Yarangobilly Caves

LOCATION : Yarrangobilly Caves are located within Kosciuszko National Park, 6.5 km off the Snowy Mountains Highway, between Tumut (77 km) and Cooma (109 km).

OVERVIEW : Jersey Cave discovered 1875, and Jillabenan Cave in 1910. The first caretaker appointed 1887. The caves were closed in 1966 for refurbishment and re-lighting, and reopened for tourists 1968. They have been again re-lit and re-developed in more recent years. Yarrangobilly Caves are amongst most richly decorated caves in Australia. The area is famed for its spectacular views of the Yarrangobilly River Valley (200m deep), its Thermal Swimming Pool, and historic Caves House (not open to public).

ACCOMMODATION : There are no accommodation facilities open to the public at Yarrangobilly Caves. Camping areas are nearby, with motels/hotels at Talbingo, Adaminaby, Tumut, and Cooma. The Caves Precinct contains an Information Centre/Ticket Office (souvenirs & snacks), picnic areas, gas & wood BBQs, and swimming facilities (natural thermal pool).

CAVE TOURS : Three caves are open to the public on a regular basis, with both guided and self-guided tours available. Guided tours are conducted daily at 11am, 1pm and 3pm, through either the Jersey Cave (90min, max 20), renowned for its rich decorations including black speleothems, or the Jillabenan Cave (60min, max 15) with its stunningly delicate features. The self-guided South Glory Cave features the 30m high Glory Arch and spectacular Glory Hole and is open from 9am to 4:30pm (last tickets sold at 4pm). Tours are conducted more frequently during school holidays. Yarrangobilly Caves are open every day except Christmas Day, however access is subject to winter road conditions.

SPECIALIST TOURS :The North Glory Cave, featuring massive stalactites, is open to group bookings (min 20/max 40, 60-90mins) and Castle and Harrie Wood historical tours can be arranged by special appointment (please contact the Visitors Centre for more information).

CONTACT NUMBERS : Yarrangobilly Caves are administered by the NSW National Parks & Wildlife Service. Mailing Address: Ranger-in-Charge, Yarrangobilly Caves, P. O. Box 472, Tumut. N.S.W. 2720. Telephone: (02) 6454 9597, FAX: (02) 6454 9598.