Hogenakkal, often called the “Niagara Falls of India,” is a breathtaking natural wonder located in the Dharmapuri district of Tamil Nadu. The name Hogenakkal means “Smoking Rocks” in Kannada, inspired by the mist created when the River Cauvery cascades down the rocky terrain. Surrounded by dense forests, coracle rides, and medicinal baths, this is one of South India’s most spectacular yet affordable tourist spots.
🚣♂️ Hogenakkal Boat Ride Price
Coracle rides are the highlight of Hogenakkal tourism. These circular bamboo boats glide along the Cauvery River, offering thrilling views of the waterfalls.
Boat Ride Charges: ₹750 – ₹1,000 per coracle (2–4 persons, negotiable)
Duration: 30–45 minutes
Timings: 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM
Best Season: October to February (safe water levels)
👉Hidden Tip: Go early in the morning for a peaceful ride before crowds arrive.
🎟️ Hogenakkal Entry Fee and Timings
Waterfall Entry: ₹5 per person
Boat Ride (Coracle): ₹750–₹1,000 per ride
Parking: ₹30 (two-wheeler), ₹50 (car)
Opening Hours: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM (Boating from 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM)
👉Tip: Arrive before 10 AM to avoid long queues at the boat counters.
⚠️ Hogenakkal Coracle Ride Safety
Always wear a life jacket — mandatory for all passengers.
Avoid boating during monsoon (June–September) due to strong currents.
Only licensed boatmen are allowed to operate; confirm their ID badge.
Keep mobile phones and cameras waterproofed — splashes are frequent.
Don’t lean out of the coracle; currents can be strong near the falls.
👉Hidden Tip: If you’re with kids or elderly people, choose shorter rides in calmer stretches of the river.
Must Visit Places in Hogenakkal
1. Hogenakkal Waterfalls
The star attraction, massive waterfalls formed by the Cauvery River crashing through rocky gorges. The misty spray resembles smoke, giving the falls their name. The sound of water echoing through the cliffs is hypnotic, and coracle rides take you dangerously close to the thundering water, an unforgettable experience.
• Timings: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM
• Entry Fee: ₹5 per person (for viewing); Boat rides ₹750–₹1,000 per coracle (2–4 persons)
• Best Time to Visit: October – February (post-monsoon, full flow)
• Hidden Tip: Visit between 9–10 AM for best lighting and fewer crowds.
2. Hogenakkal Coracle Boat Rides
A must-do activity in Hogenakkal! The round bamboo boats glide over the calm sections of the river and take you right beneath the waterfalls (allowed only in safe water levels). The ride also passes through narrow canyons surrounded by black rocks.
• Duration: 30–45 minutes
• Cost: ₹750–₹1,000 per coracle (negotiable)
• Timings: 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM
• Safety Tip: Always wear a life jacket and avoid during heavy monsoon.
3. Hogenakkal Bathing Ghat & Medicinal Baths
The mineral-rich waters of the Cauvery are believed to have healing properties. Separate bathing areas for men and women are available, where locals and tourists enjoy rejuvenating dips.
• Entry Fee: ₹10 per person
• Timings: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM
• Hidden Tip: Visit early morning for cleaner water and less crowd.
4. Pennagaram Village & Weekly Market
A nearby village famous for its traditional Saturday market where locals sell spices, bamboo crafts, and fresh fish. A great place to experience rural Tamil Nadu’s culture.
• Distance: 15 km from Hogenakkal
• Best Time: 9:00 AM – 2:00 PM
• Hidden Tip: Try the fried fish stalls near the market, freshly caught and spiced to perfection!
5. Melagiri Hills & Trekking Zone
For adventure seekers, the Melagiri Hills surrounding Hogenakkal offer scenic trekking trails, wildlife spotting, and panoramic views of the river valley.
• Entry Fee: Free (local guide ₹300–₹500)
• Best Time: October – February
• Hidden Tip: Carry enough water; no stalls available during trek.
🚗 How to Reach Hogenakkal
By Air: Nearest airport – Salem (90 km) or Bengaluru (150 km).
By Train: Dharmapuri Railway Station (46 km).
By Road:
From Bengaluru: 127 km (3.5 hours via Hosur – Denkanikottai route)
From Salem: 90 km (2.5 hours)
From Chennai: 340 km (7–8 hours)
Government Buses:Salem/Dharmapuri to Hogenakkal: Every hour from 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM (Fare ₹50–₹100).
🎯 Things to Do in Hogenakkal
🚣♂️ Coracle Boat Ride under the Falls
🏞️ Trekking and Photography at Melagiri Hills
💧 Medicinal Baths in Cauvery River
🍤 Try Freshly Fried Fish by Local Vendors
🌅 Sunset Viewpoint near the Hanging Bridge
🧒 Children’s Play Zone near the Main Entrance
💰 Hogenakkal Ticket Price & Parking
💰 Entry Fees Summary
Detailed breakdown of Hogenakkal ticket prices, timings, and parking charges.
Hogenakkal is more than just a waterfall it’s an adventure wrapped in nature’s beauty. From thrilling coracle rides to refreshing medicinal baths and spicy fish fry by the riverside, every experience here is unforgettable. Whether you’re on a family trip, a weekend getaway, or a photography tour, Hogenakkal guarantees a perfect mix of fun, relaxation, and natural wonder.
👉 Plan your trip between October and February, and don’t forget your camera, sunscreen, and a sense of adventure because Hogenakkal truly is the Niagara Falls of India!
