Nepal is world-famous for its majestic Himalayan peaks. However, the same mountain glaciers and monsoon rains feed hundreds of stunning waterfalls across the country. From massive multi-tiered plunges hidden in deep forests to easy roadside cascades, every region offers incredible natural beauty.
This guide explores the best waterfalls in Nepal, organized province by province, to help you plan your next adventure.
1. Koshi Province (Province 1)
Koshi Province covers eastern Nepal. Its dense hill forests and deep river valleys hold some of the country’s most dramatic cascades.
Hyatrung Waterfall (Terhathum)
Hyatrung is famous as the longest waterfall in Nepal, dropping roughly 365 meters down steep green cliffs. It is located between Terhathum and Sankhuwasabha districts. The cascade looks most impressive right after the monsoon rains when the water flow is at its peak.
Fungfunge Waterfall (Taplejung)
Situated in Taplejung district, Fungfunge Waterfall drops down a sheer rock face surrounded by dense forest. Local communities consider the site sacred. The fresh mist and quiet trails make it a peaceful stop for trekkers in eastern Nepal.
Pokali Waterfall (Okhaldhunga)
Pokali Waterfall drops 130 meters into a clear natural basin. It holds strong cultural value for nearby villages. A short walk from the local road leads visitors straight to the splash pool at its base.
Todke Waterfall (Ilam)
Located near the famous tea hills of Ilam and Mai Pokhari, Todke Waterfall tumbles over mossy rock steps. Surrounded by lush greenery and wildflowers, it is a favorite spot for nature photography.
2. Madhesh Province (Province 2)
Madhesh Province stretches along the flat Terai plains of southern Nepal. While mountains are distant, the northern Chure hill borders feature quiet streams and local cascades.
Ratanpur / Shaktiswori Jharana (Bara)
Located in Bara district near the foot of the Chure hills, Ratanpur Waterfall (also called Shaktiswori) is a popular local picnic spot. The waterfall flows through a shaded forest area, making it a pleasant weekend retreat.
Akash Ganga Waterfalls
Akash Ganga sits tucked away near the sacred hill trails of Madhesh Province. Its name translates to “Heavenly River.” Water streams gently over limestone rock formations into a calm pool below.
3. Bagmati Province (Province 3)
Bagmati Province surrounds the Kathmandu Valley. It offers easy day trips, short hikes, and scenic weekend getaways.
Tindhare Jharna (Kavre)
Tindhare Jharna gained huge popularity online for its resemblance to the massive waterfall in the film Bahubali. It cascades nearly 300 meters across three distinct tiers. It is located near Kafal Dada in Kavre, about 65 km from Kathmandu.
Jhor Waterfall (Kathmandu)
Located at the northern edge of Kathmandu in Tokha, Jhor Waterfall sits right next to the Baundeshwor Mahadev cave temple. Its easy road access makes it one of the most visited day-trip spots for city residents.
Simba Falls (Lalitpur)
“Simba” means cold in the local Tamang language. Tucked inside the forests of Manikhel in Southern Lalitpur, Simba Falls consists of five cold, cascading streams hidden deep in lush green hills.
Sursing Waterfall (Nuwakot)
Sursing Waterfall is an off-the-beaten-path cascade in Nuwakot district. Surrounded by quiet farmland and forest trails, it offers a peaceful experience away from crowded tourist routes.
4. Gandaki Province (Province 4)
Gandaki Province is the heart of adventure tourism in Nepal. Glaciers from the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges feed powerful waterfalls throughout the region.
Rupse Waterfall (Myagdi)
Rupse Waterfall is an iconic roadside landmark along the Beni-Jomsom highway in Myagdi. Dropping over 300 meters down a rugged gorge, its immense volume and roaring sound captivate travelers heading toward Mustang.
Narchyang Waterfall (Myagdi)
Located near Narchyang village in Myagdi, this waterfall plunges off a massive cliff face in plain view of the Annapurna peaks. A short hike from the village leads directly to its base.
Patale Chango / Devi’s Falls (Pokhara)
Patale Chango is famous worldwide as Devi’s Falls in central Pokhara. Water draining from Phewa Lake rushes into a deep underground gorge and cave system, creating a unique urban natural sight.
Aina Pahara Waterfall (Tanahun)
Aina Pahara sits right along the Prithvi Highway in Tanahun. The waterfall features natural rock formations framing the stream. It serves as a popular rest stop for travelers driving between Kathmandu and Pokhara.
5. Lumbini Province (Province 5)
Lumbini Province connects the southern plains with mid-hill districts like Dang, Palpa, and Pyuthan.
Purandhara Waterfall (Dang)
Purandhara Waterfall drops directly into the Babai River in Dang district. Surrounded by dense woodland, the area offers clean air and a relaxing environment for family picnics and nature walks.
Sat Tale Waterfall (Dang)
Located near Tulsipur in Dang, “Sat Tale” translates to “Seven-Tiered Waterfall.” The water steps down seven distinct natural rock ledges before reaching the ground.
Tinau Waterfall (Palpa)
Tinau Waterfall flows along the upper section of the Tinau River in Palpa district. Its clear, cool mountain water and smooth stone banks make it a popular spot for locals during warm summer months.
6. Karnali Province (Province 6)
Karnali Province features vast, untouched wilderness and rugged mountain terrain.
Pachal Waterfall (Kalikot)
Pachal Waterfall in Kalikot drops an incredible 381 meters, making it one of the tallest measured waterfalls in Nepal. Its sheer height and dramatic mountain backdrop make it a standout destination in mid-western Nepal.
Phoksundo Waterfall (Dolpo)
Phoksundo Waterfall drains the icy, turquoise waters of Shey Phoksundo Lake in Dolpo. As one of Nepal’s highest alpine cascades, the roaring outlet stream plunges deeply into a stark rock canyon below.
Chyachhara Waterfall (Humla)
Located along remote mountain trails in Humla, Chyachhara Waterfall is fed by high-altitude glacial melt. Trekkers traveling ancient trade routes in northern Karnali pass this powerful cascade.
7. Sudurpashchim Province (Province 7)
Sudurpashchim Province covers the far-western corner of Nepal, offering pristine landscapes and undiscovered nature trails.
Budar Waterfall (Doti)
Budar Waterfall sits along the Bhimdatta Highway in Doti district. Its accessible roadside location and cool mountain water make it a favorite rest stop for long-distance drivers.
Rupaligad Waterfall (Dadeldhura)
Flowing through Dadeldhura district, Rupaligad Waterfall is enclosed by dense pine forests. Its fresh, clear waters attract local visitors seeking outdoor day trips.
Vhelchhada Waterfall (Kailali)
Vhelchhada Waterfall tumbles through the green hills of Kailali district. During and after the monsoon season, the cascade grows wide and roaring, making it a prime seasonal attraction.
Best Time to Visit Waterfalls in Nepal
- Monsoon (June – September): Maximum water flow and powerful roaring cascades. Roads and hiking trails can be muddy or slick, so sturdy footwear is essential.
- Autumn (October – November): Best overall travel season. Clear skies, comfortable temperatures, and strong water flow remaining from the rains.
- Spring (March – May): Warm weather and dry trails. Water levels are lower than in autumn, but surrounding wild greenery and flowers make hikes very enjoyable.
Conclusion
From famous roadside stops like Rupse and Devi’s Falls to hidden multi-tiered gems like Tindhare and Pachal, Nepal’s waterfalls showcase the country’s incredible water resources and natural diversity. Whether you are looking for an easy afternoon outing near Kathmandu or an adventurous hike in remote provinces, visiting these cascades offers an unforgettable glimpse into Nepal’s outdoors.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the longest waterfall in Nepal?
Hyatrung Waterfall in Terhathum district (Koshi Province) is widely considered the longest waterfall in Nepal, dropping over 365 meters.
Which is the tallest measured waterfall in Nepal?
Pachal Waterfall in Kalikot district (Karnali Province) is one of the highest recorded waterfalls in Nepal, standing at 381 meters.
Why is Tindhare Waterfall called the “Bahubali Waterfall”?
Tindhare Waterfall in Kavre earned the nickname “Bahubali Waterfall” because its three-tiered flow over high green cliffs closely resembles the scenic waterfall featured in the movie Bahubali.
