Ethipothala Falls, Nagarjuna Sagar - Timings, Swimming, Entry Fee, Best Season to Visit

At a distance of 14 km from Nagarjuna Sagar, 176 km from Hyderabad & 177 km from Vijayawada, Ethipothala waterfalls are striking falls on River Chandravanka (a tributary of River Krishna), towards the down flow of Nagarjuna Sagar Dam. This is one of the best tourist attractions to visit near Hyderabad & a popular waterfall around Hyderabad city. It is one of the prime places to visit in Nagarjuna Sagar and also one of the top Tourist places in Telangana.

Ethipothala is a famous waterfall formed by the mountain streams which falls from a height of approximately 70 feet into a lagoon. Three streams namely Nakka Vagu, Tummala Vagu and Chandravanka Vagu combine to form this waterfall. The name Ethipothala has been derived from the Sanskrit word 'Etitaposthal' meaning the place for penance. It is believed that saints have performed rigorous penance at this place. The caves nearby also attest their presence at this place.

This waterfall joins Krishna River after flowing for a distance of around 3 km. A view point was created by Andhra Pradesh Tourism Department from the adjacent hillock. There is a crocodile breeding center in the pond formed by the water fall and is managed by the Forest Department of Andhra Pradesh where one can see the crocodiles from close distance. Water from the Nagarjuna Sagar right bank canal is released in to the above streams to keep the water fall alive or flowing throughout the year for tourism purpose.

There are two temples at the foot of the waterfall, dedicated to Ranganadha Swami and Dattatreya Swami. Visitors have to get down a few steps to visit these temples. Adjacent to the waterfall, there is a group of caves which are believed to extend till Srisailam. Ethipothala Waterfall is also a great place for mild trekking and camping along with refreshing nature sightseeing.

To reach the falls from Nagarjuna Sagar, go towards Macherla on SH1 for about 8 km and take left turn to Ethipothala Falls (sign board available) and drive for 3 km; the road is good throughout.

AP Tourism has developed a very good restaurant with two rooms for accommodation and wonderful garden with toilet facilities at this place. One can enjoy half day trip at this place watching falls, bathing and roaming around.

Timings: 6.30 AM to 9 PM. Entry fee: Rs 20 for adults & Rs 15 for children.