Monsoon calls for road tripping to verdant destinations. And what could be a better way to unwind while enjoying a blissful picnic at a waterfall. Driving along sylvan petrichor-filled roads, trekking on moss-laden paths, enjoying crispy fritters and chai, taking a refreshing dip in a plunge pool — waterfalls in India are every bit rejuvenating. Here, we feature some of the best ones for a monsoon getaway. By Karan Kaushik
These waterfalls in India offer absolute bliss
Dhuandhar Falls, Madhya Pradesh
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Nestled amidst the incredible marble rocks of Bhedaghat, the Dhuandhar Falls are formed by the Narmada river, which plunges down a 30-metre cliff. The waterfall is named so because of its smoky appearance due to heavy mist. You can picnic at the riverside or take a motorboat from the jetty at Panchvati Ghat to explore the marble rocks. Hike for a kilometre-and-a-half from Panchvati Ghat, or take the cable car across the river to catch breathtaking views of the waterfall. Also, check out the unique ‘balancing rocks’, and the 10th-century Chausanth Yogini Temple.
Nohkalikai Falls, Meghalaya
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The fourth highest waterfall in the world, the Nohkalikai Falls tucked in the middle of lush green forests of the Khasi hills, gushing down from a height of 335 metres, into a blue lagoon, is a magnificent sight to behold. Bird watching, angling, trekking, swimming, photography — there are many activities that you can indulge in when here. In fact, there is also an interesting market in Cherrapunjee called Bada Bazaar from where you can shop for a bunch of souvenirs and handicrafts, and experience the tribal culture and art as well.
Jonha Falls, Jharkhand
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Of the many small and big waterfalls that dot Jharkhand’s picturesque landscapes, the Jonha falls, also known as Gautamdhara Falls make for a fun-filled road trip. Located around 40km from Ranchi, they are quite a sight to behold. So are the forests around them. A fine example of hanging valley waterfalls, Jonha is formed by the Gunga River and its master stream Raru River. It’s quite a descent of 722 steps to the falls. From Jonha Falls, you can also visit the nearby Sita Falls, which are equally blissful.
Chitrakote Falls, Chhattisgarh
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While most experienced travellers opine that the magnificent Chitrakote Falls are at their glorious best during the monsoon, the fact is that they are a sheer feast to the eyes any time of the year. The geological attraction is a tourist magnet for Chhattisgarh, thanks to its jaw-dropping beauty. Plunging from a height of around 95 feet, river Indravati plunges from Vindhya Hill into a lush valley. What adds to its charm is the rainbow formation in front of the falls, which occurs as a result of the haze of river water.
Dudhsagar Falls, Goa
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With a majestic cascade of water descending down to about 1,017 feet (310 metres) on the vertical face of the mountains, Dudhsagar Falls in Goa are among the most stunning waterfalls in India. The fall, roughly 70 kilometres from the state’s capital, Panaji, is a 30-metre-wide four-tiered structure along the Mandovi river and is also one of India’s waterfalls. The rapidly falling water creates the illusion of a milky sea, giving it the name Dudhsagar, or ‘sea of milk’. River Mandovi originates in the Deccan Plateau and in its course, reaches the Goa-Karnataka border. Here, as it descends down the hills, it transforms into the majestic falls before forming a stunning green pool at its base.
Abbey Falls, Karnataka
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Most travellers start their adventures in Coorg with a refreshing time at the Abbey Falls near Madikeri. The hills, rocks, and ravines of Western Ghats give birth to many waterfalls across the Deccan Plateau, and yet, Abbey Falls has to be one of the most breathtaking. Located about 10 km away from Madikeri, Abbey Falls is a gift of the River Kaveri. The 70 ft high waterfall is surrounded by spinach-green hills and coffee and spice plantations.
Athirappilly Falls, Kerala
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The Athirappilly Falls originating from the Chalakudy river is one of Thrissur’s finest gems located 1,000-ft above sea level. It sits along with the Sholayar ranges in the Western Ghats, making it a sight to behold. You can enjoy the calming water and colossal forests, all at once. Apart from being a tropical delight, the waterfall’s gushing drop helps in generating hydroelectric energy, too. The heartwarming view attracts many locals for weekend picnics. The area is pristine and plastic-free as per the regulations of the Kerala Government.
Thoseghar Falls, Maharashtra
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Monsoon and Maharashtra is a love story like no other. The state turns incredibly green during the rainy season, giving travellers a wonderful excuse to venture out. Located in Satara, the Thoseghar Waterfall makes for an amazing monsoon getaway from Mumbai and Pune. Watching the dense streams gush from mountain tops, creating a thunderous roar at every turn, is a delightful experience. Thoseghar Waterfall is one of the biggest and highest waterfalls in Maharashtra. When here, you can enjoy a picnic and treat your eyes to stunning views of the falls from the vantage point, and indulge in some birdwatching.
Bhimlat Falls, Rajasthan
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Perhaps one of Rajasthan’s best-kept secrets, this hidden gem is located in Bundi district. Cascading down from a height of 60 metres, the waterfall plunges into a beautiful azure lake at its foothills. Legend has it that the waterfall was created by Bhim, one of the five Pandavas, to quench his thirst during their exile. Historians, however, opine that the fall was a result of an earthquake that happened in the 8th century. From here, you must also visit the Bundi Garh Palace and other attractions like Rani ji ki Baoli.
Feature and hero image courtesy: Shutterstock
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