Hogenakkal Falls is a waterfall on the Kaveri River located in the Dharmapuri district in Tamil Nadu. It is at times known as the "Niagara of India". The people of Tamil Nadu also call it Marikottayam. The Carbonatite rocks found here are believed to be the oldest in South Asia. Tourists visiting the spot take bath here. The water here is regarded to have medicinal values. The Hogenakkal Falls is formed by Kannada two words, hoge and kal. It is so called because when the water falls on the rocks also known as kal it seems that a hoge i.e. smoke is created. It happens due to the immense force of water. The Kaveri River from which the waterfall is formed becomes wide and deep here. It spreads out over a wide area of sandy beaches. Later it flows through to the Mettur Dam. There it forms into lake known as Stanley Reservoir. This helped in irrigation and provided hydropower. It also serves a beautiful picnic spot.

Bathing in Hogenakkal Falls
The Hogenakkal waterfall is believed to medicinal values and hence can cure many diseases. The place is surrounded by greenery and thick forests. Surrounded by hills it is an ideal picnic spot. Bathing here is also considered sacred. Tourists can also take bath in the Kaveri River.

Boating in Hogenakkal Falls
Tourists visiting the place can also enjoy boating in the cool waters. Boating here is allowed during the dry season. During that time the force of the water is not strong. Local coracles are available from Tamil Nadu and Karnataka banks of the gorge. These can carry almost eight persons at a time. These are sometimes known as parisal in Tamil and are usually built of bamboo. A variety of fishes are also found here which are caught and sold by vendors. Some of the fishes seen here are katla, robu, kendai, keluthi, valai, mirgal, aranjan and jilaby.

Hogenakkal Water Project
A water project has been developed at the Hogenakal Falls for the Hogenakkal Integrated Drinking Water Project. It has been proposed by the Tamil Nadu Government. It has been initiated to supply safe drinking water to the people residing in urban and rural areas in Krishnagiri and Dharmapuri districts.

The best time to visit the Hogenakal Falls is during the monsoons. At this time the water is in full force.