The Ultimate Guide to 12 Best Waterfalls in Chikmagalur (With Jeep & Trek Info)

The best waterfalls in Chikmagalur are Hebbe Falls, Sirimane Falls, Jhari Falls, and Manikyadhara Falls. The best time to visit is July to February. Hebbe Falls needs a Forest Department jeep booking in advance.

Chikmagalur is not just about coffee estates. The waterfalls in Chikmagalur are some of the most beautiful in all of Karnataka. From easy family-friendly spots to tough forest treks, there is something here for every kind of traveller.

Some falls are hidden deep inside wildlife sanctuaries. Others are right off the highway. But each one has its own story.

Ready to find your waterfall? Let’s go.

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Quick Guide to 12 Best Waterfalls in Chikmagalur

Chikmagalur has waterfalls for every type of traveller. Here is a quick look at all 12 before we dive deep into each one.

Hebbe Falls

Hebbe Falls is the most famous waterfall in Chikmagalur. It drops from a height of about 168 metres and is split into two parts: Dodda Hebbe (big falls) and Chikka Hebbe (small falls).

The falls are inside the Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary. This means you cannot drive your own car there.

What makes it special:

• Two-tiered waterfall with a massive drop
• Surrounded by coffee and cardamom plantations
• You might spot wildlife on the jeep ride

Getting There:

• Start from Kemmangundi
• Take the Forest Department jeep only (private vehicles are not allowed)
• The jeep ride is about 8 km through forest roads
• Book your jeep early, especially on weekends

Quick Facts:

Jhari Falls (Buttermilk Falls)

Jhari Falls is also called Buttermilk Falls by locals. It is one of the most thrilling waterfall trips in Chikmagalur because of the bumpy jeep ride to get there.

The road is steep, narrow, and muddy. That is half the fun.

What makes it special:

• Raw and untouched feel
• Very few tourists compared to Hebbe
• The jeep ride itself is an adventure

Getting There:

• Private jeeps (usually Boleros) are available from the base
• Cost is around ₹700 to ₹1000 per trip
• The road is about 2 km downhill and not safe to walk alone

Quick Facts:

Kalhatti Falls

Kalhatti Falls is perfect for families. It is easy to reach and has a small temple right next to it. The waterfall has a calm and peaceful feel.

What makes it special:

• Small temple attached to the falls
• Very easy walk to reach it
• Safe for children and elderly visitors

Getting There:

• Located near Kemmangundi
• No jeep needed, you can walk to it easily

Quick Facts:

Sirimane Falls

Sirimane Falls is near the town of Sringeri. It is one of the safest waterfalls to visit with your whole family. There are proper steps going down and changing rooms are available.

What makes it special:

• Wide and powerful waterfall
• Steps and railings make it very safe
• Changing rooms available for those who want to get wet

Getting There:

• Easy road access from Sringeri
• No jeep needed

Quick Facts:

Manikyadhara Falls

Manikyadhara Falls is near Baba Budangiri. This waterfall has deep religious value. It is connected to the Sufi saint Baba Budan and the Dattatreya Peetha shrine nearby.

What makes it special:

• Strong spiritual significance for both Hindus and Muslims
• Quick and easy to visit
• Often combined with a Baba Budangiri trip

Getting There:

• Located on the road to Baba Budangiri
• No jeep needed, short walk from the road

Quick Facts:

Honnammana Halla

Honnammana Halla is a roadside waterfall that most people pass without stopping. But if you stop, you will not regret it. It is a quick, refreshing break on a long drive.

What makes it special:

• Right off the road, no trekking needed
• Great spot for a quick photo
• Free to visit

Getting There:

• On the highway, easy to spot during a road trip
• No jeep or extra transport needed

Quick Facts:

Shanti Falls

Shanti Falls is a calm and less crowded waterfall near the Z Point trek route. If you are already trekking in that area, this is a great waterfall to add to your day.

What makes it special:

• Very few tourists visit here
• Quiet and peaceful atmosphere
• Great combo with the Z Point trek

Getting There:

• Located on the route to Z Point
• Reachable by road and a short walk
• No jeep needed

Quick Facts:

Hanumana Gundi Falls

Hanumana Gundi Falls is inside Kudremukh National Park. This is a powerful and wide waterfall that looks stunning during and after the monsoon season.

Because it is inside a protected forest, you need to follow all national park rules during your visit.

What makes it special:

• Located deep inside Kudremukh National Park
• One of the widest falls in the region
• Rich green forest all around it

Getting There:

• Entry through Kudremukh National Park gates
• Park entry fee and permission required
• Best reached from Kalasa or Kudremukh town

Quick Facts:

Kadambi Falls

Kadambi Falls is special because you can actually see it from the highway without trekking at all. It is a tall and thin waterfall that looks beautiful against the green hills of Kudremukh.

What makes it special:

• Fully visible from the main highway
• No effort needed, perfect for road trips
• Looks especially stunning in monsoon

Getting There:

• On the Kalasa to Kudremukh highway
• Just pull over and enjoy the view

Quick Facts:

Elaneeru Falls

Elaneeru Falls is a true hidden gem. It is near the village of Samse and very few travellers know about it. If you want to escape the tourist crowd completely, this is your waterfall.

What makes it special:

• Completely offbeat and rarely visited
• Surrounded by thick jungle
• Feels like a true discovery

Getting There:

• Located near Samse village
• Requires local guidance to find it
• Basic road access available

Quick Facts:

Alekan Falls

Alekan Falls is a roadside waterfall near the famous Charmadi Ghat. During monsoon season, the water gushes down the rocks right next to the road. You do not need to walk anywhere.

What makes it special:

• Right beside the road on Charmadi Ghat
• Powerful flow during heavy monsoon rains
• Great photography spot

Getting There:

• On the Charmadi Ghat road
• Just stop your vehicle and walk two steps

Quick Facts:

Bandaje Falls

Bandaje Falls is for serious trekkers only. The trail is long, tough, and goes through thick forest. You also need to get permission from the forest department before attempting this trek.

Do not attempt this without a local guide or an experienced trekking group.

What makes it special:

• One of the most rewarding waterfall treks in Karnataka
• Rarely visited because of the difficulty level
• The forest trail itself is beautiful

Getting There:

• Trek starts near Belthangady or Dharmasthala side
• Forest department permission is mandatory
• Always go with a certified local guide

Quick Facts:

How to Travel Around Chikmagalur Waterfalls

Getting around Chikmagalur is not difficult, but you need to plan your transport before you go. Your own car or bike will work for most places. But for some waterfalls, you simply cannot drive yourself.

Here is what you need to know:

• Hebbe Falls: Your private vehicle is not allowed inside Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary. You must take the Forest Department jeep from Kemmangundi. Book it early.
• Jhari Falls: The road is too steep and muddy for regular cars. Local private jeeps (Boleros) are available at the base for around ₹700 to ₹1000.
• Baba Budangiri area (Manikyadhara Falls): The road can get restricted during certain times. Local jeep rentals are commonly available and recommended.
• Kudremukh area (Hanumana Gundi, Kadambi): Entry is through national park gates. Follow all park rules strictly.

Best ways to get around:

Renting a local jeep for a full day is also a smart option if you want to cover multiple waterfalls in one trip.

Pro Tips to Stay Safe

Waterfalls are beautiful but they can be dangerous if you are not careful. Follow these tips every time.

• Watch the water level: Never enter the water if the current looks strong. Flash floods can happen fast during monsoon.
• Leeches (Jonk) in monsoon: If you are trekking between July and October, leeches are very common in the forest. Carry salt or Dettol in a small bottle. Apply salt directly on the leech and it will fall off. Do not pull them forcefully.
• Wear proper trekking shoes: Slippery rocks cause most waterfall accidents. Floaters and sandals are a bad idea. Always wear closed trekking shoes with grip.
• Go in groups: Never trek to remote waterfalls like Bandaje or Elaneeru alone.
• Tell someone your plan: Always inform your hotel or a family member about where you are going and when you will return.
• No selfies near the edge: Many waterfall accidents in India happen because of risky selfies. Stay behind safety barriers always.

Best Time to Visit Waterfalls in Chikmagalur

Chikmagalur gets heavy rainfall from June to September. This is when all the waterfalls are at their fullest and most powerful.

But heavy rain also means slippery paths, leeches, and occasional road blockages.

Our recommendation: Visit between October and January. The waterfalls still have strong flow from monsoon rains. The paths are safer. The weather is cool and comfortable. This is the sweet spot for most travellers.

If you do visit during monsoon, stick to easy-access falls like Sirimane, Kalhatti, and roadside spots. Avoid deep forest treks.

What to Pack in Your Bag

Do not show up unprepared. Here is your basic packing list:

• Trekking shoes with strong grip
• Extra set of clothes in case you get wet
• Rain jacket or poncho for sudden showers
• Reusable water bottle to stay hydrated
• Small first aid kit with Dettol and bandages
• Salt sachet for leeches during monsoon
• Powerbank because forest areas have no charging points
• Snacks like dry fruits or biscuits for long treks
• Sunscreen for post-monsoon sunny days

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I visit all 12 waterfalls in one day? 

No. The waterfalls are spread across different directions from Chikmagalur town. You need at least 3 to 4 days to cover them all comfortably.

Do I need to book the Hebbe Falls jeep in advance? 

Yes. Forest Department jeeps are limited. Book early, especially on weekends and holidays.

Is Chikmagalur safe for solo female travellers? 

Yes, generally safe. Stick to popular waterfalls, go during daytime, and always inform someone about your plans.

What is the entry fee for most waterfalls? 

Most roadside and easy-access waterfalls are free. Hebbe Falls and Kudremukh area falls have nominal fees.

Which waterfall is best for kids and families? 

Sirimane Falls and Kalhatti Falls are the safest and most family-friendly options.

Is there mobile network coverage near the waterfalls? 

Network is very weak near most forest waterfalls. Download offline maps before you leave your hotel.

Final Thoughts on Your Waterfall Trip

Chikmagalur’s waterfalls are waiting for you, and each one is worth the trip. Whether you want an easy family outing or a tough forest trek, this region has it all.

Start your planning early, pack smart, and respect the forest and its rules.

Check the latest stays and travel packages on MakeMyTrip before you book your trip.

Go find your waterfall.