“Not all those who wander are lost.”
J.R.R Tolkien
The caves are shrouded in local folklore flowing through generations of humanity. They are veiled in history and mythology.
Carved out of rugged laterite rock, the Yana Caves are believed to be millions of years old. Local legends weave tales of these caves being the abode of Pandavas during their exile in the Mahabharata epic. History buffs will find evidence of Jain settlements here, with inscriptions dating back to the 2nd century BC.
Yana Village
The village is located in the forests of Kumta, Uttara Kannada district of the Southern Indian state of Karnataka. It is known for its unique rock formations. The village provides the base for exploration into the Yana caves.
Auto and taxi drivers are readily available in the village to take you to the caves.
The Caves
Carved out of rugged laterite rock, the Yana Caves are believed to be millions of years old. Local legends weave tales of these caves being the abode of Pandavas during their exile in the Mahabharata epic. History buffs will find evidence of Jain settlements here, with inscriptions dating back to the 2nd century BC.
The caves hold religious significance for Hindus and Jains (an important Indic religion). he natural formations within the caves resemble various Hindu deities, including Shiva lingas (elongated symbolic representations of Lord Shiva). Jain pilgrims revere the presence of idols like Gommateshwara and Bahubali within the caves.
The Yana Caves complex consists of five interconnected caves, each with its unique charm:
Maha Ganapati Cave
Dedicated to Lord Ganesha, the remover of obstacles, this cave is believed to bring good fortune to visitors.
Belekeri Cave
Named after the nearby village, this cave boasts natural rock formations resembling various Hindu gods and goddesses.
Meditation Cave
As the name suggests, this serene cave provides a perfect setting for meditation and introspection.
Linger Shikha Cave
This captivating cave features stalactites (formations hanging from the ceiling) resembling a ‘shikha’ (Sanskrit for tuft of hair), a symbolic representation of an ascetic.
Dharmadeva Cave
The largest cave in the complex, Dharmadeva Cave is known for its natural arch and its association with the Pandavas.
The Vibhuti Waterfalls
Vibhooti Falls is located close to the Yana Caves. In fact, they are considered companion attractions, often visited together during a trip to the region.
Vibhooti Falls is roughly 2-3 kilometers away from the Yana Caves. You can reach Vibhooti Falls by taking a short trek from the Yana Caves. The trail is well-marked and relatively easy to navigate.
Many tourists choose to combine a visit to the Yana Caves with a refreshing dip at Vibhooti Falls. This allows you to experience the historical and spiritual significance of the caves along with the natural beauty of the waterfalls.
Stories of Yana Caves in the Mahabharata
One of the most widely known stories narrates that the Yana Caves served as a refuge for the Pandavas during their exile in the Mahabharata. After the Pandavas lost the game of dice to the Kauravas, they were forced into exile for thirteen years. According to this legend, the Yana Caves provided a safe haven for the Pandavas during a part of their exile. Some versions of the story even claim that the natural formations within the caves resemble the figures of the Pandavas and Draupadi.
Another story attributes the creation of the Yana Caves to Bhima, one of the Pandava brothers. Legend has it that Bhima, known for his immense strength, used his mace to break open the side of the mountain, creating the caves. This story might have arisen to explain the unique rock formations and the vastness of the cave system.
These legends add a layer of intrigue and cultural significance to the Yana Caves. They reflect the deep connection between the local communities, the Mahabharata, and these ancient caves.
Other Resources
Do look at the video below for some details. Though, the video is available in Hindi only.
Look at Karnatakatourism.org coverage of the caves:
Planning a visit to the caves
- Timing: The caves are open year-round, from sunrise to sunset.
- Dress Code: As a mark of respect for the religious significance, dress modestly (covered shoulders and knees).
- Footwear: Wear comfortable shoes suitable for uneven surfaces.
- Guide: Consider hiring a local guide for a more enriching experience, as they can shed light on the history, mythology, and significance of the caves.
