Are you ready for the most breathtaking views of the Indian version of Niagra? Welcome to Hogenakkal Waterfalls; the ultimate visual treat irrespective of age. It is an awe-inspiring journey through the wonders of nature and witnessing the spectacular views of the magnificent falls. Be prepared to have your eyes filled with sparkling droplets, your ears filled with the mesmerizing sound of gushing water, and your soul filled with a sense of elation. But be careful! What lies beneath the beautiful, enchanting view can be dangerous.
Hogenakkal is a waterfall located in South India on the Kaveri river. The waterfall is situated in the Western Ghats and is a popular tourist destination.
This was a spontaneous trip made with friends on one of the weekends as we were in a good mood to hit the road, but wanted to stay away from the regular routes. The approximate distance from Bangalore is 125km in about 3 hours. This may vary depending on where you are starting from Bangalore… Yeah, the notorious Bangalore traffic and the mercy of the weather gods.
On the way to Hogenakkal
We took the green route Bangalore-Attibele-Mathigiri-Denkanikottai-Anchetty-Hogenakkal Falls. If you start early, there can be a quick visit to Metre Falls on the way. Otherwise, the route gives a nice feel of farming fields, some green jungle areas, a glimpse of some small villages, and a couple of hairpin bends. We stopped at Anchetty to have a quick and simple breakfast as we started early.
While coming back we took Dharmapuri-Krishnagiri-Hosur-Bangalore route
A glimpse of village life on the way to falls
Searching for parking was a bit of trouble as the crowds flocked in early. However, spirits were high and we had to navigate through all the solicitations and the divine scenes of oil massage early on. The sound of the falls was inviting and we crossed the bridge for the first glimpse of a smaller fall.
I could not stop noticing the fish frying and vendors claimed to have it caught from the river. Though I never believed it, I became adventurous and tried one. It was a battle of will to place the finger on the plate, worrying about all sorts from stomach upset, to being unconscious and to being poisoned. But to my surprise, the fish was delicious! I guess I should’ve trusted the vendors after all! Nothing happened later as well. I would still advise caution.
Adventure with onsite fish fries
A view worth forgetting all troubles
While the waterfall itself is stunning, the real visual treat is the view from atop the falls. From this vantage point, visitors can see the numerous streams of water crashing down from a great height. The view is truly spectacular and is sure to leave visitors speechless.
We went in April, unplanned so the water levels were low. The pros of going in April when the water levels are low are that you can explore smaller, shallow areas of the falls that you would not be able to access when the water levels are high. You can also try out activities like the coracle and get a better view of the falls. The con is that the falls will not be in their full glory due to low water levels.
Stunning scenery from the top with coracles and amazed to see vendors in coracle where you can buy cool drinks to quench thirst during a sunny day
Explore the falls in a coracle. The ride was awesome and we were lucky to get a nice guide with us. Even though the falls may not be in full force, the ride is still an enjoyable and worthwhile experience. Not heckling much, he agreed to take us leisurely and stop at some falls and some shallow places to have some fun.
And finally get wet, feel the water
Now the but part!
If you are planning on visiting Hogenakkal, be sure to keep this in mind. While the views may be breathtaking, the dangers lurking beneath the surface are real. It is known for accidents. Avoid standing too close to the edge and watch for slippery rocks.
However, what leaves a lot to be desired is the cleanliness and upkeep of this place. Prepare to be solicited and fleeced by people for a coracle ride right from the check post where parking fees are collected. So stick to the official counters.
The oil bath and massage in the open space is an eye soar and it’s better to stay away.
There were no good clean good eateries nearby if you are with kids and family unless you have a gut that can take anything. So pack some food and water as a backup
Does it turn away from the place? Not in a million years. The fall itself is a stunner and nature itself. My wish is that not only the authorities but also the visitors take good care of it.
