Jenolan Caves, Limestone cave system in Blue Mountains, Australia
The Jenolan Caves extend through 40 kilometers of passages containing pure underground rivers and multiple levels of natural limestone formations.
European settler James Whalan discovered these caves in 1838 while pursuing a local thief, leading to their protection by the government in 1866.
The name Jenolan comes from the Tharawal language, and the caves hold deep meaning in Gundungurra and Wiradjuri Dreamtime narratives.
Due to road repairs and facility upgrades, the entire Jenolan Karst Conservation Reserve remains closed to visitors until 2026.
Scientific dating confirms these caves as the oldest known open cave system worldwide, with formations dating back approximately 340 million years.
Location: New South Wales
GPS coordinates: -33.82056,150.02144
Latest update: May 27, 2025 06:50
Greater Blue Mountains Area
28.6 km
Six Foot Track
27.8 km
Kanangra-Boyd National Park
18.9 km
Mount Solitary
26.8 km
Katoomba Falls
28.2 km
Explorers tree
28.1 km
Echo Point
28.6 km
Jenolan Caves House
125 m
Ruined Castle
26 km
Oberon Tarana Heritage Railway
20.5 km
Oberon Dam
18.4 km
Scenic Skyway
28.2 km
Varuna, The Writers' House
28.3 km
Malachi Gilmore Memorial Hall
19.9 km
Orphan Rocker
27.8 km
Orphan Rock
27.8 km
Scenic Cableway
27.8 km
Prince Henry Picnic Area
28.1 km
Carlotta Arch
270 m
Katoomba Scenic Railway
27.8 km
Chifley Cave
245 m
Mount Cloudmaker
20.3 km
Kalang Falls
19.9 km
Kanangra Walls
20.5 km
Jenolan Karst Conservation Reserve
0 m
Duke and Duchess of York Lookout
28.2 km
Avonleigh
28.7 km
Shepton
28.7 kmReviews
Visited this place? Tap the stars to rate it and share your experience / photos with the community! Try now! You can cancel it anytime.
Discover hidden gems everywhere you go!
From secret cafés to breathtaking viewpoints, skip the crowded tourist spots and find places that match your style. Our app makes it easy with voice search, smart filtering, route optimization, and insider tips from travelers worldwide. Download now for the complete mobile experience.
A unique approach to discovering new places❞
— Le Figaro
All the places worth exploring❞
— France Info
A tailor-made excursion in just a few clicks❞
— 20 Minutes