Save Big with Monthly Bookings!Save big with a monthly booking and ride worry-free all month long!
Explore Now
Pravin is a travel experience writer and a professional web developer passionate about making meaningful digital experiences. When not at work, he enjoys exploring new locations and sharing those experiences through story telling and writing. His passion for telling stories enables him to engage with people more deeply, fusing creativity and technology in all he does. Pravin wants to encourage people to travel, accept different viewpoints, and share their own special tales via his writing and art.
Mysore is not just the city of Palaces. Located close to the Western Ghats, a visit to Mysore comes with many natural waterfalls known for evoking a sense of wonder and mystery. When they encounter dips in the mountain ranges downstream, the many rivers that flow around Mysore are coaxed to gush down the rocky terrains, offering these impressive waterfalls near Mysore.
Whether on the southwest side of Kerala, the north in Karnataka, or east in Tamilnadu, plenty of waterfalls near Mysore command a visit at least once in a while. Further, the surroundings of lush green forests and rising mountain ranges with trekking trails make them ethereal.
Read the full article to learn about the best waterfalls near Mysore for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Explore the city with ease using bike rentals in mysore for a smooth travel experience.
Waterfalls Near Mysore - Overview
| Waterfall | Distance from Mysore | Location | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| Balmuri Waterfalls | 17 KM | Balumuri, Yadathittu, Karnataka | Man-made waterfall formed by the Cauvery dam at Srirangapatna, surrounded by greenery and coconut trees. |
| Chunchanakatte Falls | 56 KM | Chunchanakatte, Haliyur, Karnataka | A 20-meter fall from the Cauvery River, with scenic surroundings linked to a Ramayana legend. |
| Shivanasamudra Falls | 71 KM | Chamarajanara district, Karnataka | Two twin waterfalls formed by the Kaveri River, offering a spectacular sight, especially during the monsoon season. |
| Chunchi Falls | 130 KM | Madarahalli, Karnataka | A 100-ft waterfall on the Arkavathi River, ideal for swimming in the non-monsoon months. |
| Iruppu Falls | 120 KM | Brahmagiri range, Kurchi, Karnataka | 170m waterfall in the Western Ghats, rich in natural beauty and linked to a Ramayana story. |
| Abbey Falls | 128 KM | Hebbettageri, Karnataka | A 70-feet waterfall in Coorg, popular for its scenic beauty and a pool for visitors to dip in. |
| Chelavara Falls | 132 KM | Kodagu district, Karnataka | Known as "Tortoise Falls," this waterfall is great for water sports during the monsoon season. |
| Pykara Falls | 160 KM | Pykara, Sholur, Tamil Nadu | Formed by Pykara River, this waterfall offers a peaceful spot surrounded by mountains and greenery. |
| Meenmutty Waterfalls | 161 KM | Padinjarathara, Kerala | A multi-tiered waterfall in Wayanad, popular for trekking and adventure activities. |
| Mallalli Falls | 134 KM | Kumarahalli, Karnataka | A stunning 200-foot waterfall, accessible via a trek through the lush hills of Coorg. |
| Muthyala Maduvu | 170 KM | Thammanaikanahalli, Bengaluru, Karnataka | Also known as Pearl Valley, a serene waterfall with nearby trekking routes and scenic views. |
Balmuri Waterfalls
Credits: LBB
Located within 20 km of the city, Balmuri is the closest waterfall near Mysore for city dwellers and tourists alike. However, it is not a natural waterfall of Mysore! The scenic waterfall came into existence because of damming Cauvery at Srirangapatna.
The profusion of water flowing when the dam overflows forms a beautiful cascade that can’t but grip nature lovers. The green scrub and coconut trees surrounding the place make it a truly natural setting.
Distance from Mysore: 17 KM
Location: Balumuri, Yadathittu, Karnataka
Access: Well-connected by road, around 30 mins drive from Mysore.
Best Season to Visit: Post-monsoon (July–October).
Quick Facts: Man-made waterfall created by dam overflow; popular picnic spot.
Safety Notes: Avoid swimming when water flow is heavy.
Chunchanakatte Falls
Credits: Wikipedia
Yet another offering from the Cauvery River flow, Chunchanakatte waterfalls near Mysore, originated in a legend. When Rama, Laxmana, and Sita passed through the place during their exile, they were requested to stop by the local tribal couple Chuncha and Chunchi. When Mother Sita wanted to take a bath, Laxmana, on the command of Rama, pierced the mountain for water, leading the flow of Cauvery as a waterfall here.
Cauvery Waters cascade down from 20 metres height at Chunchanakatte Mysore waterfalls. The surrounding forests and rocky hills form the most scenic vistas that nature lovers can’t help but fall in love with.
Distance from Mysore: 56 KM
Location: Chunchanakatte, Haliyur, Karnataka
Access: Reachable by road; last mile through village road.
Best Season to Visit: Monsoon months (July–September).
Quick Facts: 20m high fall; linked to Ramayana legend.
Safety Notes: Rocks are slippery; avoid close edges.
Shivanasamudra Falls
Credits: Tripadvisor
The fiercely-flowing Kaveri River, through rocky terrain, splits into two twin streams to plunge down almost 90 metres, forming the Shivanasamudra waterfalls near Mysore. The twin waterfalls located in Mandya district are known as Barachukki and Gaganachukki. The cascading falls lead to beautiful streams at the foot, making up for a captivating natural sight.
Situated at around 75 KM from Mysore, monsoon is the best time to visit Shivanasamudra Falls in Mysore.
Distance from Mysore: 71 KM
Location: Chamarajanara district, bordering Mandya district, Karnataka
Access: Well-paved road; designated viewpoints available.
Best Season to Visit: Monsoon (July–October).
Quick Facts: Twin waterfalls – Barachukki & Gaganachukki; ~90m high.
Safety Notes: No swimming allowed due to strong undercurrents.
Chunchi Falls
Credits: Trawell
Chunchi Falls, located on the Arkavathi River, is a 100-ft waterfall near Kanakapura, on the way to Mekedatu and Sangama. The waterfall is surrounded by rocky terrain and deciduous forest, making it a great getaway from Mysore and Bangalore.
The water here is crystal clear and forms a natural pool that attracts many visitors for a quick swim. However, during summer, the water levels may dip, and the falls reduce to a trickle.
Distance from Mysore: 130 KM
Location: Madarahalli, Karnataka
Access: Accessible by road; last 5 km involves a short trek.
Best Season to Visit: Monsoon and post-monsoon (July–November).
Quick Facts: 100-ft fall on Arkavathi River; popular en route to Sangama.
Safety Notes: Swimming possible only in shallow months; avoid during peak monsoon.
Iruppu Falls
Credits: Trawell
Situated in the Brahmagiri Range, Iruppu Falls is one of the most famous waterfalls in Karnataka. The Lakshmana Tirtha River, a tributary of Cauvery, plunges down from 170 feet in two distinct stages to form this spectacular fall.
The surrounding Brahmagiri hills and forest trails make it popular among trekkers and pilgrims alike. Legend has it that Lakshmana shot an arrow to bring out the water here to quench Lord Rama’s thirst during exile.
Distance from Mysore: 120 KM
Location: Brahmagiri range, Kurchi, Karnataka
Access: Reachable by road; short 1 km trek required.
Best Season to Visit: August–January (post-monsoon).
Quick Facts: 170m fall; considered sacred and linked to Ramayana.
Safety Notes: Path can be slippery during monsoon; wear trekking shoes.
Abbey Falls
Credits: Karnataka Tourism
Abbey Falls, also called Abbi Falls, is nestled within the lush coffee plantations of Coorg. The 70-feet-high waterfall forms a small pool before flowing to the Kaveri River. The hanging bridge opposite the falls offers a breathtaking view.
It is a popular stop for tourists visiting Coorg, located about 10 km from Madikeri town.
Distance from Mysore: 128 KM
Location: Hebbettageri, Karnataka
Access: Good road till parking; 10-min walk down steps.
Best Season to Visit: Monsoon and post-monsoon (July–December).
Quick Facts: 70-ft high; nestled in coffee plantations; scenic hanging bridge.
Safety Notes: Swimming not allowed; strong currents near the pool.
Chelavara Falls
Credits: Holidify
Chelavara Falls, also known as Embepare (Tortoise Rock), is a beautiful natural waterfall formed by a tributary of the Kaveri River. The water gushes down from 150 feet amidst dense coffee plantations.
The waterfall is especially beautiful during the monsoon, making it a favorite spot for photographers and adventure seekers.
Distance from Mysore: 132 KM
Location: Kodagu district, Karnataka
Access: Road access till 1 km away; requires a short trek.
Best Season to Visit: July–October.
Quick Facts: Also called Tortoise Falls; ~150 ft drop.
Safety Notes: Swimming not safe; steep rocks and sudden gush.
Pykara Falls
Credits: Ooty Tourism
Pykara Falls is formed by the Pykara River in the Nilgiri district of Tamil Nadu. Flowing down through multiple stages, the river forms two falls of 55 and 61 meters, surrounded by lush green forests.
It is close to the Pykara Dam and Lake, which are popular boating destinations.
Distance from Mysore: 160 KM
Location: Pykara, Sholur, Tamil Nadu
Access: Well-paved road from Ooty; ~20 km drive.
Best Season to Visit: July–September.
Quick Facts: Multi-tiered waterfall; near Pykara Lake boating.
Safety Notes: Entry restricted near edges; use designated viewpoints.
Meenmutty Waterfalls
Credits: Kerala Tourism
Located in Wayanad, Kerala, Meenmutty is a three-tiered waterfall that plunges from a height of 300 meters, making it one of the tallest in Kerala.
The falls require a trek of about 2 km through dense forest, making it popular among adventure seekers.
Distance from Mysore: 161 KM
Location: Padinjarathara, Kerala
Access: Requires moderate 2 km trek through forest.
Best Season to Visit: September–January.
Quick Facts: 300m, three-tiered fall; among tallest in Kerala.
Safety Notes: Trek can be leech-prone in monsoon; carry salt/repellent.
Mallalli Falls
Credits: Karnataka Tourism
Mallalli Falls is a stunning 200-foot waterfall in the foothills of Pushpagiri in Coorg. The Kumaradhara River plunges down the cliffs, creating a magnificent sight.
Visitors often trek down the steps built along the hill to reach the base of the waterfall.
Distance from Mysore: 134 KM
Location: Kumarahalli, Karnataka
Access: Road till viewpoint; ~600 steps trek down.
Best Season to Visit: July–September (monsoon peak).
Quick Facts: 200-ft fall on Kumaradhara River.
Safety Notes: Steps get slippery in rains; descend carefully.
Muthyala Maduvu (Pearl Valley)
Credits: Karnataka Tourism
Muthyala Maduvu, also known as Pearl Valley, is located near Anekal, close to Bangalore. The water cascades down the rocky slope, and the droplets resemble scattered pearls, hence the name.
The valley is surrounded by hills and lush greenery, making it an excellent picnic spot.
Distance from Mysore: 170 KM
Location: Thammanaikanahalli, Bengaluru, Karnataka
Access: Easily reachable by road from Bangalore/Mysore.
Best Season to Visit: Post-monsoon (August–December).
Quick Facts: Called “Pearl Valley” because droplets look like pearls.
Safety Notes: Avoid during peak summer (water dries).
Plan your stay better with 10 Best Resorts in Mysore for a Perfect Retreat and enjoy a relaxing getaway.
Was this helpful?
