Yana Caves: A Journey Through Nature’s Limestone Monoliths

1. Timings

• Opening Hours: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM daily.
• It is recommended to start early in the morning to enjoy the trek and avoid the midday heat.

2. Distance

• From Sirsi: 38 km (1 hour)
• From Kumta: 25 km (45 minutes)
• From Gokarna: 50 km (1.5 hours)
• From Hubli: 140 km (3.5 hours)

3. How to Get There

• By Road: Yana is well-connected by roads. You can take a bus or hire a cab from Sirsi, Kumta, or Gokarna.
• By Train: The nearest railway station is Kumta, about 25 km away.
• By Air: The nearest airport is Hubli Airport, about 140 km away. Mangalore International Airport is also an option, about 220 km away.
• After reaching the base, a trek of about 3 km through forest trails is required to reach the caves.

4. Ideal Season to Visit

• Best Time: October to March. The weather is pleasant, and the forest is lush green.
• Avoid visiting during monsoons (June to September) as the trail becomes slippery.

5. Height

• The Bhairaveshwara Shikhara stands at about 120 meters tall, and Mohini Shikhara is about 90 meters.

6. Entry Charges

• Entry Fee: Free for all visitors.
• Parking: Nominal parking fees (approximately ₹20 for bikes, ₹50 for cars).

7. Parking

• Parking is available at the base of the trek. Ensure to reach early as space might be limited during peak season.

8. Food Options

• Carry your own snacks and water, as there are limited food stalls at the base. It’s advisable to bring food, especially if you’re trekking during off-peak hours.
• Basic food stalls may sell tea, snacks, and coconut water near the parking area.

9. Stay Options

• Sirsi and Kumta have several budget and mid-range accommodations.
• Gokarna: If you prefer beachside stays, Gokarna offers more luxurious options, with resorts, guesthouses, and homestays.
• Eco-stays: There are also a few eco-resorts in the nearby forest areas for those seeking a nature-centric experience.

10. Activities

• Trekking: A 3 km trek through dense forest trails.
• Photography: Capture the striking rock formations and scenic views.
• Temple visit: Bhairaveshwara Shikhara houses a small temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, which locals worship.
• Bird Watching and Nature Walks: The surrounding forest is home to various bird species and flora.

11. Tips for Visitors

• Footwear: Wear comfortable trekking shoes with good grip.
• Carry Water: There are no facilities en route, so carry enough water and snacks.
• Insect Repellent: Since it's a forest area, carry insect repellent.
• Weather: The trek can be slippery after rain, so plan accordingly if visiting during or just after the monsoon.
• Trek: Be prepared for an uphill climb; it's moderately challenging but manageable for most people.

12. Nearby Attractions

• Vibhooti Falls: A stunning waterfall located about 8 km from Yana.
• Mirjan Fort: A historic fort located near Kumta, about 40 km from Yana.
• Gokarna Beaches: Famous for its serene beaches like Om Beach and Kudle Beach, located around 50 km from Yana.
• Sirsi Marikamba Temple: A well-known temple located 38 km away in Sirsi.