Secret Waterfalls of India Hidden Cascades Worth the Trek
India is home to grand sceneries. Be it snow-topped mountains or lush green valleys or pristine beaches, India has all of it. Yet, nothing compares to the experience of viewing the country’s beauty in the form of undiscovered hidden waterfalls. Hidden behind a veil of verdant woods, far from congested tourist trails, these secret cascades wait to be discovered by people who have an adventurous streak and appreciate the great outdoors.
Let’s plunge into the magic of these enthralling waterfalls, each a testimony to the hidden treasures India has in store for its visitors. With serene pools and thunderous falls, the offbeat spots offer some breathtaking views with a deep sense of tranquility and an opportunity to rest within nature.
1. Dudhsagar Waterfalls, Goa
Whenever we hear of Goa, golden beaches, or wild nights spring up to mind along with everything to do with it. Thousands of miles within the Western Ghats though is a far cry to Dudhsagar Waterfalls one of the tallest and breath-taking waterfalls of India. Literally “Sea of Milk”, Dudhsagar lives upto its name for in truth it has milky white water that falls a good thousand feet from where it is. It sits at.
The trek from Kulem, the village next door, winds through the dense forests and railway tracks before you get to Dudhsagar. It is moderately tough, but it’s so much worth the trouble. Dudhsagar can also be accessed by jeep safari from the Bhagwan Mahaveer Sanctuary.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit the falls is monsoon, from June to September, but once again, plan for slippery trails and lots of rain. Alternatively, post-monsoon lets you enjoy the full force of the waterfalls with less danger involved.
Be prepared to meet rich biodiversity all along the way with exotic birds to playful monkeys. The moment you reach the waterfalls, you will just be spellbound by sheer power and beauty of cascading water. Do take refreshing cool water dip but do take care as currents could be pretty strong.
2. Athirappilly Waterfalls, Kerala
Many times, people call Athirappilly Waterfalls in Kerala the “Niagara of India,” a natural wonder enclosed in dense forests and teeming with wildlife. Here, the 80 feet tall falls create a thunderous roar as they cascade over rocky terrain to make for a totally captivating sight.
Getting There
It is easily accessible by road from Kochi, through a pretty beautiful greenery. It is quite close to the Sholayar range and has exclusive flora and fauna, where even the hornbill- that is threatened now-is to be found.
Best Time to Visit
It can be visited during the months of June and September. The magic of the rains brings forth beauty in the forest surrounding the waterfalls, which makes it most attractive.
The region around Athirappilly is known for the richness of its ecosystem; elephant corridors and tropical rainforests are a good part of it. Don’t miss Vazhachal Waterfalls or traditional Kerala cuisine at local food stalls.
3 Nohkalikai Falls
Nohkalikai Falls stands at an elevation of 1,115 feet, making it the highest plunge waterfall in India. Located in Cherrapunji, known as the wettest area on earth, this fall is shrouded with misty hills and dark rainforests, one of the most beautiful hidden falls in the country.
Getting There
The nearest town is Cherrapunji, from where you can take a short drive and a gentle trek to the viewing point. The route shall offer spectacular views of Khasi hills and vibrant green valleys.
Best Time to Visit
The falls look their best during the monsoon season, which is June to September. The region remains lush and beautiful throughout the year, however visiting after the monsoons gives you clearer skies and safer treks.
What to Expect
But the name “Nohkalikai” is a story which haunts it, so mystery is added to this experience. Avoid missing out on those local legends as you enjoy the beauty of the view. There is also a view point offering an orthodox view of the waterfall and landscape.
4. Chitrakote Waterfalls, Chhattisgarh
Dubbed the “Niagara of India,” Chitrakote Waterfalls in Chhattisgarh is the widest waterfall in India. This horseshoe-shaped waterfall on the Indravati River is an offbeat treasure, often overlooked by mainstream travelers.
How to Reach
Chitrakote is nearly 38 km from Jagdalpur and is reachable by road, through a journey that takes you through the very heart of Bastar, a place long known for its tribal culture and largely untouched natural beauty.
Best Time to Visit
While the falls are gorgeous throughout the year, the monsoons make Chitrakote a great and breathtaking place. After the monsoon, the place is green, and the spot is very good for camping and picnic.
What to Expect
Boat rides are accessible at the bottom of the falls. These rides can be taken only during the dry season of the falls. Around the falls, one will find tribal culture intensities which also give a chance to look around the local market and local crafts.
5. Khandadhar Waterfall, Odisha
Deep into Sundergarh forest, Odisha is situated this beautiful fall, known as Khandadhar Waterfall, which falls from a height of 801 feet. “Khandadhar” literally translates to “Sword Stream,” very aptly describing the waterfall, which resembles a thin sword cutting through the rocks.
How to Reach
One has to trek from Bonaigarh, through dense forests and hilly track to reach the waterfalls. The trek is moderately rough but a golden reward for the adventurer as one gets eye-catching views of the waterfall and the surrounding landscape.
Best Time to Visit
Pleasant weather along with full flow of water makes the best time to visit Khandadhar between the months of October to March. Monsoon is to be avoided while trekking as water may get hazardous.
6. Soochipara Falls, Kerala
The surrounding forest has many different species of wildlife, including leopards and some very rare bird species. You should bring a camera along to capture beautiful pictures of the waterfall as well as the lush green surroundings. Nearby, there are caves and natural springs to explore as well.
There is a three-tiered waterfall known as Sentinel Rock Waterfalls located at Wayanad in the Indian state of Kerala. The place is an adventure for nature lovers and adventure seekers as it is hidden deep beneath dense forests and rocky cliffs.
How To Reach
A short trekking trail through a well-looked-after forest path would lead you to the fall. The trek is quite an easy one and has an extremely casual, very family-friendly atmosphere. Wayanad is very well road-connected and can be easily reached from cities like Calicut and Bangalore.
Best Time to Visit
The season for visiting Soochipara Falls is more attractive when it falls between October and March. During this time, the water flows in full force, and the forests around the location become luscious.
You can swim in the natural pool formed at the base of the falls or even try your hand at rock climbing on the cliffs nearby. The area is also quite great for birdwatching with several species adding to the beauty of this surreal location.
7 Hebbe Falls, Karnataka
Hebbe Falls is a treasure hidden deep within the Western Ghats, Chikmagalur, Karnataka. The falls have two stages: Dodda Hebbe (Big Falls) and Chikka Hebbe (Small Falls). The surrounding coffee plantations and dense forest add beauty to the waterfalls.
Getting There
You can reach Hebbe Falls through a jeep ride from Kemmanagundi followed by a short trek through coffee estates and thick forest. The bumpy ride and adventurous trek make the journey as thrilling as the destination.
Best Time to Visit
From October to March, it’s the best time to visit Hebbe Falls. Pleasant weather prevails, along with beautiful waterfalls. However, the path may turn slippery and challenging during monsoons.
Hebb Falls are medicinal as water passes through forests and medicinal herbs. Enjoy a dip in the cool water and feel the healing therapy amidst the spectacular scenery.
8. Hogenakkal Falls, Tamil Nadu
It is famously known as the “Niagara of India.” Hogenakkal Falls is a series of waterfalls which lie on the Kaveri River, belonging to Dharmapuri district in Tamil Nadu. Actually, the word “Hogenakkal” means “smoking rocks.” The beauty is near to real smoke as per its vision and the power generated by the water droplets.
How to Reach
The falls are accessible by road from Bangalore and Chennai. The falls are visited mainly through a coracle boat ride to get to the inside, or to be positioned closely by the falls for a view that does not come about daily-in other words, the perspective of the cascading water.
Best Time to Visit
From October to February, since the water levels are more and the surrounding landscape is thick and inviting.
The coracle rides must be taken to experience firsthand the view of the falls and the rocky terrain around it. The local therapists can also offer a traditional oil massage as a way of unwinding after the day’s explorations.
The secret waterfalls of India are much more than mere natural beauties-they are gates to peaceful scenery and experiences that no one can ever forget. From dense forest trekking to gazing at the roaring cascades, offbeat destinations provide an exclusive experience regarding the varied beauty of the country. So, pack your bags, lace up your hiking boots, and get ready to find out which secret waterfalls await you.
