Ethipothala Waterfalls – Scenic Beauty Near Nagarjuna Sagar

Located in the Guntur district of Andhra Pradesh, the Ethipothala Waterfalls near Nagarjuna Sagar is one of the most spectacular natural attractions in South India. Dropping from a height of nearly 70 feet (21 meters), this breathtaking cascade is formed by the Chandravanka River, a tributary of the Krishna River. Surrounded by lush green hills, caves, and a crocodile breeding center, Ethipothala has become a popular spot for weekend getaways from Hyderabad and Vijayawada.

Why Visit Ethipothala Waterfalls?

• Stunning 70 ft waterfall with panoramic views.

• Located just 11 km from Nagarjuna Sagar Dam – easy to combine in a day trip.

• Known for trekking trails, photography spots, and cave exploration.

• Home to a crocodile breeding center – a unique eco-tourism initiative.

• Perfect for nature lovers, families, and one-day trips from Hyderabad.

Best Time to Visit

• Monsoon (July–October): Waterfall at its fullest, ideal for photography.

• Winter (November–February): Pleasant climate, great for families and picnics.

• Summer (March–May): Avoid this season as water levels are low.

👉 Tip: The falls look most beautiful post-monsoon, making it one of the best monsoon waterfalls in Andhra Pradesh.

How to Reach Ethipothala Waterfalls

• By Air: Nearest airport is Vijayawada International Airport (170 km).

• By Train: Closest station is Macherla (29 km), connected to Guntur and Hyderabad.

• By Road: Easily accessible from Hyderabad (176 km), Vijayawada (172 km), and Guntur (140 km). Local buses and cabs are available from Nagarjuna Sagar.

👉 A one-day trip from Hyderabad to Ethipothala Falls is very popular among travelers, as you can cover both Nagarjuna Sagar Dam and Ethipothala in the same itinerary.

Entry Fee & Timings

• Entry Fee: ₹20 – ₹30 per person (approx).

• Timings: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM.

1-Day Itinerary for Ethipothala Waterfalls

Morning:

• Start early from Hyderabad or Vijayawada.

• Stop at Nagarjuna Sagar Dam for breakfast and sightseeing.

Late Morning:

• Reach Ethipothala by 11:00 AM.

• Trek down the steps to the viewing point.

• Enjoy photography and explore small caves nearby.

Afternoon:

• Have a picnic lunch or food at local eateries.

• Visit the crocodile breeding center managed by the Forest Department.

Evening:

• Relax by the waterfalls and capture sunset views.

• Start return journey around 4:30–5:00 PM.

Nearby Attractions

• Nagarjuna Sagar Dam – One of the world’s largest masonry dams.

• Nagarjunakonda Museum & Island – Famous for Buddhist relics and monasteries.

• Anupu (Buddhist Ruins) – Ancient amphitheater and monastic complexes.

• Macherla Chennakesava Swamy Temple – A historic temple town nearby.

Accommodation Options

• Haritha Hotels (AP Tourism), Nagarjuna Sagar – Budget & mid-range.

• Guest houses and resorts in Macherla and Nagarjunakonda.

• For better comfort, many tourists stay in Hyderabad or Vijayawada and plan a day trip to Ethipothala Falls.

Travel Tips

• Wear sturdy shoes for trekking rocky paths.

• Carry snacks, drinking water, and basic medicines.

• Swimming is not allowed due to crocodile conservation efforts.

• Start early to avoid crowds and cover multiple attractions in one day.

FAQs on Ethipothala Waterfalls

Q1. Where is Ethipothala Waterfalls located?
Ethipothala Falls is located 11 km from Nagarjuna Sagar Dam in Guntur district, Andhra Pradesh.

Q2. How far is Ethipothala Waterfalls from Hyderabad?
It is around 176 km (4–5 hrs drive) from Hyderabad.

Q3. Can we swim in Ethipothala Falls?
No, swimming is strictly prohibited as the site is part of a crocodile breeding reserve.

Q4. What is the height of Ethipothala Falls?
The waterfall drops from a height of about 70 feet (21 meters).

Q5. What is the best time to visit Ethipothala Waterfalls?
The falls are most beautiful during monsoon and winter (July–February).

Q6. What are the nearby tourist attractions?
You can visit Nagarjuna Sagar Dam, Nagarjunakonda Buddhist Museum, Anupu ruins, and Macherla temples.

Conclusion

The Ethipothala Waterfalls Andhra Pradesh is not just a natural wonder but also a place of cultural and ecological importance. Its proximity to Nagarjuna Sagar Dam makes it a must-visit for anyone planning a weekend getaway from Hyderabad or Vijayawada. Whether you’re interested in trekking, photography, or exploring Buddhist heritage nearby, Ethipothala offers a complete travel experience.