Hogenakkal Falls is on the Kaveri river in Dharmapuri district, on the Tamil Nadu–Karnataka border. It is famous for round coracle boat rides between rocky gorges, traditional oil massages and fresh river fish fry. It is about 180 km from Bangalore, 115 km from Salem and 45 km from Dharmapuri. Coracle rides depend on the river level and may stop when the water is high.
What to do at Hogenakkal
- Coracle ride — round bamboo boats take you close to the falls and through the gorges. Use only official, licensed coracle operators and wear the life jacket provided.
- Oil massage and river bath — a local tradition on the rocks by the river.
- Fish fry — fresh river fish cooked at stalls near the parking area.
- Viewpoints and hanging bridge — for the best photos of the falls.
Best time to visit
After the monsoon, roughly September to February, is ideal. During heavy Kaveri flow (often July–August) the district administration may suspend coracle rides and bathing for safety.
Distance to Hogenakkal
| From | Approx. distance | Approx. time |
|---|---|---|
| Dharmapuri | 45 km | 1 hr |
| Krishnagiri | 90 km | 2 hrs |
| Salem | 115 km | 2.5 hrs |
| Hosur | 125 km | 2.5–3 hrs |
| Bangalore | 180 km | 4 hrs |
| Chennai | 340 km | 6.5–7 hrs |