Hogenakkal is a magnificient waterfall on the river Kaveri near the borders of the South Indian states of Tamilnadu and Karnataka and is about 250 metres above sea level. Hogenakkal means 'Smoking Rock', a name derived from the cloud of mist and spray, that envelopes the chasm. This picturesque picnic spot is about 180 kms south of Bangalore, towards Salem. The main attraction of the falls is its vertical drop from a height of 20 metres with a thundering sound. A sacred bathing place, Hogenakkal is famed for the curative power of its waters. Another attraction of this picnic spot is the trip of the river on the Coracles or basket-boats, the circular vessels made of bamboo frames covered in either black plastic or buffalo hide.