Chugging Through The Wild Beauty Of The Western Ghats And Coasts - Part 2

..Continued

Early in the morning at around 6:00am, we started our journey to Yana when rain was pouring down heavily. But our enthusiasm was at its peak and we were all set to trek in heavy rain, as our interest was to enjoy every bit of Western Ghats and Coasts in rainy season. The journey of 25 km from Kumta to Yana trek base camp was great; the monsoon clouds had opened up offering the spectacular view of Sahyadri ranges.

Yana, with two pitch black limestone needle shaped colossal peaks, which standout stark against the soft lush forests preserves known as Bhairavakshethra and Mohini Shikara are foreboding and yet very gentle.

It was a damp cold day, two unique rock formations in Yana were hiding somewhere in the clouds. Packed in warm clothes amidst chilling weather and rain, we started our trek though trail that runs through thick verdant forests. As expected, we encountered few snakes on the roadside and very obvious leeches all around. It was still good to visit Yana in rainy season; the rushing water streams with gurgling sound, the mist, the birds’ chirping and the slippery road added more adventure to our trek.

The walk was winding and it seemed like we might be lost, but we followed the stream flowing by side. After walking for 1km in the steep forest we reached the base of steps that leads to the rock formations, it seemed like the curtains to a whole new world opened out. After a while we were able to see the huge basaltic rocks stand tall and majestic greeting us and we saw a temple in front and little further down a very tall rock uncovered on the left side. It was a sight that was complete mesmerizing and breath-taking. Standing awe inspired for some time we saw the sun rise up in the horizon giving the peaks more unearthly and beautiful feel. It was time for us to take some rest.

As we had trekked early in the morning, there were no other visitors to disturb us. After a while, we started climbing the rock and enjoyed the view of forest from the top. Natures’ beauty had made us forget the fatigue walk and leeches’ trouble. After clicking thousands of pics around Yana rock formation, with no mood to leave the calm and serene place, we made our way back to base camp where we had parked our vehicle and started our journey towards Gokarna.

One of the rare places in India that combines a surf holiday with exciting cultural highlights is Gokarna. Famous for its beautiful beaches and landscapes the medieval town with the Mahabaleshwara temple makes it most popular pilgrimage centres in India. Although the structure itself isn’t extraordinary, the temple is abuzz with resonating hymns and prayers during the aarthi and is worth experiencing. The tranquillity of the temple is unparalleled. The temple is said to be one of the seven sacred Mukthikshethras in India and is visited by Hindus to perform the death rites for their departed ancestors. After praying in the temple we visited kotithirtha, a tank considered to be containing water from innumerable holy springs. The sacred waters are considered to be auspicious for performing the last rites of departed souls. The ghat offers a lovely spiritual retreat and also promises a glimpse into the simple life led by the people of this small town.

We then visited Om beach, located at a distance of 8km from main town resembling the auspicious ‘OM’ symbol. Dotted with numerous cafes and eating joints, the beach is usually abuzz with activity. Considered to be one of the loveliest places for rejuvenation and spirituality, the beach is an abode of serenity and beauty. Vibrant and bustling, the beach also nestles some quiet spots for relaxation. We as usual enjoyed playing in the water and post lunch we made our way towards Dandeli via Yallapur. This beautiful temple town with beaches soaked in peace and serenity rejuvenated our souls.

To be continued...

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