Yana In Karnataka Has A Cluster Of 61 Alien-Like Rocks, Sitting Deep In The Forests Of The Western Ghats

In the 1996 Kannada film, Nammoora Mandara Hoove, actor Shiva Rajkumar is seen eyes wide open, spellbound by the towering presence of the Yana Rocks in front of him. He mouths a “wow” as Ilaiyaraaja’s score croons in the background. The sharp, solid black, crystalline rocks resemble a castle reaching for the skies. Decades later, if you were to travel to Yana in Karnataka, like Shiv Rajkumar’s character, you’d fall short of words to describe its magnificence.

Yana In Karnataka Has 500 Million-YO Rock Formations

Located 500 km from Bengaluru, about a 10-hour road trip away, sits Yana, Karnataka’s cleanest village and India’s second cleanest. Part of the Malenadu region, between Sirsi and Kumta, Yana houses a cluster of 61 alien-like rocks. Of the 61 formations sitting deep inside the forests of the Western Ghats, two unique rocks command all the attention. And that’s the Bhairaveshwara Shikhara(120 metres high) and the Mohini Shikhara (90 metres high). They are named after the avatars of Lord Shiva and Lord Vishnu, respectively.

Scientists believe Yana Caves or Yana Rocks date back 500 million years. The monoliths, composed of karst limestone were believed to have been formed due to years of weathering. Yana showcases nature’s artistry at its best, where wind and water have sculpted the sharp yet unique rock formations that leave every visitor in awe.

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Ancient Cave Temple, Trekking Trails, & Nature’s Bounty

Yana brings together the excited road trippers, the pilgrims seeking solace in the bounty of nature and the trekkers seeking thrill. Here, the water from the river Chandika gushes through gorges. At Yana, exotic birds chirp and draw the attention of nature enthusiasts. And pilgrims humbly seek darshan at the cave temple dedicated to Lord Shiva on the foothill of the Bhairaveshwara Shikhara. The Shiv linga is known to be self-manifested, where water drips over it from the natural roof above.

A moderately difficult trek across slippery slopes and verdant greens would lead you to Yana Caves. Stalls selling coconut water and fruit bowls will beckon you to take a break. Do note that you need to carry cash as the site is cut away from network access. But that’s the best part about nature’s wonders, isn’t it?

Also Read: 6 Best Nature Resorts Near Bangalore For A Holiday Amist Lush Greenery

It’s all about gaping at nature’s towering sculptures with eyes wide open, and a heart ready to soak in its unparalleled beauty and sanctity.

Where: Yana Village, Uttara Kannada district, Karnataka, India
When: 6 am to 6 pm
Cost: ₹5 per person

Cover Image Courtesy: Canva Pro/ ePhotocorp