Yana Caves in Karnataka is a magical monsoon trek

Hidden deep in the forests of Uttara Kannada, Yana Village is a beautiful secret in Karnataka’s Western Ghats. Known for its massive black rock formations and heavy monsoon rains, it’s a place that feels wild and untouched. During the rainy season, the forest turns even greener. The air smells of wet earth, and the sound of water is everywhere. It was this magical setting and the legend behind it that made me want to visit Yana Caves in Karnataka. 

Yana Caves History

Two huge black rocks, Bhairaveshwara Shikhara and Mohini Shikhara, rise sharply from the forest floor, carrying fascinating stories carved into time.

According to legend, a demon named Bhasmasura was granted a deadly power by Lord Shiva. With one touch, he could burn anything to ashes. But soon, he tried to use this power on Shiva himself. To save him, Lord Vishnu took the form of Mohini, a beautiful enchantress. She tricked Bhasmasura into placing his hand on his own head, turning him into ash. The explosion was so powerful, it blackened the surrounding rocks. That’s the story behind Yana’s dark monoliths.

You’ll often see this tale performed in Yakshagana, a folk-dance drama from Karnataka. And during Mahashivratri, Yana comes alive with pilgrims who visit the cave temple to pray and celebrate Lord Shiva.

Things to see at Yana Caves

You’ll likely begin your journey to Yana on a misty, rain-kissed morning—just like I did. The drive from Gokarna is about 50 kilometres, winding through dense forests and curving hill roads. When you arrive at the base, a large signboard in Kannada and a few parked cars will assure you you’re in the right place. Nearby, small stalls offer hot tea, bottled water, and quick snacks—good to stock up before you begin.

As you step onto the trail, expect the rain to greet you again. The path can get muddy and slippery, so walk slow and steady. But take your time—it’s worth it. The forest feels alive here. Crickets buzz, birds call overhead, and little streams trickle beside the trail. Pause now and then to soak it in, or run your hands through the cool water that flows across the path.

After about 1.5 kilometres on relatively flat ground, the trail begins to climb. You’ll come across uneven stone steps and a thicker stretch of forest. Keep going. Through the trees, you’ll catch your first glimpse of Mohini Shikhara, rising like a dark sentinel into the fog. It’s the kind of sight that leaves you spellbound.

Inside Yana caves

Just beyond Mohini Shikhara lies Bhairaveshwara Shikhara, the larger of the two rock formations. Another 50 stone steps lead to the base, where a small temple rests beneath the towering monolith. Inside, a Shiva lingam is continuously bathed by a gentle stream of water. Local lore says this very water becomes Vibhuti Falls, eventually flowing into the Aghanashini River.

Leave your shoes at the temple’s footsteps and continue barefoot to explore the cave. Hold the railing, especially in the rain. The space inside is vast and cool, with natural light filtering through cracks in the rock. Golden rays dance across the floor, bouncing off sharp stalactites and stalagmites, and bats flit around. There’s something deeply sacred and raw about this place—it leaves you awestruck in the best way.

Spend as much time as you like inside—I stayed around 30 minutes, just absorbing it all. Then, when you’re ready, make your way back down, slowly and mindfully.

Yana Caves in Karnataka: Best to visit

You can visit Yana year-round, but June to September—during the monsoon—is when the forest truly comes alive. Everything is lush, misty, and magical. If you prefer clearer weather, post-monsoon or winter months are great too. Either way, it’s best to start your trek early morning or later in the afternoon to skip the midday heat.