Hogennakal falls is one of my favorite picnic spots near Bangalore. Located at the border of Karnataka & Tamil Nadu, River Kaveri splits into multiple streams here, creating a spectacular visual spectacle. Hogenakkal has been a popular tourist destination for years and offers a variety of activities.

Hogenakkal Falls – A Worthy Day Trip from Bangalore

Hogenakkal Falls is your perfect day trip destination from Bangalore. It is one of the best places to visit near Bangalore for a relaxed vacation. The brilliant chance to experience the Hogennakal Falls from a seemingly never-ending river will leave you exuberant with joy!

Here, I have written about my experience of completing a trip to Hogenakkal Falls and compiled some very useful tips for you at the end of this travelogue.

My recent trip to Hogenakkal Falls helped me realize how beautiful South India is. The rock formations in the course of Kaveri create a magnificent site that is no less than a wonderland. In addition, the coracle ride will help you indulge deeply in the scintillating experience of Hogenakkal Falls.

Located at a distance of 170 KM, Hogenakkal Falls are located in the state of Tamil Nadu. However, it is very close to the Karnataka – Tamil Nadu border. You can hire a car or hop on your bike and reach Hogenakkal in 3 hours maximum near Bangalore. After spending another 3 hours at the place, including the coracle ride, you can reach back to Bangalore on the same day.

When you reach Hogenakkal Falls, you will be a little disappointed by the overcrowded venue. But, there are a lot of eateries to taste local cuisine as well. To discover the true brilliance of Hogenakkal Falls, you should enjoy the coracle ride.

Coracle is a small boat that can carry a maximum of 7 people, including your guide. The cost of enjoying the coracle ride would come up to Rs 900 for 6 people. However, if you are a family of 4 or a couple, you can either wait for more people to join you or keep the boat to yourself. But, you will have to bear the entire cost. Negotiating with the coracle owners is possible. But, if you are visiting Hogenakkal Falls during peak season or on a weekend, the chance of getting a better deal is elusive. According to Government norms, a guide cannot charge more than Rs 110 per person. But, due to a lack of strict regulations, no guide would respect the government directives.

View of Hogenakkal Falls before starting the coracle ride (Trip to Hogenakkal Falls)

When you start your coracle ride in Hogenakkal Falls, you will have to wait for some time to be impressed. But, when you listen the gushing sound of water turning into an uproar, you will realize that you are up for a treat. The coracle goes as close as possible to the falls and as the strong current of Kaveri river splashes the cold water on you, the admiration for nature’s magnanimity grows stronger in you.

A closer view of Hogenakkal Falls from the Coracle (Trip to Hogenakkal Falls)

 A Coracle fights against the strong current as the tourists endure the cold splashes of Kaveri River (Trip to Hogenakkal Falls)

Once you have enjoyed the proximity to the stunning falls, the coracle proceeds towards the most tranquil stretch of Kaveri River. You can see some vendors floating along with you as they persuade you to buy chips or a water bottle. The sad part is that people buy chips from these vendors, just to throw the wrapper in the pious river, not caring about nature at all.

Floating shops (Trip to Hogenakkal Falls)

After rowing for some time, you will reach some spots along the banks of the Kaveri River where you can take a dip in the holy waters. These spots are less crowded as compared to the main area, from where you started your coracle trip. You can swim at these spots. Life jackets are available for you here. But, to be on the safe side, you should carry life jackets from the beginning itself. If you don’t plan to jump in the waters, Life jackets wouldn’t be necessary.

A spot where you can swim in the Kaveri River (Trip to Hogenakkal Falls)

Another view of the brilliant landscapes (Trip to Hogenakkal Falls)

After swimming for some time in the placid waters, our guide took us to a lesser-known spot which was near the Karnataka – Tamil Nadu border. When we reached there, we saw some men clad in yellow shirts. Our guide wore a blue shirt. The blue shirt indicated a coracle guide from Tamil Nadu and the Yellow shirt indicated a guide from Karnataka. We failed to understand the need for separate uniforms when both states share the immense beauty of one river. But, on talking to our guide, we realized that all the venom was infused by the politicians and personally, they just hated this differentiation. A Karnataka guide can ignite riots if he enters Tamil Nadu territory. However, if a political pawn does not notice a yellow shirt in blue shirt territory, no ramifications would surface. I was really grieved by the dirty games these Indian politicians play.

From that spot, we were able to get a bird’s eye view of the Hogenakkal Falls and the vast Kaveri River.

 A Karnataka-based guide repairs his Coracle as our Tamil guide takes us to the spot near Karnataka – Tamil Nadu border. (Trip to Hogenakkal Falls)

View from the spot, that’s me in the green T-shirt. (Trip to Hogenakkal Falls)

Elated, we returned back in time to proceed with our return journey and reach Bangalore. The trip to Hogenakkal Falls was certainly worth the 5-6 hours spent traveling. I have compiled some useful tips for you which would help you in planning, saving money, and eventually enjoying your trip to Hogenakkal Falls

Further, sharing a few travel tips for Hogennakal falls below

Travel Tips for Hogenakkal Falls

1. Car hire for Hogenakkal Falls:

If you are hiring a car with a driver from Bangalore for your trip to Hogenakkal Waterfalls, accompany him when he is going to collect permit to enter Tamil Nadu. Our driver asked for Rs 500, but the permit only costs Rs 100.

2. Hiring a Coracle in Hogenakkal Falls:

One coracle can accommodate 6 people, excluding the guide. It costs Rs 900 for one coracle, irrespective of the number of people in it. If you are a couple, you will have to bear Rs 450 per head if you choose not to share your coracle ride with anybody. If you are okay to share the ride, you can wait for some time and you might find other 4 people to accompany you.

3. Negotiating with the coracle guide: 

If you have patience, you can negotiate hard and reduce the cost by a couple of hundred rupees. But, during crowded hours, it might be difficult to crack a deal

4. Coracle Ride timings: 

The last coracle ride would be around 5 pm. Hence, make sure to start your ride in the afternoon so that you can peacefully enjoy the experience. Normally, one coracle guide does approximately 2 trips. If you are starting a trip around 2 pm, that would be the last trip for the coracle owner. Hence, he wouldn’t rush to complete the ride. But, if you start your ride around 4:30 pm, he might rush you to complete the ride before it gets dark.

5. Carrying camera & other belongings: 

It’s pretty safe to carry your cameras or mobile phones during your coracle ride during your trip to Hogenakkal waterfalls. Unless the coracle flips over, which is very less likely to happen, your belongings are safe. There are lockers available near the Hogenakkal waterfalls. But, I didn’t find them to be very safe

6. Eating locally: 

You will find many eateries here selling fried fish and other delicacies. Make sure you check the hygiene factors before embarking upon a joyful trip for your taste buds.

7. Oil Massages: 

Your trip to Hogenakkal waterfalls can include an oil massage from an experienced Masseuse. The massages at Hogenakkal Waterfalls are actually famous.

Further, summarizing a few things to do when you visit Hogenakkal Falls:

Things to do near Hogennakkal Falls

1. Boat Ride in Coracles

Picture Courtesy: Tripoto

Traditional round basket boats made of bamboo and coated with buffalo hide or plastic are a unique way to experience the waterfalls. Coracle rides provide a close-up view of the falls and the surrounding gorge.

2. Fresh Fish Fry

Picture Courtesy: Muthu.co

The area around the falls is known for its local fishermen who not only offer boat rides but also catch fresh fish. You can buy fish from them and have it cooked at the numerous makeshift stalls by the river.

3. Therapeutic Bathing in the Hogenakkal Falls

Credit: TimesofIndia

There are specific spots where you can take a dip. The cascading water is said to have medicinal properties due to the herbs grown in its path.

4. Massage in Hogenakkal Falls

Credit: Wanderluster

Local masseurs offer massages by the falls, providing a unique spa-like experience with a natural backdrop.

5. Nature Walks

The area around the falls is lush and green, especially during the monsoon season. It’s a good place for nature enthusiasts to explore and observe the local flora and fauna.

6. Places to Visit Near Hogenakkal Falls: The Melagiri Hills

Credit: Insider. in

Located close to Hogenakkal, these hills are ideal for trekking and offer a panoramic view of the surrounding landscape.

7. Explore the Hanging Bridge in Hogenakkal Falls

Credit: tourist-attraction-world. blogspot .com

There’s a hanging bridge near the falls which provides an exciting vantage point to view the falls and the River Kaveri.

8. Photography

Credit: LBB .in

With its majestic waterfalls, rich greenery, and unique coracle rides, Hogenakkal offers countless opportunities for photography enthusiasts.

9. Oldest Carbonatite Rocks

Credit: trendytraveldestinations . WordPress . com

Hogenakkal is also renowned for its ancient rocks, some of which are believed to be among the oldest in the world.

10. Picnic

Pack lunch and find a quiet spot to relax and enjoy the natural beauty of the area.

When planning a trip to Hogenakkal Falls, it’s essential to be aware of the best season to visit. The monsoon season (June to September) sees the falls at its most vigorous, but it may also mean that some activities, like boat rides, could be restricted due to the heavy flow. The months following the monsoon season might be the most ideal for a visit. Always ensure safety precautions, especially when swimming or taking boat rides.

Frequently Asked Questions about Hogenakkal falls

1. What does ‘Hogenakkal’ mean?

The name ‘Hogenakkal’ is derived from two Kannada words: ‘hoge’ meaning ‘smoke’ and ‘kal’ meaning ‘rock’, referring to the smoky appearance given by the water hitting the rocks.

2. How can I reach Hogenakkal Falls?

Hogenakkal Falls is well-connected by road. The nearest major railway station is Dharmapuri and the nearest airports are Bengaluru and Coimbatore. From these points, one can take a cab or local transportation.

3. When is the best time to visit?

The best time to visit is post-monsoon, from October to March, when the water flow is abundant.

4. Is boating available?

Yes, traditional coracle (round basket boats) rides are available which give a close-up view of the falls.

5. Is it safe to swim?

Swimming can be dangerous due to the strong currents, especially during monsoon. Always heed local warnings and advisories.

6. Are there any accommodations nearby?

There are limited accommodations right at Hogenakkal, but one can find more lodging options in Dharmapuri or surrounding areas.

7. Are there other attractions nearby?

Yes, apart from the falls, there are Melagiri Hills, Pennagram Village (famous for grand statues), and medicinal baths (believed to have curative powers).

8. Can I visit the falls during monsoon?

While the falls will be in full flow during the monsoon, it might be risky due to high water levels and strong currents. The roads can also be slippery.

9. Are there eateries or restaurants near the falls?

Yes, there are several small eateries offering local delicacies, but it’s always good to carry some snacks and water.

10. Is photography allowed?

Yes, photography is allowed, and the scenic beauty provides ample opportunities for nature and landscape photographers.

11. What is the entry fee?

As of my last update in 2021, there was a nominal entry fee for visiting the falls. However, fees for boating, parking, and other activities might be separate. Always check the current status before visiting.

12. Is it a family-friendly destination?

Yes, Hogenakkal Falls is a family-friendly destination. However, with young kids or elderly family members, be cautious around slippery areas and strong currents.

For the most up-to-date information, consider checking with local tourism offices or official websites related to Hogenakkal Falls.

13. Why is it called the “Niagara Falls of India”?

Due to its grandeur and beauty, Hogenakkal Falls is often compared to Niagara Falls, leading to this nickname.

14. Is it safe to visit Hogenakkal Falls?

In general, it’s safe to visit, but always be cautious around water and rocky areas. It’s advised to avoid isolated places and stick to the main tourist paths.

It’s always recommended to check for the latest information from local tourism departments or official sources before planning a visit.

15. How to Reach Hogenakkal Falls?

To reach Hogenakkal Falls:

By Air:

The nearest airport to Hogenakkal Falls is the Bangalore International Airport (Kempegowda International Airport) in Bangalore, Karnataka, which is approximately 150 kilometers away. After landing in Bangalore, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Hogenakkal.

By Rail:

Dharmapuri is the nearest railway station to Hogenakkal Falls, which is around 45 kilometers away. Trains from major cities like Bangalore and Chennai stop at Dharmapuri. After arriving at Dharmapuri, one can hire a taxi or auto-rickshaw to reach Hogenakkal.

By Road to Hogenakkal Falls from Bangalore:

Hogenakkal is well connected by road. You can drive or hire a taxi from various cities in Tamil Nadu or from Bangalore in Karnataka. The roads are generally in good condition, and the scenic drive is a pleasure.

State-run buses from Tamil Nadu and Karnataka also ply to Hogenakkal regularly.

Local Transportation:

Once you reach Hogenakkal, you will need to cross the river to get a closer view of the falls. Coracle rides are available, which are round, lightweight boats made of bamboo and are a popular means of transport here.

Best Time to Visit:

The best time to visit Hogenakkal Falls is during the monsoon and post-monsoon seasons when the river is full, and the falls are at their majestic best. However, the flow can be strong during the monsoon, so it’s advised to exercise caution.

Travel Tips:

Although Hogenakkal is a popular tourist spot, it is advisable to check local conditions, especially during the monsoon season, as the water flow can be intense.

It’s also a good idea to carry some snacks and water, as there might be limited options available near the falls.

Other Waterfalls Near Bangalore

Bangalore’s urban jungle thrives on tech and startups, but sometimes you need a dip in nature’s tranquillity. Luckily, just beyond the city’s concrete embrace lies a network of cascading waterfalls, ready to wash away your worries and recharge your soul. Ditch the traffic and pack your adventurous spirit, because we’re exploring 5 stunning falls within a day trip from Bangalore. If you are like me, you have searched for falls near by me. Here are a few nearest waterfalls to Bangalore:

1. Chunchi Falls

A scenic 100km drive leads to Chunchi, where a series of cascades glisten amidst lush greenery. Swim in the refreshing pool at the base of the main fall, climb the rocks for panoramic views, or simply relax under the cool spray.

2. Mekedatu

Known as the “Niagara of Karnataka,” Mekedatu mesmerizes with its roaring plunge after the monsoon. Hike through the rugged terrain, witness the milky Cauvery River dance over the cliffs, and feel the power of nature unleashed. As you are looking for near Bangalore falls, you can consider visiting Makadatu.

3. Shivanasamudra Falls

Twin falls, Gaganachukki and Barachukki, create a spectacle at Shivanasamudra. Trek down to the pool formed by Gaganachukki, or boat under the cascading Barachukki, capturing the rainbows dancing in the mist. This is one of the nearest waterfalls to Bangalore as you can reach the falls within a 130-km drive.

4. Abbey Falls

Coorg’s misty hills hide the charming Abbey Falls. A short walk amidst coffee plantations leads to the secluded falls, perfect for a picnic by the gurgling stream. Take in the fresh mountain air and let the gentle melody of the water soothe your mind. Even though it is not one of the Bangalore nearest waterfalls, you can visit it around 5-hour drive from Bangalore.

5. Jog Falls

While a bit farther away at around 380 kilometres, Jog Falls is worth the journey. The second-highest waterfall in India, Jog Falls is a majestic spectacle as the River Sharavathi plunges from a height of 830 feet. The lush greenery surrounding the falls adds to the awe-inspiring ambiance. It is one of the near Bangalore falls.

Escape the urban chaos and embark on a journey to these Bangalore near falls. Whether you’re a nature lover, adventure seeker, or just in need of a tranquil retreat, these waterfalls promise a refreshing experience, rejuvenating both your senses and spirit.

Tips to Follow When Visiting Waterfalls in Bangalore

Bangalore’s bustling streets might scream innovation, but just beyond the city’s edge lies a network of cascading waterfalls, promising respite and rejuvenation. But before you embark on your waterfall adventure, equip yourself with these handy tips to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience:

1. Time your Trip

The monsoon months (June-September) bring the falls to life, but the sheer volume of water can be dangerous. Consider the post-monsoon months (October-November) for manageable water levels and lush greenery.

2. Pack Smart

Comfortable shoes with good grip are essential, as navigating wet rocks can be slippery. Pack swimwear and a towel if you plan to take a dip. Don’t forget sunscreen, a hat, and insect repellent!

3. Safety First

Always assess the situation before venturing near the falls. Strong currents and slippery rocks can be perilous. Avoid swimming near the main falls and heed any warning signs or local advice.

4. Responsible Tourism

Leave no trace! Pack reusable water bottles and bags to avoid plastic waste. Be mindful of the local ecosystem and avoid littering or disturbing wildlife when you visit the Bangalore nearest waterfalls.

5. Respect the Locals

Dress modestly, especially near religious sites. Ask permission before photographing people or filming. Remember, you’re a guest in their community.

6. Explore beyond the Falls

Most waterfall destinations offer additional attractions. Hike through scenic trails, visit nearby temples or historical sites, or sample local delicacies at village restaurants.

7. Be Prepared for Limited Amenities

Pack snacks and water, as food options near the falls might be limited. Carry a first-aid kit and any necessary medications.

8. Embrace the Adventure

Waterfalls are natural wonders, and their flow can be unpredictable. Be prepared for some mud, unexpected sprays, and the occasional change in plans.

9. Capture the Moment

Don’t forget your camera! The beauty of cascading water against lush greenery is sure to be Instagram-worthy. But remember, safety comes first, so don’t risk getting your device wet for the perfect shot.

10. Spread the Love

Share your Bangalore near falls experience with others! Recommend your favourite spot to fellow travellers, write a blog post, or post stunning photos on social media. Inspire others to seek their own urban escapes in the embrace of nature.

With these tips in mind, you’re ready to conquer the captivating waterfalls near Bangalore! So, pack your bags, lace up your shoes, and get ready to be mesmerized by the power and beauty of nature’s cascading gems. Remember, responsible tourism and a sense of adventure are your essential companions on this journey. Now, like me, you also know the falls near by me. Happy exploring!

I hope you found some useful information in this post. Do let me know your experiences or questions in the comments below!