The recent few incidents during monsoon should already be a wake-up alarm for the travellers. In such a time when there have been strict warnings against visiting various spots, you must take care before making your plans for treks and trails. Out of all, visiting waterfalls should come with the utmost care and precautions and while, and some of the dangerous waterfalls can be skipped during monsoon to prevent any hazards and damage. So, if you are travelling this monsoon, try to avoid these waterfalls that can be dangerous.
Devkund Waterfalls, Raigad
Near Bhira village, a visit to the Devkund Waterfalls turned out to be risky for more than 55 people in the group who got stuck and could be rescued only after a 6-hour-long rescue operation. A human chain was created to help them out. Due to the incessant rainfall in the region, the streams of the Kundalika River get full and pose serious threats to travellers. Hence it is better to enjoy this beauty in other seasons!
Where: Bhira, Raigad, Maharashtra.
Chinchoti Waterfalls, Vasai
A few kilometers from Mumbai lie the Chinchoti Waterfalls. While the waterfall becomes active during the monsoon season, it is also closed to the public due to the risk of accidents and fatalities. The heavy rains make the area dangerous, and entering the waterfall can lead to trouble. However, the area surrounding the waterfall is beautiful, making it worth a visit after the monsoon season when the scenery is vibrant and safe.
Where: Chinchoti, Vasai, Maharashtra
Kataldhar waterfall, Lonavala
While it is beautiful to visit this waterfall during the monsoon, Kataldhar can also be risky during this time. The trail to the waterfall, which is already slippery gets even more slippery and riskier. There are heavy rains, fog and thunderstorms during this time and it is advised to not go to the waterfall till the weather gets clear. You can take a shelter and then proceed. However, that is likely to consume a good amount of time and hence, it is better to avoid it.
Where: Katladhar, Rajmachi, Maharashtra.
Baraki Waterfall, Kolhapur
Recently, the Shahuwadi tehsildar imposed a curfew on waterfalls like Manoli, Ukhalu, Pawankhind, Kerle and more that also included restrictions for Baraki waterfall. It is considered a dangerous waterfall during monsoon and due to the heavy number of tourists flocking to the area, there are reports of missing and deaths. Hence, it is better to avoid it during this peak season.
Where: Barki village, Barki, Kolhapur, Maharashtra.
Dugdhsagar Waterfalls, Sonauli
One of the most beautiful waterfalls in India, Dugdhsagar Waterfalls is a mesmerising beauty that keeps travellers attracted throughout the year. However, the trails to the falls are closed between June to September due to heavy rainfalls. It causes flooded rivers and heavy water to cascade down the falls. So, it is best to avoid these waterfalls and rather experience them post monsoon!
Where: Sonauli, Goa
The Sweet Falls, Shillong
Called the abode of clouds and popular for waterfalls, Meghalaya is a scenic destination for nature lovers. While the state receives rainfall throughout the year, it is advised to avoid the Sweet Falls in Shillong. Located almost 5 km from Happy Valley, it falls from a height of 315 feet and is the steepest and most dangerous waterfall that must be avoided in the monsoon season.
Where: Happy Valley, Shillong.
Thalaiyar Waterfalls, Pannaikadu
Flowing in the South of India, Thalaiyar Waterfalls is considered dangerous in all seasons. So, you can imagine how risky it is to visit during monsoon! Inside the Theni forest division, it is a prohibited area and requires permission to visit. However, one must avoid this cascading waterfall as it is the sixth highest in India and falls from 975 ft. The trail to the place is also a risky route to try in the rain!
Where: Pannaikadu, Tamil Nadu.