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Best Waterfalls in Kanakapura

Situated in a prime location, 38 kms from the bus stand, Chunchi Waterfalls in Kanakapura, are a sight worth witnessing! The falls originate from the Arkavati River and cascade beautifully for over 60 feet. The road leading to these falls boasts of abundant greenery with trees and bushes lining the roads.

Legend has it that the name of these falls was derived from an ancient tribal couple, Chuncha and Chunchi, who sheltered Lord Rama during his stay in Kanakapura. Chunchi is among the most popular of Kanakapura falls which with its rocky terrain, deciduous forests and mesmerising beauty makes for the perfect spot for a short picnic.

Location: Kanakapura, Karnataka 562119

Distance From Kanakapura Bus Stand: 28 kms

Height: 20m

Thottikallu Falls are among the most popular Waterfalls near Kanakapura, because being in close proximity to Bangalore it is frequented not only by tourists from afar, but the locals of Bangalore too. Thottikallu is often abbreviated to TK Falls and locally also called ‘Swarna Mukhi Falls’ which translates to ‘Golden Face’, an apt name for its natural beauty amidst lush greenery! Gushing down from over a 100 feet, the water splashes onto huge rocks that surround the location.

Thottikallu Falls make for a great site for trekking, feeling closer to nature’s allure, or simply visiting the shrine nearby and losing yourself in the spiritual vibe around. Reaching the falls does require a considerable amount of walking, since the road is narrow and cars aren’t permitted, so make sure you’re wearing comfortable shoes and pack some snacks. As your feet get sore, take a dip in the cool falls and enjoy a short picnic on the rocks at the foot of the falls. 

Location: Kanakapura Rd, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560083

Distance from Kanakapura Bus Stand: 37 kms

Height of the Fall: 30m 

Shaped uniquely like a horsetail, Gaganachukki Falls are one of the most visited waterfalls near Kanakapura, especially because they form half of the twin waterfalls, coupled with the Bharachukki Falls. This steep waterfall gushes down quickly and dramatically from a height of 98m, making for an exemplary view.

It is advisable to not climb up to the top of the falls, but instead view it from the watchtower at Shivanasamudra. If not, you can take the route through the Hazrath Mardane Gaib Dargah, and enjoy a bit of both, religious, as well as nature sightseeing. Visit Gaganachukki especially in the monsoons when the water swells up with the tide and roars as it falls magnificently.

Location: Chamarajnagar, Karnataka 571430

Distance from Kanakapura Bus Stand: 67 kms

Height of the Fall: 98m

Undoubtedly the most popular waterfalls in Kanakapura, Barachukki isn’t just wider than its twin, Gaganachukki, but more gentle and graceful too. There are about 200 concrete steps that lead to these falls which plunge softly from a height of 69m, falling into shallow pools where visitors often take a dip.

The best way to explore the falls is to take a coracle ride to the splendid spot, and if you are keen on seeing the falls in their full glory, the best time to visit is in the monsoons. This is when the falls are at their thunderous best, and the mist from the water is indeed a gorgeous sight!

Location: Chamarajnagar, Karnataka 571430

Distance from Kanakapura Bus Stand: 75 kms

Height of the Fall: 69m

Nestled in the interiors of Ramanagara in Bangalore, Mekedatu Falls originate from the point where the Kaveri River meets the Arkavati River and flows downstream through a deep, narrow gorge, forming the Mekedatu Falls. Mekedatu is among significant Kanakapura Falls owing to its rich history. Translating to ‘goat’s leap’ it is believed that a goat, who once leaped across the Kaveri was Lord Shiva in disguise, thus lending it its name.

Through the gorge, this falls plunges ferociously over 12 metres and on its way sculpts rocks, making for some unique rock formations. As the gorge is a narrow one, bathing or splashing around here isn’t very convenient. But you most definitely should rent a cycle and explore the falls, coupled with nature’s beauty, as you ride down serene wilderness trails.

Location: Ramanagara District, Bangalore, Karnataka, India

Distance from Kanakapura Bus Stand: 38 kms

Height of the Fall: 12m