Yana:

Not many people know about this one of the most beautiful spots in between Gokarna and Mudeshwar. Not many books have even written anything about this spot.

Yana is natural wonder, where two giant rock formations have sprung up; from nowhere on the top of mountains. It has probably happened due to molten lava or a meteor having struck the earth. The rock formations are huge; 120 and 90 meters high from their base. They are named as Bhairaveshawar Shikhar and Mohini Shikhar.

Mythological legend is that Bhasmasuara, was given powers by Shiva, to reduce to ashes, anything that he puts his hand on. As a result he became uncontrollable, to the extent that he wanted to put his hands on Shiva and then marry his wife. Shri Vishnu came to help of Siva. He took form of Mohini(beautiful dancer) and challenged Bhasmasura; to a dance competition. In this competition Mohini tricked him to put his hand on his own head as a dance step; and thus reduced him to ashes. There are more of small rocks; which are grey coloured and appear like ash; to be found scattered in this area.

In case you are travelling to Murudeshawar or Gokarna; we recommend this place as a must visit. It is on Kumta – Sirasi road, some what 16 km inside forest. The road goes through lush green trees and at places it is just a dust track. Once you are at base camp; it’s a trek upwards of approximately 2 km; which takes close to 1 hr 30 mins for average persons. There is temple at top and you can get water, tea, snacks etc.