Secret Waterfalls in Uttarakhand
Secret Waterfalls in Uttarakhand You Won’t Believe Exist (Until You Go)
Uttarakhand has this raw, untouched magic — from dense forests to snow-capped Himalayan peaks. But let’s be real: places like Mussoorie and Rishikesh are overflowing with tourists, all clicking the same photos at the same crowded spots. What most people don’t know is that there are secret waterfalls in Uttarakhand that remain completely off the radar. I’ve come across a few of them myself — and trust me, they’re absolutely jaw-dropping. Some are so hidden, they don’t even show up on Google Maps
Let me spill the beans. Five secret waterfalls, straight from my own wandering (and let’s be real, sometimes getting lost) through Uttarakhand.
🌿 1. Khandoli Waterfall (Near Chakrata) My Take: This place? Found it by accident. Or maybe destiny. Some old dude in Chakrata muttered about Khandoli while sipping chai, and my curiosity just couldn’t let it go. The trail was wild — thick oaks overhead, rhododendrons going nuts, birds everywhere. By the time you actually reach the waterfall, you feel like you’ve earned it. It’s LOUD, untouched, and not a single tourist in sight.
💦 2. Tiger Falls (Near Chakrata) My Take: Alright, Tiger Falls is a bit more “known,” but don’t roll your eyes — it’s still got that wild vibe. You gotta walk about 5 km, weaving through forest and over creaky little bridges. The waterfall itself? Massive. The water crashes down like it’s trying to impress you. There’s a pool at the bottom, and if you’re brave (or just overheated), jump in. That water will slap you awake. Sometimes you’ll find locals praying there, kinda adds a mystical touch. It’s got that perfect mix of raw nature and local legends.
🌳 3. Corbett Falls (Near Ramnagar) My Take: Hidden in the buffer zone of Corbett National Park, this one doesn’t get enough love. First thing you hear is water tumbling over rocks, then birds — and not just sparrows, I mean peacocks and hornbills doing their thing. Spotted a deer once, just chilling nearby. It’s way quieter than you’d expect. No crowds, just you and the forest doing its thing. Feels like you’ve time-traveled.
🧭 4. Kempty Falls (Secret Upper Cascades) My Take: Everyone’s been to Kempty, right? But here’s the twist: there’s a hidden bit up above the main falls that almost nobody bothers with. One day I’d had enough of selfie sticks and screaming kids, so I followed a local guy up some sketchy path behind the main falls. Suddenly, BOOM — tiny, secret waterfalls, birds everywhere, pure silence. No crowds, just your own private slice of paradise. If you want to brag about “doing Kempty differently,” this is it.
🏞️ 5. Benog Tibba Waterfall (Near Mussoorie) My Take: You gotta earn this one — it’s a trek, not a stroll. After the rains, there’s a hidden waterfall near Benog Tibba, about 3-4 km through pine and deodar forests. Himalayan peaks peeking through the trees, the trail all muddy and awesome. When I made it, a shepherd was there with his goats, just hanging out. We shared a laugh, stared at the waterfall, didn’t say much. It’s not huge, but man, it’s got soul.
🏔️ Why Bother With These Secret Falls? 🌲 Less People: No “Insta” crowds, no trash, just the sound of water and your own thoughts.
🥾 More Adventure: Most of these places make you work for it — and that’s half the fun, honestly.
🐾 Wildlife Surprises: Deer, monkeys, crazy birds — especially near Corbett and Benog, keep your eyes open.
🙏 Spiritual Vibes: Between locals praying and the ancient forests, you’ll feel something. Even if you’re not the spiritual type.
✅ Bottom Line: Let Uttarakhand Mess With Your Head (In a Good Way) Sick of the usual? Me too. These hidden waterfalls aren’t just “sights” — they’re whole experiences. The mud, the cold spray, that weird sense of peace… it sticks with you, even after you go home.
So, next time you’re planning that trip, ditch the same-old. Go off-map. Get lost (and maybe found). These waterfalls might just show you a new side of Uttarakhand — or maybe even a new side of yourself. Go on, thank me later.
FAQs About Secret Waterfalls in Uttarakhand
1. Are secret waterfalls in Uttarakhand safe to visit for solo travelers?
Yes, many of these hidden waterfalls are safe for solo travelers, especially during the day. However, since most are in remote areas and involve trekking, it’s always best to inform someone of your plan, carry a basic first-aid kit, and if possible, hire a local guide for trails like Khandoli or the upper cascades of Kempty.
2. When is the best time to visit the secret waterfalls in Uttarakhand?
The best time to explore these secret waterfalls is during or just after the monsoon season (July to October). That’s when the waterfalls are full, the forests are lush, and the views are at their best. Some falls like Benog Tibba are seasonal and may dry up in summer, so monsoon/post-monsoon is ideal.
3. How can I find lesser-known or secret waterfalls in Uttarakhand?
Talking to locals is your best bet. Many of these secret waterfalls aren’t marked on maps or travel apps. Places like Khandoli and the upper tiers of Kempty Falls were places I discovered purely through local tips. Also, exploring with a flexible plan and trekking off the main trails can lead to unexpected discoveries.
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