Gogarbha Cave is an important religious site in the Uttara Kannada district of Karnataka, India. The cave is situated in the Western Ghats, about 600 meters above sea level. The cave is also known as the Gokarna Cave or Gokarneshwara Cave and is considered one of Karnataka's holiest and most ancient caves.
According to Hindu mythology, the cave is believed to be where Lord Shiva emerged from the ear of a cow (Go in Sanskrit) and hence the name Gogarbha. The cave is also mentioned in the Skanda Purana, one of the ancient Hindu texts.
Gogarbha Cave is a natural cave formed from a rock around 150 million years old. The entrance to the cave is small and narrow and can only be accessed by crawling. Inside the cave is a small shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva, where pilgrims offer their prayers and seek blessings. The cave is dark and narrow, with a narrow tunnel leading to the main sanctum. The cave walls are adorned with intricate carvings and inscriptions in Sanskrit.
The cave is also known for its natural formation of Shiva Linga, formed by the dripping water from the stalactites. Over the years, the water droplets have developed the Shiva Linga, which the devotees worship. The cave is also believed to have several hidden chambers and passages yet to be explored.
Gogarbha Cave is known for its scenic beauty and is surrounded by lush green forests and hills. The trek to the cave is challenging but worth the effort, as the view from the cave is breathtaking.
Places To Visit Near Gogarbha Cave:
Yana:
It is a small village located at a distance of around 39 km from Gogarbha Cave. The town is known for its unique rock formations and is a popular destination for trekking and camping.
It is a popular pilgrimage town located at a distance of around 43 km from Gogarbha Cave. The city is known for the Mahabaleshwar Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva. The town is also known for its pristine beaches and is a popular destination for beach lovers.
It is a coastal city located at a distance of around 70 km from Gogarbha Cave. The city is known for its beautiful beaches, natural harbours, and seafood, and it is also a popular destination for water sports and adventure activities.
It is one of the highest waterfalls in India, located at a distance of around 90 km from Gogarbha Cave. The Sharavathi River forms the falls and is a popular destination for nature lovers and photographers.
It is a town located at a distance of around 36 km from Gogarbha Cave. The city is known for its ancient temples and rich cultural heritage, and the city is also a popular destination for trekking and wildlife enthusiasts.