Hogenakkal Waterfalls

Where is it?

Around 125 KM from Bengaluru, on the Kaveri river right on the border of Karnataka and Tamil Nadu.

What is it?

They call it the Niagara of India but after stating unequivocally in my previous blog that nature is incomparable, I will just ask you to make up your mind after looking at the pictures below as some things are indescribable.

Hogenakkal Waterfalls as the moon begins to shine

Hogenakkal Waterfalls from an alternate view

Hogenakkal Waterfalls: The gorge on the Kaveri River

If the sights look familiar then you have probably seen them in movies such as Roja or Raavanan.

How do I explore the area?

If you are visiting the falls during the rainy or winter seasons then you will not be allowed to take the boat to view the falls. Instead there will be a separate viewpoint to explore the region.

My trip fell in March so I got to use the small round boats known as coracles to catch some eye-popping views.

Hogenakkal Waterfalls: Coracles on the Kaveri river

Coracles on the Kaveri river at sunset

What else do I get to see apart from the cliffs and the falls?

Once you pass through the gorge a beautiful sandy beach awaits you where most boats typically stop in order for you to take a few snaps. The beach packs some fantastic views and is worth exploring. On the way to the beach you will also get a taste of the local village life where you will see vendors selling you pineapple pieces from their own coracles.

Sandy beach on the Kaveri river

Sights from the beach on the Kaveri river

What should I take care of?

Ensure you have your life jacket on as long as you are close to the water
Sit in the boat as per the boatman's instructions and do not change positions while on water as any sudden change might imbalance the boat
Only swim in areas designated by the boatman and do not take unnecessary chances as the depth in certain areas of the river could be as high as 80ft
Pack an additional pair of clothes so that you can switch from the wet ones once you finish the ride

Kaveri River at the intersection of Tamil Nadu and Karnataka

Final Thoughts

As the sun began to set on the hills and night fell the entire return journey assumed surrealistic proportions. The resplendent moon, the hue of the sky and the boats in the distance all seemed to convey a story worthy of a Wordsworth poem. You don't plan for such moments, you just take them in and feel grateful for having experienced it.

Next time you are close to Bengaluru, spare a day for Hogenakkal Waterfalls. The hills, the forest and the river all hark back to the bygone era where life was simpler and needs were less. A night under the stars, a tryst with nature, a day away from all the razzmatazz. Maybe that's the elixir we all need from time to time.

Rated: Must Visit

Until Next Time,

Your World Traveller,

Chaitanya J.J.

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