Yana Rock Caves

Yana Village, Sahyadri Hill Ranges · Yana · Karnataka · India

No image available

No one has shared a view of Yana Rock Caves yet.

No image available

About Yana Rock Caves

Yana Rock Caves are natural karst limestone formations located in the Sahyadri hill ranges of Uttara Kannada district, Karnataka, near Yana village. The site features two massive black crystalline rock outcrops, Bhairaveshwara Shikhara (120 m) and Mohini Shikhara (90 m), with caves housing a Shiva temple. Surrounded by dense evergreen forest within Yana forest reserve, it is notable for its geological formations, trekking trails and religious significance.

Visitors guide

Visitors can expect a forest trek of about 2-3 km from the parking area to reach two towering black karst rock outcrops set in dense evergreen forest. The larger Bhairaveshwara Shikhara contains a cave with a Shiva linga and temple, accessible via steps, while Mohini Shikhara stands nearby. The area offers natural cave passages, rock formations, forested trails, viewpoints and a pilgrimage atmosphere, with basic amenities at the base.

Key highlights

01
Bhairaveshwara Shikhara - 120 m tall massive black karst rock tower with cave temple
02
Mohini Shikhara - 90 m tall rock outcrop adjacent to Bhairaveshwara Shikhara
03
Natural karst limestone caves formed by crystalline limestone
04
Ancient Shiva temple and self-manifested Shiva linga inside Bhairaveshwara cave
05
Scenic trek through Sahyadri evergreen forest to reach the caves
06
Dense forest surroundings within Yana forest reserve in the Western Ghats

History of Yana Rock Caves

Yana caves are ancient natural karst formations composed of crystalline limestone in the Sahyadri ranges, estimated to have formed over millions of years. The caves have long been used as a Shaivite pilgrimage site with a cave temple dedicated to Lord Shiva housed inside Bhairaveshwara Shikhara.

Culture & Context

The caves hold religious importance as a Hindu pilgrimage site dedicated to Lord Shiva, with the Bhairaveshwara cave temple attracting devotees especially during Maha Shivaratri. Local legend associates the two rock outcrops with Bhairaveshwara (Shiva) and Mohini, giving the site mythological significance.

Route

By air

Keep exploring nearby

Discover more nearby attractions and build a fuller day around this stop.

No image available

Vibhuti Falls

Vibhuti Falls is a seasonal forest waterfall located near Achave village in Uttara Kannada district, Karnataka, close to the Yana rock outcrops. Surrounded by dense Western Ghats forest, the waterfall cascades over limestone rock formations into a shallow pool. It is notable for its secluded natural setting, short forest trek to reach the falls, and its popularity as a day-trip destination from Karwar, Ankola, Sirsi and Gokarna.

Achave, KarnatakaWaterfall

No image available

Mirjan Fort

Mirjan Fort is a historic 16th-century fort located in Mirjan village near Kumta in Uttara Kannada district, Karnataka, on the banks of the Aghanashini River. Spread over about 4.1 hectares and built with laterite stone, it features high walls, bastions, moats and ruined structures. Associated with Queen Chennabhairadevi and later rulers, it was an important centre for the pepper trade and is noted for its well-preserved architecture and scenic riverine surroundings.

Kumta, KarnatakaFort

No image available

Sahasralinga

Sahasralinga is a renowned pilgrimage and heritage site on the Shalmala River near Sirsi in Uttara Kannada, Karnataka. It features thousands of Shiva lingas carved on rocks and boulders in the riverbed and on its banks, along with Nandi figures. Created under Vijayanagara influence, the site is visible mainly in the dry season when water levels are low and attracts devotees and visitors for its religious and archaeological interest.

Sirsi, KarnatakaReligious Site

By train	Nearest railway stations are Kumta Railway Station, Karwar Railway Station and Kumta region stations; Kumta is most commonly used

By road	Well connected by road from Sirsi (about 40 km), Kumta (about 40 km) and Karwar (about 60 km); private vehicles, taxis and KSRTC buses to Yana village, followed by 2-3 km trek from parking area

By public transport	KSRTC buses operate from Sirsi, Kumta and Karwar to Yana; auto-rickshaws and taxis available for last mile to base parking

Nearest airport	Hubballi Airport

Nearest railway station	Kumta Railway Station

Need to know

01Things to know before you go	Requires 2-3 km trek from parking area through forest; wear comfortable trekking shoes Carry drinking water and light snacks as facilities are limited near caves Trail becomes slippery during monsoon season No accommodation at the caves; stay options available at Sirsi, Kumta or Karwar Visit during daylight hours; forest area not recommended after sunset
02Rules & restrictions	Maintain cleanliness and do not litter in forest and cave area Plastic is discouraged in forest reserve Respect temple premises and follow local customs inside cave shrine
03Safety information	Forest trail can be slippery and leech-prone during monsoon Beware of loose rocks and steep steps near cave entrances Avoid venturing into deep cave passages without caution Wildlife may be present in surrounding forest; stay on marked trail

Facilities listed

Reported facilities to help you plan your visit.

Drinking Water
Food Stalls
Parking
Toilets