Hogenakkal Falls 2022

 

Hogenakkal Falls, located on the border of Tamil Nadu and Karnataka, is one of the most scenic places to visit in the region. The waterfall is known as Hogenakkal, or “Smoky Rocks”, because of the unique arrangement of the gigantic carbonated rocks that surround it.

 The sight of River Kaveri splitting into multiple small streams and cascading from different heights ranging from 15 feet to 66 feet will leave you mesmerized! Hogenakkal Waterfall is similar to the popular Niagara Falls in that water gushes down over huge rocks in a similar manner.

Hogenakkal Waterfall is a popular destination attraction among nature lovers, adventure seekers, trekkers and shutterbugs.

 If you are planning a trip to this waterfall, here is some information about Hogenakkal Falls location, timings, activities, parking fee and more.

Hogenakkal Falls distance of only 127 km from Bangalore makes it a popular attraction among those looking to escape the city’s heat and chaos. 

The waterfalls natural surroundings, coupled with different activities, make it a wonderful option for a memorable day-trip.

The water drops from an elevation of about 65 fit at its highest point and from 15 fit at its lowest point. The waterfalls cannot be reached via road; 

a boat-ride from the last motorable point takes you near the waterfall. Coracles can be hired to get closer to the waterfall.   

Boatmen row the coracles into the gorge as there is no place from where you can have a good wide view of Hogenakkal Falls. 

Boating is allowed only after the monsoon has passed because the current in the water is negligible during the dry season and it doesn’t disrupt boating.

The river near the falls is a good place to try your swimming skills as the water has some current here.

 The hills near the falls have many trails where adventure seekers can go trekking in the Menagerie Hills. 

You can relax while getting a massage from the Hogenakkal masseurs who have an array of oils and powders to rejuvenate your body.

At Hogenakkal, the Kaveri River creates numerous waterfalls that flow through the rocky terrain.

 The water from the fall flows towards the Metter Dam which is also known as the Stanley Reservoir.  

During the dry season, when the river is peaceful and safe, boat rides in coracles (basket-shaped boats) are among the most popular activities. 

Hiking up to the falls through lush greenery and a maze of rocks is also an option.

The hike is easy and suitable for beginners.

 Nature lovers can also enjoy a leisurely walk around the falls and soak in the scenery.

Apart from trying out different activities, you can shop at the Eco Shop here for herbal products, essential oils, handicrafts and t-shirts.

Hogenakkal is well-known for its fresh-caught fish dishes and oil massages too.

Boating in Hogenakkal is allowed during the dry-season as the falls are not strong enough to disrupt the passage of the boats.

 This is the main source of income for boat operators. The coracles are about 2.24 m (7 ft 4 in) in diameter and can carry eight people at a time.

When in Tamilnadu, it gets mandatory to visit the Hogenakkal Falls, one of the most popular tourist spots in Tamilnadu. 

These falls are set up at an elevation of 700 m cuddled up on the river Kaveri in the Dharmapuri District of the state and lies on the border of Tamilnadu and Karnataka. 

The surrounding environs ooze out tranquility and make it up for a delightful experience for the travelers coming here to enjoy some time alone. The Kaveri river shapes up at Talakaveri in Brahmagiri and gains its flow as the land dips to a certain elevation. On its way to Hogenakkal, a number of rivers intermingle with Kaveri River, turning it into a large one.

The water is then diverted by rocky terrain which reminds its visitors of Niagara Falls and hence is popularly known as the “Niagara Falls of India”.

After making its mark at the falls, the river then takes a southern route and pass into the Metter Stanley Reservoir also known as Metter Dam. The dam was constructed in the year 1939 for better irrigation and for hydropower generation.

[1] These coracles are made of bamboo, and with all materials available takes about a day to build. The bottom of the boats are made waterproof by the use of hides, but sometimes with sheets of plastic.

[2] Use of plastics in the Hogenakkal vicinity, not just for boats, has been criticized due to problems with pollution.

[3] These boats are steered and propelled using a single paddle, making them unique. 

The coracles are locally called perusal in Tamil and tepa or marigold in Kannada.

[4]Hogenakkal Falls.

[5] is the location for the Hogenakkal Integrated Drinking Water Project proposed by the Tamil Nadu Government.

[6] The objective of this project is to provide safe drinking water to the urban and rural areas in Krishnagar and Dharmapuri districts.

[7] In February 2008, The Japan Bank for International Cooperation agreed to fund the PRs 1,340-crore project.