Waterfalls are a natural wonder. These magnificent formations are a sight to behold, and one can’t simply plan for a nature trip without visiting them. The state of Andhra Pradesh has some spectacular waterfalls which attract visitors from all over the country. Situated amidst serene surroundings and lush greenery, these magical waterfalls are not to be missed! While some of these falls, like the Ethipothala and Kuntala, are popularly known, there are many other hidden gems in the state which can capture you with their majestic beauty. These waterfalls in AP are mainly formed by the tributaries of the Krishna, Godavari and Nagavalli rivers. Chittoor and Nellore districts have the most number of waterfalls in the entire state, attracting tourists in large numbers. In this article, we shall explore more about these incredible falls and interesting facts about each of them!
Best Waterfalls In Andhra Pradesh With Images:
Planning for a trip to the waterfalls? We just made your job easy by putting together some of the most popular and famous waterfalls in Andhra Pradesh and all the key points to help you plan well.
1. Kothapally Waterfalls:
The recently discovered Kothapally waterfalls are located near Paderu in the Alluri Seethamaraju district of Andhra Pradesh. This is one of the amazing waterfalls in Andhra Pradesh and a must-see. The lush greenery and glistening water on the rocks make these falls worth a visit and attract thousands of tourists every year from different parts of the world. It can be reached from Paderu which is just 30 km away, Araku which is 70 km away or Lambasingi which is 40 km away. If you are planning to visit these three places, make sure to visit these beautiful waterfalls. The best time to visit Kothapally Falls is during winter when you can experience pleasant weather. It is a good place to visit with friends and family.
Highlights:
- Best Time To Visit: October – March
- River: Ghostani River
- Distance: 30 KM From Paderu and 70 KMs from Araku, and 40 KM from Lambasingi.
- How To Reach: You can reach here by taxi from Araku or Paderu.
2. Kailasakona Falls:
Kailasakona Falls is easily accessible from Tirupati, a holy place in Andhra Pradesh. The waterfall makes a beautiful scene three fourth times a year. The Kailasakona Falls is regarded as sacred and believed to have medicinal powers as well. There is a small temple dedicated to the worship of Lord Shiva and Parvati. One can witness two small falls near this temple, other than the main fall with just 4 to 6 feet in height, making it accessible for tourists to enjoy the cool waters.
Highlights:
- Height: 40 Feet
- Best Time To Visit: All Through The Year
- River: Bahuda
- Distance: 10 KM From Puttur and 70 KMs from Tirupati.
- How To Reach: You can hire a taxi from Puttur or Tirupati to reach this place. There is also special public transportation between Kailsakona and Tirupati.
- Other Attractions: A beautiful Shiva temple near the falls.
3. Pochera Waterfalls:
Pochera Waterfalls is situated amongst a dense forest of Sahayadri and is closely located near Nirmal and Adilabad. The Pochera Falls is one of its kind among the waterfalls in Andhra Pradesh. As it is wide and deep, it is considered to be dangerous. As this waterfall has been discovered very recently, its natural beauty remains untouched. It is formed by River Godavari, which flows through the Sahyadri range. Make sure to carry some food with you, as the nearest eatery is located in Nirmal, 37 KM away from the falls.
Highlights:
- Height: 20 Meters
- Best Time To Visit: August To December
- River: Godavari
- Distance: 37 KM From Nirmal and 47 KM from Adilabad.
- How To Reach: These falls have access via road and can be reached using a bus or taxi.
- Other Attractions: Narasimha Swami temple near the waterfalls.
4. Ethipothala Falls:
Ethipothala Falls is 70 ft high and is formed from the Chandravakna River, which is a tributary of the river Krishna. It gets its name from the Telugu words “Ehtu” and “Pothala”, meaning “lift and pour”, and is 11 kilometres from Nagarjuna Sagar Dam. The waterfall depicts a beautiful sight as the sun sets in the evenings. The colourful lights give a wonderful and astonishing view for the tourists. There is also a crocodile breeding centre in the ponds formed by the waterfall. It is one of the biggest waterfalls in Andhra Pradesh, located at a distance of just 177 km from Vijayawada and around 140 km from Guntur city.
Highlights:
- Height: 70 Feet
- Best Time To Visit: Monsoon Season
- River: Chandravanka, which is a tributary of the river Krishna.
- Distance: 11 KM from Nagarjuna Sagar dam.
- How To Reach: You can take a bus from Hyderabad to Nagarjuna Sagar and then hire a taxi from there.
- Other Attractions: Nagarjuna Sagar Dam and Ethipothala View Point.
Read: Best Pilgrimage Sites and Temples in Andhra Pradesh
5. Talakona Falls:
The Talakona is one of the popular waterfalls near Tirupati, situated 40 km from the place, near the Sri Venkateswara National Park in the Chittoor District of the state. With a 270 feet plunge, the Talakona becomes the highest waterfall in Andhra Pradesh. The Talakona Fall depicts a serene and placid ambience. The area was declared a biosphere reserve between the years 1989 – 1990 due to the rich and vivid flora and fauna around the place. Talakona Waterfalls in Tirupati Andhra Pradesh are one of the most widely mentioned falls in the state.
Highlights:
- Height: 270 Feet
- Best Time To Visit: September to December
- River: Talakona
- Distance: 64 KM from Tirupati and 240 KM from Bangalore.
- How To Reach: You can take a bus to Chittoor, which is 89 KM away, and hire a taxi or bus.
- Other Attractions: Lord Siddheswara Swamy temple is situated close to the waterfalls and is swarmed with crowds during Mahasivarathri.
6. Ubbalamadugu Falls:
Ubbalamadugu Falls or Tada Falls is situated between the borders of Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu. It falls under the Chittoor district in the north of Sicily. The fall is about 80 km away from the bustling city of Chennai. Located in the forest Kambakam, reaching this fall requires a certain amount of trekking. This place can get crowded during Mahasivarathri, as it is mythologically associated with Lord Shiva.
Highlights:
- Height: 100 Meters
- Best Time To Visit: April, July and August.
- River: Godavari
- Distance: 113 KM from Chennai
- How To Reach: You can take a bus from the Koyambedu Bus stop to Varadiah Palem. From there you need to hire a local guide and do a 10km trek to reach the falls.
- Other Attractions: Shiva Temple near the waterfalls.
7. Mallela Theertham:
Mallela Theertham is situated in the middle of the dense forest of Nallamala Forest in Mahbubnagar, which is 185 kilometres from Hyderabad, the capital of the state. The waterfall can be accessed after a walk down 350 steps. The fall traverses the dense terrains of the forest and ultimately meets the Krishna River. As per legends, it is believed that many sages performed penance to Lord Shiva in this very place. It is also said to be a popular watersport for many tigers who used to come here to quench their thirst.
Highlights:
- Height: 150 Feet
- Best Time To Visit: October To February
- River: Krishna
- Distance: 58 km from Srisailam and 185 KM from Hyderabad.
- How To Reach: There is a bus every 30 minutes from Hyderabad to Srisailam. Get down at Vatvarlapally and take another 8km bus journey to reach the spot.
- Other Attractions: Small waterfalls near the main fall and a Siva lingam to offer worship.
8. Katiki Waterfalls:
Katiki is one of the popular Vizag waterfalls, named after the mythological figure Kaitiki and is 50 ft high. It lies 4 km away from the Borra Caves, which is en route to Arraku Valleys. The fall originates from the Ghostani River, and it requires a 2 km long trek to reach the fall. The fall is perennial and highly enjoyable for avid trekkers. The base camp of this waterfall offers many attractions like camping, barbeque and shopping for spices and honey. Katiki Falls is the most attractive waterfall in Andhra Pradesh.
Highlights:
- Height: 50 Feet
- Best Time To Visit: February to December
- River: Gosthani
- Distance: 4 KM from Borra Caves
- How To Reach: From Borra caves, you must take a jeep to this place.
- Other Attractions: Shopping, Bamboo Chicken and Camping.
Read: Important National Parks and Sanctuaries in Andhra Pradesh
9. Thatiguda Falls:
The Thatiguda Falls of the Ghostani River is situated in the Vishakhapatnam and it’s under construction to make it more accessible for tourists and visitors. There are no proper roads to reach the waterfall and one has to cross the green fields and hilly terrains to reach the fall. The waterfall is layered by towering rocks at one side and lush greenery on the other.
Highlights:
- Height: 722 metres (Water cascades stepwise)
- Best Time To Visit: All through the year
- River: Gosthani
- Distance: 110 KM from Vizag Airport
- How To Reach: One KM walk from Ananthagiri town.
- Other Attractions: A walk through the village to reach this waterfall.
10. Kuntala Waterfall:
Situated in the Alidabad district the Kuntala waterfall is located in the Kadam River. It is one of the highest waterfalls in the state plunging 147 feet and also one of the favourite outings for the nearby Hyderabad-ians. According to common folklore, the Kuntala River was named after Shakuntala the mother of Bharat. These falls are located in a dense forest which is inhabited by the Gonds. It cascades down in two steps and during monsoon season it is a magnificent sight to behold.
Highlights:
- Height: 147 Meters
- Best Time To Visit: September to December
- River: Kadam
- Distance: 58km from Adilabad Railway station.
- How To Reach: You can hire private jeeps from Adilabad to reach the place.
- Other Attractions: Wonderful view of the surroundings.
11. Kaigal Waterfalls:
Situated in close proximity to the Koundinya Wildlife Sanctuary in the Chittor District of the state the Kaigal Waterfalls is locally known as Dumukurallu Waterfalls. The waterfall is enjoyed most during the monsoon and emits a spectacular view for tourists. The falls are surrounded by dense forests which are abundant with flora and fauna.
Highlights:
- Height: 40 Feet
- Best Time To Visit: September to December
- River: Gosthani
- Distance: 78 KM from Kanipakam and 142 KM from Tirupati.
- How To Reach: You can take a Palamaner-Kuppam bus and get down at the Kaigal Waterfalls bus stop.
- Other Attractions: Wildlife Sanctuary.
Read: Main Festivals Celebrated in Andhra Pradesh
12. Nagalapuram Waterfalls:
This scenic waterfall is located near Arai village, Chittoor district. It gets its name from Nagalapuram town, which is around 18km from the waterfall. This waterfall is popular with trekkers who enjoy the walk through the dense forest. On the way, you can see three waterfalls, with a pool next to them for visitors to enjoy the waters. The waterfall is perennial and during monsoon, it reaches its peak stage.
Highlights:
- Height: 64 Meters
- Best Time To Visit: Throughout the year, but summers are extremely hot.
- River: Suvarnamukhi
- Distance: 3 Hr Drive from Chennai and 18 km from Nagalapuram town.
- How To Reach: Vepagunta is the nearest railway station to this town, from where you can hire local taxis.
- Other Attractions: Vedanarayana Swamy temple and trekking.
13. Maredumilli Amruthadhara Falls:
One of the spectacular waterfalls near Rajahmundry, Amruthadhara, is a must-visit place. It flows amidst dense forests and cascades in two stages. And It is slightly difficult to reach the waterfall and one needs to climb down a steep slope of 1 KM. It is advised to wear proper shoes to avoid slipping down. This beautiful waterfall is maintained by the local Adivasis, who ensure the path is clear to the visitors.
Highlights:
- Height: 64 Meters
- Best Time To Visit: August to September
- River: Godavari
- Distance: 15 KM from Maredumalli Bus stand.
- How To Reach: From Maredumalli, you can hire a jeep to reach the place.
- Other Attractions: As per local tourists, one can get good biryani and bamboo chicken here.
14. Rampa Waterfalls:
If you visit the East Godavari district, Rampa waterfall is a must-visit. Located at a 4 km distance from Rampachodavaram village, this is often said to be one of the best waterfalls. The waters are not too deep and one can take a plunge and enjoy a cool splash. The road which leads to the waterfalls from the forest is maintained by the local tribes. To reach the waterfall, one needs to take a small trek of 20 minutes.
Highlights:
- Height: 50 Feet
- Best Time To Visit: October to February
- River: Godavari
- Distance: 4 Km from Rampachodavaram and 29 KM from Maredumilli.
- How To Reach: From Maredumalli, you can hire a jeep to reach the place.
- Other Attractions: Bhupathipalem Dam which is 8 KM from the waterfalls and a Shiva temple just beside the falls.
Read: Romantic Places to Go for Honeymoon in Andhra Pradesh
15. Anantagiri Waterfalls:
This amazing waterfall is one of the quickest getaways from Hyderabad. It is located approximately 90 km from the city and offers the most scenic destination to all nature lovers. The falls are formed by a tributary of the Krishna River and are quite popular with campers and trekkers. There is also a small shrine of Anantha Padmanabhaswamy temple, which is flocked by devotees.
Highlights:
- Height: 25 Feet
- Best Time To Visit: October to February
- River: Krishna
- Distance: 90 Km from Hyderabad City
- How To Reach: After reaching Anantagiri Hills, you need to take a 2 KM walk.
- Other Attractions: A beautiful temple and scenic location to enjoy.
Additional Tips To Follow While Visiting Waterfalls:
Before visiting the above waterfalls, make sure to follow these tips:
- Most of the waterfalls are located in dense locations. So, make sure to take a route map or a GPS with you.
- Except for one or two places, finding a decent place to eat is difficult. Make sure to pack some food and drinking water to avoid inconvenience.
- Strictly avoid these places in the summer months, as the heat is unbearable. The peak monsoon season may also be dangerous.
- Make sure to carry some medicines in case of emergencies.
- In certain places, photography is not allowed. Make sure to read about their rules carefully before the visit.
Frequently Asked Questions and Answers:
1. Are There Any Entry Fees to Ethipothala Waterfalls?
No. Ethipothala waterfalls are free to visit and there is no charge to enter the place. Even parking is open to visitors, however, the place has teemed with monkeys, and you might want to be extra careful with them. Make sure to close all the glasses and secure the doors before leaving the place.
2. Is Camping Allowed Near the Waterfalls?
Certain waterfalls like the Kaitiki waterfalls allow for camping. However, you need to remember that camping is done at your own risk. If you really want to stay close to the falls and ensure safety, it is advisable to choose a nearby resort or a Government guest house.
3. Other Than the Mentioned Waterfalls, are There Any Other Unknown Places to Explore?
While the article mentioned the popular waterfalls in Andhra Pradesh, there are other hidden gems away from the hustle and bustle of city life. Some of these are the Kothapally waterfalls in Visakhapatnam, Papavinasam Thirtham in Tirupati, and Veyilingakona waterfalls in Srikalahasti. These are extremely popular with the locals and can be enjoyed over a weekend.
We hope these beautiful waterfalls in Andhra Pradesh have filled you with joy and pleasure. The very sight of a majestic fall cascading down from such great heights show us our place in nature. We are belittled by these incredible beauties and are sure to remain humble in their presence. Next time you plan for a family trip, make sure to take your kids along to one of these beautiful falls to show them the true face of mother nature. We are pretty sure it will be a trip to remember and will be much appreciated! Do follow the caution boards and stay safe! Also, don’t forget to share your comments and feedback about these places.
