Best Waterfalls in Chikmagalur & Nearby (with Entry Fee & Timings)
Last updated: 2026-04-26
The waterfalls in Chikmagalur are scattered across the Western Ghats — some inside coffee estates, others reached only by 4x4 jeeps through the forest. Hebbe and Jhari are the headliners, but lesser-known falls like Manikyadhara and Hanuman Gundi reward travellers who venture deeper. This guide lists every accessible waterfall with entry fee, timings, distance and how to reach.
All Waterfalls in & Around Chikmagalur
Hebbe Falls
Best for: Adventure & families
168 m • 60 km from town • Jeep ride mandatory
A two-tier 168-metre waterfall hidden inside Kemmanagundi range. The last 8 km is a rough forest trail accessible only by official 4x4 jeeps from Kemmanagundi.
Entry fee: ₹50 + jeep ride ₹600 per person (shared)
A tucked-away cascade locally called Buttermilk Falls for its frothy white water. Reached via a private coffee estate gate; 4x4 jeep recommended for the last 4 km.
A sacred waterfall flowing over a Veerabhadra temple complex. Easy roadside access — no trekking needed. Especially full in late monsoon (August–September).
A roadside waterfall on the way to Kudremukh, framed by dense rainforest. Stop for 30 minutes en route to Kudremukh trek or Sringeri.
Entry fee: included with Kudremukh permit
Timings: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Best season: September–March
Manikyadhara Falls
Best for: Spiritual visitors & families
Sacred falls • 30 km from town
A short 100-metre walk from the road, near Baba Budangiri shrine. Pilgrims bathe here believing the waters are holy. Best clubbed with Baba Budangiri visit.
Entry fee: free
Timings: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Best season: October–February
Hanuman Gundi Falls
Best for: Trekkers
100 m • Inside Kudremukh NP
A 100-metre waterfall reached after descending around 450 stone steps inside Kudremukh National Park. Powerful flow during and after monsoon.
Entry fee: ₹200 + ₹150 vehicle entry
Timings: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Best season: September–February
Shanti Falls
Best for: Quick stops
Small cascade • 35 km from town
An off-track cascade near Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary. Best clubbed with a Bhadra safari trip. Often skipped, hence very quiet.
Entry fee: free
Best season: August–January
Waterfall Safety in Chikmagalur
The Western Ghats are beautiful but unforgiving. Every monsoon brings news of slip accidents at unmarked falls.
Never enter the pool below a waterfall — undercurrents are deadly
Stick to railed viewing decks; rocks are mossy
Avoid falls upstream during heavy rain (flash floods)
Don't drink the water — even at 'sacred' falls
Carry a dry-bag for phones and cameras
waterfalls in Chikmagalur — FAQs
Hebbe Falls is the most spectacular — a two-tier 168-metre cascade reached by a 4x4 jeep ride through forest. Jhari Falls is a close second for couples.