Karnataka’s spell-binding waterfalls

Gaganachukki: Located in district of , Gaganachukki (the name means “Fallen from the Sky”), and its twin Barachukki (next photo), are just over an hour’s journey from . These falls are formed by the Cauvery River.

Barachukki: The spectacular Barachukki Falls are on the eastern branch of the Cauvery River and located just over an hour’s drive from Bangalore. A visit to these falls, along with one to the forceful Gaganachukki nearby, make for a refreshing day-trip.

Iruppu Falls: These picturesque waterfalls are situated at the edge of the range of the in Karnataka’s , about 50 km from the district headquarters at Madikeri. They are also known as the Theertha Falls, a name derived from the Lakshmana Theertha River, a tributary of the Cauvery River that rises in these hills.

Chunchi Falls: Nestled among the rocky terrain of Kanakapura in rural Bangalore, these falls formed by the Arkavati River are less than 90 km by road from the city. A short off-road trek leads you to face the falls, which are a sight to behold.

Hebbe Falls: A treacherous drive along rough terrain inside a private coffee estate in Kemmanagundi – a famous hill station of the region – leads you to . The cascade plunges over 500 feet in two stages of varying sizes, aptly named Dodda Hebbe and Chikka Hebbe. The water from the falls drains into the .

Jog Falls: One of the most spectacular waterfalls in and India’s second-highest, needs no introduction. Formed by the Sharavathi River in district of Karnataka, it falls from a height of over 900 feet and has four branches named Raja, Roarer, Rocket and Rani.

Sathodi Falls: About 50 km the town of in Uttara district of Karnataka, the Sathodi Falls are a tributary of the . Plunging nearly 50 feet, it is fed by numerous streams and eventually drains into the Kali. The challenging terrain of its location, together with lush forests infested with leeches, makes access to this waterfall difficult. Nonetheless, it is a view to be enjoyed.

Magod Falls: is located in Sirsi, district, about 80 km from the district headquarters at and about 20 km from the town of Yellapur, which is the nearest railway station. Formed by the Bedti River, it falls in two steps and plunges nearly 650 feet.

Unchalli Falls: Discovered by J D Lushington, a District Collector for the British government in India, these magnificent waterfalls in Uttara Kannada district are formed by the River. Also known as Lushington Falls, it plunges about 450 feet. The loud roar from the cascade tumbling into the narrow creek is an experience to remember. The nearest railhead is Sirsi town.