Chunchanakatte Falls — Attraction in Karnataka

Chunchanakatte Falls Chunchanakatte Falls (Kannada: ಚುಂಚನಕಟ್ಟೆ ಜಲಪಾತ ಅಥವಾ ಚುಂಚನಕಟ್ಟೆ ಫಾಲ್ಸ್) is a waterfall on the Kaveri River, near the village of Chunchanakatte in krishnarajanagar taluk of Mysore district, Karnataka, India. Water cascades from a height of about 20 meters.Here the river falls in two small cascades before joining again to flow as one.

The waterfall can be reached by taking a diversion at Krishnarajanagar on the Mysore-Hassan highway. The diversion is on the left at the circle in the town of KR Nagar. A subsequent right turn on to a mud road leads to the waterfall. It is located at approximately 15 km from the town of KR Nagar.

Chunchanakatte is the holy place where Lord Sri Rama during his vanvas stopped by and availed the hospitality of a tribal couple called Chuncha and Chunchi. The significance of this place is that the sound of the powerful falls can be heard all over except inside the sanctum sanctorum of the centuries old temple, the story goes that Lord Rama was tired of the constant complaining of Sita Mata and gave a curse saying that the tongue of a woman should not be sharp and since Cauvery (river) is considered to be female the noise that the river generated would not be heard in the sanctum sanctorum of the lord. It is also said that when Sita Mata was tired and weary and wanted to have a bath, Lord Ram directed Lakshman to fire an arrow at a rock, once Lakshmana fired the arrow, water in 3 different shades started pouring out, one with turmeric, one with oil and one with shikakai (fruit for hair - natural shampoo). These shades are visible even today when there is considerable amount of water flowing in the falls. Before the powerplant was established, this place was like paradise on earth with nature at its best.

It is situated in Mysore District at a distance of 57 km from Mysore, 7 km from K.R.Nagar. It is well connected by road. Buses ply between Mysore and Chunchanakatte. The place is not known for any amenities but one can find bakeries and small eateries and hotels at K.R.Nagar.

Is very famous for sugar and also paddy. Chunchanakatte is surrounded by the Cauvery river, which goes to KRS dam reservoir. It is also a holy place for many Hindus, where they have Lord Sree Kodanda Rama who on the way to Lanka stopped here.

This locale has been used in a lot of regional (Kannada) movies and has been a haunt for many of the film stars and politicians, most famous being Rajkumar. This region is mainly inhabited by farmers and employees of a local sugar mill and of late the power generation plant.

Cauvery flows into Chunchankatte roaring thunderously forming a 60 feet height and approximately 300 to 400 feet wide waterfalls. This place is situated 57 km from Mysore in Krishna Raja Nagar (K.R.Nagar) taluk, Mysore district. When the river reaches to cascade it is divided into two separate falls and joins again to continue to flow as one into Krishna Raja Sagar (KRS) dam. The roar is deafening and the spray from the falls is refreshing. The gushing of water from every nook and corner of the rocky bed forms a milky white falls and the brown colored water in some parts of the falls shows the fertility that Cauvery brings along with her to the deccan plateau. At one angle you can see a large quantity of water whoosh to about 10 feet away from the jutting rocky bed before cascading into the river displaying the force at which it flows. This force is well tapped here and there is a hydraulic power generating station installed. It is in its best form during monsoon, but during seasons where there is less inflow of water, you can climb onto the rocks and explore more. From Mysore, drive down Mysore-Hassan highway and reach K.R.Nagar. Here, any of the locals can guide you to the falls. It is approximately 8 kilometers...

Chunchunkatte Falls is an absolute hidden gem nestled in the heart of Karnataka. Located about 55 km from Mysuru, this spot is perfect for a peaceful day trip. The waterfall is formed by the Cauvery River, cascading gracefully over rocky terrain. It’s especially breathtaking during the monsoon season when the water flow is at its peak. Surrounded by lush greenery and tranquil forest vibes, it feels like nature’s own symphony. The sound of the gushing water is incredibly soothing and rejuvenating. Unlike many popular waterfalls, Chunchunkatte is relatively less crowded. This makes it ideal for those looking to avoid the hustle and bustle. There’s also a small but beautiful temple right next to the falls. The temple, dedicated to Lord Kodandarama, adds a spiritual charm to the visit. The story of Lord Rama’s visit here, as per local legends, adds cultural depth. Photography lovers will find countless spots for nature and landscape shots. You can climb down closer to the rocks for better views, but do so cautiously. The area can get slippery, especially after rain—wear good footwear. There are very limited food options nearby, so it’s best to carry your own snacks. Drinking water and basic necessities should also be brought along. Parking is available, though not very organized or marked clearly. The road leading to the falls is narrow and patchy in places, but manageable. People are generally friendly and happy to guide tourists. Morning visits are highly recommended for the best light and serenity. If you’re lucky, you might spot some birds and butterflies around the area. The breeze here is refreshing and carries the scent of the nearby forest. There’s something incredibly meditative about sitting and watching the falls. It’s a great spot for family picnics, though supervision is important for kids. No entry ticket is required as of now, which is a plus. Cleanliness is decent, but visitors should help keep it that way. Plastic and littering are discouraged, and rightly so. This place is a wonderful reminder of nature’s unspoiled beauty. I would recommend carrying a camera, towel, and a small mat for sitting. If you’re spiritual, don’t miss attending a pooja at the temple if it’s happening. There’s a calm energy here that’s hard to put into words. Ideal for nature lovers, spiritual seekers, or anyone needing a break from city life. You won’t find loud tourists or commercial activities here—just peace. Do note: there are no changing rooms or major restrooms nearby. Best to plan your visit between July and January for peak flow. Even during summer, the falls don’t dry up completely, which is rare. It’s an offbeat destination that deserves more recognition. We spent about 2–3 hours here and it was truly time well spent. I’d gladly visit again—next time with a picnic basket and a book! Chunchunkatte Falls is truly a serene, soul-soothing spot worth exploring.

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Chunchanakatte waterfalls, Chunchanakatte

Chunchanakatte Falls is a waterfall on the Kaveri River, near the village of Chunchanakatte in Krishnarajanagara taluk of Mysore district, Karnataka, India. Water cascades from a height of about 20 meters. It is in the Western Ghats. Here the river falls in two small cascades before joining again to flow as one. Cauvery flows into Chunchanakatte roaring thunderously forming a 60 feet height and approximately 300 to 400 feet wide waterfalls.

The roar is deafening and the spray from the falls is refreshing. The gushing of water from every nook and corner of the rocky bed forms a milky white falls and the brown colored water in some parts of the falls shows the fertility that Cauvery brings along with her to the Deccan plateau.

At one angle you can see a large quantity of water whoosh to about 10 feet away from the jutting rocky bed before cascading into the river displaying the force at which it flows. This force is well tapped here and there is a hydraulic power generating station installed. It is in its best form during monsoon, but during seasons where there is less inflow of water, you can climb onto the rocks and explore more.

Chunchanakatte is the holy place where Lord Sri Rama during his vanvas stopped by and availed the hospitality of a tribal couple called Chuncha and Chunchi.

The significance of this place is that the sound of the powerful falls can be heard all over except inside the sanctum sanctorum of the centuries-old temple, the story goes that Lord Rama was tired of the constant complaining of Sita Mata and gave a curse saying that the tongue of a woman should not be sharp and since Cauvery (river) is considered to be female the noise that the river generated would not be heard in the sanctum sanctorum of the lord.

It is also said that when Sita Mata was tired and weary and wanted to have a bath, Lord Ram directed Lakshman to fire an arrow at a rock, once Lakshmana fired the arrow, water in 3 different shades started pouring out, one with turmeric, one with oil and one with shikakai (fruit for hair - natural shampoo). These shades are visible even today when there is considerable amount of water flowing in the falls. Before the power plant was established, this place was like paradise on earth with nature at its best.

It is not permitted to go near the falls since there have been a few cases of accidents and drowning especially when the power generating unit releases water. A board to this effect cautioning people is placed at the rear end of the temple steps to the falls.

Photos by Viswas Menon © Viswas Menon Write up compiled by...