Meta Description: Discover Kunchikal Falls in Karnataka, widely regarded as India’s highest waterfall at about 455 metres. Find its location, height, best time to visit, access rules and travel tips.
India is home to spectacular waterfalls—from the dramatic cliffs of Meghalaya and the forested cascades of Karnataka to the monsoon-fed falls of Goa and Maharashtra.
But when waterfalls are ranked by total vertical height, one name is most commonly placed at the top: Kunchikal Falls in Karnataka.
Located in the Western Ghats near Masthikatte-Hulikal in Shivamogga district, Kunchikal Falls is formed by the Varahi River and has a reported total height of approximately 455 metres, or 1,493 feet. It is a multi-tiered cascade rather than a single uninterrupted plunge. Government training material from the Indian Institute of Public Administration lists Kunchikal at 455 metres, ahead of other major Indian waterfalls.
Because it is relatively remote and access is restricted around the nearby hydroelectric facilities, Kunchikal remains far less visited than famous waterfalls such as Jog Falls or Dudhsagar.
India’s Highest Waterfall at a Glance
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Waterfall | Kunchikal Falls |
| State | Karnataka |
| District | Shivamogga |
| Approx. Height | 455 metres / 1,493 feet |
| Watercourse | Varahi River |
| Type | Tiered/Cascading |
| Region | Western Ghats |
| Best Season | Monsoon |
| Public Access | Restricted in parts |
| Known For | Commonly cited as India’s highest waterfall by total height |
Karnataka travel information describes Kunchikal as a cascading waterfall approximately 455 metres high, formed by the Varahi River near Masthikatte-Hulikal.
Where Is Kunchikal Falls?
Kunchikal Falls is located in Shivamogga district of Karnataka, close to the Masthikatte-Hulikal region near the Shivamogga-Udupi side of the Western Ghats.
The falls are surrounded by the lush landscapes for which this part of Karnataka is famous—dense forests, rocky hills, heavy monsoon rainfall and several rivers and smaller cascades.
The waterfall is formed as the Varahi River descends over a long series of rocky formations, producing multiple cascades rather than one clean vertical drop.
How High Is Kunchikal Falls?
Kunchikal Falls has a commonly reported total height of:
455 metres
or approximately:
1,493 feet
That is substantially taller by total height than many other famous Indian waterfalls.
For comparison:
| Waterfall | State | Approx. Height |
|---|---|---|
| Kunchikal Falls | Karnataka | 455 m |
| Barehipani Falls | Odisha | 399 m |
| Nohkalikai Falls | Meghalaya | ~340 m |
| Nohsngithiang Falls | Meghalaya | 315 m |
| Dudhsagar Falls | Goa | 310 m |
| Kynrem Falls | Meghalaya | 305 m |
| Jog Falls | Karnataka | 253 m |
Government reference material from IIPA also places Kunchikal first at 455 metres.
An important note about waterfall rankings
Waterfall rankings can differ between sources because waterfalls may be measured as total cascades, individual drops, plunge height or segmented falls.
For example, India’s official Incredible India page currently describes Kunchikal as the country’s second-highest waterfall, while other government-linked and waterfall databases place it first by total height.
For most conventional lists based on total reported height, Kunchikal is cited as India’s highest waterfall.
What Makes Kunchikal Falls Special?
Kunchikal is very different from a waterfall such as Nohkalikai, where water makes a dramatic single plunge from a cliff.
Instead, the Varahi River descends through a long rocky landscape.
Hundreds of rocks and boulders break the river into multiple streams and cascades, creating the waterfall’s impressive overall vertical descent. Karnataka travel information describes the water as cascading over rocky formations for a considerable distance before continuing downstream.
During the monsoon, the surrounding Western Ghats become deep green and the river carries considerably more water, making the landscape especially dramatic.
Best Time to Visit Kunchikal Falls
The monsoon season is generally the best time to see Kunchikal Falls, because its appearance depends heavily on rainfall and the flow of the Varahi River.
July to September
This is generally the strongest period for water flow.
Heavy rainfall transforms the Western Ghats into a dense green landscape and feeds the river and surrounding seasonal cascades. Tourism information for Kunchikal specifically identifies the rainy season as the best period to experience it.
However, monsoon travel also means:
- Slippery roads and trails
- Heavy rainfall
- Fog and reduced visibility
- Possible road disruptions
- Stronger river currents
Always check local road and access conditions before travelling.
Why Does Kunchikal Falls Have Less Water Today?
This is one of the most important things travellers should know.
The natural flow around Kunchikal has been affected by the development of the Mani Dam and hydroelectric infrastructure on the Varahi River.
As a result, water flow over the falls can be considerably lower outside the rainy season. Karnataka travel information notes that the dam and power project have reduced the volume flowing through the waterfall.
This is one reason Kunchikal is not promoted as a conventional year-round waterfall attraction despite its extraordinary height.
Can Tourists Visit Kunchikal Falls?
Access can be complicated.
The waterfall lies near hydroelectric facilities and restricted infrastructure, so tourists may not be able to freely approach every area around the falls.
Tourism information notes that public movement is restricted for security reasons.
Some references also indicate that permission or a gate pass may be required for certain access points.
Before travelling
Visitors should verify current conditions locally with:
- Karnataka tourism authorities
- Local administration
- Forest or hydro-project authorities where applicable
- Accommodation providers in the region
Do not assume unrestricted access based on older travel blogs or videos.
Kunchikal Falls vs Jog Falls
Both waterfalls are located in Karnataka’s Shivamogga region, so they are frequently compared.
But they are very different.
| Feature | Kunchikal Falls | Jog Falls |
|---|---|---|
| Reported Height | 455 m | 253 m |
| Type | Multi-tiered cascade | Segmented/plunge-style fall |
| River | Varahi | Sharavathi |
| Tourist Infrastructure | Limited/restricted | Well developed |
| Accessibility | Difficult | Much easier |
| Fame among tourists | Relatively low | Extremely popular |
Jog Falls is far easier to experience as a conventional tourist attraction, with developed viewpoints and regular visitor access.
Karnataka Tourism describes Jog Falls as one of the state’s major waterfall attractions and gives its drop at about 253 metres.
So if your objective is simply to see an enormous waterfall without complicated access, Jog Falls may be the more practical choice.
If you’re interested in geography and the record for India’s highest waterfall by total height, Kunchikal is the more noteworthy site.
Is Kunchikal a Single-Drop Waterfall?
No.
Kunchikal is a tiered or cascading waterfall.
Its quoted 455-metre height represents the overall vertical descent across multiple sections.
This distinction is important when comparing it with waterfalls such as Nohkalikai Falls in Meghalaya, which is famous for its much more dramatic single plunge.
Therefore:
Highest by commonly reported total waterfall height: Kunchikal Falls
One of India’s tallest single-plunge waterfalls: Nohkalikai Falls
Why Is Kunchikal Not as Famous as Jog Falls?
Considering its record-setting height, it may seem strange that many travellers have never heard of Kunchikal.
There are several reasons.
Restricted access
The hydroelectric infrastructure around the waterfall means access is more controlled than at mainstream attractions.
Reduced water flow
The nearby dam has affected natural flow, particularly outside the monsoon.
Limited tourist infrastructure
There are fewer developed viewpoints, hotels, restaurants and tourist facilities immediately around Kunchikal.
Multi-tiered geography
Because the 455-metre figure represents an extended cascade rather than one massive freefall, the visual effect can be less obvious from a single viewpoint.
This explains why Jog Falls, Dudhsagar and Nohkalikai often appear more prominently in Indian tourism material.
Other Beautiful Waterfalls to Visit in India
If waterfalls are the focus of your trip, several other destinations deserve consideration.
Nohkalikai Falls – Meghalaya
Located near Cherrapunji/Sohra, Nohkalikai is famous for its enormous vertical plunge into a turquoise pool.
Jog Falls – Karnataka
One of India’s most iconic waterfalls, particularly impressive during the monsoon.
Dudhsagar Falls – Goa
A spectacular multi-tiered waterfall surrounded by the forests of the Western Ghats.
Barehipani Falls – Odisha
Located inside Similipal National Park and commonly listed among India’s tallest waterfalls at around 399 metres.
Kynrem Falls – Meghalaya
Another huge multi-tiered waterfall in Meghalaya, commonly listed at approximately 305 metres.
Tips for Visiting Kunchikal Falls
Because Kunchikal is not a standard roadside tourist waterfall, planning is important.
Check access permission before making a special journey, particularly because parts of the region are associated with hydroelectric infrastructure.
Avoid entering restricted areas merely to obtain a better photograph. During monsoon conditions, slippery rocks and fast-flowing water can be dangerous.
Carry rain protection, suitable footwear, drinking water and offline maps if travelling through remote Western Ghats roads.
Most importantly, keep your itinerary flexible. Heavy monsoon rain can alter road and visibility conditions very quickly.
FAQs About India’s Highest Waterfall
Which is the highest waterfall in India?
Kunchikal Falls in Karnataka is widely cited as India’s highest waterfall by total height, at approximately 455 metres or 1,493 feet.
Where is Kunchikal Falls located?
It is located near Masthikatte-Hulikal in Shivamogga district, Karnataka, in the Western Ghats.
Which river forms Kunchikal Falls?
The waterfall is formed by the Varahi River.
What is the height of Kunchikal Falls?
Its commonly reported total height is around 455 metres (1,493 feet).
Is Kunchikal Falls taller than Jog Falls?
By reported total height, yes. Kunchikal is about 455 metres, while Jog Falls is approximately 253 metres.
However, the two waterfalls have different geological forms, so direct visual comparisons can be misleading.
What is the best time to visit Kunchikal Falls?
The monsoon months, particularly July to September, generally provide the strongest water flow.
Is Kunchikal Falls open to tourists?
Access to parts of the area is restricted because of nearby hydroelectric facilities. Travellers should confirm current permission and viewing arrangements locally before visiting.
Is Kunchikal a single-drop waterfall?
No. It is a tiered/cascading waterfall, with the quoted height representing its total descent across multiple drops.
Final Words
Kunchikal Falls is one of India’s most remarkable—and least conventionally touristy—natural landmarks.
Hidden within Karnataka’s Western Ghats, the Varahi River descends roughly 455 metres across a massive rocky cascade, giving Kunchikal its widely cited status as India’s highest waterfall by total height.
Unlike famous attractions such as Jog Falls or Dudhsagar, Kunchikal remains relatively difficult to experience because of restricted access, hydroelectric development and highly seasonal water flow.
That isolation is also part of what makes the place fascinating.
For travellers exploring Karnataka during the monsoon, the broader Shivamogga and Western Ghats region offers an exceptional combination of waterfalls, forests and mountain landscapes—even if a close-up visit to Kunchikal itself requires additional planning and permission.
