Varapoha Falls

About Varapoha Falls

Varapoha Falls is situated in the Belgaum District of Karnataka, India in the hilly surroundings of the Jamboti forest. This fall is on the Mandovi river, the water of the river falls from a height of about 150 feets. It is one of the few less known & most spectacular fall of the Western Ghats, which is still unspoiled and not choked. The fall is a must see destination for any person who loves nature.
Varapoha Falls is on the Mandovi River in the hilly surroundings of the Jamboti forest in the Belgaum District of Karnataka, India

From Jamboti, travel four kilometers beyond Chapoli and cross the Mandovi River twice (as there is a small hill in between) and proceed to an elevated flat hillock. Here the Mandovi River winds and then takes a jump down from a height of about 60 meters. The falls are located 60 km from Belgaum town.

Jamboti is located 20 km south-west of Belgaum and 18 km west of Khanapur in the Belgaum District of Karnataka. Jamboti is primarily well-known because the Mandovi River, which is the longest river in Goa, has its origin in the Jamboti hills. As for the surroundings, dense hilltop forests bound the area.
Jamboti is a must for walkers and is a major source of interest and significance for botanists, photographers and people who love going on picnics.

A place worth visiting in Jamboti is the Vajrapoha Falls nestled amidst the green canopy of the Western Ghats. Situated in the course of enchanting hills and the Jamboti forests, the Vajrapoha Falls is one of the few less known & most spectacular fall of the Western Ghats, which is still unspoiled and not choked. Following the swift flowing river Mahadayi in deep forests, the River Mahadayi is joined by two other streams Marcidha nala and Pannera nala in creating this magnificent waterfall, which later known by the name “Mandovi” in Goa. The river, cascading down a height of over 150 ft to a gorge below, is a spectacular vision, one not worth missing out on! If you are in luck, you’ll spot a pied hornbill or a huli salinga (brother of the venomous tarantula). The fall is a must see destination for any enthusiastic and ardent nature lover!

Nearest Visiting places

Belgaum Fort
Ramkrishna Ashrama

Web Links

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Varapoha_Falls
http://belagavi-district.bt.lib.bz/

Location info

• Address:

• District: Hassan district

• Nearest City: Hassan

• Best time to visit: Between December to January

Mobile network coverage

Airtel, Jio, BSNL, and Vi all provide coverage across Karnataka. 4G is reliable in Bangalore, Mysore, Mangalore, Hubli, and along highways. Coverage may be weaker in deep forest areas of Bandipur, Nagarhole, and certain Western Ghats sections. Most hotels, resorts, and cafes in tourist areas offer free Wi-Fi.

Food & restaurants nearby

Food options are available in the nearest town. Karnataka cuisine ranges from coastal seafood to Udupi vegetarian to Coorg’s pandi curry. Dosa, idli, bisi bele bath, and filter coffee are iconic.

Hotels & accommodation nearby

Accommodation is available in the nearest town or city. Options range from budget lodges to luxury resorts. Booking ahead during Dasara (Mysore) and peak winter season is recommended.

Climate & weather

Karnataka has a varied climate from the humid coast to the dry Deccan plateau and cool Western Ghats. The best time to visit is October to March, with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 30°C depending on region. April–May is hot across most of the state (up to 38°C). The southwest monsoon (June–September) brings heavy rain to the coast and ghats but transforms the landscape — this is the best time for Jog Falls and Coorg’s lush greenery. Hill stations (Coorg, Chikmagalur) remain pleasant year-round. Bangalore has a moderate climate throughout.

Helpline & emergency contacts

Tourist Helpline: 1364 (toll-free, 24×7). Police: 112 (all-India emergency). Ambulance: 108. Women’s Helpline: 1091. Karnataka Police Tourist Helpline: 112.

Nearest petrol pump

Petrol pumps are available in the nearest town or on the approach road — check locally for the closest option.

Accessibility

Accessibility information is not currently available for this site. Contact the venue directly or check with your accommodation for the latest accessibility details.

Rules & restrictions

Standard visitor rules apply. Check locally for any specific restrictions at this site.

Best photography spots

The best photography spots are typically during the golden hours (early morning and late afternoon). Scout the location first to identify the best angles, and consider the direction of light at different times of day.

Best time to visit Varapoha Falls

July to October (monsoon and post-monsoon) is the best time when waterfalls are at their fullest. November to February offers pleasant weather with moderate water flow. March-May has reduced water flow but easier access.

Timings & opening hours

Best viewed during daylight hours, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Visit during or just after monsoon (July-October) for the fullest flow. Some waterfalls may be restricted during heavy rains for safety.

Entry fee & tickets

Entry fee of INR 10-50 per person for most waterfalls. Parking charges: INR 20-50 for vehicles. Some waterfalls maintained by Karnataka Forest Department have additional permit fees.

Duration needed

1-2 hours including the trek to the waterfall and time spent enjoying the scenery. Half a day if combining with nearby attractions or a longer trek.

Safety tips

Slippery rocks near waterfalls are extremely dangerous — stay behind railings and marked viewing areas. Do not swim in plunge pools — hidden currents and submerged rocks are hazardous. Avoid visiting during heavy rain when water levels rise suddenly. Do not climb on wet rocks.

Things to carry

Carry drinking water, snacks, comfortable walking shoes, hat/cap, sunscreen, sunglasses, camera, power bank, and personal medications. A light jacket or umbrella is recommended during monsoon season (June-September). Wear non-slip footwear for walking on wet surfaces. Bring a raincoat/poncho during monsoon. Waterproof bag for phone and camera.

Nearest airport, railway & bus

Nearest railway station is typically on the Konkan Railway or Bangalore-Mangalore line. Nearest airport: Mangalore International or Hubli Airport. KSRTC buses connect to nearby towns.

History of Varapoha Falls

Varapoha Falls is one of the scenic waterfalls of Karnataka, located in the Western Ghats — a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the world’s eight hottest biodiversity hotspots. The waterfall is fed by rivers originating in the ghats, which receive some of the highest rainfall in India during the southwest monsoon.

Things to do at Varapoha Falls

Photography, nature watching, trekking to the waterfall, picnicking at designated areas, birdwatching in the surrounding forest, and enjoying the mist and spray of the falls.

Things to visit & highlights

The main waterfall, upstream river sections, viewpoints offering panoramic valley views, nearby forests and streams, and surrounding coffee/tea plantations.

Frequently asked questions

Q: Is swimming safe at Varapoha Falls? A: Swimming is generally not recommended due to strong currents and submerged rocks. Enjoy the view from a safe distance. Q: What is the best season? A: Monsoon (July-September) for maximum water flow. Q: Is there a trek involved? A: Most waterfalls require a short trek (0.5-2 km) through forest trails. Wear sturdy shoes.

Quick facts

• Type: Tourist Attraction
• State: Karnataka
• Category: Waterfalls

Visitor information

Please check locally for current visitor information.

Photo gallery of Varapoha Falls

Photos coming soon. In the meantime, you can find images of Varapoha Falls on popular travel photography sites and social media.