Gaganachukki Falls

Gaganachukki Falls is the western branch of the twin Shivanasamudra Falls on the Kaveri River in Karnataka, located near Shivanasamudra village on the border of Chamarajanagar and Mandya districts. Formed where the river splits and drops about 90 metres through rocky gorges, it is known for its wide, segmented cascade best seen from a dedicated viewpoint. The falls are closely associated with the historic Shivanasamudra hydroelectric power station, one of Asia's earliest, commissioned in 1902.

Visitors can expect a broad, segmented cascade where the Kaveri River drops about 90 metres into a rocky gorge, viewed from a fenced viewpoint and watchtower on the Gaganachukki side. The setting is a forested river valley with basalt cliffs, mist and roar during high flow. There is no direct access to the base of the falls; viewing is from designated platforms. Small food stalls, parking and seating are available near the viewpoint, and the area is often combined with a visit to nearby Bharachukki Falls.

Shivanasamudra is the site of one of Asia's first hydroelectric power stations, commissioned in 1902 to supply power to the Kolar Gold Fields, developed under the initiative of Diwan Sir K. Seshadri Iyer of Mysore. Gaganachukki and Bharachukki Falls provided the head for this pioneering hydropower project, marking an early milestone in electricity generation in India.

The falls are on the Kaveri River, which is culturally significant in Karnataka. The Shivanasamudra area includes historic temples such as the Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple and Someshwara Temple, reflecting the region's religious heritage and association with the river valley.