As much as trekking and mountaineering, rock climbing offers great thrill for the adventure seekers. While many enthusiasts head to Rockies and Andes for rock climbing, you can plan a budget trip within India itself to try rock climbing.
Crystalline limestone peaks jut out of earth near Kumta in north Karnataka. Many avid rock climbers visit this natural wonder. One peak stands 400 feet tall and is called Bhairaveshwari Shikhara while the other stands at 300 feet and is called the Mohini Shikhara.
Torrential rains in the Western Ghats have eroded these rocks, forming natural caves in their walls. And some of this erosion has led to the formation of eerie looking faces and structures on them.
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Although now there is a road leading to the base, many trekkers continue to traverse 10 km in dense forests before beginning the ascent on these rocks. As you come out of the dense forest, two ragged rocky structures jut into the sky. They tower over the green cover and look mesmerising in their beauty.
The descent from the peaks can be more daunting than the climb. The steep sides of the rock allows in only a diffused light. The trek route is well marked, and can be completed without a guide.
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If you plan to trek to the base, there are two route options. The 3km-long trek begins from Sundholle via Anegundi, while the 0.5km route is closer to Sirsi.
There is a 3 m wide passage in the hillock that leads to a cave. You can see many limestone formations inside the cave also. Another beautiful site in the vicinity is the Vibhuti Falls with a 30 feet height and a crystal pool below.
Image Credit: Karnataka.com
The best thing about Yana is that even beginners can try it to gauge their aptitude for more strenuous rock climbing. It requires little professional gear, but pickaxes and knotted ropes may be essential.
The closest airport to Yana is Goa’s Dabolim Airport (210km away) or Bangalore’s Kempegowda International Airport (480km away). The nearest railway station is at Kumta. From there you can take a local bus or private cab to Yana.
So, head to Yana if you have not begun rock climbing already.
Read Also: Rock Climbing, Valley Crossing And Other Activities For The Adventurous At Shoghi
