Barachukki Falls

Barachukki Falls is a segmented cascade waterfall on the Kaveri River at Shivanasamudra on the border of Chamarajanagar and Mandya districts in Karnataka. It forms the eastern branch of the Shivanasamudra Falls, with Gaganachukki on the western branch. Surrounded by forested hills and rocky terrain, it is known for its wide, multi-stream flow during monsoon, viewpoints from hilltop and base, and proximity to one of Asia's earliest hydroelectric power stations.

Visitors can expect a wide, segmented waterfall flowing over rocky cliffs on the Kaveri River, viewed from a hilltop viewpoint and, when water levels permit, from the base after a descent. The surroundings are forested and rocky with viewing platforms and barricaded viewpoints. Seasonal coracle boat rides are offered near the base to view the falls up close. The area includes small food stalls, parking and paths, with the sound of cascading water prominent during monsoon and post-monsoon months.

Shivanasamudra is noted for the Shivanasamudra Hydroelectric Power Station commissioned in 1902, one of the earliest hydroelectric projects in Asia, built to supply power to the Kolar Gold Fields. Barachukki and Gaganachukki Falls are the two branches of the Kaveri River at this site that enabled the project.

The Kaveri River is regarded as sacred in Karnataka. The falls are located near traditional pilgrimage and heritage sites including the Ranganathaswamy Temple at Shivanasamudra and the Chennakesava Temple at Somnathpur, reflecting the region's religious and cultural landscape.