Pološka Jama is one of Slovenia's most remarkable karst caves - for many years considered the world's 'highest' cave system. Hidden inside Mount Osojnica above the Polog mountain pasture, deep within Triglav National Park, it holds over 12 kilometers of passages and shafts.

This is a destination for those seeking something beyond scenic views - Pološka Jama is an underground labyrinth of meanders, sloped and partly collapsed passages, and deep shafts. The system stretches 10,800 m in length and reaches 704 m in depth, ranking it fifth among Slovenia's longest and tenth among its deepest caves. Water still flows in the lower levels even during dry spells, making it a multi-phase cave system. Dripstone formations are rare here, but flowing water has carved striking shapes, including the funnel-like Trobenta formed in a meander bend. Above the cave, at a spot called Na Palac, fascinating 'breathing' vents melt snow using warm air rising from inside the mountain.

How to get there

• The upper, artificially dug entrance lies near the Lašca mountain pasture - reaching it requires good hiking fitness, demanding route
• The lower, natural entrance is located at the foot of Osojnica's southern cliff face - difficult access, caving experience recommended

Practical information

• The cave is protected as a natural monument and forms part of a strictly protected area within Triglav National Park
• Exploring the interior requires proper speleological preparation and equipment - this is not a self-guided tourist trail

Five other caves and shafts have been discovered nearby that are likely connected to the Pološka Jama system, though no passages between them have yet been found - the mountain still guards its secrets.