They are a photographer's ultimate fantasty, a filmmaker's wet dream come true and a dream-come-true for weary trekkers. Check out India's best waterfall destinations.
1. Shivasamudram Falls: Mandya, Karnataka, India; Height: 322 ft
If you have been looking for a quick getaway near Bangalore or Mysore, hop on to your bike now and head for Shivasamudram Falls.
Surrounded by hill forests of the Kaveri Wildlife Sanctuary, the place is a visual treat.
2. Athirappally Falls: Thrissur, Kerala; Height: 82ft
Mani Ratnam chose this enchanting waterfall to shoot parts of Raavan starring Abhishek Bachchan and Aishwarya Rai.
If you wish to see huge mountains, deep valleys, dense greenery and a beautiful waterfall -- all in their full glory, visit Athirapally during monsoon.
Only 16 km away from Jabalpur city, Dhuandar Falls is one of the most spectacular waterfalls in central India. The picturesque beauty of this place has been beautifully captured in Shah Rukh Khan's movie Asoka.
Visit this place right after monsoons, preferably during Shivratri when the white rocks appear silver in the moonlight.
Don't miss the boat ride if you wish to access beautiful places that cannot be visited by foot.
Pick up beautiful souvenirs from road side shops that sell marble sculptures, paintings and customized gift items.
4. Dudhsagar Falls: Goa, Height: 1017 ft
If you are tired of visiting beaches in Goa, Dudhsagar Falls, 90 kms from Panaji should be an ideal choice for you. The entry is through a national park so one can spot animals and bathe elephants.
The falls look stunning post monsoon as it ripples with bubbling foam-like water. You might not get a cab but hire a bike and ride alongside the railway tracks!
Soochippara Falls in Wayanad, also known as Sentinel Rock Waterfalls is an ideal spot for budget travellers who do not want to spend money on costly water parks.
Visit during the monsoon and take Meppadi route to enjoy scenic views of some of the best tea estates in Wayanad.
The best attractions in Soochippara Falls are the tree top huts presenting a distinct view of the Western Ghats. The waterfalls have a cliff face which is ideal for rock climbing.
6. Attukal Waterfalls: Munnar, Kerala; Height: 196 ft
Set amidst hills and jungles, Attukal Waterfalls is the most noteworthy tourism attraction in Munnar.
The place is known for its tranquility, majestic falls and beautiful locales and is ideal for long trekking and hiking.
The falls are at their glorious best between September and May. When there, make sure you stop and have a Masala Chai whilst watching the falls crash.
7. Bhagsu Waterfall: Mcleod Gunj, Himachal Pradesh; Height: 7112 ft
Bhagsu Waterfall in McLeodganj is a small but an incredibly beautiful place. The waterfall became popular after an Israeli movie Hummus Curry was shot here. Only 20 minutes walk from the popular Bhagsu Temple, it is an ideal place for those who like to combine a spiritual trip with a small getaway.
The hilly terrain can make the trek a little tricky but the view after reaching is absolutely worth it! Pick up local handicraft souvenirs from shops on the way.