Top 7 Waterfalls in Uttarakhand Routes, Tips & Best Time

 Uttarakhand is a dream for waterfall lovers-lush forests, cool mountain air, and cascades you can reach on a weekend. This guide covers seven of the best waterfalls in Uttarakhand, providing simple “how to reach” tips, the best time to visit, safety notes, and recommendations on where to stay nearby. Most are easy day trips from Mussoorie, Rishikesh, Badrinath, Chakrata, Ramnagar, or Munsiyari. Pack good shoes, carry water, and leave no trace - let’s go and chase some falls!

Introduction

Uttarakhand, often celebrated as the “Land of Gods,” is not only about sacred temples and snow-clad peaks—it is also a home to some of the most beautiful waterfalls in India. Tucked away in lush valleys in the mountains and dense forests, these waterfalls feel like nature’s hidden gift. Whatever you are, a traveler seeking adventure, a photographer chasing the perfect shot, or simply someone who craves peace in nature’s lap, these waterfalls promise an unforgettable experience. In this guide, we’ll explore the 7 most beautiful waterfalls in Uttarakhand-their history, locations, travel tips, and everything you need to know before you visit.

1) Kempty Falls, Mussoorie

Why go: The most famous cascade near Mussoorie; it was developed as a tourist spot in the 1830s.

Location & access: ~13-15 km from Mussoorie on the Chakrata/Yamunotri road; roads & ropeway available; nearest rail/air: Dehradun (Jolly Grant).

Best time: June-October (post-monsoon to summer).

Vibe & Tips: Can be crowded - go early in the morning; avoid swimming during peak monsoon season.

Stays: Base yourself in Mussoorie town (a wide range of hotels).

Use a CC image from Wikimedia Commons 

2) Tiger Falls, Chakrata

Why go: One of Uttarakhand’s highest direct waterfalls - great for a forest trek and picnic.

Location & access: ~20 km from Chakrata; final stretch is a ~5 km forest trail through oak & rhododendron; Chakrata is ~88 - 98 km from Dehradun by road.

Best time: Sept - Nov and Mar-May (clear trails, good flow).

Vibe & tips: Less commercial than Mussoorie/Rishikesh spots; carry snacks, trash back out.

Stays: Homestays/guest houses in Chakrata market area.

CC photo available on Wikimedia Commons

3) Neer Garh (Neer Gaddu) Waterfalls, Rishikesh

Why go: A set of emerald pools and tiered falls popular with hikers near Rishikesh.

Location & access: ~ 5 - 7 km from Laxman Jhula on the Rishikesh-Badrinath highway; short uphill walk from the road.

Best time: Oct - Apr; avoid heavy rainy days.

Vibe & tips: Low entry fee at the gate; modest cafes near the lower pool.

Stays: Tapovan/Laxman Jhula (hostels to boutique stays).

 CC images of Neer Garh on Commons. 

4) Patna Waterfall, Rishikesh

Why go: Quieter than Neer Garh; known for small limestone caves beside the cascade.

Location & access: ~6.5 - 7 km from Laxman Jhula on Neelkanth Road; ~1.5 km forest trek (one way). 

Best time: Post-monsoon (Sept-Nov) when flow is strongest.

Vibe & tips: No big shops at the top - carry water; the trail can be slippery.

Stays: Rishikesh Tapovan area.

CC images available on Wikimedia Commons. 

5) Corbett Falls, Kaladhungi (near Ramnagar)

Why go: A shady, photogenic fall tucked inside the Sal forest - perfect as a Jim Corbett add-on.

Location & access: ~25 km from Ramnagar by road; near Kaladhungi.

Best time: Oct - Mar (club with a Corbett safari).

Vibe & tips: Picnic vibe; don’t enter deep water after rains.

Stays: Ramnagar has abundant resorts/guest houses.

CC image on Wikimedia Commons 

6) Birthi Falls, Munsiyari

Why go: A dramatic, high drop on the Thal–Munsiyari road - great stop on a Kumaon road trip.

Location & access: On NH309 A near Birthi village; usually visited en route to Munsiyari.

Best time: Sept–Nov; May–June is greener with decent flow.

Vibe & tips: A short paved path/viewpoint; watch for spray on windy days.

Stays: Guest houses/GMVN at Birthi or stay in Munsiyari. 

 CC photos on Wikimedia Commons.

7) Vasudhara Falls, near Badrinath/Mana

Why go: A 120+ m ribbon of water with Himalayan views and a mythic aura (locals say only the pure feel its spray!).

Location & access: Drive to Mana village (beyond Badrinath), then ~5 km trek to the falls.

Best time: May - June and Sept - Oct (when Badrinath road is open).

Vibe & tips: High-altitude walk - take sun protection and water.

Stays: Stay at Badrinath; limited facilities in Mana.

 CC images on Wikimedia Commons.

Quick safety & planning notes

• Footwear: Closed-toe trekking shoes; trails get slick after rain.

• Monsoon caution: Strong currents & landslides; always follow local advisories.

• Leave no trace: Pack back plastic; respect forest rules.

• Local transport: Shared jeeps/buses link Dehradun <> Mussoorie/Chakrata/Rishikesh; Ramnagar serves Corbett; Almora–Pithoragarh–Munsiyari corridor serves Birthi.

FAQs (quick)

Q. Which waterfall is best for families? 

A. Kempty (easy access, amenities) and Corbett Falls (picnic feel).

Q. Where can I combine a trek with a waterfall?

A. Tiger Falls (5 km forest trail) and Vasudhara (5 km high-altitude path).

Q. Closest falls to Rishikesh? 

A. Neer Garh (≈5–7 km) and Patna (≈6.5–7 km on Neelkanth Road).

Q. When’s the best time overall?

A. Post-monsoon (Sept–Nov) for flow + clear skies; summer is pleasant at higher altitudes.

Q. Are there entry fees?

A. Some sites (like Neer Garh) take a small fee at the gate; carry cash.