People flock to 'Niagra of India' Hogenakkal in Karnataka

Hogenakkal (Karnataka), July 18 (ANI): Known as the 'Niagara Falls of India', the Hoegnakaal waterfall in the Dharmapiri district in Karnataka is a popular tourist destination.

The waterfall amidst the lush green and serene surroundings makes it an idyllic and excellent excursion destination for tourists-both domestic and foreign.

However, weekends here are rather fast paced as the place is chock- a- block with people, coming here to soak in the water showers or enjoy a boat ride.

Besides providing a perfect leisure spot, the waterfall is known for its healing properties. People suffering from skin ailments especially come here to take a herbal power shower.

"The water here is excellent. It flows through various places. Taking a bath in the fall is good as the water has medicinal properties. The water comes here from Baramandla covering a distance of 350 kilometres. It flows through various places," said Sathyanarayan, a visitor.

Tourists especially from Kerala, Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh come here to enjoy a boat ride on the lake, which receives water from the fall.

"The lake is very nice and we enjoyed it a lot. It's a fantastic place, especially the boating and all is very good. The valleys and the falls here are simply superb," says Beena, a tourist.

The tourists who want a bit more thrill prefer an upstream boat ride through the water falling from a high altitude. by Jai Kumar (ANI)