced water systems.

How Erosion Forms Majestic Waterfalls

• Waterfalls are one of nature’s most mesmerizing creations. They form when a river or stream flows over a vertical drop or a series of steep drops. But have you ever wondered how these stunning natural wonders are created?

• The formation of a waterfall begins with the process of erosion. As water flows over different types of rock, the softer rock erodes faster than the harder rock. This creates a step in the riverbed that, over time, becomes a waterfall.

• The power of the falling water plays a key role in shaping the landscape. As the water crashes down, it erodes the riverbed below, forming a plunge pool. The force of the water also undercuts the rock at the waterfall’s base, causing it to overhang. Eventually, the overhanging rock becomes too heavy and collapses into the plunge pool.

• This cycle of erosion and collapse continues over thousands of years, causing the waterfall to move upstream. The water continues to erode the riverbed, deepening the plunge pool and further shaping the landscape.

• Over time, this process can create a gorge—a deep, narrow valley with steep sides, often home to waterfalls, caves, and pools.

• So, the next time you’re admiring a waterfall, remember that it’s not just a beautiful sight—it’s a testament to the power of erosion and nature’s perseverance, a story millions of years in the making.

Classification of Waterfalls

Waterfalls are fascinating natural wonders, and they come in many different shapes and sizes. Scientists have created several ways to classify waterfalls based on their appearance and the amount of water they carry. Here are some of the main types of waterfalls you can find around the world:

Ledge Waterfall

• In this type of waterfall, water flows over a vertical cliff, maintaining some contact with the bedrock below. The flow looks graceful and smooth.

Cataracts

• These are large, powerful waterfalls that display nature’s strength and grandeur. They are often wider and more forceful than other types.

Horsetail Waterfall

• Water cascades down and maintains partial contact with the bedrock. This type of waterfall creates a mesmerizing view as it flows down the rocks.

Plunge Waterfall

• This type of waterfall involves water falling vertically with great speed, losing contact with the bedrock during the drop.

Block Waterfall

• Water flows over a wide stream or river, creating a substantial flow and descending evenly over the rocks.

Multi-step Waterfall

• A series of waterfalls appears one after another, each of similar size. These waterfalls often form sunken plunge pools beneath each drop.

Segmented Waterfall

• In segmented waterfalls, the water flows in distinct sections, creating a visually captivating display as it cascades down.

Cascade Waterfall

• This type of waterfall involves water gently flowing over a series of rock steps, creating a beautiful and picturesque scene.

Punchbowl Waterfall

• Water descends in a narrow form before spreading out into a wider pool. The graceful descent makes this type of waterfall unique.

Tiered Waterfall

• Like a natural staircase, tiered waterfalls drop in a series of distinct steps or falls, creating a stunning view of water cascading down.

Fan Waterfall

• Water spreads out horizontally as it falls, yet stays in contact with the bedrock. The shape of the waterfall resembles a fan.

Moulin Waterfall

• This rare phenomenon occurs within glaciers. Water plunges through vertical shafts in the ice, carving its way through the frozen landscape.

List of Important Waterfalls in India by Height

Famous Waterfalls in India Brief Description

India is home to some of the most stunning waterfalls in the world. Whether you’re a nature lover, adventure seeker, or simply looking for a peaceful getaway, these waterfalls will leave you spellbound. Here’s a list of the top 10 waterfalls in India that you must visit!

Kunchikal Falls – The Tallest Waterfall in India

Located in Shimoga district of Karnataka, Kunchikal Falls stands tall as India’s highest waterfall, with a height of 455 meters. Formed by the Varahi River, this majestic waterfall flows over steep boulders, creating a mesmerizing sight. The scenic beauty and refreshing mist make it a popular tourist destination.

• Location: Nidagodu Village, Karnataka
• Height: 455 meters
• Best Time to Visit: October to March

Athirappilly Waterfalls – The Niagara of India

Known as the “Niagara of India,” Athirappilly Falls is the tallest waterfall in Kerala, standing at 80 meters. This picturesque waterfall, formed by the Chalakudy River, is surrounded by lush greenery, making it perfect for picnics and nature walks.

• Location: Thrissur District, Kerala
• Height: 80 meters
• Best Time to Visit: June to September

Jog Falls – Second Tallest Waterfall in India

Jog Falls in Karnataka is India’s second-highest plunge waterfall, with a height of 253 meters. The waterfall is split into four parts: Raja, Rani, Roarer, and Rocket, each offering a unique view. Jog Falls is known for its stunning beauty and powerful flow during the monsoon.

• Location: Shivamogga District, Karnataka
• Height: 253 meters
• Best Time to Visit: June to September

Dhuandhar Falls – The Misty Waterfall

Located on the Narmada River in Jabalpur (Madhya Pradesh), Dhuandhar Falls stands at a height of 335 meters. The waterfall is famous for its mist, which rises high above the falls, giving it a smoky appearance. It is also known for activities like whitewater rafting and rock climbing.

• Location: Jabalpur District, Madhya Pradesh
• Height: 335 meters
• Best Time to Visit: November to March

Rajrappa Falls – A Sacred Waterfall

In Jharkhand, Rajrappa Falls is a religious and scenic site, located near the Rajrappa Temple, dedicated to the Hindu goddess Kali. The falls have a height of 30 meters and are formed by the Bhera River.

• Location: Hazaribagh District, Jharkhand
• Height: 30 meters
• Best Time to Visit: October to March

Hundru Falls – A Hidden Gem in Jharkhand

Hundru Falls, located in Ranchi (Jharkhand), is 320 meters high and is formed by the Hundru River. The waterfall offers opportunities for swimming, picnicking, and rock climbing. The area is home to various wildlife species.

• Location: Ranchi District, Jharkhand
• Height: 320 meters
• Best Time to Visit: July to December

Hogenakkal Falls – The “Niagara of India” in Tamil Nadu

On the Kaveri River in Tamil Nadu, Hogenakkal Falls stands at 120 meters. Known for its stunning white-water mist, the falls are a famous destination for whitewater rafting and rock climbing.

• Location: Dharmapuri District, Tamil Nadu
• Height: 120 meters
• Best Time to Visit: July to December

Kempty Falls – The Gem of Uttarakhand

In Uttarakhand, Kempty Falls is a must-visit for anyone exploring the Tehri Garhwal district. The falls are 130 meters high and are a popular spot for swimming, picnicking, and rock climbing.

• Location: Tehri Garhwal District, Uttarakhand
• Height: 130 meters
• Best Time to Visit: March to June

Chitrakoot Falls – The “Niagara of Chhattisgarh”

Chitrakoot Falls in Bastar district (Chhattisgarh) is 29 meters high and is formed by the Indravati River. Known for its natural beauty, it’s a perfect spot for adventure activities like rock climbing and swimming.

• Location: Bastar District, Chhattisgarh
• Height: 29 meters
• Best Time to Visit: October to March

Teerathgarh Falls – The Tallest in Chhattisgarh

Teerathgarh Falls, located in Kanger Valley National Park, is the tallest waterfall in Chhattisgarh, standing at 91 meters. The waterfall is a great place for swimming and picnicking, surrounded by beautiful wildlife and lush forests.

• Location: Kanger Valley National Park, Chhattisgarh
• Height: 91 meters
• Best Time to Visit: October to March

Why Visit These Waterfalls?

• Stunning Views: From towering drops to misty sprays, the views are spectacular.
• Adventure: Many waterfalls offer activities like rock climbing, swimming, and rafting.
• Wildlife: These areas are rich in wildlife, making them perfect for nature lovers.
• Peaceful Escapes: Escape the noise of the city and enjoy the peace and serenity these waterfalls provide.

Best Time to Visit Waterfalls in India

The ideal time to visit waterfalls in India is usually during the monsoon season (June to September) when they are at their full flow. However, if you prefer to avoid the rains, you can visit them during the winter months (October to March).

Highest Waterfalls in India

The highest waterfall in India is Kunchikal Falls, located in the Shimoga district of Karnataka. This majestic waterfall is not only the tallest in India but also a beautiful natural spectacle.

Key details about the Kunchikal Waterfalls

• Location: Kunchikal Falls is in Nidagodu village near Masthikatte, in the Shimoga district of Karnataka, India.

• Height: The falls are 455 meters (1,493 feet) high, making them one of the tallest in India.

• Source: The falls are formed by the Varahi River.

• Reduced Flow: Due to the construction of the Mani Dam and an underground power station near Hulikal, the water flow to the falls has decreased.

• Best Time to Visit: The falls are best seen during the rainy season (July to September).

• Restricted Area: The area is restricted, and a gate pass is needed to visit.

• Nearest Airport: The closest airport is in Mangalore, 138 km (86 miles) away.

Key Facts About Waterfalls in India

• Waterfalls in Karnataka: Karnataka has the highest number of waterfalls in India, with 544 waterfalls measuring at least 10 meters in height.

• Tallest Waterfall: Kunchikal Falls, located in Shimoga District, Karnataka, is the tallest waterfall in India, standing at 1,493 feet (455 meters). It is formed by the Varahi River.

• City of Waterfalls: Ranchi, the capital of Jharkhand, is known as the “city of waterfalls” due to its numerous falls.

• Dudhsagar Falls: This famous waterfall, also called the “Sea of Milk,” is formed by the Mandovi River in Goa.

• Nohkalikai Falls: Located near Cherrapunji, it is the tallest plunge waterfall in India, with a height of 1,115 feet (340 meters). Cherrapunji is one of the wettest places on Earth.

• Cherrapunji of South India: The Western Ghats are often referred to as the “Cherrapunji of South India” due to their high rainfall and lush landscapes.

• Mawsmai Falls: Also known as the Seven Sisters Waterfalls or Nohsngithiang Falls, this stunning seven-segmented waterfall is in the East Khasi Hills district of Meghalaya, located one kilometre south of Mawsmai village.

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