Waterfalls are wild but onward, unbelievable but real. They are a painter’s brain food and a traveler’s delight. India is a country which is quite popular for its beaches, rivers, mountains, and temples. Apart from this, the country also inhabits some of the largest and most beautiful waterfalls in the world. They prove to be a perfect tourist destination especially during monsoon season which attracts people from various parts of the country. Some of the most popular waterfalls in South India are,
Courtallam Falls:
Courtallam falls is commonly known as the ‘spa of the south’ and is located in the state of Tamil Nadu. The water of this fall goes by the forest of herbs acquiring medicinal properties which gives it the name ‘spa of the state’. Courtallam comprises of nine falls- Peraruvi (main falls), Chitraruvi (small falls), Shenbagadevi falls, Thenaruvi (honey falls), Aintharuvi (five falls), Pazhathotta Aruvi (the VIP falls), Pazhaya Courtalla Aruvi (Old Courtallam falls) and Puli Aruvi (Tiger Falls). The nearest Railway station is in Tenkasi and Tutucurin is the airport nearby.
Hogenakal Waterfalls:
The ‘Niagara of India’, Hogenakal waterfalls is located on the river of Kaveri, in Karnataka-Tamil Nadu border. It is a series of waterfalls and the water here is said to have remedial powers. It is a perfect spot for boating, swimming and the surrounding hills gives chance for trekking as well. The rocks here are termed as ‘smoking rocks’ since a cool spray rises when the water hits the rocks. July to August is the best time to visit Hogenakkal waterfall when the water reaches the highest point. Water level rises from 20- 30 feet more during this time. Bangalore International airport is the nearest airport and Salem is the nearest railway station.
Athirappilly Waterfalls: Athirappilly waterfalls is the biggest waterfalls in the state of Kerala, on river Chalakudi. It is located central to Cochin and river Nila. The falls is about 80 feet high and is situated in the Sholayar forest area. Valparai, a hill station, Vazhachal waterfalls, Vazhachal forest gardens, Sholayar dams, and Anakkayam are the nearby attractions. Visiting Athirapilly waterfalls in the month of September is a good idea as the waterfalls are in full force just after the monsoons. Cochin is the nearest airport and Chalakudy Junction is the nearest railway station. Rain Forest Resort, Hill View Resort and Riverok Villas provide accommodation to tourists.
Jog Falls: Jog falls located in Karnataka is the fifth highest waterfall in Asia, with a height of 810 feet. Gerusoppe falls, Shimaga Falls, Jogada Gundi and Gersoppa Falls are the other names for Jog falls. It is located in the backwater of Linganamakki Reservoir, Saravathi River and the water here is used for a nearby hydroelectric power station. Linganmakki Dam which is located at a distance of 6kms from Jog falls is a nearby attraction. Monsoon is the best time to visit Jog falls. The nearest Bangalore is in Mangalore and Shimoga is the nearest railway station.
