Where Are The Yana Caves Located? What Is Special About Yana Caves?
After a fulfilling Hyderabad to Gokarna trip, I explored a few extra miles. Yana Caves were my biggest discovery this time.
Yana Caves are massive, and the crystalline black rock formations appeared to me as the eternal witness or Sakshi of humankind. Furthemore, the Swayambhu, or self-manifested linga in the caves, has made it a popular spot for religious and spiritual tourism in India.
The local guides also had endless mythological stories and historical accounts to share about these caves.
Furthermore, Yana Village, home to the Yana Caves, is one of the wettest villages in the country and the second-cleanest village in India.
So, being here has been a learning experience and an example of how, with the right intentions, we can protect the community and local environment.
Yana Village has achieved the status of the second-cleanest village in the country despite a regular and heavy flow of tourists. Conduct clean-up drives conducted by the Forest Department of the State of Karnataka, and wearing footwear is prohibited in certain areas of the cave.
So, Yana Village is doing a brilliant job of protecting its heritage and environment.
Nevertheless, in this Dream and Travel Guide, we will talk about Yana Caves, its unique geological features, history, stories, and everything you need to know.
Where Is Yana Caves Located? Yana Caves In Which District?
Yana Caves near Gokarna are nestled in the Western Ghats. It is located in the Katgal Range forest in Yana Village, Malenadu Region, Uttara Kannada District, Karnataka.
Sirsi is the nearest town to the Yana Caves. The distance between these two places is 52 km.
Furthermore, the Yana Caves, formed by combining two crystalline lime rocks, range in height from 90 to 120 meters. The Mohini Shikhara is 90 meters in height, and the taller one, the Bhairaveshwara Shikhara, is 120 meters in height.
How To Reach Yana Caves?
Yana Caves is well-connected to other parts of the country, with nearby railway stations and airports.
From these railway stations and airports, you will have to travel by road to reach the Yana Caves.
How To Reach Yana Caves By Air?
Dabolim Airport in Goa is the nearest airport to Yana Caves. The airport is well-connected to the rest of the country, and once you reach it, you can travel the 140 km distance by car.
How To Reach Yana Caves By Train?
Kumta, located 25 km away, is the closest railway station to Yana. Take the Karwar Express from the Mangaluru Railway Station or Bengaluru to reach Kumta.
From there, take a bus or taxi to reach Yana Caves.
How To Reach Yana Caves By Road?
If you are traveling to the Yana Caves from Gokarna, like me, or planning a trip from other nearby towns such as Sirsi and Kumta, you will have to travel by road.
You can travel by private car or reserve a taxi.
Which Is The Best Route For Yana Caves?
The best route for Yana Caves is traveling by road from Kumta and Gokarna. Once you reach the Yana Village, you can reach the caves after a 3-km trek.
The Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) operates buses from Bengaluru to Gokarna and Kumta. You can contact KSRTC at 080-26252625 for all the details.
Also, trains such as Karwar Express (16515) and Panchaganga SF Express (16595) ply between Bengaluru and Kumta, which is again the nearest railway station to Yana.
From there, you can travel to Yana by road, and the journey via NH 766E and Yana Road takes less than an hour.
How To Reach Yana Caves From Gokarna?
The Yana caves to Gokarna distance is around 48 Km if you are traveling via NH 66 and Yana Road. It took us around 1 hour and 30 minutes to cover the distance.
You can also book a taxi from Gokarna to Yana Caves from platforms such as Cabbazaar. The taxi charges will be around INR 2200-3200, based on the vehicle you choose.
Which Month Is Best To Visit Yana?
June to September are the best months to visit Yana if you want to explore the unadulterated beauty of the region to the fullest. The temperature ranges between 23 and 39 degrees Celsius in these months.
Further, this is the best time to witness the local vegetation and waterfalls in their full glory. Also, the Hindu month of Shravan is very significant for the devotees of Lord Shiva.
So, you can plan a visit to the Swayambhu Lingam in this pious month. However, trekking is a little difficult in the months of monsoon.
Alternatively, October to March is another good season for a visit to Yana Caves. The waterfalls remain fuller in these months, and the temperature does not exceed 32-33 degrees Celsius.
Also, during the months of February or March, the temple becomes the center of attention with the celebration of Mahashivratri.
What Is Special About Yana Caves? Inside Yana Caves
Yana Caves, or its home, Yana Village, is one of the crown jewels in the ecotourism industry of Karnataka. The rock formations have many beehives, and it is also an important example of rainwater harvesting.
So, the conservation of Yana Caves is very important, especially given the boost in the number of visitors to this popular religious site. The caves, with the self-manifested idol of Lord Shiva in them, experience heavy footfall on occasions such as Maha Shivratri.
However, Yana Caves are more than just important ecotourism locations in the state. In fact, the locals believe that Yana Caves should be protected as a National Natural Heritage Site under the Biodiversity Preservation Act of 2002.
What Is The Story Of Yana Caves?
A marvel of nature, Yana Caves is a wonderful fusion of geological wonder and spiritual significance. Such massive limestone rock formations are rarely found in India.
Further, located in the Sahyadri Range, these caves are important for the biodiversity in the region.
However, the adjoining Mohini Shikhara and Bhairaveshwara Shikhara hilltops have some interesting mythological stories to tell. Also, the self-manifested or Swayambhu Shiva Lingam in the caves evokes awe about the place.
As we reached Yana Caves, the local guide, Nandish, told us tales of how Sage Agastya performed penance in the caves to receive divine blessings.
Also, the greatness of the Yana Caves lies in how it endured the dance of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati.
Moreover, the story of Bhasmasura and Lord Shiva is the most common around the Yana Caves.
Bhasmasura received the power from Lord Shiva to turn anything into ashes by keeping his hands on it. However, the demon tried to test his power on Lord Shiva.
Lord Shiva hid in these caves, and Lord Vishnu, disguised as Mohini, tricked the demon into keeping his hands on his own head.
The ashes of the demon flew in the air and covered the caves, turning them black. Thus, the caves were named Yana Caves.
Yana Caves Timings: What Is The Entry Fee For Yana Caves?
Yana Caves remain open from 8 AM to 6 PM every day. Further, the entry fee to the caves is INR 5. Also, you need to pay INR 40 for parking your vehicle here.
Falls Yana Caves (Vibhuti Falls) And Other Places To Visit Near Yana Caves
Yana Caves have many beautiful tourist attractions nearby. Along with Vibhuti Falls, you can also plan a visit to the Murudeshwar village and my favorite, Apsarakonda.
1. The Vibhuti Falls
‣ Yana Caves to Vibhuti Falls Distance: 10 Km Trek Route
The Vibhuti Falls is one of the hidden gems of Karnataka. The trek route from Yana Caves to the Vibhuthi Falls is the right fusion of adventure and beauty, with you walking through the lush forests of the Western Ghats.
Further, the water cascading from a height of around 30 feet creates a veil of mist around. Thus, it creates a serene ambiance.
2. Murudeshwar
‣ Murudeshwar to Yana Caves Distance: 76 Km
The Murudeshwar Village is home to the famous Murudeshwar Temple. This temple has the second-tallest statue of Lord Shiva.
Further, this village has beautiful beaches and popular tourist attractions such as Mirjan Fort and Bhatkal.
3. Apsarakonda
‣ Apsarakonda to Yana Caves Distance: 56 Km
If Scotland has the Fairy Glen on the Isle of Skye, we also have Apsarakonda. The “pond of the angels” harbors the water falling through the roots of an ancient peepal tree.
Further, there is a hidden cave near the pond, and the Pandavas were believed to have taken refuge here during their exile.
What Are The Things To Do At Yana Caves?
Have you heard the famous Kannada phrase, “Sokku iddare Yana, Rokka iddare Gokarna?”
It means that if you have the money, you can plan a trip to Gokarna. However, if you are an enthusiastic soul, you must visit Yana Caves.
So, Yana Caves, most famous for its spiritual or mythological significance, also you to explore a lot of outdoor activities.
1. Trekking To Yana Caves
You can trek to the Yana Caves from the Yana Village. This 3 km walk through lush and wet forests will take around 30-45 minutes.
Is Yana Caves Trek Difficult?
The first half of the Yana Caves trek is easy as you walk through the lush forests. If you start early, you can comfortably cover the distance through the forests, listening to the noise of crickets and chirpings of birds.
Further, the sudden streams of clean water on the route are refreshing.
However, challenges begin when you reach the broken stairways to reach the hilltops. You will huff and puff even if you are the fittest person.
Having said that, once I reached Mohini Shikhara, the smaller rock, the ethereal views around more than made up for the toil.
I had to take another 50 steps to reach the base of the taller rock, or Bhairaveshwara Shikhara.
I had to take off my shoes for a quick visit to the temple, and then climb up the rock through the steep path. The route is guarded with railings, and you have to be careful while climbing the rock.
2. Visiting The Shiva Temple
Visiting the Shiva temple at the bottom of the Bhairaveshwara hill was an unforgettable experience. The water stream falling on the Swayambhu Lingam is the most fulfilling sight.
There is a belief that this stream takes the form of the Vibhuti Fall, a few kilometers away, and then it gets united with the Aghanashini River.
3. Trekking To Vibhuti Waterfalls
The 10-km trek to Vibhuti Waterfalls from Yana Caves is a wonderful experience as you pass through green and cool forests, and you meet many small hills on the way.
Further, the route is moderately challenging, and you must wear proper shoes for the trek.
Vibhuti, in the local language, means the ashes of glory, and it is believed to be the place where the ashes of Bhasmasura fell.
Nevertheless, cascading through limestone rocks, the water of Vibhuti Falls is rich in minerals, and it is pure.
4. Birds And Butterfly Watching
Yana Caves are one of the most sought-after places for bird and butterfly watching. Here, you will spot birds like Oriental Bay Owls, Indian Rollers, Small Green Barbets, Malabar Grey Hornbills, and other species.
What Are The Places To Eat Near Yana Caves?
When planning a trip to the Yana Caves, you must carry some snacks and water. However, don’t forget to bring the empty packs and bottles back.
The humble stalls near the caves sell basic food items, such as eggs, tea, and coffee.
However, you must travel at least 3 km to reach Mabagi Village, which has some humble restaurants.
Further, if you want an elaborate dining experience, you must come to Sirsi or Gokarna, the towns nearest to the Yana Caves.
What Are The Places To Stay Near Yana Caves?
For a visit to Yana Caves, you can stay at Gokarna or Sirsi. In Gokarna, there are luxurious places to stay, such as Famstel Gokarna—Beach Stay and Kudle Beach View Resort and Spa.
However, I chose a humble homestay in Gokarna. Homestays are a more comfortable and safer option these days, as the Karnataka Government has made registration mandatory.
Moreover, homestays are ideal if you want to learn more about the local culture.
Is Yana Caves Worth Visiting?
Yes, Yana Caves are worth visiting due to their multifaceted importance.
- The two adjoining rocks stand out with their unique karst limestone formations. These rocks are formed after millions of years of tectonic activity and erosion.
- Clad with beehives and frequented by butterflies, these caves are crucial to the local ecological diversity of the surrounding area.
- The caves are known as “Yana,” meaning “black” in hue. The presence of manganese, silica, and iron makes these caves black in shade.
- Moreover, these caves have associations with the famous stories of Bhasmasura, Lord Shiva, and Lord Vishnu.
- One of the twin rock formations, Bhairaveshwara Shikhara, also has a self-manifested Shiva lingam and a temple of Lord Shiva at the base. Many devotees of Lord Shiva visit the temple, especially during festivals such as Mahashivaratri.
Furthermore, water naturally drips from the top of the hill onto the Shiva lingam, creating an ambiance of devotion and awe.
- Yana Caves are also famous as the location of the classic Kannada Movie Nammoora Mandara Hoove. The caves were recently in the news as Kannada superstar Dr. Shivarajkumar visited the caves after 29 years of filming the movie.
Yana Caves Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are some frequently asked questions and their answers about Yana Caves.
The geological history of the Yana Caves is at least 400 million years old. These black rocks, made of karst limestones, were formed due to constant weathering and erosion.
Further, the Yana Caves are stories of Lord Mahadeva, Vishnu, and Bhasmasura.
Yana Caves have a self-manifested lingam or Swayambhu Lingam of Lord Shiva. The temple of Lord Shiva is located at the base of Bhairaveshwara Shikhara, the taller hill formation among the two.
The other rock formation is known as Mohini Shikhara. It symbolizes Lord Vishnu, who, disguised as Mohini, or a beautiful woman, tricked Bhasmasura.
Bhasmasura got the power from Lord Shiva to turn everything into ashes by keeping his hands on it. However, the demon became very adamant, and he wanted to test his power on Shiva.
Lord Shiva then hid in these caves, and Vishnu, disguised as a woman, tricked the demon into putting his hands on his head. This led to the demon’s destruction.
Yana Village in the Uttara Kannada District is no doubt famous for its two massive rock formations with caves, or Yana Caves.
However, Yana Village has also earned the fame of being the second-cleanest village in the country. It is also a picturesque location with the beauty of the Sahyadri mountain range of the Western Ghats and dense forests.
Also, Yana is a popular destination for avid birdwatchers and butterfly lovers.
The distance between Gokarna and Yana Caves is around 48 Km. The taxi fare for the route will be around INR 2200 to 3200, based on the type of car you choose.
Further, if you are traveling in a group, you can even book a tempo traveler, costing you around INR 10000.
If you only want to explore Yana Caves, a half day will be enough for you.
However, if you want to explore nearby attractions such as Murudeshwara, Karwar, Apsarakonda, and Vibhuti Falls, you need at least 2 days.
Further, the time you need will depend on how you want to travel. For example, if you want to trek to the Vibhuti waterfalls, you can complete the same in 20 minutes.
However, if you want to travel the distance by road, you may need more than one hour based on traffic conditions.
