
Yana Caves Karnataka
Mystical black limestone caves in Karnataka's Western Ghats, featuring towering rock formations and a sacred Shiva temple.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds.

Yana Caves Karnataka
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Mystical black limestone caves in Karnataka's Western Ghats, featuring towering rock formations and a sacred Shiva temple.
"A surreal natural wonder with breathtaking formations and a spiritual heart."

🚗 Car Trouble Warning
Roads can be tricky; cars have gotten stuck. Drive carefully or consider local transport. :car:
🚶♀️ Trekking Shoes Recommended
Wear comfortable shoes for the walk and trek; the path can be uneven. :athletic_shoe:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Bhairaveshwara Shikhara
Base of the main rock formation
A colossal black limestone pinnacle, a breathtaking natural sculpture rising from the forest floor.

Mohini Shikhara
Near Bhairaveshwara Shikhara
The second striking black limestone peak, complementing its larger counterpart in this geological marvel.

Cave Temple
At the base of Bhairaveshwara Shikhara
A sacred Hindu shrine within the cave, where water naturally drips onto the Shivalinga.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Trek Smart, Drive Cautiously
Respect Nature & Spirituality
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Car Trouble Warning
Roads can be tricky; cars have gotten stuck. Drive carefully or consider local transport. :car:
🚶♀️ Trekking Shoes Recommended
Wear comfortable shoes for the walk and trek; the path can be uneven. :athletic_shoe:
💧 Carry Water Bottle
Stay hydrated during your trek; water sources are limited. :droplet:
🚫 No Plastic Zone
Help keep the area clean; plastic is banned. :noentrysign:
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Car Trouble Warning
Roads can be tricky; cars have gotten stuck. Drive carefully or consider local transport. :car:
🚶♀️ Trekking Shoes Recommended
Wear comfortable shoes for the walk and trek; the path can be uneven. :athletic_shoe:
💧 Carry Water Bottle
Stay hydrated during your trek; water sources are limited. :droplet:
🚫 No Plastic Zone
Help keep the area clean; plastic is banned. :noentrysign:
💰 Small Entrance Fee
There's a nominal fee to enter the cave area. :moneybag:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Yana Caves are lauded as a breathtaking natural wonder with unique black limestone formations and a spiritual cave temple. Visitors appreciate the surreal landscape, the trek through lush forests, and the clean environment. Some find the road access challenging and the trek demanding, especially for those with mobility issues.
"30 rs entree fees. 20 minutes walk to the caves.
My visit to Yana Caves felt like stepping into a fantasy world tucked inside Karnataka’s lush forests. The walk through the green, misty trail was as rewarding as the caves themselves. The massive black limestone rock formations rise dramatically out of nowhere, surreal, almost otherworldly.
It’s peaceful, clean, and surprisingly energising. If you love nature, quiet adventures, and places that make you feel tiny in the best way, Yana is a must-visit."
Sayali M Patil
"We visited Yana caves on the Sep 30th.
From the parking it's about 500-600m walk to the entrance of the cave.
We have to walk barefooted into the cave and are charged a small entrance fee.
The cave exploration is a short and good walk with great picturesque views. Will give the shutterbugs some great snaps.
Once we pay the entrance fee, the pathway has step based walk and then some plain walk followed by stepped descent.
There is a temple at the beginning of the ascent and descent as well. The walkway is well roof guarded in case of minor rains.
People with knee issues may want to skip this. But the views inside and outside the caves are breathtaking.
It's one of the main attractions if you are in Gokarna."
Hemanth P
"Yana caves are ancient geological formations of dolomatic limestone that formed over millions of years due to sedimentation and tectonic activity. The black limestone rock outcrops, Bhairaveshwara Shikhara and Mohini Shikhara, are significant geological features. The route to yana is so scenic and beautiful. You find a waterfall throughout the trek to caves. The story of bhasmasura is associated with this caves"
bhavishya thoganti
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Yana Caves are approximately 50 km from Gokarna. You can hire a taxi or take a local bus towards Kumta and then arrange for transport to the caves. Some travelers mention that the road leading to the caves can be challenging for cars, so be prepared for a walk from the parking area.
The road condition can be variable, especially after rain. Some visitors have reported their cars getting stuck on the path leading up to the caves, so driving cautiously is advised.
Yes, you can take a bus from Gokarna to Kumta and then find local transport or a taxi to Yana Caves. However, the final stretch might require some walking.
From the parking area, it's about a 500-600 meter walk to the entrance of the caves. This walk is described as scenic and part of the overall experience.
Drivers should be aware that the path can be steep and uneven. It's recommended to have a vehicle that can handle slightly rough terrain, or be prepared to park further away and walk.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, there is a small entrance fee to access the Yana Caves area. This fee helps in maintaining the site.
Yana Caves are typically open from 8 AM to 6 PM. It's always a good idea to confirm timings locally if possible.
No, advance booking is generally not required for Yana Caves. Tickets are usually purchased at the entrance.
Visitors are asked to be respectful of the natural environment and the spiritual significance of the site. Plastic is banned in the forest area.
Yes, families can visit Yana Caves. The walk is manageable for most, but parents should supervise young children, especially on uneven paths.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The trek involves walking barefoot into the cave area. The path includes steps and some flat sections, with a temple at the beginning of the ascent and descent. It's described as breathtaking and surreal.
The main attractions are the massive black limestone rock formations, Bhairaveshwara Shikhara and Mohini Shikhara, and the cave temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, where water drips onto the Shivalinga.
The path involves steps and descents, so individuals with knee issues might find it challenging. It's advisable to assess your mobility before visiting.
The best way is to walk barefoot into the cave complex, following the designated paths. Take your time to admire the unique rock formations and the natural beauty.
Yana Caves can be crowded, especially during peak tourist seasons. Visiting in the early morning can help avoid the largest crowds.
📸 📸 Photography
Absolutely! The unique black limestone formations against the lush green backdrop offer stunning photographic opportunities. The natural light and dramatic landscapes are a dream for shutterbugs.
The base of the Bhairaveshwara Shikhara and Mohini Shikhara, as well as the pathways leading into the caves, provide excellent vantage points for capturing the grandeur of the formations.
While not explicitly stated, drone usage might be restricted in natural and religious sites. It's best to check local regulations before flying a drone.
Landscape photography, nature photography, and even architectural shots of the cave temple are ideal here. The dramatic formations lend themselves well to wide-angle shots.
Yes, the paths are generally well-maintained, allowing you to take photos while walking. However, be mindful of your surroundings and other visitors.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶♂️ Trekkers and Adventure Seekers
📸 Photographers and Nature Lovers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge




Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit