Rajdari Devdari waterfalls, a little south east of Varanasi, is a wonderful day trip from the city post monsoons. It is located about 65 km from the spiritual city, visited by millions of devotees and seekers of knowledge and wisdom. The waterfalls are an attraction for the nature lovers, particularly post the monsoon season. It took us almost 2 hours by road to reach the place from Lanka in Varanasi.
Chandraprabha river originates in the Vindhya mountains, a reservoir/dam has been built just ahead of the waterfalls. Overflowing dam in the monsoons releases water into river downstream, which within a short distance plunges into the valley, creating the spectacular Rajdari and little distance further away Devdari waterfalls. Devdari falls creates a beautiful lake at the bottom of the valley surrounded by the mountain range.
Rajdari Devdari Waterfalls, Varanasi – An outing to soak the beauty of nature
Located inside the Chandraprabha wildlife sanctuary of Chandauli district, the waterfalls approach can be noticed on the signboards as you drive to the location. The entry to the waterfalls in the sanctuary is ticketed and you drive about 3-4 km of drive on a decent road in the protected forests. If you are lucky, you may see non-carnivorous wildlife on the way, however it is not advisable to disembark from the vehicle on this stretch.
Waterfalls Classification
The classification of waterfalls is often based on how the water descends and interacts with the underlying rock. Different types of waterfalls include:
1. Plunge Waterfall: A large volume of fast-moving water falls vertically, losing all contact with the bedrock surface. The water essentially leaps off a cliff. The falling water has significant force. It often creates a deep plunge pool at the base due to the erosive power of the falling water.
2. Horsetail Waterfall: Descending water maintains some contact with the bedrock. As it falls, the stream typically widens and fans out, resembling the tail of a horse. The slope of the bedrock influences the shape of the fall. Often creates a misty spray as the water hits the rocks during its descent.
3. Cascade Waterfall: A cascade waterfall involves water descending a series of rock steps. These steps can vary in size and steepness.
4. Tiered or Multi-Step Waterfall: Consists of two or more distinct waterfalls occurring one after another, with each fall having its own plunge pool.
5. Block or Sheet Waterfall: Occur when a wide stream or river falls from a relatively wide cliff or ledge. The width of the fall is substantial compared to its height. Sometimes called a “sheet” waterfall due to the broad curtain of water.
6. Fan Waterfall: A fan waterfall spreads horizontally as it descends while remaining in contact with the bedrock. The shape resembles a fan.
7. Punchbowl Waterfall: Water descends in a constricted flow and then expands into a wider pool below, resembling a punchbowl.
8. Cataract Waterfall: Often used to describe a large, powerful, and often voluminous waterfall. Sometimes used interchangeably with “large cascade.”
9. Chute Waterfall: Water is forced through a narrow, vertical passage, creating a fast, powerful flow resembling a slide.
10. Frozen Waterfall: Occurs when waterfalls freeze during winter, forming ice formations that can be climbed. You can see them in Ladakh during winters.
11. Blowhole Waterfall: Water is ejected under pressure through an enclosed hole in rock, often formed by mining tunnels or natural erosion.
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Rajdari Devdari – Natural Beauty near Varanasi
Calmly flowing Chandrabrabha river suddenly cascades down about 6 feets across most of the width of the river. Then there is a nearly 20 feet cascading fall in the rocky terrain. Further down there are around 3-4 levels of sliding down for the river waters with a narrowing width. This fall and cross currents of the water generates a lot of sound. Yes, we are close to a roaring natural phenomenon. You will expericience it, right there. The waters then concentrates to about 25-30 percent of the width of the river, that exposes the rocky terrain around it.
Rajdari Waterfalls
Chandrabrabha river then takes a plunge across the narrow mouth into a narrow valley. The viewing points there has trees blocking better or full view. However, visitors can experience and understand the roars of the waters. This plunge of waters may be about 60-70 feet, that’s purely based on our view estimates. The valley is indeed very narrow and therefore dangerous to get closer for better view.
Rajdari is characterized by water cascading down naturally stepped rocky surfaces, creating a series of distinct drops. This stepped and segmented flow over rocky terrain aligns it with the tiered (multi-step) waterfall category.
There are huge rocky outgrows around the waterfalls. You will look like a small creature while exploring them. Do explore neverthless.
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Devdari Waterfalls
One can head towards the Devdari waterfalls on foot 2-3 hundred meters away. Here you get a very different perspective of the Chandraprabha river flows. The Devdari waterfalls is also about 70-80 feets plunge as per our visual estimates. The beauty here is that the waters plunge into a wider valley, which forms a lake at the bottom.
Then the waters flow downstream through the valley surrounded by mountains. The pool formed at the bottom has its beauty of colors of the waters. Landscape from the Devdari waterfalls view points offer a very different views and perspectives.
Reservoir on Chandraprabha River
On the way back we visited the reservoir just a few meters away from the entry/exit point of the Chandraprabha wildlife sanctuary security gate. Dont miss this beautiful natural view of the backwaters. The vastness of the view of the nature matters particularly for those visitors from urban regions. Stay away from the waters and enjoy the beauty from safe distance. But dont miss this if you are already visiting the Rajdari Devdari.
Unique Features of Rajdari Devdari
- Located within Chandraprabha Wildlife Sanctuary: Unlike many popular waterfalls, these falls are nestled in a protected forest area rich in biodiversity, offering a combination of scenic beauty and wildlife experience.
- Twin Waterfalls in Close Proximity: Rajdari and Devdari are two distinct waterfalls located just a short distance apart, allowing visitors to experience both.
- Stepped Rocky Terrain and Viewing Platforms: Rajdari is notable for its water cascading over naturally stepped rocky surfaces, creating a dramatic audio visual effect enhanced by multiple safe viewing decks that provide varied perspectives.
- Accessibility and Eco-tourism Development: These falls are relatively easy to access yet remain less crowded than famous waterfalls, with recent eco-tourism initiatives including nature centers, auditoriums, and safaris enhancing visitor experience while preserving the environment.
- Seasonal Spectacle: The waterfalls are especially spectacular during and after the monsoon season when water flow peaks, offering a powerful and picturesque display in a lush green setting.
- Cultural and Recreational Appeal: The area is popular among students, families, and nature lovers for picnics, trekking, and photography, combining natural beauty with recreational opportunities.
These aspects make Rajdari and Devdari waterfalls a unique blend of natural grandeur, ecological richness, and thoughtful tourism development.
Viewing spots for Rajdari Devdari Waterfalls
- Top of the Falls: The upper edge of Rajdari Waterfall offers stunning panoramic views of the cascading water and the valley below, providing a broad perspective of the falls’ full height and surrounding forested landscape.
- Downstream Side: Approaching the downstream side of the falls allows visitors to experience the powerful flow up close and enjoy the natural ambiance created by the water and the rugged terrain.
- Multiple Viewing Platforms: The area around the waterfalls has several safe well barricaded viewing decks and platforms that provide varied angles of the waterfall, enhancing the visual experience and photo opportunities.
- Nearby Picnic Spots: The vicinity of the falls has spacious picnic areas where visitors can relax while enjoying views of the waterfall and the lush greenery.
Devdari is a horseshoe-shaped waterfall surrounded by dense forest. The area is home to various species of flora and fauna, making it a haven for nature enthusiasts. The vast pool formed at the base in the valley is beautiful amidst lush green forests.
The site offers opportunities for trekking, camping, and picnicking.
There is an entry fee for the vehicle and passengers. Ample open parking space walkable distance away from the Rajdari. There is a snack shop and waste bins to dispose any leftovers appropriately.
Safety Precautions
- Avoid getting too close to the waterfall due to slippery rocks and strong currents.
- Avoid Swimming: Due to strong currents and slippery rocks, swimming near the waterfalls is not recommended.
- Stay on Designated Paths: Stick to marked trails and viewing platforms to ensure safety.
- Wear Appropriate Footwear: Sturdy, non-slip shoes are essential for navigating the rocky terrain.
- Respect Nature: Do not disturb the local flora and fauna, and avoid littering in the area.
- There are many monkeys, avoid eating food at the viewing points and on the walking trails. Avoid feeding them anything but fruits.
We enjoyed visiting the Rajdari Devdari waterfalls, the wildlife sanctuary and the nature. May be you will.
