Are you looking for a refreshing and scenic getaway from the hustle and bustle of the city? Do you want to witness the beauty and splendor of nature at its best? If yes, then you should definitely visit Kunthala Waterfalls, the highest waterfall in Telangana, located in the Adilabad district.
This waterfall is a hidden gem that offers a stunning view of the cascading water, lush greenery, and rocky terrain. It is also a place of historical and mythological significance, as it is associated with the legend of Shakuntala and Dushyanta. In this article, we will provide you with a comprehensive guide to visit the waterfall and explore its surroundings.
Overview of Kunthala Waterfalls
Kunthala Waterfalls is a spectacular waterfall that falls from a height of 147 feet (45 meters) on the Kadam river, a tributary of the Godavari river. The waterfall is located in the Sahyadri mountain range, which is part of the Deccan Plateau. The waterfall is about 12 km from the nearest village, Neredikonda, and about 58 km from the district headquarters, Adilabad.
The waterfall derives its name from the Sanskrit word “Kunthala”, which means “hair”. According to a legend, the waterfall was created by the hair of Shakuntala, the daughter of sage Vishwamitra and the wife of king Dushyanta. The legend says that Shakuntala and Dushyanta met and fell in love at this place, and later gave birth to their son, Bharata, the ancestor of the Pandavas and the Kauravas. The waterfall is also known as Someshwara Waterfalls, as there is a temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, also known as Someshwara, near the waterfall.
The waterfall is a sight to behold, especially during the monsoon season, when the water level is high and the flow is strong. The water splits into two streams before hitting the rocks below, creating a misty and rainbow-like effect. The sound of the water is soothing and relaxing, and the view is mesmerizing and enchanting. The waterfall is surrounded by dense forest and rich flora and fauna, making it a perfect place for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts.
How to Reach Kunthala Waterfalls
Kunthala Waterfalls is well-connected by road, rail, and air from various parts of the state and the country. Here are some of the ways to reach the waterfall:
By Road:
The easiest and most convenient way to reach the waterfall is by road, as there are many buses and taxis available from nearby towns and cities. The nearest bus stop is at Neredikonda, which is about 12 km from the waterfall. From there, you can hire a local jeep or auto-rickshaw to reach the waterfall. Alternatively, you can also drive your own vehicle or rent a car or bike from Hyderabad, Nizamabad, Nagpur, or other places. The distance and time estimates from some of the major locations are as follows:
Location Distance Time
Hyderabad 260 km 5 hours
Nizamabad 150 km 3 hours
Nagpur 300 km 6 hours
The road condition is good for most of the journey, except for the last few kilometers, which are narrow and bumpy. The route to the waterfall is scenic and picturesque, as you will pass through green fields, hills, and forests. You can also stop at some of the landmarks or signs along the way, such as the Kadam Dam, Someshwara Temple, or the Kunthala Waterfalls View Point.
By Train:
The nearest railway station to the waterfall is at Adilabad, which is about 58 km from the waterfall. Adilabad is well-connected by train from Hyderabad, Nizamabad, Nagpur, and other places. From Adilabad, you can take a bus or a taxi to Neredikonda, and then hire a local jeep or auto-rickshaw to reach the waterfall. The train journey is comfortable and affordable, and you can enjoy the views of the countryside and the villages along the way.
By Air:
The nearest airport to the waterfall is at Hyderabad, which is about 260 km from the waterfall. Hyderabad is well-connected by air from various domestic and international destinations. From Hyderabad, you can take a bus, a taxi, or a train to Adilabad or Neredikonda, and then hire a local jeep or auto-rickshaw to reach the waterfall. The flight journey is fast and convenient, and you can save time and energy by avoiding the road or rail travel.
Things to Do at Kunthala Waterfalls
Kunthala Waterfalls is not only a place to admire the beauty of nature, but also a place to indulge in some fun and adventurous activities. Here are some of the things to do at the waterfall and near the waterfall:
Exploring Nature:
One of the best things to do at the waterfall is to explore the nature and the wildlife around it. You can take a walk in the forest, observe the birds and animals, or enjoy the flora and fauna. You can also spot some rare and endangered species, such as the Indian giant squirrel, the sloth bear, the leopard, or the pangolin. You can also visit the nearby Kadam Wildlife Sanctuary, which is home to many wild animals, such as the tiger, the deer, the wild boar, or the crocodile.
Bathing:
Another popular thing to do at the waterfall is to take a refreshing and rejuvenating bath in the water. You can swim, splash, or soak in the cool and clear water, and feel the stress and fatigue melt away. You can also sit on the rocks or the shore, and enjoy the spray and the breeze of the water. However, you should be careful and cautious while bathing, as the water can be deep and slippery, and the rocks can be sharp and jagged. You should also avoid bathing during the rainy season, as the water can be turbulent and dangerous.
Having a Picnic:
A great way to spend some quality time with your family, friends, or partner is to have a picnic at the waterfall. You can bring your own food and drinks, or buy some from the nearby food stalls, and enjoy a delicious and relaxing meal. You can also play some games, listen to some music, or have some conversations, and create some memorable moments. However, you should be responsible and respectful, and avoid littering, polluting, or damaging the environment. You should also follow the rules and regulations of the waterfall, such as the entry fee, the timing, or the restrictions.
Camping:
If you want to experience the thrill and adventure of staying overnight at the waterfall, you can opt for camping. You can pitch your own tent, or rent one from the local vendors, and enjoy the night under the stars. You can also light a bonfire, roast some marshmallows, or tell some stories, and have some fun and excitement. However, you should be prepared and cautious, and carry all the necessary items, such as food, water, flashlight, first-aid kit, etc. You should also be aware and alert, and avoid any unwanted or dangerous encounters with the wildlife.
Trekking:
If you are looking for some challenge and exercise, you can try trekking at the waterfall. You can hike up or down the waterfall, and enjoy the scenic and panoramic views of the water, the forest, and the hills. You can also explore some of the hidden and unexplored spots, such as the caves, the streams, or the rocks, and discover some secrets and surprises. However, you should be fit and healthy, and wear comfortable and sturdy shoes, and avoid any injuries or accidents. You should also carry a map, a compass, or a guide, and avoid getting lost or stranded.
Best Time to Visit Kunthala Waterfalls
The best time to visit Kunthala Waterfalls is during the post-monsoon season, from September to December, when the waterfall is at its full glory and the weather is pleasant and comfortable. During this time, you can witness the waterfall in its full force and beauty, and enjoy the greenery and freshness of the surroundings. You can also avoid the crowd and the noise, and have a peaceful and serene experience. However, you should also be ready for some rain and fog, and carry an umbrella, a raincoat, or a jacket, and protect yourself from the cold and the wet.
You can also visit the waterfall during the winter season, from January to February, when the weather is cool and dry, and the waterfall is still flowing and attractive. During this time, you can enjoy the clear and sunny skies, and the crisp and fresh air. You can also explore the nearby attractions, such as the temples, the wildlife sanctuary, or the dam, and have a cultural and historical experience. However, you should also be prepared for some cold and chilly nights, and carry some warm clothes, blankets, gloves, etc.
You can also visit the waterfall during the summer season, from March to June, when the weather is hot and humid, and the waterfall is low and calm. During this time, you can enjoy the water activities, such as bathing, swimming, or boating, and cool off from the heat. You can also witness the sunrise and sunset, and enjoy the colors and the light of the sky. However, you should also be prepared for some high temperatures and scorching sun, and carry some sunscreen, hat, sunglasses, or water, and protect yourself from the heat and the dehydration.
You should avoid visiting the waterfall during the monsoon season, from July to August, when the weather is rainy and stormy, and the waterfall is fierce and dangerous. During this time, you can face some difficulties and risks, such as landslides, floods, roadblocks, or accidents. You can also miss the beauty and the charm of the waterfall, as the water can be muddy and murky, and the view can be obscured and cloudy. Therefore, it is advisable to skip the waterfall during this season, and choose a safer and more enjoyable time.
Kunthala Waterfalls is a wonderful and amazing destination that can offer you a memorable and satisfying experience. It is a place where you can admire the nature, learn the history, enjoy the adventure, and have some fun. It is a place where you can escape the routine, relax the mind, refresh the body, and rejuvenate the soul. It is a place where you can create some stories, capture some moments, and cherish some memories.
So, what are you waiting for? Book your trip to Kunthala Waterfalls today, and discover the magic and the mystery of this waterfall. And don’t forget to share your experience and feedback with us at Tripoto, the ultimate platform for travel lovers. Happy traveling!
