Top 10 Waterfalls Near Bangalore
Best 10 Waterfalls Near Bangalore for a One-Day Trip
Looking for the best waterfalls near Bangalore for a refreshing weekend getaway? From scenic river cascades to seasonal waterfalls surrounded by rocky hills, there are several beautiful destinations within driving distance of Bengaluru.
This guide covers 10 waterfalls near Bangalore, with approximate driving distances, the best time to visit, nearby attractions, travel tips, and safety advice. Whether you are planning a monsoon road trip, a family outing, or a nature photography trip, these destinations offer a welcome break from city life.
Quick answer: Chunchi Falls and Shivanasamudra Falls are popular choices for a day trip from Bangalore. Hogenakkal Falls is another spectacular option, although travel distance depends on the route. Thottikallu Falls and Muthyala Maduvu are closer to the city, but access restrictions and local conditions should be checked before travelling.
Quick Comparison: Waterfalls Near Bangalore
| Waterfall | Approx. distance from Bangalore | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Thottikallu Falls (TK Falls) | 30–40 km | Short nature outing |
| Muthyala Maduvu (Pearl Valley) | 45–50 km | Scenic getaway |
| Chunchi Falls | 80–90 km | Photography and rocky landscapes |
| Mekedatu and Sangama | 90–105 km | River scenery and road trips |
| Shivanasamudra Falls | 130–140 km | Spectacular waterfall views |
| Gaganachukki Falls | 130–140 km | Panoramic viewpoints |
| Bharachukki Falls | 130–140 km | Wide cascading waterfalls |
| Talakadu | 130–140 km | Riverside scenery and historic temples |
| Hogenakkal Falls | 130–180 km | River gorge and seasonal coracle rides |
| Balmuri and Edmuri | 140–160 km | Riverside scenery near Mysuru |
Distances are approximate road distances from Bengaluru and can vary according to your starting point, route and traffic. Some destinations in this list are closer than 100 km, while others may exceed 150 km.
1. Chunchi Falls
Distance from Bangalore: 90–100 km
Located near Kanakapura, Chunchi Falls is one of the most popular waterfalls near Bangalore. Formed by the Arkavathi River, it flows through rocky terrain, creating spectacular views during the monsoon season.
Highlights
- Scenic viewpoints
- Rocky landscape
- Ideal for photography
- Perfect for a one-day trip
Best Time: July to October
2. Muthyala Maduvu (Pearl Valley)
Distance from Bangalore: 45–50 km
Muthyala Maduvu, also called Pearl Valley, is a beautiful waterfall located near Anekal. The waterfall drops from nearly 90 meters and is surrounded by green hills.
Highlights
- Easy weekend getaway
- Trekking trails
- Peaceful surroundings
- Excellent monsoon destination
Best Time: June to September
3. Thottikallu Falls (TK Falls)
Distance from Bangalore: 35–40 km
Also known as TK Falls, Thottikallu Falls is one of the closest waterfalls to Bangalore. Hidden inside lush forests, it’s a favorite among bikers and nature lovers.
Highlights
- Short drive from Bangalore
- Small trekking trail
- Beautiful greenery
- Best after rainfall
4. Mekedatu & Sangama
Distance from Bangalore: 100 km
Although Mekedatu is famous for its river gorge, the nearby Sangama and seasonal waterfalls make it one of Karnataka’s most visited weekend destinations.
Highlights
- River confluence
- Coracle rides
- Trekking
- Scenic viewpoints
5. Shivanasamudra Falls
Distance from Bangalore: 135 km
Shivanasamudra is among the largest and most famous waterfalls in Karnataka. Formed by the River Kaveri, the waterfall splits into Gaganachukki and Bharachukki Falls.
Highlights
- Massive twin waterfalls
- Family-friendly destination
- Photography
- Nearby temples
Best Time: July to October
6. Gaganachukki Falls
Distance from Bangalore: 135 km
Gaganachukki offers breathtaking panoramic views, especially during monsoon. It is one of the two waterfalls that make up Shivanasamudra.
Highlights
- Spectacular viewpoints
- Monsoon photography
- Nature trails
7. Bharachukki Falls
Distance from Bangalore: 135 km
Located a few kilometers from Gaganachukki, Bharachukki Falls features wide cascading streams and calmer surroundings.
Highlights
- Wide waterfall
- Boat rides (seasonal)
- Family picnic spot
8. Talakadu & Seasonal Waterfalls
Distance from Bangalore: 130 km
Talakadu is famous for its temples and sand dunes, while several seasonal waterfalls become active during the rainy season nearby.
Highlights
- Historical temples
- River views
- Scenic drive
- Weekend road trip
9. Hogenakkal Falls
Distance from Bangalore: 125–130 km
Often called the “Niagara of India,” Hogenakkal Falls is one of South India’s most spectacular waterfalls. It is located on the Karnataka–Tamil Nadu border.
Highlights
- Coracle boat rides
- Multiple waterfalls
- Adventure activities
- Famous tourist attraction
Best Time: August to November
10. Balmuri & Edmuri Waterfalls
Distance from Bangalore: 145 km
Located near Mysuru, Balmuri and Edmuri are popular picnic spots featuring small waterfalls and river streams.
Highlights
- Family-friendly
- Photography
- Riverside activities
- Nearby Mysore attractions
Best Time to Visit Waterfalls Near Bangalore
The ideal time is during the monsoon and post-monsoon season (July to October) when waterfalls are at their fullest.
Avoid visiting immediately after heavy rainfall, as water levels can rise quickly.
Travel Tips
- Start early in the morning.
- Wear comfortable trekking shoes.
- Carry drinking water and snacks.
- Avoid entering deep water.
- Follow local safety instructions.
- Do not litter natural areas.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the nearest waterfall to Bangalore?
Thottikallu Falls (TK Falls) is among the nearest waterfalls, located about 35–40 km from Bangalore.
Which waterfall is best for a one-day trip from Bangalore?
Popular options include:
- Chunchi Falls
- Shivanasamudra Falls
- Hogenakkal Falls
- Muthyala Maduvu
- Mekedatu
Which waterfall is best during monsoon?
Shivanasamudra Falls is considered one of the best waterfalls to visit during the monsoon.
Is swimming allowed?
Swimming is not recommended at most waterfalls because currents can be dangerous, especially during the rainy season.
Are these waterfalls suitable for families?
Yes. Shivanasamudra, Hogenakkal, Muthyala Maduvu, and Balmuri are popular family-friendly destinations.
Final Thoughts
If you’re planning a refreshing escape from city life, these top waterfalls near Bangalore within 100–150 km offer the perfect combination of nature, adventure, and scenic beauty. Whether you enjoy trekking, photography, or relaxing by flowing water, Karnataka has plenty of beautiful waterfalls worth exploring.
Before you travel, always check weather conditions and local access updates, especially during the monsoon season.
Related Articles
- Nandi Hills Sunrise Guide
- Bannerghatta National Park Guide
- Bangalore One-Day Road Trips
- Best Trekking Places Near Bangalore
- Shivanasamudra Falls Travel Guide
- Kanakapura Tourist Places
- Mysore One-Day Trip Itinerary
- Bangalore Weekend Getaways
External Resources
- Karnataka Tourism – https://www.karnatakatourism.org/
- Incredible India – https://www.incredibleindia.org/
- India Meteorological Department – https://mausam.imd.gov.in/
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