The chill of the high altitude, the fresheness in the air, the soothing green of the surrounding, and of course, the cascade of water torrenting down a rocky edge, but in a beautiful tranquil manner – everything makes waterfalls the ideal sightseeing scene. Though some of the below mentioned waterfalls may be less approachable than the others, you should know about them and chalk out a plan to take a trip there.

Gullfoss (Golden falls), Iceland

This is one of the most gorgeous waterfalls, especially during the winter. Gullfoss is particularly known for its shape, this wild waterfall tumbles on the Hvítá River in two tiers at 90 degree angles to each other. Due to a crevice, the river Hvítá seems to disappear into the abyss. Set in an environment of mystique, the allure of this waterfall is in its surrounding as well.

Niagra falls, USA and Canada

Spanning across the two countries of Canada and USA, Niagara Falls is one of the most well-known ones in the world. Owing to its popularity, the surroundings aren’t as naturesque as the others. But easy accessibility and numerous view points make it desirable. It is formed of two sections – the Horseshoe Falls on the Canadian side and the American Falls on the American side – that are separated by an island. The Horseshoe Falls are more impressive: water here drops 53 m, while the American Falls drop only 21-30 m.

Victoria falls, Zimbabwe

The largest singular waterfall in the world, Victoria Falls spreads out to 1.7km with an average flow of 1 million litres every second! If these figures don’t amaze you, then I don’t know what will. If you go travelling near it, you will have a hard time keeping yourself dry, thanks to all the mist around it. An UNESCO World Heritage site, it is one of the seven natural wonders of the world. Victoria falls is truly a work of sublime beauty.

Plitvice falls, Croatia

While most of the other waterfalls mentioned here are singular ones, Plitvice Falls is more like a network of falls, making it one of the most unique one. The many drops end in various hues of blue, ranging from clear to azure to turquoise. These finally extend onto a limestone canyon. Located within a national park, one can hike around and across them. The national park is also an UNESCO World Heritage site.

Angel falls, Venezuela

World’s highest uninterrupted, permanent waterfall deserved a place on this list. It falls mysteriously out of a tabletop mountain in Canaima National Park, in its full glory. Standing as tall as 979 metres, it’s a sight to behold. Though reaching it is a bit of a complicated affair, it hasn’t stopped the true lovers of nature. After reaching the national park, you need a river boat ride and a hike to reach the Angel Fall lookout.

Yosemite falls, USA

Located in Sierra Nevada, California, it is one of the highest falls in the USA (739 metres). Being easy to access, this is one of the most popular tourist destination. The fact that it’s located in the incomparably beautiful Yosemite Valley, too helps its case. The source of this waterfall is melting snow, which is why, sometimes the stream may cease due to a lesser amount of snow.