India’s highest waterfalls and where to spot these natural wonders

Why would you want to go to another country to see waterfalls when India has an array of magnificent waterfalls ranging from Meghalaya plateaus to Ghats' steep falls illustrating the land's topography and seasonal falls? Ranging from Karnataka to the Northeast, you can spot a number of the tallest waterfalls of India. While some are huge pools, others are monsoon-fed rivers. All these waterfalls are powerfully flowing around surrounded by scenic beauty. All these majestic waterfalls, also the tallest waterfalls, should be visited by travelers at least once in their lifetime as their height will surely leave you amazed!

Coming at the top of the list is Kunchikal Falls, standing at a height of 1,493 ft. India's highest waterfall is found on the Varahi River in Karnataka's Shimoga district. The monsoon season, July to September, is the ideal time to visit the waterfall, but the approach here is limited and advance permission is needed since this waterfall is located in a restricted hydroelectric zone. The waterfall possesses high ecological as well as hydrological importance. Water here is let out seasonally following the completion of Mani Dam and the Varahi hydroelectric project.

This is India's second highest waterfall with a height of 1,309 ft. This is a two-levelled waterfall found in the Similipal National Park in Odisha's Mayurbhanj district. This is also the tallest waterfall in Odisha. One can access this waterfall via the Similipal National Park. The best time to visit the falls in their full fury is in the post-monsoon season, from November to February, when the flow of water is strong and the climate is pleasant. Even night stays are possible in forest rest houses and eco-tourism cottages inside Similipal National Park close to the waterfall.

It is the third tallest waterfall in India, measuring a height of 1,115 ft and the highest plunge waterfall, which directly plunges into a turquoise plunge pool. It is situated in the East Khasi Hills close to Cherrapunji in Meghalaya. The best time to see Nohkalikai Falls in all its splendor is during the monsoon months (June to September), when it is supplied by rainwater and the surrounding landscape is lush green. The post-monsoon period (October to March) has better views and good weather, ideal for sightseeing and trekking. This waterfall has been named after the Khasi tragic legend of Ka Likai and is a stunning waterfall that would leave you definitely awestruck.

This fall is the fourth tallest in the height of 1,033 ft; also referred to as the Seven Sisters Falls and is a stunning seven-segmented one. This waterfall comes close to Cherrapunji (Sohra) of East Khasi Hills district of Meghalaya. This waterfall falls from limestone cliffs and consists of seven various streams that flow together during rains. The most favorable time to visit this waterfall is during the monsoon months (June to September), where rich rain supply feeds the falls and makes it have a strong flow. It is believed that this one gets its alternate name from a village legend of seven sky sisters coming down to bathe in the terrestrial waters and were so captivated by the beauty of the scenery that they decided to stay there for eternity.

One of India's highest waterfalls, it is 1,020 ft high and also the most iconic tiered fall, and the name of this fall is translated as 'sea of milk'. This waterfall appears on the river Mandovi, at the border of Karnataka and Goa. This is also a favorite among tourists because it is majestic in beauty and has four tiers along with an exquisite milky white appearance. This fall is situated in the Bhagwan Mahaveer Sanctuary and Mollem National Park, within the Western Ghats Mountain range. One can access this fall through jeep safari by the sanctuary, which is the easiest way, or through trek routes that run through thick forests and railway lines. The best time to visit this waterfall is when the monsoon arrives from June to September because then the water supply increases manifold and there is greenery everywhere.