Miscellany
Yana’s mighty rock formations
I gazed in awe at the two sheer rock monolithics at Yana, situated amidst the thick forests of the Western Ghats, about 37 km from Sirsi and 410 km from Bangalore.
This spot of natural beauty is also a sacred site known as Bhairaveshwara Kshetra.
The rock formations are known as Bhairaveshwara Shikhara and Mohini Shikhara. Separated by 100 meters, the two peaks are made of black crystalline limestone.
An annual jatre (fair) is held at Yana on the occasion of Mahashivaratri. Barring the monsoon months, you can visit Yana at any time of the year. It is also ideal for those who love adventure and outdoor sport. The place provides ample opportunities for trekking and professional rock climbing.
Bhairaveshwara peak is 120 m high while Mohini Shikhara is 90 m high. A cave temple dedicated to Lord Shiva is located at the base of Bhairaveshwara peak from the roof of which droplets of water descend on to the linga. This stream of water droplets is known by the name of Gangodhbhava. An idol of goddess Parvathi is located near the base of the Mohini Shikhara. About a kilometre away, down the valley is a small temple of Ganapathi amidst the green surroundings.
A small mountain stream and a waterfall are located in the vicinity. A small eatery serves snacks and soft drinks. There are no accommodation facilities at Yana.
There are no direct buses from Sirsi or Kumta to Yana. Buses from Sirsi go to Matighatta via Devanahalli. One could get off at Vaddi Cross junction and walk about six km to reach Yana. One could also ride pillion on a motorbike hired either in Devanahalli or Mathighatta.
DBN Murthy
Kumbheshwara at Kumta
While you are in the vicinity of Yana, pay a visit to Kumta, which is 25 km from there. Kumta is located in the heart of Uttara Kannada district. Originally called Kumbhapura, Kumta is known for its Kumbheshwara temple, situated on the Aghanashini road. The temple is home to the deity of Kumbheshwara, an avatar of Shiva.
There are manuscripts that show that the responsibility of the temple was handed over to a person called Ganapayya Bhat, from the hands of one Suramma in 1873. Special poojas are offered to the deity during Mahashivarathri.
M G Naik
