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• Gokarna Travel Guide: The Peaceful Paradise For People Who Seek Relaxation
• July 6, 2020 August 22, 2020
• Suraj Kumar Manohara
• Gokarna , Uttara Kannada

A small temple town named Gokarna is located in the Uttara Kannada district of Karnataka. Gokarna is a Hindu pilgrimage destination. These days due to the advent of foreigners, hippie culture also prevails in this region. Additionally, if you want to dig deeper into Gokarna then you would probably require a travel guide or a local person.

It is one of the best offbeat places to enjoy your time peacefully relaxing and chilling on the beautiful beaches of south India along with a small touch of tradition and culture added to it.

This place has got so many things to offer right from nature, sightseeing, trekking, seafood. Beaches, temples, water, and other activities.

Goa is just a 3 to 4 hours ride from Gokarna( ie 150 km away) so a lot of people hop into this place. A contrast nature in the lifestyle of both these places can be observed clearly. Goa is more of life,  party, entertainment, and a little crowded compared to Gokarna which is traditional, peaceful, and relaxing.

There is the historical significance of this place related to Hindu mythology which takes us back to the days of Ramayana. We will get to know about the story in the paragraphs below.

Note : The word Gokarna means cow’s ears.it is believed that Lord Shiva emerged from the ear of a cow (mother earth) in this place, hence the name Gokarna.

Table of Contents

How to Reach Gokarna

Reaching Gokarna wouldn’t be much of a problem as major cities of south India are just a few hour’s journeys from there. Therefore, no need to worry as there are multiple transport facilities available.

The nearest railway stations would be Gokarna and Ankola railway station which are 14 and 25km away respectively. Some trains won’t stop at Gokarna so get down at Ankola. Both these stations are connected to major cities likes Bangalore, Mumbai, Goa, and Mangalore.

Furthermore, the train from Bangalore will cost around 450 INR.

From railway stations either you can take an autorickshaw or there are plenty of local buses. In a bus, it cost around 40 INR and in Autorikshaw it might cost around 150 to 200 1NR.

Major cities like Bangalore, Goa, and Mumbai are well connected to Gokarna. You can reach by taking a taxi or bus.

If you are traveling in a  group I would suggest you take a taxi, it might cost you 10 or 12 INR /km. Prices make vary depending upon the luxury and number of people in the group.

We can travel in private and public buses to reduce cost if one or two people are travelling rather than taking a taxi.

Private buses from Bangalore will cost you around 700 to 1000 INR and will vary based on luxury you opt or based on seasons.

Public buses ( KSRTC ) are also available it will cost 500 INR / seat from Bangalore.

Also Read: How to Save money while traveling

The closest airport to Gokarna is Dabolim airport in Goa which is 150 km away and Mangalore airport which is 230 km away.

From the airport to Gokarna you can take a taxi which will cost 3000 INR: can take a public or private bus which will cost around 300 INR/ person: train which will cost around 150 INR/ person.

Places to visit in Gokarna

These are some of the best things to do in Gokarna

Mahabaleshwar Temple

The temple was established during the 4th century CE and the main god worshipped here is Lord Shiva.

There is a small and interesting story of how this temple was originated: it takes us back to the Ramayana era. As a result, we can see a lot of religious people coming to this temple.

It is believed that the Srilankan king Ravana had performed immense penance to get “Atma Linga” from Lord Shiva as that would make Ravana very powerful and above all, no one can defeat him.

Lord Shiva impressed with Ravana gave him “Atma Linga” with an instruction that it should not be kept on the ground as it might lose its power.

Lord Ganesha played a trick on Ravana and made sure “Atma Linga” is placed on the ground in Gokarna. Ravana used all his might and tried to lift the “Atma Linga” but was not successful so he named Lord Shiva as Mahabala( one with great strength). The “Atma Linga” was called Mahabaleshwara and later after a few years temple was built.

One of the most famous pilgrimage place of Indians.

Never miss out on this place when you are visiting Gokarna.

This temple provides one of the simple and the best food to have with a touch of the authentic taste of that region. The temple food meals are absolutely free but you have to be present there at 1 pm.

The temple management gives free meals to a limited number of people.

Temple timings: 6 am to 12 pm and 5 pm to 8 pm.

Kudle beach.

If anyone wants to witness one of the most beautiful sunsets then you need to hop on to Kudle beach. Beach stretch with a cliff makes this place look very beautiful and picturesque. As a result, people always carry a camera along with them.

There are a lot of water activities like boat ride, dolphin spotting, and banana ride on this beach.

Best place to have your meal and stay. Kudle beach is less crowded compared to Om beach. Also, never miss out on a big glass of tea with a banana pancake and ice Nutella these things are very delicious and mouthwatering.

This beach is the most popular among the crowds and it is about 6 km from Gokarna’s main town. You can either trek or take a boat ride from Kudle beach to reach Om beach. The boat ride will cost you  10 TO 20 INR.

Om beach forms the shape of Om( a mystic syllable or Hindu symbol), hence the name.

The long white sandy stretch with small rocky structures makes it an amazing view. Sunset from this beach is a breathtaking view.

There are many fun activities like fishing, banana ride, parasailing, speed boating, etc makes this beach more entertaining and keeps people engaged.

We can find plenty of good restaurants and stays on this beach If you are a party freaky, you can find at least  1 or 2 parties at the weekend.

Half Moon Beach

This beach forms the shape of a crescent, hence the name. We can reach Half  Moon beach by trekking or boat ride from OM beach. Trekking from Om beach would take around 1 hour. It is a small beach with 2 restaurants, There are no stays available here.

We can’t find any water sport activities in this area, hence we can barely find any tourists here. This place is very quiet and peaceful.

Paradise Beach

This is the last beach among 4 major beaches present in Gokarna. As the name suggests it does look like a mini paradise on earth. The water and the beach here looks very fresh and clean. As a result, we can see plenty of people camp here overnight, the view of the sky with plenty of stars looks wonderful.

The beaches here are very deep so be careful if you are swimming.

There are no restaurants or stays here so always carry food and tent if you are planning to stay here overnight.

Nirvana Beach

Go for a night walk on the Nirvana Beach to witness the shimmering Phytoplankton’s which turn the sea blue and is caused by a natural phenomenon called Bioluminescence

Yana  caves

This is a small village in the Kumta forest, which is 50 km away from Gokarna. Yana caves are an unusual karst rock formation. Yana cave is a part of Sahyadri mountains of western ghats and surrounded by thick forest and streams. You need to trek for 3 km within the forest before reaching this place.

We can also find Vibooti waterfalls 8 km away from Yana.

How to reach Yana from Gokarna?

We can take a bus or a taxi from Gokarna. Yana comes in between Gokarna and Sirsi. You need to take a Sirsi bus from Gokarna and inform the driver where you need to get down because many buses won’t stop there without you requesting. The bus ticket would cost around 50 INR.

Mirjan Fort

This fort is located at a distance of 20 km from Gokarna. we can see architectural elegance and glimpses of the battle that took place in the Mirjan fort.

There are plenty of private and public buses are available to reach Mirjan Fort and it would cost 20 to 30 INR for a bus ticket from Gokarna.

You can even rent a bicycle, which will make us travel more responsibly and it would cost around 50 to 100 INR/ day.

Fort Timings: 8 am to 6 pm.

Things to do in gokarna, beachside trekking.

It will be one of the best trekking experience. we will trek through four major beaches Kudle, Om, Half Moon, and Paradise beaches along the cliff. You can either start from Kudle or Paradise beach. It will take around  3 to 4 hours to complete the trek. The difficulty level will be easy to moderate.

Best time to trek will be early morning or during sunset time, it will be a magnificent view from the cliffs. You can notice one side with lush green trees and another side with a beach; you can notice boats, fishing, lots of people swimming Sunset, and other activities while you are trekking.

Always wear comfortable clothes because sometimes you will have to do a little jumping here and there.

These are very easy treks so don’t spend much of money on guides.

Water Sports Activities In Gokarna

You want to take up any ride always be careful about scams because there are people who would charge 2 to 3 times the actual price. It is better to ask hotel managers where you stay, they will guide you in a proper way and sometimes even arrange everything for you at a lesser price.

Pro Tip; always bargain and ask many people before you take up any activity as some people try to charge a huge amount.

There are package activity tours available, it will reduce the cost

If you are good at talking a local language Kannada it is always an added advantage. Therefore, if you have any knowledge about the local language use it as much as possible. Furthermore, water activities in Gokarna for cheaper rates wouldn’t have been possible with the local travel guide.

Water Activities in Gokarna

• Banana boat ride
• Bumper boat rides
• Speed Boating
• Parasailing
• Dolphin Spotting
• Fishing Trips

What to Eat at Gokarna

This is a coastal region so seafood like prawns, fish, crabs are very famous. Beaches here are lined up with the best cuisines of the world like Indian, Italian, The Mediterranean, English, French, Mexican, etc along with local and authentic Karnataka style cuisines, hence you need not worry about food no matter which part of the world you belong to.

You can try prawn masala, pomfret fish fry, and Kingfish. The cost will be around 150 to 300 INR / meal based on what you order. Seafood is very good at Om beach.

Furthermore, you can eat at any restaurant in this area as it tastes the same in almost all the restaurants.

Never miss out on banana pancakes and ice Nutella these are very delicious and mouthwatering and it might cost around 100 INR.

Where to Stay at Gokarna

There are plenty of room stays, shacks, and a hostel in Gokarna. If you want to cut down on stay cost then you can opt for hostels. On average accommodations here might cost 400 to 500 INR / person.

Accommodation costs will be varying based on seasons.

Best Time to Visit Gokarna

You can visit this place any time of the year, it remains the same throughout the year. Maybe if you are concerned about heatwaves you can avoid summer from( March to May) as it is very hot. As a result, we can see a constant number of tourists and travelers coming to Gokarna.

The best time as per my suggestion will be to visit from December to February period.

For the people who are stuck up with their hectic scheduled work: who want to escape the actual reality of life and who wants to buy some time for themselves. I suggest these places gotta be on top of your list.

There will be a huge crowd during New Year and Mahashivarathri so avoid going there at this time. As you might not get accommodations and you might lose the sole purpose of visiting Gokarna .

Did you find this Gokarna travel guide helpful? Do you want us to include any more details? Then, please comment below and let us know. We are waiting to hear from you all!

Also, read: Things To Do In Goa

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The Ultimate 3-Day Gokarna Itinerary (With Prices)

Are you planning a 3-day trip to Gokarna? Gokarna is a small town situated on the coast of Karnataka, famous for its beaches and temples. I have been visiting Gokarna since 2017 and this was my fifth trip to Gokarna. Yes, that’s how much I like this place, and can never get bored of it.

In the 3-day itinerary, I mention some of the best places to visit in Gokarna , where to stay, and the best places to eat. Is this the only 3-day itinerary you have to follow? Not really, this itinerary gives you a good experience of Gokarna visiting all the beaches via the beach trek, visiting the waterfalls and some of the best temples of Karnataka!

Don’t worry, I have also shared alternative 3-day itineraries at the end of this blog for all types of travelers. Gokarna can be visited on a budget . I have shared a breakdown of the cost at the end.

Table of Contents

How to reach Gokarna

Reaching Gokarna is relatively easy whether traveling by air, train, or road. 

How to reach Gokarna by air

The nearest airport to reach Gokarna is the Dabolim International Airport (Goa). It takes another three hours to reach Gokarna from the airport as it’s approximately 150 km away. Since the Goa airport is well connected to other parts of the world, it makes reaching Gokarna easier.

How to reach Gokarna by Train

The Gokarna railway station is 10 km away from the main town. Trains from several cities like Bangalore, Mangalore, Mumbai, and Madgaon (Goa) halt at the station every day. Gokarna Road Railway Station code is GOK and you can find all the details about the train below: 

All the trains from Mumbai and Pune also go via Goa(Madgaon)

For trains from other destinations, please check the IRCTC website .

How to reach Gokarna by Bus

The easiest and budget-friendly way to get to Gokarna is by bus. You’ll find direct buses from nearby cities like Mangalore and Bangalore, as well as from farther places like Hyderabad, Pune, and Mumbai. It takes 8-12 hours, depending on the location you are traveling from. Since I was traveling from Bangalore, it took me 9-10 hours to reach Gokarna town. You can find all the bus details on Redbus .

Since all the buses reach in the early morning no matter the destination you are coming from, this Gokarna 3-day trip itinerary can be easily followed by everyone.

The best time to visit Gokarna

Gokarna is a coastal town and thus the best time to visit Gokarna is from October to March as there is little to no rainfall. If you want to beat the crowd, you should visit from April to June. But do know that it gets really hot. Monsoon is not a great time to visit if you want to experience the beaches, but one should not miss the waterfalls nearby like the Jog Falls or Vibhuti Falls.

Places to stay in Gokarna

While there are many budget options for a stay in Gokarna, I loved my stay at both Trippr and Zostel. While Trippr is a little far from the main town and situated on the middle beach, it has the best beachfront views. The middle beach still hasn’t gotten crowded, thus making it a great option for a stay.

Book your stay at Trippr at no extra cost using this link: Trippr

Zostel , on the other hand, offers incredible views of Gokarna Beach and is an excellent spot to connect with fellow travelers. The property is stunning, and don’t forget to enjoy the cafe’s scenic views and delicious food.

Other great budget options are staying on the shacks on the Kudle Beach for which you’ll have to go there and check! 

So let’s get started with my 3-day trip plan to Gokarna, starting from Bangalore.

Day 0: Taking the bus from Bangalore to Gokarna

I started from Bangalore, taking the bus from Anand Rao Circle. It takes close to 8-9 hours to reach Gokarna. The bus dropped me off early in the morning by 7 a.m., and I had booked the stay in Trippr, which is 2.5 km from the main bus stand. Now the confusion is, should I pay for the auto to go to the hostel and then come back or rent a scooter straightaway? I chose the latter because why not save some money?

Where to rent the scooter in Gokarna

While searching for scooter rentals online, I found many operators providing them. Based on the highest Google rating, I decided to choose We Gokarna Bike Rental. The bikes provided by Gagan Anna were almost new and in very good condition. I rented the scooter for two days to cover some amazing spots near Gokarna. 

Scooty Cost : ₹400/day on weekdays and ₹500/day on weekends

Scooty Rentals Company in Gokarna : We Gokarna Scooty Rental

You also need to submit a govt ID, which will be returned when you return the scooty. The “We Gokarna shop” is very close to where the bus will drop you off. The shop usually opens at 7 am, and even if the shop is not open, you can call Gagan Anna and go to his house to pick up the scooties.

One more important thing you need to note is there is only one petrol pump in Gokarna.

Location : Indian Oil Petrol Pump  

Staying at Trippr Hostel on the Middle Beach

After renting the scooter, I directly headed to Trippr Hostel to check-in. Since it was still early, I enjoyed sitting by the beach. After my check-in, I refreshed quickly and was on my way to the first spot, the Yana caves! But before that, some breakfast.

Before heading to Yana Caves, I made a stop in town to have breakfast at my favorite place, “ Dattaprasad Tiffin Canteen ”. If you want to try some authentic South Indian food in Gokarna, this has to be your go-to place. After having a nice masala dosa and coffee, I started again towards Yana Caves.

Visiting the mysterious Yana Caves

Yana caves are approximately 50 km from Gokarna town, and it will take you close to 1 hour 30 mins to reach there. Take the route that also has Vibhoothti Falls on the way. There are two ways to reach Yana caves, which I didn’t know until I reached there. The first one is you can drive to the Yana caves parking from where the caves are just five minutes away

The second route involves hiking for 2-3hrs.

Yana Caves are famous for their special rock formations that took thousands of years to form naturally. The main attractions here are two huge limestone rocks called Bhairaveshwara Shikara and Mohini Shikara. These caves are considered holy by Hindus and are visited by pilgrims. Read more about the Mythology of Yana Caves here .

There is also a small temple at the entry of the caves, and you can also go under and around the caves. The caves do have a bad smell because of the bats living there. You can spend a good 30-45 minutes exploring the caves before heading to relax at the Vibhhooti Falls.

Swim under the Vibhoothi Falls

Vibhoothi Falls is just a 30-minute drive from Yana Caves. I parked my scooty in the parking and then walked towards the waterfalls. The waterfall is inside the forest and is an easy 10-minute walk from the parking. Once you reach the waterfall, you can see it cascade down from a height of 25 feet.

Since the waterfall is inside the forest, there are very few spots that receive the sunlight, making the water super cold and refreshing. The water is continuously flowing, which makes it a great spot for swimming. Don’t forget to get your swimming clothes.

You can also jump in the pool of water, but be very careful as it can be dangerous. If you don’t know how to swim and want to get near the waterfall, there is a shop renting life jackets.

Vibhoothi Falls Parking Fees : ₹10

After spending a good one hour near the waterfall, I was starting to feel hungry again as it was already 3 p.m.

Sunset at the middle beach

After reaching back from the waterfall I immediately went to Bhagvan Cafe , which is located in the middle beach and just a 5-minute walk from Trippr. They serve some of the best starters, I guess it was also because I was very hungry.

After spending a good one hour eating and watching the beach, I decided to head back to Trippr. It was almost time for sunset. I picked my spot and got my camera to watch one of the best sunsets I have seen in Gokarna. It’s a tough competition for which is a better spot for sunset, the Kudle Beach or Middle Beach!

I then headed to Sunset Cafe Beach , which is right beside Trippr. You have to order the Shakshuka there, it was so delicious! So amazing and you can hear the waves while having food, I could sleep right there after a tiring day.

Day 2 in Gokarna: Staying at Zostel

I woke up early in the morning to have a little swim and sit by the sea. These are some of my favorite things to do, spend time by myself. I then decided to check out from Trippr and headed to Zostel.

After an amazing first day, it was time to get back to the routine of having breakfast at Dattaprasad Tiffin Canteen. I ordered the dosa and the coffee again.

Today was going to involve a lot of riding because I had planned to visit Murdeshwar. Murdeshwar is approximately 82 km away from Gokarna, and it takes two hours to reach there.

Visiting the Murdeshwar temple and the Gopuram

While on the way to Murdeshwar, you will also pass through Honnavar, where you can explore the backwaters. Murdeshwar temple is a popular Hindu pilgrimage site, which is dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple is famous for two main things:

• 2nd Largest Shiva statue in the world, standing at a height of 37m(~121ft)
• 2nd Largest gopuram, which is 18 storeyed at a height of 72m(237ft)

You can see the Gopuram as soon as you enter the Murdeshwar town. After parking, I directly headed towards the temple first for the darshan. If you’re going on a weekend, you will find it really crowded and the darshan can take you anywhere between 30 minutes to 1hour. 

Just behind the Gopuram is the Shiva state, which is really humongous! Even taller and bigger than the one in Kemp Fort in Bangalore. Now comes the best part, there is a lift which takes you to the top of the Gopuram on the 18th floor, isn’t that exciting? The 360° view from the top is really breathtaking.

With the big Shiva statue at the back and the huge Arabian Sea in the background, the view couldn’t get any better. 

Cost to go to the top of the Gopuram : ₹20

After enjoying the panoramic view from the top of the Gopuram, I headed to see the Shiva statue from close and also visited the temple underneath it. 

It was such a calm and serene feeling visiting the Murdeshwar temple and no Gokarna trip can be complete without visiting this place.

Murdeshwar Temple Timings: 7 a.m – 1 p.m. & 3 p.m – 8:15 p.m.

Raaja Gopura Timings:  6 a.m.  – 8:15 p.m.

After spending a good two hours at this place, it was time to get back to Gokarna. But before that, it was time for lunch. I had a quick lunch at Kamat restaurant just outside Murdeshwar town and headed towards Mirjan Fort!

Stop by the historic Mirjan Fort

Mirjan Fort is a historic fortress built in the 16th century by the rulers of the Vijaynagar Empire. You can see the great bastions, escape routes, and watch towers at the fort. It’s best to visit the fort during the monsoon or just after it, as it turns all green because of the overgrown grass on the walls of the fort.

It’s a great spot for history lovers, though they don’t let you take your cameras inside. I spent a good 30 minutes and then headed back to Gokarna.

Timings of the Mirjan Fort : 8 am – 5:30 pm

You can also visit Belekan Beach if you have time. Near the beach, there is also a Hanuman temple, which gives you a great view of the sea and the beach! One can also do the Gokarna beach trek starting from Belekan Beach!

Once I reached back at Zostel I spent the rest of the evening resting on the sunbeds and watching the sunset from there. 

Visiting Mahaganapati Temple & Mahabaleshwar temple 

After relaxing for a good time, I planned to visit the temples by walk as it is very close to Zostel. Start by visiting the Mahaganpati temple and then heading to the Mahabaleshwar temple, which is dedicated to the Hindu god Shiva as well.

You will not be allowed to visit the temple if you are not wearing a dhoti. You can either rent or buy it from nearby shops. The same applies to girls, no short/revealing clothes are allowed inside the temple.

A little history about the temple is that it was built in the 4th century. According to mythology when Shiva gave Raavan the Aatma linga while on his way back to Lanka, he was not supposed to keep it down. Everyone was afraid if Raavan reached Lanka, he would be the strongest, thus Shiva made him drop the Aatma linga, and that place happened to be Gokarna. 

Since he tried to lift the stone back and wasn’t able to do it, he named the stone/linga Mahabala, which translates to the strongest. Thus the temple got its name as the Mahabaleshwar temple.

Temple timings : 6 am – 12:30 pm & 5 pm – 8 pm – Everyday

The temples also serve Prasad Bhojana. I did try it on my first-ever trip to Gokarna and would definitely recommend it.

Prasad Timings : 12 pm – 2 pm & 7:30 pm – 8:30 pm

Having dinner at Zostel Cafe

Once I got back from the temple, I was very hungry and decided to have food at the cafe in Zostel. The cafe has some amazing panoramic views and they serve delicious food. You definitely need to try the non-veg starters, though a little expensive but totally worth it.

It was nice to talk to fellow travelers after dinner and then go to bed as tomorrow was going to be another long day.

Day 3:  Walk to Kudle Beach

I woke up by 8 am and then headed to the town as I had to return the scooter. After returning I planned to have breakfast at Zostel. After a great breakfast watching the sea, I was ready for the famous Gokarna beach trek, which covers all the famous beaches of Gokarna. I checked out and kept my luggage in the waiting area.

Zostel to Kudle beach is just a 1km walk and takes 15-20mins. As soon as you start to descend to Kudle Beach, there is a small Hanuman temple there, which they say is also the birthplace of Lord Hanuman .  Not really sure if it’s this or Anegundi in Hampi.

Kudle Beach is one of the most beautiful beaches in Gokarna, which is covered with hills on both sides. It’s best to walk barefoot and traverse the long lengths of the beach! 

You can either swim or enjoy the different water sports here. Since I wanted to experience all the beaches, I thought to try water sports later! Towards the end of Kudle Beach, you’ll find steps that lead you to the most famous beach of Gokarna,” Om Beach”.

Reaching the beautiful Om Beach 

It takes another 20-30mins to reach Om Beach from Kudle Beach. Once you have climbed the steps from Kudle Beach you’ll reach a road, instead of following the road climb the volcanic rocks and you’ll find the arrows on the ground pointing you to Om Beach.

The beach gets its name because it resembles the Hindu religious symbol “Om”. The shape can only be seen when you’re on the way from Om Beach towards Half Moon Beach. 

As soon as you reach Om Beach on the left side you’ll see the famous Namaste Cafe . It’s best to have a quick lunch here, and then move towards the other beaches. The food at Namaste Cafe is pretty average, not sure why the hype. Maybe because the restaurant overlooks the sea!

After having a quick lunch, I moved towards Half Moon Beach. If you don’t want to hike, you can also take a boat from here directly to Paradise Beach. If you’re lucky, you’ll also be able to spot dolphins!

You can also swim at Om Beach, but be very careful as it has a sudden drop. 

The sun was at the top, and I thought It was better to keep moving and rest after Half Moon Beach.

Gokarna Beach trek: Heading toward Half Moon Beach

The route from Om Beach to Half Moon Beach is not an easy path, and at times you are walking with a drop of 60ft on your right side. It’s better to do this with other travelers as you might get lost and the path is not straightforward.   

When you have just started from Om Beach, you’ll find a path near a restaurant going toward your right, which will lead you to Om Beach viewpoint . Make a stop there and see the Om Shape being formed by the beach.

It takes 30 to 40 minutes to reach Half Moon Beach from Om Beach. 

The beach gets its name because of the crescent-shaped beach. It’s not really a big beach, but it’s nice to just relax in the water here.

You can also find a few shacks here providing snacks, I relaxed for some time and then started to Paradise Beach.

Is Paradise really found at Paradise Beach?

The path might not be clear after Half Moon Beach. You need to start from the back of the last shack. This is the toughest part of the Gokarna beach trek, but you have an amazing view of the Sea on the right. It takes close to 40 minutes to reach Paradise Beach. Before reaching Paradise Beach, you’ll find a small beach called the Small Hell Beach. This was my favorite beach a few years back, as I had camped here for three days.

Paradise Beach is just a few meters away, you’ll find a lot of smaller shops selling you chips and cold drinks here. When you reach Paradise Beach, you’ll also find a camping site. Yes – people come and camp here for a night! 

Back in 2018, the beach was not known by many travelers and thus was very offbeat. Over the years with so much infrastructure being built, the beach has lost its charm. I swam for a while and rested near Small Hell Beach. Since it was already 4 p.m., I headed back to Kudle Beach to experience the sunset from there!

• Sunset at Kudle Beach

It took me close to two hours to reach back to Kudle Beach from Paradise Beach, and as soon as I reached Kudle Beach I dropped dead. There was barely any time for trying any water sports so I decided to watch the sunset by myself.

And don’t just leave after the sun has set. Wait for the magic to happen after that. I sat there thinking how amazing this trip had turned out to be. This was a power-packaged Gokarna trip where I got to experience so many amazing places!

 Since my bus was at 9 p.m., I decided it was time to get back to Zostel and freshen up. Before heading back, I stopped at my favorite spot for dinner. Any guesses? By this time, you guys already know it’s Dattaprasad Tiffin Canteen, which doesn’t just serve breakfast but all the meals! 

After that, I walked to the bus stop and took my bus back to Bangalore.

Gokarna itinerary for 3 days in brief

• Vibhoothi Falls
• Sunset on Middle Beach
• Murdeshwar Temple
• Mirjan Fort
• Mahaganpathi & Mahabaleshwar Temple
• Kudle Beach
• Half Moon Beach
• Hell Beach & Paradise Beach

As I had mentioned earlier, this is not the only Gokarna 3-day itinerary that you have to follow thus sharing all the other alternative 3-day itineraries.

Gokarna 3 Day trip budget breakdown

Where to eat in gokarna.

Here is a list of places you should try when in Gokarna

• Dattaprasad Tiffin Canteen
• Zostel Mantra Cafe
• Sunset Cafe
• Bhagvan Cafe
• Chez Christophe(French Cafe)
• Sea Rock Cafe
• Namaste Cafe 

Hope this guide helps you plan a perfect 3-day trip to Gokarna, If you have any other questions about Gokarna drop them below and I’ll try my best to provide you with all the answers!

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This was an amazing and an informative read . I am the worst when it comes to planning and get confused on internet too . Your website randomly popped up and I am glad it did . The content is precise with all the required information and not beating around the bush . Even I am from Bangalore so it just gives me a more easy mind map of the journey . Wonderful work . Thank you so much once again , Im gonna tell Gagan Anna when I meet him . P.S. Soon

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Hey Arnav, glad you found the content useful! Do let me know how your trip goes!

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Thank you for guidance..it really helps to understand the place…☺️🙏

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I Travelled To Gokarna For 3 Days In ₹7,000 Including Bus Tickets, Stay & Meals

When we think of beach vacations, one destination that instantly comes to our mind is Goa. Being a go-to beach destination for many, with time, this hippie town has also emerged as a party capital of India. I love Goa too, but I also feel that over-tourism and extreme commercialisation has made it an overhyped destination. Gone are the days when beaches were all about calmness; now they are merely flocked by tourists. And like me, if you too miss the serenity of the beaches and the magic of the sunsets, then you must visit Gokarna. 

Plan A Perfect Budget Trip To Gokarna

Nestled in Karnataka, this temple town is not only known for its pristine, less crowded beaches but is also known for its tranquil environment. Gokarna has the charm of Goa without the hustle-bustle of it. It’s a perfect place to unwind with your friends, gorge on some seafood and spend some quiet quality time by the sea. If reading this has already convinced you to plan a trip to Gokarna, then this budget itinerary is for you. I visited Gokarna with a friend last year in July for three days, and here’s how I planned it for ₹7,000 per person. 

Transport: I took an overnight luxurious bus from Mumbai, and the two-way journey cost me ₹2,300. It took me 12 hours to reach Gokarna and from there another 25 minutes to my accommodation. My friend was from Bangalore, so she took a night bus and met me directly at Gokarna. 

Stay: Hostel culture is quite popular in Gokarna. This beach town offers a plethora of hostels, homestays and BnBs that fit right in the budget. We lived in Zostel, which is nestled right by the Kudle beach. The property offers a majestic view of the beach, and in total the stay cost us ₹3,000, which is ₹1500 per person for 2 nights and 3 days. 

Also read: Why You Should Choose Gokarna Over Goa For Your Next Holiday

Transfers: The best way to travel around in Gokarna is by renting a two-wheeler. We rented a scooter and paid ₹1000 for three days, which again is ₹500 per person. Apart from this, I spent ₹300 extra on transfers. 

Tip: Rickshaws are available, but they are a bit expensive. So it’s better to rent a two-wheeler. 

Food: Gokarna is well-known for its beach cafes. I spent ₹2500 on meals for three days. I was travelling with a friend, so the food costs were divided between us.

Tip: Do try the local dishes, they are affordable, filling and tasty too. 

Best time to visit: If you don’t want to tan and want to stay away from the harsh rays of the sun, then consider hitting Gokarna between October- February.

However, visiting this beach town during the monsoon season isn’t a bad idea either. I went in July, and I must say with fewer tourists and affluence of flora, the beaches looked more sacred.  

Also read: 8 Most Secluded Beaches Of India To Have An Ideal Social Distancing Vacation

We reached Gokarna at 9 AM, and the scanty rainfall welcomed us in this beautiful town. After checking in the hostel by 9 30 AM, we rested for a while. Post that, we grabbed some lunch at the in-house cafe in our hostel. Cafe Mantra in Zostel is also one of the most popular cafes in Gokarna. Good food and chilled beer with a view of Kudle beach helped us start our trip. 

On day one, we decided to keep it slow. We visited the iconic Mahabaleshwara Temple and were stunned by its Dravidian style design and architecture. After spending an hour at the temple, we headed to Kudle beach for the sunset. We enjoyed the serenity of the beach while the sun painted the sky with hues of orange and yellow. Later, we called it a night and headed back to the hostel for dinner. 

We started the day early by 7.30 AM, and after having a wholesome breakfast at Cafe Mantra, we left to rent a two-wheeler. Our first stop for the day was Mirjan Fort, which is also one of the unexplored places of Gokarna. We spent 2-3 hours exploring the secluded fort, which was surrounded by lush greenery. We left from the fort at 1 PM and had lunch at a local joint which was known for its seafood. 

Also read: Experience Beach Trekking At One Of The Most Pristine Beaches Of Gokarna

Post that, we started our beach trek from the Kudle beach . Our trek covered Paradise beach, Om Beach and Half-moon beach. The three-hour trek had made us super hungry, and hence we visited the famous Namaste Cafe on the OM beach for a hearty meal. Our night ended on a high note with some palatable food and conversations with fellow travellers. 

Tip: Namaste Cafe and local eateries don’t accept cards, so make sure to carry cash with you. 

This was officially our last day in Gokarna. We woke up early, packed our bags and decided to make the most of the remaining time before catching the bus at night. We rode to Ankola and visited the famous Honey beach. While the beach was stunning, it was the scenic ride from the hostel to Ankola that we enjoyed the most.

We crossed some beautiful villages covered with coconut trees and the picturesque landscapes in the area, made everything look surreal. 

On our way back, we stopped for food at a small kitchen owned by locals and savoured the famous fish fry and Bhakri. By 7 PM, we bid goodbye to the place and headed to the bus stand. I boarded the bus for Mumbai for 7 PM while my friend boarded the bus for Bangalore. 

I honestly think that visiting Gokarna during the monsoon season was the best decision of my life. With fewer tourists, the idyllic beaches and pristine waters looked more tranquil. The rain Gods surely made travelling a bit difficult, but the lush greenery and delectable food compensated for it.

Also read: You Can Enjoy A Session Of Yoga In A Treehouse In Gokarna

Things You Shouldn’t Miss Out On:

Since I had visited during the monsoon season, most of the beach shacks were not open. I also missed out on taking yoga lessons on Kudle beach, but you should definitely consider taking one.

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• Top 7 Captivating Places To Visit At Gokarna

Top 7 Captivating Places to Visit at Gokarna

Tucked away on the pristine coastline of Karnataka, Gokarna is a hidden gem that offers a unique blend of spirituality, serenity, and natural beauty. Whether you're a devout pilgrim seeking solace or planning a summer vacation in India , Gokarna has something special in store for everyone. In this enchanting town, you'll find yourself immersed in a world of breathtaking beaches, ancient temples, and lush green landscapes. From scenic viewpoints to cultural landmarks, get ready to be mesmerized by the beauty and charm of this coastal paradise!

Best Places To Visit in Gokarna

Let’s uncover the top 7 captivating places to visit at Gokarna that should be on every traveller's itinerary: -

Lalguli Falls

Koti tritha, mirjan fort, gokarna cliff, kudle beach.

Om Beach in Gokarna holds great spiritual significance due to its unique geographical formation. Resembling the sacred symbol 'Om', this beach is considered profoundly auspicious by the locals. It owes its distinctive identity to the convergence of two semi-crescent land formations, creating a stunning spectacle.

Photographers will find Om Beach to be a haven for capturing the mesmerizing beauty of sunrise and sunset. The ever-changing skyline offers a breathtaking view that is sure to leave you awestruck. Don't forget to have your camera handy, as there will be countless moments worth capturing. The beach boasts fine, delicate sand and impressive rock formations, adding to its allure.

As you explore the shores, you'll likely encounter fishermen's boats dotting the landscape, some of which may be engaged in deep-sea fishing activities. If you're open to engaging with the local fishing community, you may have the opportunity to gain insights into their daily lives and experiences.

Lalgulli Falls, situated in the Uttara Kannada district of Karnataka, is a breathtaking natural wonder and one of the best places to visit in Gokarna for nature enthusiasts. This mesmerizing cascade attracts numerous visitors each year, who are captivated by its picturesque ambience and serene surroundings. The waterfall is enveloped by lush greenery, further enhancing its beauty.

Lalgulli Falls is a popular destination for families and friends looking to enjoy a picnic amidst the captivating scenery. In addition to marvelling at the waterfall, visitors can engage in thrilling activities such as trekking, river rafting, and various water sports on the Kali River.

The natural splendour of Lalgulli Falls also attracts a variety of bird species, making it a paradise for bird watchers. Alongside the waterfall, tourists can also explore a nearby Hanuman Temple situated on the hill, adding a touch of spirituality to their visit. Whether you seek tranquillity, adventure, or a chance to admire the wonders of nature, Lalgulli Falls offers a memorable experience that will leave you in awe of its natural beauty and serene atmosphere.

Nestled in the Sahyadri Hills of North Karnataka, Yana is a charming hill station that casts a mesmerizing spell on all who visit, particularly avid trekkers. Surrounded by one of the world's richest biodiversity centres, this small hill station boasts breathtaking beauty that captivates every soul fortunate enough to lay eyes upon it. Located a mere 140 km from Hubli, Yana Caves is renowned as a hub for adventure, wildlife, and spirituality, making it the ideal destination for a getaway.

Blessed with lush greenery and the invigorating air of the Sahyadri Hills in the Western Ghats, Yana is famous for its two colossal natural limestone monoliths, attracting thousands of pilgrims each year. The Bhairaveshwara Peak and Mohini Peak hold immense religious significance, representing Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati, respectively. In addition to their religious importance, these peaks offer excellent opportunities for trekking and birdwatching. The trek to the twin peaks spans a steep 3 km route that can be challenging due to slippery terrain, but the refreshing breeze makes it all the more enjoyable.

Koti Tirtha, one of the holiest places to visit at Gokarna, holds significant reverence for both locals and tourists. This revered man-made tank is surrounded by stunning temples and serves as a place for ritual bathing and immersion of idols. Koti Tirtha is believed to be the source of a thousand springs, as per popular legend. Situated close to the renowned Mahabaleshwar Temple, Koti Tirtha attracts pilgrims who visit the temple to partake in rituals and pay homage to their ancestors. Devotees flock to this sacred pond to take purifying baths, immersing themselves in its tranquil spiritual atmosphere. The serene ambience provides a sublime setting for those seeking a profound religious experience.

Located approximately 11 kilometres from Gokarna on National Highway 66, Mirjan Fort stands as a symbol of cultural magnificence. Dating back to the 16th century, the architectural wonders of this fortress have made it a prominent tourist attraction. Several mythical tales surround the construction and origins of the fort, but the most widely accepted story revolves around Queen Chennabhairadevi. This remarkable historical figure is believed to have commissioned the fort's construction during her influential 54-year matriarchal reign in the 16th century.

Situated alongside the banks of the Agnanishi River, Mirjan Fort features towering ceilings and sturdy bastions. The fort boasts four main entrances, each adorned with laterite stone steps, which are also used in the fort's construction. Additionally, the fort incorporates a network of wells interconnected with the moat, serving as a defensive mechanism to protect against external attacks. Despite facing numerous battles over the years, the fort has withstood the test of time, demonstrating its resilience.

For those seeking an adventurous exploration of Gokarna's top tourist attractions, the Gokarna Cliff is a must-visit destination. This thrilling experience involves a trek to reach the cliff, but the breathtaking view awaiting you will undoubtedly leave you in awe, making every ounce of effort worthwhile. From the vantage point of the cliff, you can soak in the mesmerizing panorama that stretches before you. Along the cliff, you'll find a range of cafes and eateries, providing ample options to satisfy your cravings and indulge in delicious food while enjoying the scenic surroundings. Whether you're seeking a peaceful spot to relax or an adrenaline rush from the daring trek, the Gokarna Cliff offers a unique blend of adventure and gastronomic delights, making it a must-see attraction in Gokarna.

Kudle Beach is among the many captivating beaches of Gokarna. Offering a tranquil retreat, this beach provides a serene and peaceful atmosphere, ideal for witnessing breathtaking sunsets, taking leisurely walks along the shore, or simply sitting back and observing the endless tides. It is a preferred choice for locals seeking morning or evening walks and practising yoga, as Kudle Beach remains relatively untouched by large tourist crowds, ensuring a peaceful ambience.

Except for the peak months between November and February, when it attracts foreign travellers and backpackers in search of privacy, Kudle Beach is typically deserted. The sea is calm and shallow, making it suitable for bathing or dipping your feet, though caution is advised. While proper hotels can be scarce and fully booked during peak season, from around October to March, the local community sets up temporary shacks and huts offering basic accommodation and food. While not the most luxurious option, it adds to the adventurous spirit of spending a night on the beach, listening to the soothing sound of the waves crashing nearby.

Thus, these are the top-notch places to visit at Gokarna that you simply cannot afford to overlook while embarking on your journey to this town. Explore holiday packages in India and book the one best suits your preferences.

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10 BEST Places to Visit in Gokarna

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Framing Footprints

25 Magical Places to Visit in Gokarna in 2 Days

For years, Gokarna was revered as a pilgrim town and thousands of devotees flocked to this place to pay homage to Lord Shiva. There are a number of beautiful places to visit in Gokarna in 2 days. From pristine beige-coloured beaches lined with palm and coconut trees to quaint villages with their red-tiled roofs. A number of secluded cliffs and viewpoints offering gorgeous sweeping views of the turquoise water below. Gokarna is swamped in beauty and tranquility.

There’s a strange kind of warmth and serenity blending perfectly with the hippie travel vibe. A beautiful sleepy village, once upon a time inhabited by families of fishermen and farmers, it has now slowly transformed into an ideal beach destination for backpackers and travellers. Like a glimpse of the Goa of a bygone era.

Doused in stories and anecdotes from the Mahabharata and the Ramayana, it’s a place of religious and mythological importance. There are several wonderful things to do in this rustic town of Gokarna. You can go trekking amidst palm strewn cliffs, or just spend some peaceful time in retrospection in temples. Gokarna has something to offer for everyone.

This Gokarna travel blog contains information about some of the best places to visit in Gokarna for a 2-day itinerary along with some suggestions from my personal experiences which could help you in planning your own trip to this peaceful paradise.

Where is Gokarna?

Gokarna is located in the southern state of Karnataka in the Kumta taluk of Uttara Kannada district. It’s a coastal town along the Arabian Sea almost near Goa’s border. There are several ways in which you could reach Gokarna.

Also Read: Udaipur- Complete Travel Guide

How to Visit Gokarna

Gokarna has a railway station a little away from the town. Unfortunately it does not have very good connectivity with most cities and towns in India.

From Bangalore, there are few Karwar bound trains that stop at Gokarna on the way. Karwar is around 60km from Gokarna. Time taken is approximately 15-16 hours.

There are two trains which ply between Mumbai and Gokarna and the journey takes around 12 hours. The boarding station in Mumbai is Lokamanya Tilak Terminus.

There are plenty of trains running between Goa and Gokarna and the journey takes about an hour and a half. The boarding station is Margao.

From the station, you can hire an auto to your hotel/hostel or city. Although it could be a pain to find one during the offseason, especially during early morning hours. But during the peak season, you’ll almost never have any difficulties finding an auto. You can also find local buses running a little away from the station to the town.

There’s another station in Ankola which is around 20 km away from Gokarna. And this is the preferred choice for most travelers when a direct train is not available. From Ankola you can either travel to Gokarna by a local bus or by hiring an auto or cab.

The nearest airport to Gokarna is Goa’s Dabolim Airport . Another option is to fly to Mangalore Airport . From here you can come down to Gokarna by either a bus or train or by hiring a cab. Gokarna is 145 km from Dabolim Airport and it can take anywhere between 3 to 5 hours to reach depending on the mode of transport. From Mangalore, Gokarna is 250 km away and it takes around 4-5 hours to reach.

Gokarna has good road connectivity to the nearby cities. There are direct buses plying from Mangalore, Goa, and Bangalore at regular intervals. You could also hire a cab from Goa and Mangalore.

Bangalore is usually the most preferred option because it is well connected to Gokarna and buses can be easily booked from the KSRTC website.

Overall, the most convenient and budget-friendly option to travel to Gokarna is by road. If you choose to travel to Gokarna from Mangalore by road, you can also visit other places like Murudeshwar, Padubidri beach and Kasarkod beach (blue flag certified beaches) Apsarakonda, and Maravante on the way.

Getting Around in Gokarna

Although there are frequent local buses operating within the town, they mostly cater to the needs of the locals rather than of the travellers. It’s best to hire a two-wheeler or self-drive to this place as you’ll have the liberty of exploring the place at your own pace. There are quite a few rental shops in the town (E.g. Aparajitha Bike Rent) or you can just enquire at your hotel or hostel. There are also many places where you can rent a bicycle.

Another option would be to hire autos. There are many auto-stands especially near Kudle beach, Om beach and in the town centre. For a budget traveller though it can turn out to be slightly expensive as autos don’t operate by the meter. The rates are mostly fixed and decided by the union and it’s of no use haggling. But the auto drivers are more than willing to give you their number along with a ‘day package’ to travel around. It’s one of the best ways to explore Gokarna.

Best Time to Visit Gokarna

Gokarna is a year-long destination. Although peak monsoon season is considered to be the offseason. During monsoon season, the coast experiences relentless rains and it can be a hassle if you’re not fond of rains. Whereas if you love the monsoons with its cloud-covered landscapes, petrichor ladened air, lush greenery and deserted beaches then it is the perfect time to visit.

On the other hand, the peak summer season, March to May, can get unbearably hot and humid preventing you from exploring the town. So the perfect time would be during the winter months of October to February. Mind you, don’t expect the place to be too cold as it’s definitely going to be humid. Just a tad bit less as compared to other months.

But if you wish to do a staycation as is the case with most people’s post-pandemic travel plan, this can be a perfect place to unwind at a peaceful hotel, homestay, or resort. Better yet, find a place overlooking the sea and while your time away in complete silence and seclusion.

Ideal duration of stay in Gokarna

You can spend anywhere between two days to two weeks in this tranquil town. The ideal number of days to visit all the main places in the town would be 2-3 days. But if you wish to soak in the vibe, relax, unwind and also explore some of the pretty corners of this tranquil town, then I’d suggest adding one or two more days.

Best Places to Eat in Gokarna

There are multiple food joints available in the town and along the beach. Most of these places are affordable serving lip-smacking dishes.

• Ganga Cafe & White Elephant Restaurant – Good food and beach view (best for Indian and Italian cuisine),
• Kudle Beach View Resort – Great view and food (best for Indian and Chinese cuisine; try their chocolate pudding)
• Mantra Cafe, Zostel – Great food and view
• Prema Restaurant – Great Indian food
• Namaste Cafe – Great beach view

Top 10 Things to do in Gokarna

It’s not always about ticking off bucket list things when you visit a place, is it? Sometimes it’s worth doing things that are not very mainstream in order to completely get a feel of a place. Here’s a list of things to do in Gokarna to have an immersive and memorable experience in this quaint town.

Cycling in Gokarna Countryside

Most people travel to Gokarna by train or public transport and hence follow a fixed path to reach their hotel and hostel. And immediately set out to check out all the noteworthy spots. While this is completely understandable if you’re short on time, I’d suggest to keep aside a day for leisure and explore the countryside of Gokarna if possible.

Narrow lanes cutting through pastel green rice fields, smooth asphalt roads passing through colorful houses with their sloping red-tiled roofs. Hidden mangrove filled backwaters with peaceful temples quietly sitting on their banks. You’ll come across all this and more when you go off the beaten track. Although any mode of transport will do, it’s best to explore it on a two-wheeler.

Flea Market Shopping

Even if you’re someone who loves to shop in malls or popular stores and shops, there’s a different charm in buying a beautiful frock or funky jewellery for dirt cheap prices. Especially in charming sleepy towns tucked away from the rest world.

The town of Gokarna has several flea markets selling traditional colourful outfits, tropical indie-style beach garments, wooden carts covered with bracelets, local crafts, spices, and earrings made out of delicate shells and beads. So go on and splurge! And in turn, you’ll be contributing to the local economy! A win-win situation! 😉

Go for a Boat Ride

Picture this! The gentle hum of the boat’s motor, the constant swish of the waves beneath the boat. And the sun slowly sinking at the horizon. The vast orange blue expanse of the sea on one side and the coconut covered stretch of land on the other slowly blending into the sea. Can you think of a more relaxing experience?

You can take a boat ride from Om Beach to Half-Moon Beach and Paradise Beach. My suggestion would be to reach Half-Moon Beach or Paradise Beach by foot and then take a boat ride back from there to Om Beach.

You might also get to spot some dolphins on the way if you’re lucky!

Go Cafe Hopping

There is no dearth of cafes and eateries in Gokarna.You can find them lining the shores or high above the beach on a cliff overlooking the vast expanse of the sea. Simple, quirky shacks and huts adding to the experience. What better way to spend a peaceful evening than gorging on delicious food and watching the waves crashing on the horizon.

Watch Sunrise on the West Coast

Belekan Beach in Gokarna is one of those rare beaches on the west coast where you can watch the sunrise. The complete lack of commercialization of this beach makes it one of the best places to enjoy the early hour bliss. This is one of the best offbeat things to do in Gokarna

Climb up a Lighthouse

Usually, no visit to a coastal destination is complete without paying a visit to at least one lighthouse. Sadly the one in Gokarna is not very popular and the way to it is also not very straightforward. But if you don’t mind a bit of an adventure. Gokarna Lighthouse is one of the best offbeat places to visit in Gokarna.

Tip: The starting point of the beach trek starts after crossing the stream. Walking straight ahead after crossing the stream takes you towards Paradise beach. Right before this point, there’s a path which forks upwards to the left which leads to the Lighthouse.

Practice Yoga by the Sea.

There’s nothing more peaceful than practising yoga amidst nature. And what better place than by the sea? With your ears constantly filled with the melody of the chirping birds and the gentle crash of the waves, this is one of the best things to do in Gokarna. So just find your spot and zone in.

Watch Sunset on a Cliff

Gokarna and cliffs are synonymous with each other. If you can manage to drift away from the popular spots, you’ll see that there are several untouched nooks still waiting to be discovered. Viewing sunset from a cliff in Gokarna is a breathtaking experience.

Watching the golden orb slowly dip into the horizon high above a cliff while the white frothy waves crash below is an experience like no other. This is one of the best gifts you could give to yourself and one of the beautiful things to do in Gokarna.

Camp by the Beach

If you’ve ever wished to camp by the beachside, Gokarna can be the best place to do it. While there are plenty of modest huts available for stay near the popular beaches of Gokarna, it’s an entirely different experience to camp on a beach.

The best beach to do this would be the Half-Moon beach. Its pristine golden sand with delightful clear water is just too beautiful and will instantly fill you with a sense of joy and calm. There are no facilities available here but the kind locals are forever willing to provide packed food, water and other basic necessities to the campers.

Do the Gokarna Beach Trek

This is hands down one of the best things to do in Gokarna. All the beaches in Gokarna are interlinked through short hikes. The joy of hiking along sloping cliffs covered with clusters of palm trees, discovering pretty nooks and crannies along a path through jungles and boulders is unparalleled.

The path is filled with the salt-scented fragrance of the sea, hidden viewpoints peeking out of clamps of bushes with gorgeous sweeping views of the thrashing sea below. It’s probably one of the most gorgeous trekking routes in India. The Gokarna Beach Trek is definitely one of the top things to do in this beach town. You can start the trek in any one of the beaches apart from Half-Moon Beach and Paradise Beach since they are accessible only by foot.

This is the recommended trail: Kudle Beach – Om Beach – Half-Moon Beach – Paradise beach – Belekan beach (or vice versa)

Although the best time to do the Gokarna Beach Trek would be immediately after the monsoons when there’d be an abundance of greenery everywhere, you can do it any time of the year. Be prepared to bear with the sweltering heat though. It’s advisable to go with a local guide or in a group as in few areas the trail is not properly marked and there’s a possibility of getting lost. And at all cost do not venture on the trail alone after sunset.

Note : If you’re not interested in trekking you can do beach hopping in boats operated by local fishermen. This is mostly operational during the peak season and sometimes when good weather conditions prevail during the off-season.

Several water activities are also available during this time. There’s a ferry line operating between Belekan and Kumta. You can use this ferry to visit a few of the other nearby beaches like Nirvana and Heaven.

Places to Stay in Gokarna

Whether you prefer to stay in the town centre with easy road accessibility or you want to reach out to your gypsy roots and spend a night under the stars, there’s something for everyone in Gokarna.

Here’s a list of some of the best stays

• Zostel – The goto option for backpackers and budget travellers. And their recently introduced individual cottages make it a great choice even for other tourists. The affordable dorms, great views of the sea, and their in-house cafe serving delicious food have definitely made it a popular choice among everyone.
• Viraz Valley – Sitting atop a cliff amidst a forest overlooking the sea, this is one of the most affordable and great stays in Gokarna. Easily accessible through a lane which forks off from the main road, it is located at a short distance from Om Beach and Kudle Beach. They have an in-house restaurant and a terrace with great views of the beach.
• Kudle Beach View Resort – Located amidst a small jungle within walking distance to Kudle beach, this is a great place to unwind if you’re looking for some peace and luxury. Their restaurant, located on the top floor overlooking Kudle Beach is an amazing place to watch the sunset from. The chefs whip up delicious food and this is one of the best places to visit in Gokarna to indulge in some lip-smacking food along with breathtaking views.

This is definitely not a complete list as there are several other stay options in the main town and many other newly emerged resorts and hotels interspersed throughout the town. While you can definitely expect to find a stay throughout the year, do look out for the seasonal crowd which throngs Gokarna during certain religious months. During this time if you happen to reach without prior booking, it might turn out to be slightly inconvenient.

15 Best Places to visit in Gokarna

Gokarna is a heaven for beach lovers! While there are few popular beaches which are thronged by tourists and locals alike, rest assured, you’ll be able to bag a quiet corner for yourself. And if you’re someone in search of secluded and untouched beaches, there’s something for you as well! Here’s a list of the top 6 beaches in Gokarna both popular and offbeat.

Beaches to visit in Gokarna

Kudle beach.

Kudle Beach faces west and hence it’s the ideal place to watch the sunset from. It’s around 6 km from Gokarna town. There are some water activities to indulge in as well. Many cafes and shacks are lined along its shore as well as on the cliff above. From Kudle Beach there is a well-paved path towards Om beach passing under a canopy of trees. However, if you opt to travel during the summers it can turn out to be very hot due to humidity. There are also motorboats ferrying between Kudle Beach and Om Beach. The beach is accessible after a 10-minute hike downhill from the parking area. Definitely one of the most beautiful places to visit in Gokarna and you should include this in the list of things to do in Gokarna

The most popular beach in Gokarna. It owes its name to its two crescent-shaped shores which form the shape of Om. Several shacks and cafes line its shore including the popular Namaste Cafe. There are many water activities like banana boat rides, surfing, and parasailing for you to indulge in as well.

It’s south-facing hence sunset views are not that great from this beach. A long stretch of beige-coloured sand with several places to dine and unwind. Kudle beach and Om beach is pretty close to each other and you can definitely include this in your list of things to do in Gokarna In order to get a perfect view of its shape, you’ll have to walk towards the rightmost corner up a small hill.

During the peak season, there are frequent boats operating to Paradise Beach. Although it’s best to trek to Paradise Beach, those not wishing to trek can opt for this.

Half-Moon Beach

Shaped like a perfect half-moon this beach is tucked in between jungles and boulders and is accessible only by a short hike from Om Beach. At the far end of the beach, there are a couple of shacks here serving limited food but the beach is a pretty one. Especially peaceful if you happen to visit it during the offseason. A perfect place to perch on the pile of rocks by the beach, sip a drink and watch the sun go down.

You can even stay here for a few days by setting up your own tents. Many people have started opting for this and in order to have the beach all to yourself, it’s better to choose a weekday rather than a weekend.

There’s also a trail which starts somewhere along the main road which is mentioned in Google Maps. The trail between Om beach and Half moon beach is the most picturesque one passing through jagged cliffs overlooking the Arabian Sea.

Note : If you plan to go back by boat then be mindful of the boat timings And if you plan to trek back to Om beach ensure you carry a torch with you and do not trek alone as it can be risky to climb the cliff during late night. You can get your tents and spend the night here under the stars. But ensure to take all your belongings and trash back with you!

Paradise Beach

South facing scenic beach with no shacks or eateries. Peaceful and secluded, it’s perfect for some soul time and relaxation and one of the secret beaches in Gokarna. You’ll have to put in some effort to reach here though. And that’s the reason it’s still pristine and untouched. It’s a rocky beach hence be careful if you wish to swim here.

You can reach Paradise beach in Gokarna by a small hike through life-sized shrubs and thickets from the Belekan Beach. This route is comparatively less popular as compared to the hike from Om Beach and Half-Moon Beach.

Practice yoga by a peaceful corner or simply perch on a pile of rocks and stare at the dipping sun when the sky catches fire.

Belekan Beach

Located in Belekan village in Gokarna this place is nothing short of enchanting. It’s not possible to watch the sunrise from the west coast of India but this is one of those very rare places where this phenomenon occurs. This should definitely be in your list of places to visit in Gokarna.

Gokarna Beach

The Gokarna Beach is a popular beach stretching for miles below a cliff mostly frequented by local tourists and pilgrims. It’s usually extremely crowded and can be given a miss if you’re in search of peace and calm. However, it’s one of the best places to visit in Gokarna if you want a glimpse of the local culture. It’s not an uncommon sight to spot a priest, a backpacker and a cow walking towards the beach on the same side of the road! You can reach Gokarna Beach by auto or you can also choose to hike to it from Kudle Beach.

Lesser Known Places to Visit in Gokarna

Mallikarjuna temple.

Situated along Ashokavana Road, this beautiful temple is a piece of architecture . Snuggly sitting in the middle of an areca nut plantation, this place oozes serenity . With the constant gurgling sound of a stream nearby, the chirping of birds and insects, this is one of the magical places to visit in Gokarna for some quiet and peaceful time.

The place is devoid of any people except for a few days of festivities when the place gets crowded with devotees. It can be slightly difficult to find this place. It has an entrance which is mostly gated in order to prevent cows from entering the premises. However, it is mentioned in Google Maps.

Shiva Cave Gokarna

Sitting amidst a sea of boulders in a picturesque location, Shiva Cave is an interesting place to visit if you’re into exploring offbeat hidden places. If your timing is right, you can listen to some exciting stories from some saints and devotees who often use this cave as a resting place. They’ll regale you with their interesting tales about the history and significance of this cave.

The legend goes by the story that this cave was made by a cow captured by Ravana while escaping from his grasp. It is also believed that there’s a secret tunnel in the cave which leads to Varanasi. Irrespective of whether you believe in Mahabharata or not, these stories certainly have a different charm while you listen to them standing there and try to visualize everything. The surrounding area has a peaceful vibe about it and you can spend some quiet time sitting among the boulders.

Travel Tip: Look for a ‘Shiva Cave’ board opposite Kudle Beach View Resort from where the path starts

Jatayu Tirtha

A cliff tucked in between Gokarna beach and Kudle beach this is a heavenly place for watching the sunset along with some breathtaking views of the sea and the rocks below. It’s not very popular yet since it takes some effort to reach here and only a handful of people manage to stumble across it. You can reach this place either from Kudle beachside or from a path near Rama Tirtha temple.

You can also hike down to the rocky shore below where a small stream flows to the sea. This is considered to be the place where Jatayu from Ramayana was slain by Ravana.

A gradual slope leads down to the turquoise water sheathed in soft white foam. I stumbled upon this gem of a place by chance and was blown away by its beauty. White frothy waves crashed on the rocks below, with absolutely no one around. Just the sound of waves, breeze and the smell of sea and sunset.

Rama Tirtha

A peaceful temple located just off the shore near Gokarna Beach. There’s a pond near the temple filled with mountain water. The water, flowing out of an opening (carved in the shape of Nandi’s head) in the mountain is believed to have medicinal properties with a unique taste. And people from all over the world bring bottles to fill it with the sacred water.

An Obscure Carving

Just behind the Rama Tirtha temple, there’s a small courtyard from where you can watch the sunset from. There’s also a barely visible path hiding among the bushes which leads to a gorgeous viewpoint. There above you can spot this art carved out of the boulders. You can also hike up to it.

Gokarna Lighthouse

Not many people know this but right before the path that leads to Paradise beach, there is a path which forks upwards towards the left which leads to the lighthouse. The route is filled with wide variety of flora and founa and the constant sound of the waves along with the chirping of the birds can be very therauptic.

Holy places to visit in Gokarna

Gokarna mahabaleshwar temple.

Gokarna Mahabaleshwar temple regarded as the ‘Dakshin Kashi’ is the most revered temple in Gokarna, situated at a distance of 1.6 km from Kudle Beach. This is the only Atma Linga in the world where the devotees get to touch it and this one of the main reasons why so many pilgrims pay a visit to this town.

Timing: 6 A.M to 2 P.M and then 4 P.M onwards

Mahaganapati Temple Gokarna

This is another ancient temple located next door to the Mahabaleshwar temple. This temple is dedicated to Bal Ganesha who is said to have saved Atma Linga from Ravana by tricking him. According to customs, it is advised to worship Lord Ganesha before the Atma Linga in the Mahabaleshwara temple. Head over here to experience and witness the daily worship.

Koti Tirtha

Koti Tirtha is a man-made pond where immersions of idols take place and where staunch devotees bathe before visiting the temples. It is considered to be extremely sacred. Koti Tirtha literally translates to a ‘thousand springs’.

Places to visit outside of Gokarna

There are many places of interest around Gokarna that can be visited on a day trip. You can either a hire a cab or an auto or avail a public transportation to reach these places. Here are some places close to Gokarna that you absolutely cannot afford to overlook when in Gokarna.

Apsarakonda

This is a beautiful beach village hiding in plain sight near Honnavar. The beach sees almost no visitors apart from few locals and is one of the cleanest beaches I’ve come across. There’s a lovely garden with a variety of flowers and a viewpoint from where you can get a panaromic view of the sparkling beach below.

There’s also a waterfall here which is a pretty sight during the monsoon but not much of a beauty during the other seasons.

Mirjan Fort

Mirjan Fort is an architectural beauty located at a distance of about 12 km from Gokarna town. Situated on the banks of the river Aghanasini, Mirjan Fort built, by Queen Chennabharadevi of the Tuluva-Saluva Clan, in the 16th century glorifies the rich heritage and history of Karnataka.

One can reach this fort by hiring an auto from Gokarna. Alternatively, you can hop on to a local Kumta bound bus which will drop you on the main road from where it’s a 500 mt walk to the fort. During the peak season you can also expect to find some autos parked near the mouth of the road leading to the fort.

Mirjan Fort is a treat to the eyes especially during the monsoon season when the place gets sheathed in a blanket of velvety moss. Include this fort in your list of things to do in Gokarna and experience the history and culture of Karnataka

Murudeshwar

Murudeshwar is a temple town in coastal Karnataka. Flanking the shores of the Arabian Sea, nestled on a small hill by the name of Kundaka, lies the Murudeshwar Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. The most glorious part of this temple is the humongous idol of Shiva which is the second-largest statue of Shiva in the world. There’s a tall Gopuram towering over the statue from where you can get sweeping views of the beach and statue. The entire temple complex has beautiful intricate carvings depicting stories from the Mahabharata.

There are several places to visit in Murudeshwar along with activities like boating, swimming, beach surfing and other water sports in Murudeshwar Beach. You can also do snorkelling and scuba diving on Netrani island which is located at a small distance away from the temple. Located at a distance of about 75km from Gokarna, Murudeshwar is a dream destination for travellers and pilgrims alike.

Yana Rocks and Caves

Located at a distance of 52 km from Gokarna, Yana Caves and Rocks are a system of gigantic rock formation standing tall and proud inside the tropic forest of the western ghats, is one of the unique places to visit in Gokarna. The black weather-beaten rocks with their eerie shapes are a sight to behold! There’s also a temple dedicated to Lord Shiva here. A perfect place for trekkers, nature lovers and pilgrims alike. Timings: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM

Vibhuti Falls

Vibhuti Falls is a lesser known gem in the Western Ghats situated in Ankola at a distance of 30 km from Gokarna. It’s a multi-step waterfall meandering through limestone rocks and The word ‘Vibhuti’ translates to limestone.

A short 1 km hike through the jungle will lead you to these falls. It’s a beautiful place with very less tourist footfall. September to February would be the best time to visit as the falls would be at its peak during these months

Best time is between September and February as water will be at its peak after monsoon.

Travel Tip : A recommended one-day itinerary for a day drip around Gokarna would be this: Gokarna-Mirjan Fort-Yana Rocks-Vibhooti Falls.

I hope you liked this post on the magical places to visit in Gokarna in 2 days. It’s an enchanting place to unwind and see a different part of India. A place where ancient mythological stories and religious beliefs have blended beautifully with the modernity of current times.

Please try not to buy bottled water as even if you dispose it off responsibly it invariably ends up in the ocean. Get your own bottles and refill it in the cafes and shacks.

Do pay a visit to this village-town and let it charm you. And if you’ve already been here, how was your experience? Let me know in the comments below!

5 thoughts on “25 Magical Places to Visit in Gokarna in 2 Days”

Brought back so many memories. Thanks for sharing this. <3

Yeyy!💃 So glad! Thank you for reading.😊

Beautifully written 🥰nice shivu.. All the best 😍🥰

Thank you so much Aishu!♥️ Means a lott🤗

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Things to Do in Gokarna, India - Gokarna Attractions

Things to do in gokarna, explore popular experiences, tours in and around gokarna.

Gokarna Beach Trek

Heritage & Cultural Walk of Gokarna (2 Hours Guided Walking Tour)

Dandeli One Night and Two Days Stay With Swimming Pool & Rafting

Highlights of Gokarna (Guided Half-Day City Sightseeing Tour by Car)

Areca Plantation Walk & Vegetarian Breakfast at Areca County

Gokarna Nature Walk (3 Hours Guided Trekking Experience)

Shore & Cities of Karnataka

Port Blair Food Crawl (2 Hours Guided Local Food Tasting Tour)

Gokarna Food Crawl (2 Hours Guided Food Tasting Tour)

Bangalore to Kovalam South India Temple & Beach

Tours & sightseeing, top attractions in gokarna.

Other Top Attractions around Gokarna

Cultural & Theme Tours

Walking & biking tours, private & custom tours, what travelers are saying.

• Kudle Beach
• Paradise Beach
• Mirjan Fort
• Mahabaleswara Temple
• Half Moon Beach
• Gokarna Beach
• Maha Ganapati Temple

Gokarna Beach in Karnataka: The Complete Guide

What to Know Before You Go

Gokarna is a small and remote holy town with four of India's most secluded beaches nestled nearby. It draws both pious pilgrims and hedonistic holidaymakers with equal enthusiasm. Travel to Gokarna to get a feel for what Goa was like in its heyday, although time is limited as developers are already seeing the potential of this area and commercialization is setting in. The secret is already out among tourists -- both foreign and domestic -- too. This Gokarna guide will help you plan your trip.

According to Hindu mythology, Gokarna's existence can be traced all the way back to the ancient epic The Ramayana, which tells the story of Lord Ram's life and rescue of his wife Sita from demon king Ravan. It's said that Lord Ganesh fooled Ravan into relinquishing the Atma Linga (the Soul of Lord Shiva that bestows immortality and invincibility) in Gokarna, while was he taking it to his kingdom in Sri Lanka. The Atma Linga is believed to be installed in the town's Mahabaleshwar temple. There's also a temple dedicated to Lord Ganesh.

Gokarna is located on the coast of Karnataka, an hour south of the Goa border. It's about 450 kilometers (280 miles) from Bangalore, the state capital.

How to Get There

The nearest airport is Dabolim, in Goa. From there it's a four hour drive south to Gorkana. Alternatively, trains on the Konkan railway stop at Gokarna Road station, 15 minutes from town. There are railway stations at Kumta and Ankola, both about 25 kilometers (16 miles) from Gokarna, as well. Gokarna is also connected by bus from major cities such as Madgaon in Goa, and Mangalore and Bangalore in Karnataka.

Gokarna experiences the southwest monsoon from June to August, following which the weather becomes dry and sunny. The best time to visit Gokarna is from October until March, when the weather is warm and pleasant with temperatures averaging 32 degrees Celsius (90 degrees Fahrenheit). April and May are hot summer months, and the temperature easily reaches 38 degrees Celsius (100 degrees Fahrenheit) then. It becomes very humid too.

If you're interested in seeing a festival, aim to be there for Mahashivratri (the "Great Night of Lord Shiva") in February or early March. It's celebrated for nine days at Mahabaleshwar temple and concludes with a chariot procession carrying an idol of Lord Shiva through the streets. People throw bananas at the chariot for good luck.

Mahabaleshwar temple also holds rituals for Tripurakhya Deepotsava on Kartik Purnima (the auspicious full moon in November) and is beautifully illuminated with oil lamps.

What to Do There

Gokarna's main attraction is its beaches, where people come to chill and soak up the sun for months at a time. Travelers usually bypass the town's main beach (which is popular with pilgrims) and head a short distance south to Kudle and Om beaches.

Om is the most happening beach, as it can be conveniently reached by car or auto rickshaw. However, this means it draws plenty of domestic tourists and day trippers, especially on weekends. Unfortunately, the men don't always behave themselves. Those who want to escape the crowds prefer Kudle beach. Its secluded position down a hill between two cliffs means that it's less accessible.

Kudle has an international vibe during peak season. A hippie flea market often takes place in the evenings on the beach, followed by drumming and live music around a bonfire. That's about the extent of Gokarna's nightlife, as strict policing keeps it in check (two foreigners were arrested for allegedly organizing a rave party in February 2019). During the day, people do yoga and play games such as cricket, or hang out in a shack with a cold beer. Alcohol is officially banned due to the town's religious significance but you won't have a problem getting a cold beer on the beach.

There are two more smaller beaches -- Half Moon and Paradise -- further south of Om beach. Each requires a scenic 30 minute hike, or a short boat ride, to reach. Paradise Beach isn't much more than a tiny protected cove. It doesn't have amenities and the beach shacks are frequently torn down by the forest department, so people bring tents and camp.

It's possible to hike all the way along the cliff from Kudle beach to Paradise beach. Do wear proper footwear though because the terrain is rocky and steep in parts. Care should be taken when walking between the beaches at night in the dark, and it's best not to go alone.

Om beach has water sports. You can also go surfing and take lessons at Gokarna's main beach. Or, if you fancy, ride a camel along the sand. Read more about the top places to surf and get lessons in India. Strong currents make swimming dangerous in some areas, so do be careful.

It's worthwhile venturing into characterful Gokarna town. It's easy to explore this sleepy town on foot and fun to spot the colorful murals decorating the buildings that line its streets. Wandering around the lake and past innumerable small temples is also enjoyable. Do note that non-Hindus aren't allowed to enter the inner sanctum of Mahabaleshwar temple (the town's main temple), although they can go inside the temple complex. The chariots used in the Mahashivratri festival procession are parked nearby on the street next to the Ganesh temple. If you want to shop, you'll find the usual assortment of tourist stuff being sold in town, ranging from incense to hippie clothes.

Where to Eat and Drink

Namaste Cafe on Om beach is Gokarna's most iconic shack and it stays open during the monsoon season. However, people complain that standards have dropped in recent years. Expect a long wait to get a table and slow service during peak season.

On Kudle beach, the White Elephant and Little Paradise Inn are recommended.

Where to Stay

Gokarna town has plenty of hotels but they are characterless places. Instead, opt for a homestay such as Hari Priya Residency.

Vedic Village is an outstanding homestay in a newly constructed house with sea views, situated five minutes walk from town. Nimmu House is a popular budget option, with a wide variety of rooms in two wings, close to the town's beach.

Alternatively, find yourself a hut on the beach. Decent ones are no longer super cheap, as many places have upgraded to concrete structures with attached bathrooms. Prices skyrocket from December to February, when demand is high, Yet, it's much less costly than Goa! Om and Kudle beaches both have some permanent accommodations. If you want to book in advance, try pocket-friendly Paradise Holiday Cottages or Kudle Ocean Front Resort on Kudle Beach. Namaste Sanjeevini sprawls just above Kudle beach.

Nirvana Guest House is the best place to stay on Om beach. Namaste Cafe and nearby Shantidham Cafe also offer cottages that are popular. Beach accommodation can be difficult to come by in the peak months of December and January though. Many people are just happy with a hammock! If that idea doesn't appeal to you, make sure you turn up before noon to grab a room as people are checking out.

There are a few luxury resorts on the hillside, such as  Om Beach Resort , SwaSwara , Kudle Beach View Resort & Spa , and Kahani Paradise villa for those who prefer their comforts. Om Beach Resort has a traditional Ayurvedic center, while SwaSwara focuses on yoga and meditation.

For something different, check out Namaste Yoga Farm in the hills above Kudle beach. You can stay in a tree house there!

Alternatively, backpackers will be pleased to know that a few hostels have opened up at Gokarna. Zostel hostel was the first one there, in early 2016. It sits on a hilltop halfway between Gokarna town and Kudle beach, and the beach view is rather spectacular. It's an arty place with dorms, private wooden cottages, a common room, and a yummy restaurant. HosteLaVie occupies an enticing spot behind Kudle beach, while Trippr hostel is bang on a private beach.

What to Do Nearby

If you're up for an adventure and are feeling energetic, it's possible to hike south from Gokarna to Kumta in two days. This is known as the Golden Trail and it passes through many virgin beaches.

History lovers will be interested in visiting 16th century Mirjan Fort, about 30 minutes south of Gokarna alongside the Aghanashini River. "Pepper Queen" Chennabharadevi is thought to have constructed it and controlled the spice trade through it. There are wells, secret doors, interlinked tunnels, and a watch tower.

About 45 minutes inland from Mirjan, the towering black crystalline limestone rock formations in the Western Ghat mountains near Yana village are an offbeat attraction. A short forest trek is required to reach them.

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Places to visit in gokarna: devotees, leisure travelers.

Gokarna is an ancient Tirtha Kshetra or a pilgrimage place. Placed uniquely on the beautiful west coast of India, it is surrounded by hills on the rest of the sides. In fact, Indian scriptures define it as Shatashringi or a place with 100s of horn-like hillocks. As I walked around the town, tracing ancient temples and tirthas, I could see the small hillocks everywhere. The sacred geography is bound by the waters of the Gangavalli and Aghnashini rivers on two sides and the sea on the other. Even then the town is full of water tanks or Tirthas, the biggest being Koti Tirtha which is the heart of this sacred town. Get to know a list of the places to visit in Gokarna for devotees and leisure travelers.

Legends of Gokarna

Gokarna is mentioned as a sacred space in many scriptures including Mahabharata, Gurucharita, and Gokarna Khand.

Origin of Name

The first story tells us how the place got its name. It is believed that once upon a time when there was just water and Narayana was sleeping in his Ksheersagar and Brahma emerged on the lotus emerging out of his navel to create the universe. The first creation was Rudra from his anger, whom he directed to create the universe. Rudra chose to go to the netherworld or Patala and meditate. Brahma then realized that he needed the world with all three Gunas – Satva, Rahas, and Tamas, so he created Pitras, Humans, and Prakriti. This infuriated Rudra and he marched from Patala to Brahmaloka.

In the process, the earth was frightened. She headed to move slowly through her. He agreed and took a small form of the size of a thumb and came out through the ear of the earth. Go is one of the names of the earth and since Rudra came out from her ear, the place came to be known as Gokarna. The Shivalinga donating this story is called Adi Gokarna and can be seen in the main Mahabaleshwar temple.

The second story comes from Ravana, who after severe penance was taking home the Atmalinga from Kailash Parvat to his Lanka. He was told not to keep it anywhere till he reaches the place where he wants to install it. However, as he reached Gokarna, it was time for his Sandhya Vandan, or evening prayers. Ganesha appeared as a Batuk or a Brahmin boy in front of him. Ravana handed him the Atmalinga to hold till he does his Puja. Batuk though could not hold it due to weight and kept it down.

So, this is where it continues to be. This is the main temple at Gokarna called Gokarna Mahabaleshwar. Ravana was angry and he hit Ganesha on his head. You can still see the Murti of Ganesha at Mahaganpati temple with a dent on the head.

The third story talks about King Sagar of Ayodhya, whose 60,000 sons were burnt by Sage Kapila. This is the same Sagar whose descendant Bhagirath is credited with bringing Ganga to earth. It is believed that once upon a time lot of Asuras used to live in the sea. They used to stay inside the water during the day but they came out at night and troubled the people there. People prayed to Rishi Agastya and requested him to drink all the water so that Asuras go away. Rishi did just that and the seabed dried.

Now the lord of the sea was worried and he prayed to Agastya Rishi to restore his water. He said he has already digested it all and can not bring it back. Sea then came to Gokarna, built a Shivalinga, and prayed to Shankar. Pleased, when Shankar asked him his wish, he asked for his water. Shankar then told him that when the descendant of Sagar will bring Ganga down to earth, the sea will also get its water back. So, it happened. This story links the waters of Gokarna to Ganga making them even more sacred. The Sagareshwar Shivalinga can be seen just outside the Mahabaleshwar temple today.

The fourth story tells us about Parashuram, the son of Jamadagni and Renuka, who made the waters of the sea retreat and created the Konkan coast. It is believed that he stood at Gokarna and threw his axe or Parashu at the sea. Well, you hear this story at many places on the Konkan coast, but the story binds the land of Konkan together like nothing else. A Shivalinga called Jamadagnishwara can be seen inside the Mahabaleshwar temple.

The fifth story says that the divine cow Surabhi mediated here. Shivalinga that she consecrated is known as Surbheshwara.

Holy Places to Visit in Gokarna

There are several temples in this small holy town. You should visit some of them at least and seek blessings.

Mahabaleshwar Temple Complex and around

Mahabaleshwar Temple is the main temple at Gokarna. It is the one that houses the Atmalinga. You can actually touch the Atmalinga through an opening in the silver cover that covers it. At specific times during the day, you can see the linga too.

The temple is the most popular and important place in Gokarna. You have to walk through many doors to reach the Garbhagriha.

There are vigrahas of Devi and Ganesha too inside the temple. I found a beautiful Veergal next to the temple. There are some even outside side entrances, with Naga sculptures on them.

Men need to wear a dhoti and no upper clothes while visiting the temple. Women can be dressed in any Indian attire.

Adi Gokarna Temple

As you walk clockwise around the main temple, the first temple you meet is the Adi Gokarna temple. You have to go down a few steps to see the ancient linga. This temple is built in stone and has beautiful wooden panels all around it. This temple is being renovated.

Skandeshwar Temple

This is an old Shivalinga in a small temple. The three walls have windows with a swastika on them.

Veerabhadra Temple

Moving on you see this small temple in bright yellow color dedicated to Veerabhadra. This is the Swaroop of Shiva that destroyed the Daksha Yagna.

Tamra Gauri Temple

Tamra Gauri is the presiding Shakti of Gokarna. Her temple is behind the Mahabaleshwar temple. It is believed that Gauri came here from Tamranchal Parvat following Shankar, and hence called Tamra Gauri. Tamra means copper. They say that she holds a balance in her hand. Some interpret that she is weighing the virtues of Varanasi and Gokarna and naturally being in Gokarna, it weighs more.

Next to Tamra Gauri temple is Tamra Kund is used only for Asthi Visarjan or leaving the mortal remains of the dead after cremation. Even a part of Mahatma Gandhi’s ashes were brought here.

Gautameshwara Temple

This is a Shivalinga that is believed to be installed and worshipped by Gautam Rishi. It is simply placed on a platform.

Dattatreya Temple

A small Dattatreya temple can is located almost on the wall of the temple. It has a Paduka Peetha or a platform with footprints and a Dattatreya Murti.

Mahaganapati Temple

Mahaganapathi Temple or Dwibhuj Ganapathi Temple is located 40 steps from the Atmalinga of Gokarna. It is right outside the main temple in lovely orange color and typical Konkan style.

Inside you can see a two-armed Murti of Ganapati.

On the walls, I saw a few ancient sculptures depicting the scenes from Ramayana.

A lane next to the temple connects to the Koti Tirtha and here you see another Tirtha called Gayatri Tirtha.

Indraeshwar Linga

This lies almost on the street located between the Mahaganapathi temple and the main temple’s side entrance.

Sagareshwar Temple

This is another small temple right outside the main temple that you cannot miss when you enter the main temple. Do not miss the beautiful Brahmin houses.

The area around Mahabaleshwar temple has lovely colorful houses with paintings on their walls. Do stop by to look and admire them.

Temples on Car Street

Currently, Car Street is the main road in the town.

Ahilya Bai Holkar Temple

As you walk behind the main temple on Car Street, you can see big and small temples all around. Among these, I found this simplest temple where there is a linga installed. Next to it is the statue of Ahilya Bai Holder of Malwa holding a Linga in her hand.

Surya Narayana Temple

A small temple dedicated to Sun.

Venkataramana Temple

This is a fairly large temple with a unique Shikhara in the form of a Lotus flower. The pillars of its mandapa have stories of Vishnu carved on them.

There are two lanes that connect the main temple area to Koti Tirtha. The first one has Naga Tirtha and the other lad lovely large houses with temples in them. If you walk here in the mornings, you will hear the chants and bells as the priests do the morning Puja.

Naga Tirtha

This is located on Naga Veethi, the main road connecting the Mahabaleshwar Temple with Koti Tirtha. It is a narrow lane full of Brahmin houses. A temple here is full of Naga images – lakhs of them. You can see them under an old tree, inside the temple, and on the inner as well as outer walls of the temple. The linga inside is also adorned with Naga sculptures. Wherever you see, you see a Naga.

It is believed that thousands of snakes that were burnt in the Yagna of Janamajeyan, the descendant of Pandavas, came here seeking salvation.

Durga Tirtha

Close to Naga Tirtha is another small but ancient Tirtha or water tank called Durga Tirtha. There is a small temple next to it. It is a part of private property, so you need to take permission to visit it.

Koti Tirtha – Holy Places to Visit in Gokarna

It is said that the Shatshrugi mountains have 200,000 Tirthas or water bodies where the sages used to meditate. 100,000 of them merged with the sea and the rest merged to form the Koti Tirtha. Koti means a hundred thousand. It is a large lake surrounded by houses and temples. This is where the last rights and Pind Dana are performed.

Another interpretation says that prayers here give you Koti-fold or huge returns.

In the middle of this tank is a Shivalinga known as Koteshwar. As you walk around it you can see Patta Vinayak Temple, Vishveshwar Vithala Temple, Veer Maruti Temple, Gopal Krishna Temple, Shankar Narayana, or Harihar Temple, Kali Temple, and Bhairava Temple.

Patta Vinayak temple denotes the coronation of Ganesha after he helped the devatas reclaim Atmalinga from Ravana.

Kali Temple or Kalihruda

This is an ancient Devi temple located right at the entrance of Gokarna. You can not miss it as you enter the town.

It is believed that the Devi after Killing the asuras Shumbha, Nishumbha, Raktabeeja, Chand, and Munda came to Gokarna and washed her weapons here in the water. She then mediated here as Bhadrakali.

The temple has an entrance from the main road, which is actually the back of the temple. You go around and enter the south-facing temple. There is a powerful Murti of Bhadrakali. Fridays are special at this temple.

There are smaller Devi temples close to this temple.

Kalkaleshwar Temple

Kalkaleshwar temple is located on top of another small rocky hill. You have to climb a flight of stairs to reach this small little temple with brightly painted walls. It houses a Shivalinga inside it.

It is believed that when Ravana could not extract the Atmalinga from Gokarna, all the gods above laughed and this linga commemorates this. Kalkal means laughter.

This is a lovely temple atop the hill that overlooks the sea on all three sides. A natural source of water here gets the water to the temple tank called Ram Kund. There is a stunning Ram Darbar inside the temple. As you take the parikrama, you see the meditative effect that place must have had before all the concrete constructions came up.

It is believed that Sri Ram did penance here after returning from Lanka, to get rid of the dosha of Brahmin Hatya or killing a Brahmin. Only then he returned to Ayodhya .

Go Garbha and Kamandalu Tirtha – Places to visit in Gokarna

Not too far from the main temple, you can find a natural cave that has a small temple inside it. Temple is usually close, but you can see the places inside these laterite ridges where the ancient sages probably meditated. Unless you stand in front of the mouth of the cave, you can not imagine that you might be walking over a huge cave.

There is a hole in this cave that brings sunlight right onto the temple as I saw at Borra Caves in Araku Valley .

It is said that the cave is in the shape of the womb of a cow, hence called Go Garbha. This is where mother earth meditated after all the Kshatriyas were vanquished from the Earth by Parashuram. In the absence of a ruler, everything on Earth became disorderly.

Kamandalu Tirtha is a small circular opening where it is believed that Brahma Ji, had kept his Kamandalu or waterpot. It is amazing to see a small water body that I was told always has water in it from an underground source, amidst an absolutely barren rocky laterite surface.

Jatayu Tirtha

This is a small cave close to the sea that is reached by trekking down the steep face of a cliff. There are steps in stone, but you still need agility to visit. The view from the cliff is simply beautiful.

Close to Jatayu Tirtha cliff is a labyrinth that no one knows when it came up.

This is a bit away from the main town, close to the Gangavalli River. You have to go through the fields to reach it but any local auto driver would take you there. It is said that in Gaya, the feet of Vishnu are worshipped as Vishnupad. In Gokarna, Shiva’s feet are worshipped as Rudra Pada. It is a small temple with a Shivalinga that has a pair of feet engraved on it.

Pind Dana or the post-life rituals for the departed are performed here.

Ashrams of Gokarna

Gokarna, with its isolated location, hills, and scenic divine beauty was the chosen land of ascetics and saints. Many great rishis made their ashrams here and meditated. Some that you can still see are:

• Markandeya Ashram on Car Street
• Vishwamitra Ashram
• Kapil Tirtha and Ashram
• Brahma Ashram
• Jahnu Rishi hermitage at Gangavalli – On Diwali evening the palki of Mahabaleshwar comes to Gangavalli for their wedding
• Gokarna Matt – located close to the town’s bus stand, there is a small temple in front of it built in an unusual way

Places to Visit in Gokarna for Leisure Travelers

Gokarna is equally popular with tourists, backpackers, and even the hippie crowd, for its pristine beaches. The beaches of Gokarna are rocky. There are rocks on the beaches, in the water standing still. To watch a sunset sitting on one of these rocks is a perfect way to end the day in this beach town. The main beaches of Gokarna are:

Gokarna Beach

This is located close to the Mahabaleshwar temple. You can walk to this beach straight from the main door of the temple. As you stand on the beach, on top of the hill on the left you see the Ram Tirtha. All around you see happy pilgrims and tourists taking camel rides.

You can see a statue of Adi Shankaracharya on this beach.

Kudle Beach – Places to visit in Gokarna

This is a beach South of Gokarna Beach and is clearly demarcated by hills on either side. When you travel towards Om Beach, from another hilltop, you can see this U-shaped beach. This is also popular with tourists for sunsets as well as mild trekking.

Om Beach – Places to visit in Gokarna

Shaped in the form of Om, the most sacred letter in India, this beach is popular for water sports, sunsets, and its famous Namaste Café.

Om Beach and Kudle Beach are joined by a ridge, which is an easy mild trek, perfect for an early morning trek. We took this route to visit the Uma Maheshwar temple.

Cruise – You can take a cruise three times a day and enjoy being on the water. Since we live in Panjim, where we see cruises every day, we skipped this. There are several other activities like Kayaking, Jet sky, Banana rides, etc to experience at this beach. Weekends and holidays have better footfalls here and many vendors can be seen here. There are also beach shacks. For leisure travelers and adventure/trekking enthusiasts, these beaches are the places to visit in Gokarna.

Bohemian vibes can be seen across Gokarna with lovely street art everywhere. Some of them tell the stories of Gokarna and sometimes they just make you smile with their quirkiness.

Places to visit near Gokarna

Atop the western ghats on a day trip by road, you can visit the Vibhuti Falls, Yana Rocks, and Mirjan Fort . A monsoon wonder waterfalls, a natural giant rock formation, and a fort atop the cliffs in the region.

Gokarna Mahatmya video

Watch this video posted on our YouTube channel IndiTales . A talk by Dr. Shankuntala Gawde. Gokarṇa Purāṇa or Gokarṇakhaṇḍa tells the glory of Gokarṇa in 118 adhyāyas. It belongs to Skanda Purāna Sanatkumārasamhitā Gokarṇa khaṇḍa and is a compendium of various Akhyānas and Upākhyānas or you can call it a Sthala Purāṇa glorifying the place Gokarṇa.

Travel tips to explore the Places to visit in Gokarna

• There are a lot of small and mid-range hotels in Gokarna
• Auto rickshaws are the preferred mode of local transport in the narrow lanes of the town
• The main town and its temples can easily be covered on foot. In fact, it is easier to walk around than be in a vehicle
• Simple South Indian food is easily available
• It is a hot and humid place by virtue of being a coastal town and river estuaries around
• Carry drinking water if you are heading for long walks or treks
• Rocky patches on the beaches can be risky, avoid or do take precautions
• Protect from sunlight by using caps and sunglasses
• Explore around early in the morning or in the evenings, avoiding noon times
• You can find a variety of birds if you head out early in the morning, walkable distances by the roadsides on the hills around. We sighted Peafowl, Malabar Pied-Hornbill, Golden Oriole, Asian Koels, Kites, and many more. This place can be a wonderful birding destination as well

We stayed at Swaswara at Om Beach, which is a wellness resort. It is a bit away from the town but closer to the most popular beach.

For more information check their wonderful website.

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16 comments.

Admiring the time and energy you put into your blog and the detailed information you provide.

Didn’t know about mention in Gokarna in religious texts until today, Parshurama story of creating Konkan and Kerala was known to me but didn’t know that Gokarna is believed to be that place. I’m glad to know about historical and religious significance of this place, I only knew about Gokarna for it’s beaches which are less crowded and similar to ones in Goa.

Didn’t know about mention in Gokarna in religious texts until today, Parshurama story of creating Konkan and Kerala was known to me but didn’t know that Gokarna is believed to be that place. I’m glad to know about historical and religious significance of this place, I only knew about Gokarna for it’s beaches which are less crowded and similar to ones in Goa. Got to learn a lot through this, thanks

This is the level of detail you need to put in your post 🙂

Hey, Wonderful Blog! I am traveling to Gokarna in the upcoming month and I would love to explore all these places. Thanks for sharing this article.

Wow, such a huge list of places. I will soon visit there when the covid-19 situation gets better and I hope I will be able to explore all the places. Thanks a lot for sharing this detailed and informative blog post.

Great post, I am eager to visit that place in future.

Wonderful! Thanks for sharing such a great piece of information with us. I am waiting for your next article.

Wow, such a huge list of places. I will soon visit there after the covid-19.

India is a country of rich traditional food and culture and this place also shows the exact reflection of these.

Wow, such a huge list of places. I will soon visit there.

It’s an awesome place, I definitely to visit there.

hey thank you for sharing this blog and thank you for telling us these fantastic places keep sharing these types of blog

great article as always very impressed by such a remarkable content

Thanks for the information you share it is very useful and I’m going to share this information with my friends for further reference. Great Content.

When I visited Gokarna, I was aware only of the two temples, the Ganesha temple and Shiva temple where the Atmalinga is consecrated. I didn’t realise that there were many sacred spots in Gokarna. Will add them all to my bucket list!

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Gokarna is a cozy coastal town in the North-Western Karnataka, India. There are various kinds of Places to Visit in Gokarna which range from temples and heritage to lush green hills and pristine beaches! Gokarna has something that will appeal to every kind of traveller be it the pilgrims, the Xplorers or the chillers! This is the Ultimate List of Places to Visit in Gokarna – Read on, Find your Picks and Pack your Bags!

Note – This blog is only about the Places to Visit in Gokarna . Since there are plenty of Places to Visit Near Gokarna , it can be a separate blog in itself. Hence, we have not included them here! So Stay Tuned!

Beaches to Visit in Gokarna

Gokarna is blessed with some of the best Beaches of India. These beaches are Clean, Safe and have amazing Blue Water ! I am starting this list with the Beaches to Visit in Gokarna because this is what majority Travellers visiting Gokarna are looking for!

Gokarna Main Beach

Gokarna Main Beach is a long stretch of light yellow sand and gentle waves. It is located near Sri Mahabaleshwara Swamy Temple or the Gokarna Market. Because of this proximity to temple, Gokarna Main Beach is most visited by the Pilgrims visiting Gokarna. These Pilgrims take a dip in the Arabian Sea here before offering their prayers in the temple. There are also several shacks, campsites and cafes on this Beach. You can also find the Cocopelli Surf School here for some quick Basic Surfing Lessons !

Kudle Beach

Kudle Beach is one of the best beaches of Gokarna for all the sea lovers! It is a curved stretch between two lush green hills creating a Grand Pool for swimming. One needs to be careful of the occasional high waves and not get too carried away while having fun swimming here! If you are visiting the Kudle Beach in the evening, you may also Xperience the Flea Market set up by travellers from around the world and locals. Apart from this, there are also many shacks here, offering a budget friendly stay right on the beach!

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Om Beach Gokarna as the name suggests has an Om Shaped or Number 3 Shaped Shore . It has fine send in most parts and a few picturesque rocks too. Om Beach is the spot you need to be at for all the Water Sports and Adventure. These include – Kayaking, Banana Boat Ride, Jet Ski, etc. It is also a good spot for catching sunset and home to some amazing cafes!

Half Moon Beach

Half Moon Beach Gokarna is a Crescent Shaped Beach , not that big or commercial! It is an inaccessible beach for most tourists. To reach Half Moon Beach, one needs to do a little hike from Om Beach or the Paradise Beach. Alternatively, one can also take a ferry to the Half Moon Beach. Swimming here is fun, but the continental shelf is a little deep as compared to other beaches. It has a few shacks that offer food and drinks.

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Paradise Beach

Paradise Beach Gokarna is yet another secluded beach that is only accessible by a hike or a ferry ride! It used to be tourist free until recent times and you could even camp here for free back then. However, there is a campsite here now and you cannot pitch your tent here for free anymore! The beach is fairly rocky but there is ample space for swimming here.

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These are the most popular and beautiful beaches in Gokarna. You can start from either Kudle Beach or Paradise beach and go Beach Hopping in Gokarna ! You can cover all of these beaches on foot with a simple hike . It has an easy to spot spot the trail and most parts of the same have been marked on Google Maps as well! This is not the same as riding a bike to beaches or taking a ferry, but the views on the way make it all the more worth it!

If you are Xcited go for this trek, do check out our detailed guide on How to Plan Gokarna Beach Trek where we have explained the whole route in detail.

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Gokarna also has several other beaches like Small Hell Beach or Hell’s Beach, Belekan Beach and God’s Own Beach . Small Hell Beach is a tiny stretch of sand that you can see/visit between Paradise Beach and Half Moon Beach. Belekan Beach and God’s Own Beach are quite rocky shores and not exactly a sandy Beach.

If you are planning a beach holiday in Gokarna, we have made, a Complete Informative Guide with the details of every single beach in and around Gokarna, for like minded travellers !

Places to Visit in Gokarna apart from Beaches

Gokarna market.

Gokarna Market is the main road leading to Sri Mahabaleshwara Swamy Temple. There are a lot of shops selling general goods to touristy products, religious items, hippie products, souvenirs, musical instruments (especially Djembe and Ukulele) and other locally made products. The market has a similar feel to that of a funfair in a small town and you see all types of tourists shopping there. Do get something memorable or atleast something little from here and Support the Local Communit y!

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Labyrinth (Sunset Point)

Labyrinth as marked on Google Maps is an arrangement of rocks in a circular formation. It is marked near the Kudle Hilltop Parking on the Google Maps. There isn’t any known importance of the rocks but the sunset view from the hilltop is beautiful! You will feel very peaceful as well as witness the Grandeur of the Arabian Sea while watching the Sunset. Hence, you should definitely keep it in your list of places to visit in Gokarna!

Shiva Cave is the most offbeat place you can visit in Gokarna! It is a cave with a Shiva Lingam inside and lots of bats! It is not easy to find this cave and hence, not many people know about it. If you like something mysterious and quirky (or even bats) you should definitely go have a look at it. Other than that, if you want sometime away from a lot of people, you can just visit the cave and spend some peaceful moments here. However, the cave maybe dingy and smelly because of bats!

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Hell’s Cliff

Hell’s Cliff is a dangerous (slightly) cliff located between Paradise Beach and Half Moon Beach. You can reach here only if you are doing the Gokarna Beach Trek. It is a good photo stop and a very peaceful place. You can refresh or hydrate here while on the trek or just wait peacefully for some time in hopes of Spotting a Dolphin . Chances are, that you will get Lucky !

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Temples & Religious Sites to Visit in Gokarna

Gokarna has been a place of Religious Importance among the Hindus for centuries. There are several ancient temples here which are associated with different Gods or deities, stories and legends! Pilgrims have been visiting Gokarna since way before than Commercial Tourism began. Given its rich Historical and Religious Importance, these places are a definitely among the Places to Visit in Gokarna!

Sri Mahabaleshwara Swamy Temple

Sri Mahabaleshwara Swamy Temple is one of the oldest temple here. It was built in 4th Century CE. Hence, there are centuries old tales and interesting legends about why this Temple was built in Gokarna and why is Gokarna an important religious place. You can visit this temple and check for yourself. This is what welcomes thousands of pilgrims here every year.

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Koti Teertha

Koti Teertha is a holy pond spread across 6 acres of land. It is surrounded by many smaller temples and it too has several interesting legends about its origins. There is a Shivji’s Linga right in the middle of the lake. It is well known among pilgrims but not among tourists. Even if you aren’t very religious, Koti Teertha is worth a visit.

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Maha Ganapathi Temple

Maha Ganapathi Temple is yet another temple of religious importance. You may chose to visit it from the outside as pilgrims are required to maintain the dress code (no shirt, belt, etc.) and visit only after cleansing themselves. However, it is a must visit place for the Pilgrims as they have to worship here before they can go to Sri Mahabaleshwara Swamy Temple. Even if you chose not to visit the temple, you can still ask the locals or priests about the story of the temple . You will surely hear an interesting tale.

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Shri Umamaheshwar Temple

Shri Umamaheshwar Temple is not as popular as other temples and religious sites. Instead, it is secluded on a cliff and not visited by many people. If you are looking for an isolated place on a cliff or seeking some peace, you can visit this temple. It is located on Gokarna Cliff (as marked on Google Maps) on a little climb near Kudle Beach Exit (Om Beach Side).

There are many smaller, bigger, colourful and ancient temples and religious sites present in Gokarna. If these things interests you, or if you have faith and time, you should definitely visit these. If nothing, you will definitely get some great shots for the Gram and interesting tales to tell!

Above mentioned, are all the Interesting Places to Visit in Gokarna for each and every type of Traveller. Such a varied range of places to visit in Gokarna makes it a wholesome destination !

Apart from these, there are plenty of Day Trip Options or Half-Day Trip Options near Gokarna! To name a few – Murudeshwar Temple, Mirjan Fort, Yana Rock Formation, Vibhuthi Falls, Netrani Island, etc. We have covered these in detail in our article Amazing Places to Visit Near Gokarna For Offbeat Travellers!

Got any questions about Gokarna? Let us know in the comments or DM us @xploretheearth on Instagram!

Planning to visit Gokarna soon? Check out the following Gokarna Itineraries for free – Backpacking Gokarna Xploring Gokarna

Helpful Resources for Gokarna – A Complete Informative Guide to the Beaches of Gokarna How to Plan Gokarna Beach Trek – Whole Route Explained! Amazing Places to Visit Near Gokarna For Offbeat Travellers! 9 Best Offbeat Things to do in Gokarna

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We spent 2 wonderful days in chilling on the beach, jamming at camp fire, kayaking and trekking & hopping across the beaches!

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10 Things to Know Before Planning a Trip to Gokarna

Let the tangerine hues and the serene sea soothe your soul - don't just visit Gokarna, experience it

Gokarna is a small coastal village in Karnataka, India, which remains to be a hit amongst the people who wish to enjoy the clean, sandy beaches akin to those in North Goa sans the loud crowd and blaring music playing at every nook and cranny. Situated only 480 km away from Bengaluru city, this religious town is the perfect breather from the hectic, busy life. The crisp skies, clashing waves, and wide, unobstructed views engulf you in a blissful cocoon, away from all the worldly worries.

Since, it is not frequented by a lot of tourists, it is always good to have a few tips handy before planning the trip:

1. A 3-days trip is enough to do justice to the destination

Gokarna is not just another beach town, it is a vibe; and to experience the lazy morning swims, with snoozing afternoons and laid-back evenings, a trip for 3 days, 2 nights is perfect. You will have enough time to relax, explore, and enjoy the serenity that Gokarna has to offer.

2. Best time to visit

If you wish to experience the charm of Gokarna with glittering yet peaceful shacks, inviting sea waves, and friendly coast guards, the best time to visit is during October till March . The sun is not too harsh, the sea is not rough, and most importantly, all the cafes and the shacks are functional. During the monsoon period, the beaches tend to get extremely dirty with no one look after and the tourists are also left with a handful of activities to do, with no transit boats in action.

3. How to reach

Gokarna is well connected with roadways, and a number of buses ply regularly from Bengaluru, Mangalore, Goa and Mumbai. You can also take a taxi from Dabolim Airport, Goa which is only a 5-6 hours’ drive away from Gokarna.

Ankola is the nearest railway station, about 20 km away from Gokarna which is also a viable option if your arriving from Mumbai, Mangalore, Thiruvananthapuram, or Veraval.

4. Book your stay in advance

During the peak season, it may get difficult to hunt for a stay soon after landing in Gokarna; all the more so if you’re travelling from Bengaluru, for the buses arrive in the town as early as 7 in the morning. Hunting a decent accommodation in a sleepy town can easily become a hassle.

Despite limited options, you can find a hotel or a homestay to fit your budget quite conveniently online:

Fancy a beachfront:

a. Nirvana Café : It is one of the most sought after stays by both foreign as well as Indian tourists. The owner is a friendly host and also offers beer on the beach. To book a room, you must call the café directly.

b. Namaste Yoga Farm – India : Situated within close proximity of Kudle Beach, this is a rather charming homestay with neatly kept cottages.

Rs. 2,700/night/couple

Get spoilt amid luxuries:

a. Stone Wood Nature Resort : The resort is located on Om Beach Road and offers one of the most comfortable and chic stays in Gokarna. Relax by the swimming pool or lounge in the balcony while enjoying naturistic views at this accommodation.

b. Kahani Paradise : The epitome of luxury with breath-taking views from every spot, Kahani Paradise, Gokarna is a beachfront property at the gorgeous and secluded Paradise Beach. If your idea of vacation is ‘comfort’ and ‘opulence’, this is certainly the place to be.

Rs. 13,920 /night/couple

Budget stays:

a. Coconut Tree Resort : Conveniently located from Kudle Beach, this hotel provides some of the cleanest and well-maintained air-conditioned rooms in Gokarna. They also have an in-house café to cater the guests.

Rs. 1,000/night/couple

b. Zostel Gokarna : If you’re traveling solo or with company, Zostel is one of the most sought after stays, which promises clean rooms, friendly staff, and stunning views of the Gokarna Main Beach. You can lounge in the gazebo, connect with people in the common room, or dine in at their in-house Mantra Café.

Rs. 2799/night/couple for an A/C cottage

Rs. 699/night/person for a bed in the dorm room

c. Halfway Home : Enjoy the experience of staying in a cosy tent at this homestay with an in-house cook to satiate your hunger pangs.

Rs. 1,622/night/tent

5. Don’t miss Gokarna Beach Trail

Gokarna has some of the most scenic views that are worth the extra effort. If you seek adventure and a bit of thrill, Gokarna Beach Trail is the perfect way to explore the coastal town. An exciting expedition through the dense jungle while enjoying a bird’s eye view of the various beaches on the trail is something that sets apart Gokarna from other destinations. Beaches like Paradise Beach and Half Moon Beach which mostly cater to foreign tourists are also accessible through this beach trail.

Pro Tip #1 : Packing a good pair of shoes will surely pay off, for you might end up walking a lot on this trip

Pro Tip #2 : Start from the last beach, i.e. God’s Own Beach for this beach trail and work your way towards Kudle Beach. This way you will be in one of the better populated areas by sunset and not stranded on a lonesome beach with no autos to take you back.

Pro Tip #3 : You can also stay overnight at Paradise Beach and experience the nomadic culture with foreigners. Carrying your own tent and food is highly advisable for this adventure.

6. Exploring the Main Town is always a good idea

Gokarna has always been famous on the map for its religious history, being one of the seven important Hindu pilgrimage centres. It is believed that Lord Shiva emerged from the ear of a cow here, which literally translates to Gokarna.

Paying a visit to Mahabaleshwara Temple can surely give your trip a holistic angle. It is also the best way to see a different side of Gokarna as people rush to take a holy dip in the sea at Gokarna Main Beach.

Pro Tip #4 : If you plan to visit the main town, make sure you dress modestly, out of respect for the deity and the people.

Pro Tip #5: Owing to its religious history, the town and the surrounding beaches are populated with cows, which is why watching your step is always wise unless you wish to step into cow dung.

7. Exploring the neighbouring area

Giving a twist to your beach vacation is never a bad idea. Yana, another village in Uttara Kannada district, is also a well-known pilgrimage centre because of the cave temple there. Commonly referred as Yana Caves , the site is only 48 km away from Gokarna. A lot of tourists also visit Vibhuti Falls , which are on the way to Yana.

You can also explore the ruins of Mirjan Fort and click aesthetic pictures against a regal backdrop.

The scenic route and peaceful drive is best enjoyed on a scooty, which are easily available in the Gokarna Main Town.

8. Rejuvenate yourself with yoga sessions

Gokarna also boasts a few yoga retreats and yoga sessions, which happen every morning at Om Beach and Kudle Beach. Experience the cleansing art of yoga at the beach or enrol yourself for a minimum of 7 days’ yoga program at one of many resorts for a unique escapade.

Yoga Retreats: Namaste Yoga Farm , Shree Hari Yoga Center , and Swaswara Resort

9. The best sunset spot in Gokarna

Witness the tangerine skies and the glorious, setting sun from the best sunset spot in Gokarna – Turtle Point . A small hike through HosteLaVie-Gokarna to the hill top and you will find yourself at one of the least frequented spots in the town with the most stunning, panoramic views.

10. Collecting Souvenirs

Is a trip ever complete without some souvenir reminding you of the blissful journey that it had been? Enjoy a shopping spree at the flea markets in the main town, selling everything from handmade trinkets, bottle openers, to psychedelic T-shirts and harem pants. You can also buy yourself macramé and unique bead anklets at Om Beach or from local pedlars roaming on the beach.

*The tariff rates mentioned above are exclusive of taxes.

• Department of Tourism

+91-80-2235 2828

[email protected]

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Places to see in Gokarna

Things to See in Gokarna

By Meenakshi Gupta A laid-back, quaint, and serene town in the Uttar Kannada district of Karnataka, Gokarna used to be a backpacker’s paradise. But no longer now. This happening town with an array of activities from beach surfing to visiting an ancient temple, there are many things to do in Gokarna. Gokarna is a fascinating town with pristine beaches and significant shrines. Unwind yourself into the golden evenings and mornings, amazingly beautiful sunrises and sunsets, or just find solace in the ancient temples of Gokarna.

Beaches in Gokarna

Called Om Beach for its geographical appearance, the shape of Hindu’s auspicious sign ‘Om’. Whether you love to have a relaxed and rejuvenated time on the beach or want to have some adventure, Om beach has it all. A photographers’ delight, the beach is about a km away from the main Gokarna town. For adventure seekers, a rocky trail crossing from the bushes and a meandering path leads to a hill to come to a well-laid tar road. Some of the thrilling day activities you would love to indulge in are our Banana boat rides, bumper boat rides, dolphin spotting, jet skiing, fishing, trekking, and speed boating.

Check here to Know More About Om Beach Gokarna

Kudle Beach

A chilled-out beach with loads of fun and trendy activities for all age groups. Kudle beach is a little laid-off beach that usually is deserted during the summers. As the temperature drops, i. e. From November to January the beach is fairly crowded with nomads relaxing and lazing around at the beach. The beach is popular with travellers who wish to stay in the town and come here to spend the day eating and chilling for the day. A charming and serene beach attracts nature lovers who easily get mesmerized by the various hues of the sky over the ocean. The locals and tourist love to visit Kudle beach for morning and evening walks and yoga sessions on the beach. Breath-taking sunrise and sunset views are the major attractions.

Half-moon Beach

Half Moon Beach

Another pristine and breath-taking beach in Gokarna is Half-moon Beach. Named after its appearance like a half moon which can be seen only in a drone shot, this is one of the two beaches that can be reached by trek. Soak up in the lap of nature admiring the photogenic aqua marine blue sea while camping near the classical village huts at the shore. Comparatively smaller and lesser developed beach than Om beach, half-moon beach is the best beach to spend time looking at the caves while gazing at the twinkling sky. This beach gives a thrilling experience of the beach looking at infinity with lush green and thick forest in the background. There are no water sports activities on this beach however you can immerse yourself in swimming, canoeing, paddle boats, camping, or just unwind by relaxing and sunbathing at the beach. To add more to the experience indulge in lip-smacking shack food with some authentic local recipes. The beach is surely a perfect getaway from the hustle and bustle of city life and basks up in the lap of nature.

Gokarna Beach

Of late the beach has gained popularity for being a surfing site. The not-so-clean beach is believed to give you a holy dip before you enter the Mahabaleshwara temple. If you walk a little away towards the River Gangavalli, the beach is pristine and less crowded. A heavenly paradise for adventure seekers and photography enthusiasts, Gokarna beach is popular for adventure activities like jet-skiing, snorkelling, surfing, banana boat ride, and trekking. For complete wellness and to explore yourself, one can indulge in a yoga session at the seashore. Gokarna beach is also the starting or the main point to start your trek to other scenic beaches within a radius of 10 km.

Paradise Beach

Another popular beach that can only be reached by a hike is Paradise beach. There is no road directly connecting to Paradise Beach. One of the most scenic and mesmerizing beaches in Gokarna is 150 mts in length and is 70 % covered with beautiful rocks. Paradise beach is surely a photographer’s delight. As the beach doesn’t offer any water sports activities, this is an ideal beach for those who want to spend time in tranquillity and in the lap of nature. Spend time gazing at the stars, eating the local delicacies, or just breathing and absorbing the calmness. Due to water currents, swimming is not advisable at Paradise Beach. Also do not venture out hiking back to the other beaches post-sunset, due to slippery and rough rocks. It could be just too risky. There are not many staying options at Paradise beach.

Other things to do in Gokarna

The beach town will surely take away all your time and there is less chance that you would want to do something else. However, this serene beach town is also a pilgrim’s paradise. The town also hosts some of the renowned temples visited by several devotees. You can also indulge in other activities like swimming in the sea, surfing, and yoga. Although there are vendors who claim to show dolphins in the area the chances of sightings are very less.

• Mahabaleshvara Temple is one of the most visited and the biggest temple in town dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple dates back to the 4th century CE and is in the Dravidian style of architecture.
• Maha Ganapati Temple is also known as the ‘Siddha Ganapati’ temple, as the name says is dedicated to lord Ganesha. Just a few yards away from the main Shiva temple. It’s a common practice to visit the Ganesha temple first and then move to the Siva temple.
• Koti Tirtha Closer to the Mahabaleshwar temple, Koti Tirtha is the most visited place by tourists and pilgrims. A man-made water tank is believed to be the origin of many springs.
• Mirjan Fort even if you are not interested in history, this 16th-century fort will surely mesmerize you. Just 22 km away from Gokarna the fort is believed to have belonged to a Portuguese queen named Pepper Queen who stayed in the fort for almost 50 years.
• Surfing the clear blue water of Gokarna beach is an ideal place for surfing especially for beginners. There are a couple of agencies on the beach itself conducting classes for beginners.
• Yoga classes, you can start your day or end it by enrolling in a rejuvenating yoga class with the beautiful beach and the sky in the backdrop. There are a couple of yoga schools conducting the session in different forms of yoga.
• Visit during Shiva Ratri one of the biggest Lord Shiva festivals is Shivaratri, the day when Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvathi got married. Tourists and devotees flock from all over the world to witness one of the grand celebrations of the country.
• Yana Caves just 27 km away from the temple town, Yana caves are famous for adventure, wildlife, and religion. A paradise for trekkers, hikers, and adventure seekers, this is surely a photographer’s delight too.

How to Reach Gokarna

Gokarna, a small pilgrimage town located on the coast of Karwar in Karnataka is well connected by road and rail.

By Air The nearest airport around 145 km away is Dabolim in Goa and can be reached by road from Gokarna. The other international airports are Mangalore and Bangalore, 250km and 487 km away respectively.

By Rail Although Gokarna has a station it is not well connected to the major cities and not all the trains stop here. The nearest major railway station is Ankola which is about 20 km away from Gokarna and can be reached easily by road taking public transport or a cab.

By Road Gokarna can be best reached by road. Distance from the next major town Karwar to Gokarna is about 59 km. You can hire a cab or take public /private transport like cabs or buses from most of the closest major towns in Karnataka, Goa, and Maharashtra.

Getting around The beautiful pilgrimage and beach town can be best explored by walking. Most of the beaches and attractions in this small and compact town are 20-30 mins away by walk. Most of the cafes and viewpoints are at the beach and are best reached by walking. Soak up in the serenity of the quaint beach town in Karnataka.

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Dandeli- karwar – gokarna, uttara kannada, mirjan fort.

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5 Stunning Places To Visit In Gokarna In 2 Days: An Epic Guide

‘Let’s plan a trip to Goa.’

You have either said this statement or heard someone in your group mention it.

It is probably one of the most used travel quotes in India.

And it makes complete sense because Goa is the ultimate travel destination in India when it comes to beaches, partying and adventure sports. But on the flipside, Goa has also become one of the most hyped, commercial and overrated Indian travel destinations. 

And if you’re anything like me, you would rather visit a place that offers all the good things that Goa offers minus the hype and crowd.

And guess what? You can experience the same not very far from Goa.

Gokarna, a small coastal town in Karnataka, is home to cleaner beaches, clearer waters and lesser crowds. Being less commercial and smaller than Goa, Gokarna is comparatively cheaper, and you can cover it in two/three days.

I visited Gokarna twice, and in this guide, I would like to tell you the 5 best places to visit in Gokarna in 2 days so that you can experience a cleaner and better beach destination.

5. Mirjan Fort

Self-driving, 4. prema hilltop restaurant, 3. hostelife gokarna, which is the best time to visit gokarna, where is gokarna.

Gokarna is a small temple town located in Northern Karnataka along the coast, 134 km from Goa. It is an important pilgrim centre, although, the recent rise in its popularity as a beach destination has led to an increase in the number of tourists, thereby giving it a mixed character.

The main attraction of Gokarna is its beaches that surround themselves with thick forests and cliffs.

Due to its location, you can easily combine a trip to Goa with a trip to Gokarna. Alternatively, you can also visit other nearby places like Jog Falls, Murdeshwar and Karwar.

5 places to visit in Gokarna

As Gokarna is full of beaches, you can expect to cover a few beaches when you go there. I’ve also added other lesser-known natural and historical attractions within one hour from Gokarna to make your trip more fun and diverse.

Given below are the 5 best places to visit in Gokarna in 2 days for a memorable and satisfying trip:

1. Om Beach

Om Beach is one of the most popular and commercial places to visit in Gokarna.

From an aerial view, the shape of this beach resembles the symbol of ‘Om’ and hence, its name. Two crescents join together to form the ‘Om’ and you can also view this scenery while doing the Gokarna Beach Trek (more on this later).

Om Beach is a sand and rock beach with clean white sands and irregular rock creations scattered over it with the company of a forest. It reminded me of the beaches in Rameshwaram that have a similar feel.

It has many restaurants and resorts nearby, Namaste cafe being the most prominent one. During the season, you can find many beach shacks on Om Beach. 

The USP of Om Beach is that most of the water sports in Gokarna happen on this beach. Jet skiing, surfing, speed boating and banana boat rides are some of them. If you’re lucky, you can also spot dolphins.

While you’re here, don’t forget to witness the amazing sunset from Om Beach. 

If you want to visit Half Moon Beach or Full Moon Beach (Paradise Beach), you can take a boat from here. Om Beach is also one of the starting points for your Gokarna Beach Trek (more on this later).

From the parking area, you need to trek for 500 metres through stairs to reach Om Beach.

2. Kudle Beach

Located between Gokarna Beach and Om Beach is Kudle Beach, a wide beach that curves in a C-shape.

Unlike Om Beach, Kudle Beach is one of the more peaceful and relaxed places to visit in Gokarna for people who want to walk along the shore, practice yoga or watch the sunset. And hence, you’ll find many solo travellers and backpackers on this beach compared to other beaches.

During the peak months from October to March, this beach becomes more active, especially with foreigners. You’ll also find temporary and makeshift shacks and huts here at this time offering food and accommodation.

The sea is calm and the waters are shallow enough for you to take a dip. There are some water sports as well like kayaking and boating. 

Like Om Beach, the sunset from Kudle Beach is one of the best you’ll see in Gokarna.

3. Gokarna Beach Trek (Half Moon and Paradise Beach)

There are only two ways to reach Half Moon Beach and Paradise Beach – hiking or taking a boat from Om Beach. There are no roads to these beaches.

But instead of taking a boat, I recommend you hike to both these beaches because it is one of the most unique beach treks in India, and it offers a different experience from what you usually get on other beaches.

This trek takes you through lush green jungles, huge rocks and boulders and offers different aerial viewpoints, including the Om Beach viewpoint. You can also spot dolphins at the Half Moon Beach.

The Gokarna Beach is a 20 km long trek and it takes 8-9 hours (to and fro) through the following beaches (in order):

1. Gokarna Beach (optional)

3. Om Beach

4. Half Moon Beach

5. Full Moon Beach

6. Belekan Beach (optional)

Note : You can also start from Gokarna Beach and end at Belekan Beach but, it increases the trekking time.

Also, note that I choose the route from Kudle Beach to Full Moon Beach and back as I wasn’t aware of any other option.

The more popular option, however, is to take an auto to Belekan Beach, start your trek from there and trek till Om Beach/Kudle Beach.

Yet another option is to take a ferry from Om Beach to Paradise Beach and start your trek from there.

Both these options halve your trekking distance and time taken for the hike. Another advantage is that you can watch the sunset from Om Beach/Kudle Beach in the evening if you start your trek from Belekan Beach/Paradise Beach on time.

You can follow the path of the Gokarna Beach Trek via Google Maps. There are also markings and graffiti on the route to help you out.

The Gokarna Beach Trek is an easy trek but you should have some basic fitness. Also, apply sunscreen, stay hydrated and carry snacks to replenish your energy. 

Half Moon Beach is separated from Om Beach by a cliff from where you can get amazing views of the Arabian Sea. You’ll also find some beach shacks on Half Moon Beach during peak season.

The Full Moon Beach (Paradise Beach) is 20 minutes further from Half Moon Beach. This beach is made of rocks and forests with a small area covered with white sand. It is among the remotest places to visit in Gokarna apart from Belekan Beach.

Some offbeat travellers including foreigners prefer to lie on hammocks, camp and spend a night at Full Moon Beach for the privacy and stargazing it offers.

Note : If you’re hiking from Kudle Beach/Om Beach to Paradise Beach, ensure you leave Paradise Beach in time so that you reach Kudle Beach by sunset.

4. Yana Caves

Located around 50 kilometres from Gokarna, Yana is a small village and a hill station located in the Sahyadri mountain range of the Western Ghats.

It is one of the wettest villages in the world and the cleanest village in Karnataka.

It is also one of the most unique places to visit in Gokarna due to its two massive irregular rock/cave formations that you must visit if you love architecture. They’re made of black limestone and the cave is on top of a hill surrounded by evergreen forests and water streams.

Apart from exploring the caves, another highlight of travelling to Yana is the ride from Gokarna to Yana Caves. This road trip takes you through some remote villages and thick forests as you feel the air becoming cooler and the landscape becoming greener.

The roads are also well-maintained apart from the last approach road to Yana Caves where there is no proper tar. As such, if you’re taking a scooty/bike, be careful on this stretch.

From the parking lot, you need to walk for 1-2 km to reach Yana Caves. While you do so, you’ll be hearing the sounds of water streams and entering a thick forest.

You must carry enough water and snacks since there is only one shop nearby. Also, be careful of the monkeys here.

The journey to Yana Caves takes an hour and you can spend a couple of hours at least exploring the caves.

If you’re into history and architecture, you must visit Mirjan Fort, 21 km from Gokarna.

Spread over ten acres, Mirjan Fort is a 16th-century fort built during the reign of Queen Chennabharadevi, who was known as the pepper queen of India. It is believed that she controlled the pepper business through this fort. 

Known for its architectural beauty, the fort is double-walled, has four entrances and is built using laterite stones. Inside the fort, you can find deep wells, watchtowers, tunnels, secret doors, kitchens, assembly halls and prayer halls. 

To add to its beauty, the Mirjan Fort is flanked by the Agnanishi River and surrounds itself with coconut trees, paddy fields and the hills of the Western Ghats in the background. You can easily get a bird’s eye view of the surrounding areas from the watchtower.

For a fort that has seen plenty of battles and was built during the 16th century, it has stood the test of time and is well-preserved today by the ASI (Archaeological Survey of India). 

The best time to visit Mirjan Fort is after the monsoon season when the temperatures are less and the surrounding areas liven up with greenery.

How to reach Gokarna?

The nearest airport to Gokarna is the Dabolim airport (Goa International Airport), 140 km away followed by Mangalore which is 230 km away.

Gokarna Road railway station is the nearest station from Gokarna, 10 km away. It is well-connected to major nearby cities like Bangalore, Mangalore, Mumbai and Goa. 

For other cities like Hyderabad, Kochi and Chennai, there are no direct trains. So it’s always best to start your journey from one of the aforementioned cities.

You can easily get buses from Mangalore and Bangalore to Gokarna via the government buses from Karnataka (KSRTC) . You can also get government buses from Goa to Gokarna. There are buses available from Mumbai as well but it’s preferable to take a flight or a train from there because the journey is long.

Alternatively, if you’re coming as a group, you can travel to Gokarna by hiring a self-driving car from Zoomcar and starting your trip from either Mangalore or Bangalore. The trip from Mangalore takes four hours while the trip from Bangalore takes eight hours.

The roads from either of these starting points are amazing and you’ll also enjoy the diverse sceneries en route, especially when you drive along the coastal belt of Karnataka.

How to travel within Gokarna?

The best way to travel within Gokarna is to rent a scooty from one of the bike rental shops in the town. If you’re staying in a hostel, you can easily get their contact numbers as the hostels have tie-ups with the bike rentals in Gokarna.

To make it easier for you, I suggest you hire your scooty with Wicked Ride. I hired them while I stayed in Zostel and I had no qualms with the quality of their scooty and their pricing. 

Note : Always ask for a helmet and take your scooty for a test ride before picking one.

Best time to visit Gokarna

The weather in Gokarna from October to March is pleasant and hence, it’s the best time to visit this beach town. The months of summer are very hot and hence, you may not enjoy roaming around on the beaches as much.

You can also visit Gokarna during the monsoon season because it is cheaper during this time, however, do note that doing the beach trek will be a task.

Best restaurants in Gokarna

One of the best things to do in Gokarna apart from exploring all the places is to try out the variety of food you’ll get at different places. There are cafes and restaurants of all types. Following are some great cafes/restaurants I can recommend if you’re a foodie:

1. Mantra Cafe

Mantra Cafe is an in-house cafe from Zostel Gokarna that provide North Indian/South Indian and Continental cuisine apart from beers and cocktails. 

They’re known for their good food at comparatively cheaper rates, natural settings and the view of Gokarna Beach from the top. 

2. Namaste Cafe

Namaste Cafe is the most popular cafe on Om Beach and one of the oldest cafes in Gokarna. It is a great place to chill and relax if you want to watch the beach shore while having food.

They have an extensive menu that covers both vegetarian and non-vegetarian food. Their cuisine is mainly North Indian/Chinese/Continental.

3. Chez Christophe

If you’re into European/French cuisine, you must try Chez Christophe. Located on the Middle Beach (near Gokarna Beach), it is a fine dining restaurant known for its fresh sandwiches, pasta, and desserts apart from seafood. 

Although the food is pricey, you won’t be disappointed by its quality because it is owned by a French guy. To add to that, you can enjoy the sea view as it is located on the beach.

The Prema Hilltop Restaurant is a no-nonsense vegetarian North/South Indian restaurant located on the hill between the Gokarna Main Beach and Kudle Beach. They’re known for their masala dosas, puri sabzis, kombucha, coconut ice cream and juices. 

Their rates are also reasonable and you can come here for breakfast to gorge on their delicacies.

Best places to stay in Gokarna

1. zostel gokarna.

One of the best hostels in Gokarna is Zostel Gokarna which is located on the hill that connects Gokarna Main Beach to Kudle Beach. As it’s on the top of a cliff, you get amazing views of the Gokarna Main Beach and the Arabian Sea. 

The dorm rooms are clean, they have their cafe (Mantra Cafe) and they conduct live events and group tours every week.

2. Trippr Gokarna Beach Hostel

If you need an exclusive beach to yourself, you can opt for the Trippr Gokarna Beach Hostel. Located in Middle Beach, Trippr Gokarna Beach Hostel is the most peaceful hostel out of the lot and runs on renewable energy.

They’re pet friendly, organize bonfires and can also pitch tents/camps for you on the beach apart from their standard dorm rooms. They also have their restaurant and they organize gigs and events frequently.

HosteLife Gokarna is located a few metres away from Zostel Gokarna, but unlike the former, it is on a top of a flat hill that is sea facing.

Apart from dorms, they provide tent stays, an in-house cafe and air conditioning throughout the day. Unlike Zostel and Trippr, their rooms are mostly available for booking. 

Frequently Asked Questions

How can i spend 2 days in gokarna.

The following are the places to visit in Gokarna in 2 days: 1. Om Beach 2. Kudle Beach 3. Gokarna Beach Trek (Half Moon Beach and Paradise Beach) 4. Yana Caves 5. Mirjan Fort

If you have more time on your hands, you can try the water sports at Om Beach/Kudle Beach, shop at the flea market in Gokarna and go cafe-hopping.

Is Gokarna worth visiting?

Gokarna is worth visiting if you’re looking for an alternative to Goa that is cheaper and less commercialised. It is also an ideal destination if you prefer to explore a beach town in one weekend because Gokarna is a small town.

If you’re from Bangalore or Mangalore, you can easily plan a day/overnight trip to Gokarna for the weekend.

Why is Gokarna famous?

Gokarna is a famous temple town that is known for the Mahabaleshwar Temple, a 4th century Hindu temple and many other temples that are present there.

Apart from temples, Gokarna is also famous for its clean beaches, clear waters and cheaper food and accommodation as compared to Goa. Due to this reason, Gokarna has been touted as a favoured destination for solo travellers and backpackers over Goa.

Which are the places to visit in Gokarna in 3 days?

You can cover the following places in Gokarna in 2 days: 1. Om Beach 2. Kudle Beach 3. Gokarna Beach Trek (Half Moon Beach and Paradise Beach) 4. Yana Caves 5. Mirjan Fort

Apart from these, you can also cover the following destinations which are within 200 km of Gokarna (if you want to explore another day in Gokarna): 1. Jog Falls 2. Murdeshwar 3. Sathodi Falls 4. Dandeli 5. Udupi

The best time to visit Gokarna is from October to March. You should avoid the summers because the temperature is hot and only mornings/evenings are ideal at this time.

You can also visit Gokarna during the monsoon season to enjoy lesser crowds and cheaper costs, however, do note that if you do the Gokarna Beach Trek, you might face slippery terrains.

Gokarna is one of the most underrated beach destinations in India that has everything you need to unwind and relax much like Rameshwaram . Clean beaches, lesser crowds and cheaper food and accommodation make it a better alternative to Goa.

If you want even lesser crowds and cheaper rates, you can visit Gokarna during the monsoon season. Alternatively, you can also visit Gokarna from October to March when the weather is better.

You can easily cover Gokarna in a weekend by renting a scooty from one of the bike rental shops in the town. While you can stay in resorts, go for a hostel because you’ll meet like-minded people and experience the ambience that Gokarna is known for.

Cafe hopping, indulging in adventure sports and shopping in the flea market are some of the other things to do in Gokarna if you have more time. Apart from that, I’ve given you a list of all the essential places to visit in Gokarna so that you take back amazing memories and even come back again for more!

With that said, I hope you found this guide useful. Let me know if you have any questions in the comments below.

Jerry quit his 9-5 job to become a digital nomad and travel the world. Through Framedventures, he helps people have experiential and immersive travel adventures across India. He has travelled to 15+ states/UTs in India so far. Besides travelling, he's also passionate about landscape photography. Connect with him on his social media channels to get his latest travel updates!

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Hey Jerry, Nice blog with such a great information. The content is very helpful for the people who are looking for a trip to Gokarna. Last time, when i visited there for my vacations, i had such a wonderful experience and enjoyed a lot because it is one of the stunning place and less crowded place. Thank you for this article, please read my blogs too.

Thanks for sharing this amazing guide! It’s so helpful and detailed. Now I can plan my dream trip to Gokarna with ease. Can’t wait to experience the beautiful beaches and explore the stunning places you’ve recommended. Thanks again! 😊

Thanks Thomas! Hope you have a great trip.✌️

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Ideal duration: 2-3 days

Best Time: Throughout the year Read More

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"Land of palm trees, blue seas and golden sands"

Gokarna tourism.

With its pristine beaches and breathtaking landscapes, Gokarna is a Hindu pilgrimage town in Karnataka and a newly found hub for beach lovers and hippies. Situated on the coast of Karwar, every year Gokarna welcomes hordes of tourists from around the world in search of sanctity and relaxation. The out-of-town beaches like Kudle beach and Om Beach are a different contrast to life inside the town. 

Palm clad beaches are dotted with foreign tourists in a majority and very few Indians are seen across. Gokarna is not very conventionally touristy. The beaches are meant for a slow, relaxed holiday and everything on the beach goes at the same relaxed pace. Full of coconut and palm trees, the ocean and clean sands, Gokarna is a 'one of a kind' place in the country.

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Perfect 2 Day Gokarna Itinerary – Things To Do In Gokarna

Are you planning a trip to Gokarna, India? Here is a perfect 2 Day Gokarna itinerary to help you plan your Gokarna trip from Bangalore or elsewhere.

Are you yearning to get away from the chaos of a city? If yes, then here is the perfect 2 day Gokarna itinerary that is guaranteed to drive away your blues and leave you recharged, and rejuvenated. The beauty of the Gokarna beaches and the divinity of its temples are sure to enthral you and compel you to probably modify your plan and extend your stay beyond 2 days in Gokarna, Karnataka, India .

Whether you are looking for the perfect 2 day Gokarna itinerary, Gokarna Itinerary for 1 Day, Gokarna Itinerary for 3 Days, or even Gokarna Itinerary for 4 Days, this post will help you plan your Gokarna trip itinerary . So read, plan, and escape to the welcoming arms of Gokarna.

Table of Contents

Perfect 2 Day Gokarna Itinerary – Beaches And Beyond

Are you looking for adventure on the beach? Are you looking for relaxation by the beach? Are you looking for spirituality by the beach? The answer to all these questions is just one word, Gokarna ! Whatever your holiday preferences, Gokarna makes for an ideal getaway. There is no dearth of things to do in Gokarna, it ranges from visiting a 1500-year-old ancient temple to a beach trek to visiting a forgotten fort , exploring street art and much more. Can’t wait to get to Gokarna, you can book your flights and hotels right here!

Book your flights through TripAdvisor  or  Agoda  or  CheapAir  or  Cleartrip  or  Makemytrip  or  Priceline and click to book the best hotels and resorts in Gokarna.

Book hotels  in Gokarna through  TripAdvisor  or  Cleartrip  or  Agoda  or  Makemytrip  or  Priceline .

Amazing Gokarna Trip | 2 Day Gokarna Itinerary

Here is a Gokarna itinerary for 2 days. You can spend an amazing weekend in Gokarna with this itinerary. Are 2 days enough for Gokarna? If that is what you are wondering, the honest answer is no. Gokarna is a place to really relax and soak in its vibes.

So you can always take things slowly and customize this Gokarna Sightseeing Itinerary to a 4 day Gokarna Itinerary . So whether you are looking for a Gokarna Itinerary For 2 Days From Bangalore or any other place this is sure to help you plan your Gokarna trip.

2 Day Gokarna Itinerary | Places To Visit In Gokarna In 2 Days

Here is a list of the places to visit in Gokarna in 2 days and things to do in Gokarna . You can modify the itinerary based on personal preferences. This itinerary is designed to cater to families and couples, and for those looking at adventure and heritage in Gokarna .

Day 1 of 2 Day Gokarna Itinerary

• Morning head to the Mahaganapati temple which should be visited before visiting the main Gokarna Atma Linga temple
• Start the day with an early morning visit to the famous Sri Mahabaleshwara Swamy temple of Go karna which is more than 1500 years old
• Spend time at the Gokarna beach which is near the Sri Mahabaleshwar temple
• Have your breakfast
• After breakfast head to the Mirjan fort which is about 21 kilometres from Gokarna, the Mirjan Fort was built in the 16th century by a queen of the Saluva clan named Chennabhairadevi also famous as Pepper Queen
• After visiting the Mirjan Fort you can have lunch and relax
• After that proceed for a sunset/dinner cruise from Tadadi Port at a distance of 6 kilometres from Gokarna, the cruise is a wonderful experience on the waters of the Arabian Sea and the Aghanashini River, aboard the White Pearl
• Head back to the hotel and relax

Day 2 of the 2 Day Gokarna Itinerary

The second day of the Gokarna trip is all about beaches. If you like trekking, you can do a beach trek which will cover 5 beaches, namely, Gokarna Beach, Kudle Beach, Om Beach, Half Moon Beach, and Paradise Beach . The trek would take about 5-6 hours.

If you are not looking at trekking, you can relax on the beaches, or indulge in water sports as per the following itinerary.

• Enjoy the early morning vibes of Om Beach, if possible reach there in time for the sunrise
• From Om beach you can visit Half Moon Beach and Paradise Beach, you can take a boat to these beaches, remember to negotiate rates with the boatman
• After breakfast, visit Kudle Beach and indulge in different water sports like Kayaking, Jet Skiing, Banana Boat, etc.
• Have lunch and relax till evening
• In the evening you can head to Gokarna Beach or Kudle Beach to watch a splendid sunset, which would be a grand finale to your 2 Day Gokarna trip.

How To Reach Gokarna

Gokarna is easily accessible by road, rail, and air, from Bangalore, Mangalore, Udupi, Goa, and other places. Click  here for a Gokarna route map. You can make a Gokarna trip plan from Bangalore or anywhere else

If you are planning to travel by air, the nearest airport to Gokarna is Dabolim Airport in Goa , which is at a distance of about 148 kilometres. Goa is well connected to major cities of India by air. From Goa , you can travel by road to Gokarna

Gokarna Road is a railway station on the Konkan Railway line. However, if you are thinking of train travel the best option is to and from Ankola which is at a distance of about 23 kilometres from Gokarna.

Gokarna is well connected by a good road network, and one can literally drive from anywhere to Gokarna.

• Gokarna is located on the coast of the Arabian Sea in the Uttara Kannada district of Karnataka, India
• Bangalore To Gokarna distance is about 489 kilometres
• Udupi to Gokarna distance is about 178 kilometres
• Mangalore to Gokarna distance is about 232 kilometres
• Goa to Gokarna distance is about 135 kilometres

If you are planning a trip to Gokarna, you can book a cheap flight through  TripAdvisor or  CheapAir  or  Cleartrip  or  Makemytrip  or  Priceline  right here. You can do a road trip from Goa or Bangalore or Pune to Gokarna by self-drive car or cab or bus.

Where To Stay On Your 2 Day Gokarna Itinerary

There are many beach resorts that dot the beaches of Gokarna. There are lots of options that include luxury hotels, budget accommodation, and homestays. One of the good options is also the Om Beach Resort of Jungle Lodges And Resorts.

You can book the Om Beach Resort –  Jungle Lodges and Resort  Gokarna or any  luxury resorts  and  budget hotels  as well on and around the beaches of Gokarna. You can do your Gokarna beach huts booking or Gokarna beach resorts booking right here. You can book  hotels  in Gokarna through  TripAdvisor  or  Cleartrip or  Makemytrip  or  Priceline  and save a lot by getting the best savings on booking your stay. You can also check out Om Beach Resort Gokarna Price here before booking.

Gokarna Trip FAQ

How many days are enough for Gokarna? Gokarna is a place to relax and unwind, so it all depends on how much time you have and your budget. If it is only Gokarna sightseeing that you are looking at, you can cover everything in a relaxed manner in 2 full days.

How can I plan for Gokarna? Depending on the time and budget and your preference you can plan 2-3 days itinerary for Gokarna.

How do I spend a day in Gokarna? If you have a day in Gokarna, you can visit the Sri Mahabaleshwara Swami temple in the morning and visit all the beaches after that. If you are interested it is possible to do the beach trek and visit the temple in one day.

How can I spend 3 days in Gokarna?

If you have 3 days at your disposal you can have a relaxed time in Gokarna. You can do a beach trek, enjoy water sports, visit the Mirjan Fort, and the famous Sri Mahabaleshwara Swami Atma Linga Temple.

We hope you liked our 2 day Gokarna itinerary post. You can use this to plan a Bangalore to Gokarna itinerary or use it as a stand-alone itinerary for Gokarna when you are travelling from anywhere else. So go ahead and plan your Gokarna trip from Bangalore , Mangalore , Mumbai , or elsewhere. The sands of the beaches of Gokarna await your footfalls.

For more interesting and informative travel content subscribe to our blog and connect with us on our social media channels.

Below are some useful resources to help you book flights, hotels, and tours! And also clothes, luggage and accessories for your trip!

Flights –   TripAdvisor  or  CheapAir  or  Cleartrip  or  Makemytrip  or  Priceline

Tours –  Click here to book top tours around the world

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15 thoughts on “Perfect 2 Day Gokarna Itinerary – Things To Do In Gokarna”

Overall Southern India is beautiful with natural beauty. I would like to check out Gokarna and would like to visit Om beach with my son Om 🙂 The Om Beach Resort looks very cozy.

A perfect read with complete details for things to do in Gokarna. After reading this blog, it excites me and I am planning to visit Gokarna. Thank you for sharing this blog.

This is going to come in handy for my trip there. Thanks for sharing!

Southern India all over is really beautiful… The natural wonders over there amaze me. I really hope I can visit there someday. However, I have been reading about Gokarna on quite a few blogs. Is there a specific season to visit there? All the things to do was simply wow…

Gokarna seems like a great place to relax and wind. beach trekking sounds exciting. my girls love beach activities. I would love to visit this with them, when come India next time. thanks for sharing all details.

Lovely itinerary for 2 days. I am planning for Gokarna and I will surely remember these things. But I may miss the fort as I have already been there. I would love to spend more time at the beach.

Thanks a lot for this guide and it has surely helped in my planning. One question, is there a scuba diving in Gokarna? And also is 2 to 3 days sufficient for Gokarna?

I just love the detailing in your posts. We have been to Gokarna two years back and stayed at udupi. From udupi left for Gokarna in the morning and came back in the night. I am in love with that place.

Wow thanks for the detailed itinerary for gokarna. It’s on my bucket list and this would be helpful for navigation.

Wow you have written a very detailed and comprehensive itinerary for any one planning a trip here. Souther line is a beauty in it self and this place looks so serene.

You always make travel look so exciting. I am yet to visit Gokarna but just looking at your itinerary, I can say that this will be my next go to destination. Beautiful coverage as always 🙂

I really want toexplore India and trust me this post is going to be saved for my next traveling destination. Thanks for so much details.

I really want to explore India and trust me this post is going to be saved for my next traveling destination. Thanks for so much details.

Your posts always reintroduce me to a place I know about. My kids’ exams will be over soon and this place looks perfect to spend some time with family.

Love an adventure ,seeking for something challenging, then solo backpacking it is the @ land of wanderlust is who you would want to travel with

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31 Amazing Places to Visit in Gokarna, Karnataka

Introduction – an overview of gokarna city.

Welcome to the charming town of Gokarna , one of the must-visit places in Gokarna situated in the Kumta taluk of Uttara Kannada district in the state of Karnataka, India. Gokarna is a coastal area on the western side of India and stands out as a pivotal destination among the places to visit in Gokarna. It is highly recommended to include Gokarna in your Karnataka tourism trip due to its rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning landscapes, especially its beautiful beaches.

Gokarna is not only revered as a Hindu pilgrimage site but also admired for its breathtaking temples, thrilling beach camping experiences, and serene palm-fringed beaches. Exploring Gokarna’s captivating pathways and immersing in its unique way of life is an unforgettable experience that adds value to any Karnataka sightseeing tour.

A summary of information about Gokarna presented in table format.

Top Places to Visit in Gokarna, Karnataka

1. kudle beach.

Kudle Beach in Gokarna, Karnataka, India is a paradise for beach enthusiasts. Offering the perfect beach getaway, the beach becomes a hub of activity in winter from November to January, and is accessible via a short 6.2 km journey from Gokarna bus station. Health enthusiasts can enjoy morning or evening walks and yoga amidst the tranquility, while shopping aficionados can browse the bustling Flea Market for unique finds. Sandwiched between two green hills.

Kudle Beach provides a serene ambience and occasional high waves, serving as a scenic and relaxing getaway. For those seeking a luxurious stay, Kudle Beach also offers a stunning view resort, where guests can indulge in the breathtaking vistas while enjoying the comfort and amenities of a resort.

• Timing: Open 24 hours
• Best time to visit: From November to January
• Distance: Approximately 6.2 km from Gokarna bus station

2. Om Beach

Om Beach in Gokarna, Karnataka, a spectacular destination named for its “ Om ” shape, entices visitors with its serene surroundings, turquoise waters, and exhilarating activities. Brimming with a cool, refreshing breeze, it’s a paradise for those seeking relaxation or the thrill of adventure through activities like canoeing and paddle boats. In addition to the typical activities of sunbathing, volleyball, and paintball, you can incorporate these water sports into your range of choices. Indulge in delectable local and international dishes at seaside huts adorned with shimmering lights, which add to the overall allure of the dining experience.

• Best time to visit: November to March, when you can enjoy the cool breeze at its finest.
• Distance: 6.5 km from the Gokarna bus stand, approximately a kilometre closer than Half Moon Beach.

3. Half Moon Beach

Half Moon Beach in South Gokarna, India, is a serene escape to a picturesque setting shaped like a half-moon. The seashore, resembling a half-moon, offers a soothing solitude site, less crowded still captivating, flanked by palm trees and imposing hillocks. Easily accessible by a motorboat ride or a short trek, this beach offers the thrill of adventure juxtaposed with tranquil vibes. Bask in the sun, swim in the clear waters of the seashore, or unwind in the beach hammocks, its unparalleled beauty shrouded in ethereal moonlight is sure to bewitch you.

• Timing: 6 am to 6 pm
• Best time to visit: October to March
• Distance: Approximately 5.5 km from the Gokarna bus stand along the seashore.

4. Paradise Beach

Paradise Beach, or Full Moon Beach, rewards those daring enough to venture to its remote location with unparalleled natural beauty. The excitement of the challenging trek or thrilling boat ride to reach this spot, embraced by lush vegetation, rocky landscapes, and coconut trees, amplifies the joy of experiencing the serenity of the azure water and white sand shores.

• Distance: Approximately 11 km from Gokarna bus stand

5. Gokarna Beach

Gokarna Murudeshwara Beach, situated near the sacred Mahabaleshwar Temple in Karnataka, India, is a unique seaside destination that captures the essence of a spiritual pilgrimage sites and thrilling adventure. As the largest and most revered beach in the town, it lures pilgrims who believe in its soul-cleansing abilities, while also attracting thrill-seekers with diverse water sports like jet-skiing, snorkelling, and banana boat rides.

As you step away from the temple-side towards the serene River Gangavalli, the beach unveils its pristine beauty, making it perfect for photographers. Its close proximity to restaurants and lodgings, as well as the engaging trekking trail that starts from here, enhances the convenience factor for travelers. Gokarna Murudeshwara Beach truly offers a remarkable experience for all who visit.

• Distance: Approximately 2 km from Gokarna bus stand.

6. Belekan Beach

Belekan Beach, located in Gokarna, is a haven for nature lovers seeking tranquillity with its clear waters, soft sands, and lush greenery. Offering more than just scenic beauty, this secluded beach is also a hotspot for activities like swimming, cliff diving, beach volleyball, and frisbee. The beach’s charm is further enhanced by the enchanting evening view of boats scattered on the water against a beautiful sunset backdrop. Despite its rocky terrain, it remains an endearing spot for peace-seekers.

• Best time to visit: Evening for stunning sunset views
• Distance: Approximately 6 km from Gokarna Centre

7. Nirvana Beach

Nirvana Beach, located in Gokarna, Karnataka, offers an idyllic escape from the bustling world. Nestled in a position that provides an oasis from the bustle of the city, its serene atmosphere makes it the perfect downtime spot. Famous for its long, tranquil shoreline, pristine blue sea, and the subtly vibrant nightlife in the near vicinity like the popular Mantra Cafe. The cafe is an inviting addition to the serenity of the location, further enhancing the experience of being at Nirvana Beach. Positioned uniquely off the beaten path, it offers absolute solitude for the peace seeker, an inviting sea for the adventure enthusiast, and a hint of vibrant nightlife for those who prefer it.

Distanced from the usual teeming tourist hotspots, it provides a much-appreciated break from the bustle. Swimming is permitted, but deep-sea diving is discouraged for safety reasons. Witness beautiful dawns and dusks, where the sky lights up in exciting hues magnified by the allure of Gokarna’s nightlife.

• Best time to Visit: The optimal period to visit is from November through February.
• Distance: The distance from Gokarna Centre is around 7 km, and it is conveniently situated near the popular Mantra Cafe.

If you’re seeking a casual beachside hangout, don’t miss out on exploring the 7 Best Beach Shacks in Gokarna – A Complete Guide for some amazing options near these breathtaking places

8. Mirjan Fort

Mirjan Fort, a 16th-century architectural marvel, is one of Gokarna’s top landmarks that hypnotizes visitors with its captivating history and matchless beauty. Resonating the grandeur of Portuguese influence, this fort nestled by the scenic Agnanishi river , is renowned for its high bastions, ceilings, the ruins of prayer hall, clock tower, and four interlinked entrances. As a testament to the rich history involving the reign of Adil Shah, Portuguese, and British, visitors find their curiosity peaked by the enchanting tale of Chennai Bhairavi Devi, the ‘Queen of Pepper,’ believed to have constructed the fort.

With artifacts like Portuguese gold coins and Chinese Porcelain adding to its charm, this historical masterpiece, maintained by the Archaelogical Survey of India, ranks as one of Gokarna’s most iconic landmarks.

• Best time to visit: Throughout the year
• Distance: Approximately 11 km from Gokarna Centre

9. Shiva Cave

Shiva Cave, a hidden treasure steeped in legend and mystery, sits just 500 meters from Kudle beach, offering an adventurous escape filled with exploration and local folklore. Though modest in size, its unique appeal lies in the beam of sunlight filtering through an overhead hole, lighting up the resident Shiva Lingam. Being here in the mornings or evenings allows Shiva devotees to catch a glimpse of the radiant Lingam, hence amplifying the spiritual experience. Its dark interior plays host to a thriving bat cluster, adding to the mystique of the place. Not to mention its significance during Shivratri, where many believers come with torches just to get a glimpse of this special religious sight.

• Best time to visit: Morning and evening, when sunlight spotlights the Shiva Linga
• Distance: Roughly 500 meters from Kudle Beach.

10. Yana Caves

Yana Caves, nestled in the magnificent Western Ghats, are a sight to behold. These caves, an explorer’s paradise, present a spectacle of untamed beauty, radiant with a diverse array of lush flora. They tease visitors with a glimpse of an untouched forest, brimming with breathtaking natural wonders coupled with spiritual significance and a genuine rural lifestyle. Located just 53 kilometers from the vibrant temple town of Gokarna, known for its stories tied to numerous Indian legends and Hindu epics, these caves offer a captivating journey.

They are surrounded by verdant forests, adorned with flora and interlaced with twinkling streams. Within, they shelter two gigantic formations believed to embody Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. It is this blend of mythical allure which magnetizes spiritual seekers across the globe, an attraction similar to the renowned Agnanishi River’s bank fort.

• Timing: Open from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM
• Best time to Visit: The period from October to February, a time when the flora is in full bloom.
• Distance: Approximately 53 km from Gokarna Centre.

11. Mahabaleshwara Temple

Mahabaleshwara Temple in Gokarna, also known as Mahabaleswar Temple, stands as an iconic religious site. Revered for its atmosphere of worship, this temple is devoted to Lord Mahabaleshwara, a form of the worshiped deity Lord Shiva. It ranks amongst the holy “Muktistala”. An integral historical part of this temple, located just 1 km from Gokarna center, is the revered 4th-century Shiva Linga known as Atmalinga.

Quoted by Sangeetha Anbalagan during her visit on 1st June’23, the Atmalinga is not only celebrated for bestowing blessings upon visibility, but it also serves as the robust core of devotion that has placed the temple on an esteemed pedestal, often being paralleled to the Shiva Temple at Varanasi. The intricate stone carvings and serene surroundings further enhance this site, making every visit captivating – a testimony to its position as 2 out of 20 Places To Visit in Gokarna.

• Timings: 6:00 AM to 12:30 PM & 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM
• Best Time to Visit: Early Morning or Evening.
• Distance: 1 km from Gokarna Centre

12. Koti Tirtha

Koti Tirtha, a sacred man-made tank in Gokarna, India, stands as a testament to awe-inspiring local legends and mythology. Situated on the heart of Koti Teertha Road, this site is believed to be the birthplace of a thousand springs and is enveloped by numerous temples, capturing Gokarna’s rich cultural tapestry. Pretty close to the famed Mahabaleshwar Temple, Koti Tirtha, located on the Koti Teertha Road, is the location of ritual bathing and idol immersion. Devotees frequent this site, located on Koti Teertha Road, seeking purification and a deep spiritual connection, holding the belief that bathing in these waters washes away sins, purifying the soul.

The intriguing mythology explains its origin – the half-submergence of Saptashrungi mountain on the command of Lord Brahma, which resulted in this hallowed locale on the famed Koti Teertha road.

• Best Time to Visit: This culturally rich temple can be visited anytime throughout the year.
• Hours of operation: 24/7
• Distance from Gokarna bus stand: Just a short walk of 700 metres, along Koti Teertha road.

13. Bhadrakali Temple

Bhadrakali Temple is a captivating Hindu sanctuary situated in Gokarna, Karnataka, that offers breath-taking panoramic views of Gokarna Beach. Renowned for its serene surroundings and deep spiritual ambiance, the temple is dedicated to Goddess Uma, considered the protector of Gokarna. The exquisite architecture at the temple’s entrance, marked by two ferocious lions and two warriors, along with a statue of Goddess Uma, symbolizes the spiritual strength of the temple. While not located in Hubli, the temple is a must-visit destination for those exploring the beautiful landscapes of Karnataka.

• Timings: Open during 6:00 AM to 12:30 PM and 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM
• Best Time to Visit: Early morning or during the evening
• Distance: Approximately 2 km from Gokarna Centre

The temple is so calm, clean and divine. The Amman is in standing posture decorated with flowers. The walls have murals of astadasa shakti with explanation of the experience with the shakthi. The calmness of the place brings divine within and is apt for meditation, which makes us not to leave the temple Karpagavalli At TripAdvisor

14. Maha Ganapati Temple

Maha Ganapati Temple is a cherished spiritual retreat in Gokarna, renowned for its intricate carvings and vibrant colors. Spectacularly located next to the coveted Mahabaleshwar Temple, it is one of the luminous spots to visit while in Gokarna. Housing the remarkable 1.3-meter-high black stone idol of Lord Ganesha, it intertwines closely with the legends of this deity artfully outmaneuvering the demon Ravana. Imbibing the captivating Dravidian architecture, grand sculptures and the compelling tales that dictate the need to seek Lord Ganesha’s blessings at the Maha Ganapati temple before venturing to the Mahabaleshwar temple. It emerges as a site of tranquility and historical intrigue, particularly during the Maha Shivratri festival.

• Timings: Open from 6:00 AM to 12:30 PM and again from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM.
• Best time to visit: During the Maha Shivratri celebrations.
• Distance: An easy 10 KM trek from Gokarna Centre, which can be conveniently traversed within a manageable 5 to 6 hour timeframe. This makes the Maha Ganpati Temple not only spiritually invigorating but also an indulgence for the trekkers at heart.

15. Shiva Statue

Set majestically on the hillock of Kanduka Giri in the quaint temple town of Murudeshwar, Second largest statue of Lord Shiva in India. The impressive 123-feet tall statue, nestled amidst the encompassing Arabian Sea, offers stunning panoramas. The grandeur of the statue, accompanied by the rising or setting sun, makes for a sight to behold. This awe-inspiring sight, meticulously built by businessman R.N. Shetty, features prominently in the larger Murudeshwar Temple complex.

• Timing: The temple is open from 10 am to 6 pm
• Best time to Visit: During sunrise or sunset for the best experience.
• Distance: Around 78 kilometres from Gokarna bus stop.

16. Sri Rama Temple

Sri Rama Temple is main attraction in the heart of Gokarna, is a spiritual haven dedicated to Lord Rama. The temple’s simplistic architecture and serene ambiance enhance the spiritual experience. It’s deeply rooted in the mythological journey of Lord Rama, with the main sanctum representing his quest to free Sita. During the annual Rama Navami festival, the temple becomes a bustling hub of spirituality and culture, attracting devotees from all corners.

• Timing: Open from 6:00 AM to 8:00 PM
• Best time to visit: During the Rama Navami festival

17. Sri TamraGouri (Parwati) Temple, Gokarna

Sri TamraGauri Temple stands as one of the most renowned pilgrimage places for Hindus. Featuring a unique construction where the temple’s linga is visible from all directions, the site is topped with a pyramid-shaped tiered tower, creating an artistic blend of spirituality and design. Dedicated to Goddess Gauri, a manifestation of Goddess Parvati, the temple also venerates the statue of the local deity Gokarnayaki. Blessed with tranquillity, the temple beckons devotees yearning for sacred solace at one of the most revered pilgrimage places.

• Time of Visit: Morning (5:00 AM – 12 Noon) & Evening (4:00 PM – 8:00 PM)
• Best Time to Visit: During early mornings for serene ambiance
• Distance from Gokarna Centre: Approximately 2 km

18. Mahalasa Temple

Mahalasa Temple in Gokarna embodies the city’s rich religious culture. Being well-connected by roads to major cities like Bangalore, Gokarna is easily accessible for a quick getaway. Boasting of intricate engravings on its ancient architecture, the 150-year-old temple, also known as Mahalasa Siddhivinayak Temple, attracts thousands of visitors. Many come particularly during the grand celebrations of Ganesh Chaturthi, Ashwin Shashthi, and Shravan Sankashti, adding to the vibrant atmosphere of the city.

• Timings: Open from 6:00 AM to 12:30 PM and 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM
• Best time to Visit: During the festivals of Ganesh Chaturthi and Shravana Sankashti
• Distance: Located 1 km away from Gokarna Centre

For a smoother and planned travel, we recommend checking details about festivals and other related information on our Bangalore-based website, like TripAdvisor , before your visit.

19. Lalguli Falls

Lalguli Falls is a piece of paradise just 90 km from Gokarna. It’s here that the Kali River splendidly cascades from 61 to 91 meters, forming a series of enchanting waterfalls. Amid lush greenery and the soothing sounds of birds, the falls provide a pocket of tranquility epitomizing Mother Nature’s creativity. Known for attracting thousands of visitors annually, the site offers outdoor activities like trekking and bird watching, and a visit to the Hanuman Temple nearby adds to the overall experience.

• Timing: 8 am to 7 pm
• Best Time to visit: October to December
• Distance: The approximate distance from Gokarna Bus Main Stand is around 90 kilometres.

20. Sathodi Falls

Discover the serene beauty of Sathodi Falls, hidden within the verdant scenery of Yellapur. Formed by a confluence of several streams and surrounded by dense wooded areas, this untouched waterfall presents solitude and serenity for nature aficionados. The picturesque site, ideal for trekking and picnics, offers a beautiful scape of cascading water amidst a verdant setting. A visit here undeniably requires pre-planning owing to its remote location.

• Best time to visit: During the rainy season when the falls are brimming with water
• Distance from Gokarna Bus Stand: 77 Kilometers

21. Apsarakonda

Apsarakonda is a hidden treasure with a mesmerizing shoreline. It is famously referred to as the “Pond of Angels”. Apsarakonda is home to an enticing waterfall famous for an age-old myth of heavenly nymphs bathing there. The beauty of this town is amplified by its unique beach village, pristine beach, and verdant gardens. The charm of Apsarakonda, however, extends beyond its visuals to the vibrant local narratives passed on through generations.

• Best time to visit: Monsoon Season (June to September)
• Distance: Approximately 20 kilometers from Gokarna

22. Gokarna Cliff

A must-visit destination for avid adventurers and nature enthusiasts, Gokarna Cliff in Karnataka, India captivates visitors with its awe-inspiring vista where the boundless sea and sky merge seamlessly at the horizon. There’s an unparalleled thrill in trekking uphill to experience a bird’s eye view of the four surreal beaches – Gokarna, Kudle, Half Moon, and Paradise. Adding to this enriching experience are the cafes at the location, which offer refreshing delicacies as you immerse yourself into the breathtaking beach panoramas.

• Best Time to Visit: Anytime across the year, though a sunrise or sunset view adds another level of astonishing beauty.
• Distance: Accessible within the city from the Gokarna Bus Stand.

23. Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary

The Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary, established in 1956, spans 866 square kilometers and is a haven for wildlife and nature enthusiasts. Located roughly 132 kilometers from Gokarna, the sanctuary houses a vast array of fauna including the black panther, elephants, and tigers. It is also home to over 200 bird species. The sanctuary boasts ancient temples hidden under backwaters and the imposing Syntheri Rock. Dandeli offers a multitude of adventure activities, thus making it an ideal destination for thrill-seekers.

• Timings: 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM
• Best Time to Visit: October to March
• Distance from Gokarna Centre: Approximately 132 km

24. Anshi National Park

Anshi National Park, also known as Kali Tiger Reserve, is a stunning jungle adventure destination. The park stretches across an area of 340 square kilometers, housing a plethora of fauna such as Bengal tigers, black panthers, Indian elephants, and an assortment of vibrant bird species. Besides its rich biodiversity, the park boasts one of the world’s most intricate ecosystems with a unique array of habitats. Visitors can immerse themselves in activities like trekking, wildlife safaris, and birdwatching in this enchanting jungle adventure.

• Park Timings: 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM
• November to March is the optimal period to visit.
• Distance: Approximately 130 km from Gokarna Centre

25. Murudeshwar Temple

The marvelous Murudeshwar Temple, nestled on the Arabian Sea coast in Bhatkal taluk, Karnataka, is renowned for its grand 123-foot statue of Lord Shiva – the world’s second-largest of its kind. The temple’s location, surrounded by the sea on three sides, and an imposing 20-storey gopura offer breathtaking views of the Shiva statue, enhancing its tranquil ambiance. Its awe-inspiring surroundings and intricate carvings make it an unforgettable sight and irresistible draw for thousands of visitors and devotees.

• Timings: Open from 3:00 AM to 1:00 PM and then from 3:00 PM to 8:00 PM.
• Best time to visit: During morning or early evening to fully appreciate the serenity and views of the surroundings.
• Distance: Located in Murudeshwar Bhatkal Taluk, Karnataka 581350, India. The entry is free.
• Nearby attractions: Murudeshwar beach for jet skiing and the Murudeshwar Fort.

26. Small Hell Beach

Small Hell Beach is a serene haven nestled in nature’s lap in Gokarna. Perfect for activities like sunbathing, photography, and swimming, the tranquil coastline is accentuated by golden sands and calm ultramarine blue waters. The highlight of this beach is the breathtaking Small Hell Cliff, an exclusive photography hotspot availed only during the Gokarna Beach Trek. Its charm is further heightened by the occasional sight of passing fishing boats. On the lighter side of things, the beach is also a popular destination for camping, volleyball, and paddle boating.

• Timing: Open 24 Hours
• Best time to visit: From November to March
• Distance: Approximately 1 km from Gokarna bus stand

27. Unchalli Falls

The waterfall called Unchalli Falls, or alternatively known as Lushington Falls or Keppa Joga to the locals, remains a captivating natural spectacle in Gokarna. The beauty of the thundering waters from the Aghanashini River cascading from great heights into an ambient mist is breathtaking. Tucked amidst lush forests, it rewards visitors with an unspoiled and serene ambience after a rewarding trek. Tourists tend to prefer a day’s outing to soak in the rich vistas of this offbeat paradise.

• Best time to visit: Monsoons (June to September)

28. Namaste Cafe

Namaste Café is positioned on the picturesque Om Beach in Gokarna, Karnataka, India. The location is revered by many as the ‘Dakshin Kashi’ due to the esteemed 4th century Shiva Temple nearby, famous for its Atma Linga. This unique café offers a distinctive dining experience with breathtaking oceanic views, reminiscent of the laid-back atmosphere in Kashi. Renowned for its tranquil ambiance, it’s a popular choice among budget-conscious travelers and backpackers. The soothing playlist and the diverse menu, predominantly featuring delicious seafood, provide an idyllic beach retreat. From this spot, the panoramic vistas and the rhythmic murmur of the sea combine to create an environment of unparalleled serenity.

• The timings for check-in and check-out are 1 PM and 11 AM, respectively.
• Best time to visit: Open year-round
• Distance: 6.3 kilometers from Gokarna Bus Main Stand, Banglegudda, located not far from the magnificent temple equated with Kashi as per Hindu Mythics.

29. Beach Trekking

Experience the thrill of beach trekking in Gokarna by embarking on a fun-filled adventure that encompasses five major beaches: Paradise Beach, Half Moon Beach, Om Beach, Kudle Beach, and Gokarna Beach. Adding a stride on Nirvana Beach to your trip’s itinerary can also expose you to more offbeat places in Gokarna, including simple huts and beach-side restaurants where you’ll enjoy a variety of attractions. Traverse through varied terrains, lush landscapes, steep laterite cliffs, swaying palm groves, and rustic huts.

Don your trekking shoes to relish the beauty of sandy shores and rocky landscapes while soaking in panoramic views of the Arabian Sea. Keep an eye out for dolphins and appreciate the serenity of secluded beaches dotted with huts during the trek.

• Trek Level: Easy
• Time required: Approximately 5 to 6 hours
• Best time to visit: October to February
• Trek Length: Around 10 km

30. Beach Camping

Indulge in the ultimate beach camping adventure in Gokarna for a remarkable journey. On 1st June’23, like Sangeetha Anbalagan, you too can begin your tour from Sri Ramakrishna Mutt, Mangalore and reach Paradise Beach, setting up camp under the star-studded skies. Lull yourself to sleep with the rhythm of the rolling waves. Relish beautiful sunset views, engage in exhilarating beach games, and gather around bonfires for food cooked over the fire. Experience quiet nights in tented accommodations, filled with music, dance, and storytelling. Although you can bring your own equipment, opting for organized camping tours, which can cost roughly 72 per adult, provides a safe and exciting local experience. Remember, securing necessary permits is paramount for beach camping in Gokarna.

• Location: Paradise Beach, Gokarna

If you’re looking for accommodation near these fantastic places, explore our guide to the ‘ 22 Best Beach Resorts in Gokarna, Karnataka

31. Banana Boat Ride

Experience the thrill of water rafting and a Banana Boat Ride at Om Beach in Gokarna. This adrenaline-fueled water sport involves a group of enthusiasts riding on an inflatable, banana-shaped boat while being pulled across the sea by a speedboat. Open to all age groups, it offers vast ocean views and fun-filled times. Remember your safety – secure yourself with a lifejacket before embarking on this breathtaking journey. It’s not just about thrill, but also balance – stay steady or risk a tumble into the refreshing waters. Delight in joyful laughter and light-hearted amazement with this group activity.

• Timing: The best time for a ride is early morning or late afternoon when the waters are calm and the sunlight is not too harsh.
• Best Time to Visit: The ideal period to visit Gokarna for this recreational activity is between October and March when the weather is most pleasant.
• Distance: Banana Boat Ride location is near the beachfront, easily accessible from all parts of Om Beach.

Kumta offers a unique experience to discover India’s remarkable cultural and historical heritage.

What is the way to get to Gokarna?

Gokarna is well-connected with various major cities, and you can reach the town by air, train, and road. For more personalized details and useful travel tips, don’t hesitate to drop me an email.

If you choose to travel by air, the Vasco da Gama Airport in Dabolim, Goa, which is approximately 154 kilometers from Gokarna, is the closest airport. Getting to Gokarna directly from the airport is easily achievable by hiring a taxi, cab, or taking a bus. If you need any assistance, feel free to send an email. There are also international airports in Mangaluru (250km away) and Bengaluru (487km away).

By Rail: The city center is a short distance away from Gokarna Road Railway Station, approximately 9 kilometers. However, connectivity to major Indian cities may be limited. Ankola, the nearest major railway station around 20 kilometers from Gokarna, offers better connectivity and can be conveniently reached by taxi or public transportation. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time you have a travel query.

By Road: Major cities such as Bengaluru, Mangaluru, and Hyderabad, along with other locations in Karnataka and neighboring states, have bus services to Gokarna. Options include state-operated buses to luxurious private ones. Thanks to its well-established road network, Gokarna is easily accessible via National Highway-17. For any road-related queries, shoot an email to me.

Getting Around: Inside Gokarna, the town is best explored on foot, given its compact size and closely situated attractions. Enjoy beach hopping, visiting various temples, and soaking in the serenity of the place by leisurely walking around. Private cars, autorickshaws, and taxis are also available for local transport. Remember, I am always a quick email away for any guidance.

Below are the videos from Tripoto to help you plan your Gokarna adventure:

To explore more captivating destinations across India like Gokarna, check out our comprehensive guide to India’s diverse wonders at India – Visit Wander for an enriching travel experience.

FAQ’s About Gokarna

How many days are enough for gokarna.

A trip of 2 to 3 days is sufficient to explore Gokarna’s main attractions including its major beaches and temples. This tourism-centric destination offers a wealth of experiences that can be enjoyed within a short span. However, if you aim to visit nearby attractions such as Murudeshwar Temple, Yana Caves, Lalguli Falls, Unchalli Falls, and Kumta town, it’s advisable to plan a minimum of 4 day stay to fully immerse in the richness of tourism opportunities in and around Gokarna.

When is the optimal time to travel to Gokarna?

From October to March is the ideal period to go to Gokarna, as the weather is delightful for exploring beaches and engaging in a variety of water activities. This period is ideal for a relaxing and serene beach getaway, offering excellent sunrise and sunset views on the beach, and the temperatures are great for taking a refreshing dip. Alternatively, the monsoon season (June to August) can also add a unique charm to your beach getaway with its lush landscapes and quieter beaches. It’s also the perfect time to brace yourself for a scenic trip to Om Beach. However, you might want to avoid the hot and humid summers from March to June, even though evenings can be quite pleasant.

What are the famous attractions in Gokarna?

Gokarna is known for its serene beaches like Om, Kudle, Half Moon and Paradise Beach, and temples such as Mahabaleshwara, Maha Ganapati, and Bhadrakali. The beaches, each uniquely prominent, are the foremost sightseeing spots in Gokarna. Om Beach, uniquely shaped like the sacred symbol Om, draws a huge influx of tourists. Half Moon Beach, listed as one of the attractive sightseeing places, offers a perfect escape from the city crowd. Attractions also include magnificent temples such as Mahabaleshwara, Maha Ganapati, and Bhadrakali that form a significant part of Gokarna’s religious sightseeing. Furthermore, offbeat adventures like beach camping add an exciting twist to the Gokarna sightseeing experience. Yana Caves, Mirjan Fort, Koti Tirtha and treks combining Gokarna’s beaches are also famous amongst the tourists seeking a peaceful beachside vacation. Unchalli, Sathodi, and Lalguli Falls offer captivating views for nature lovers, adding to the myriad sightseeing places to explore in and near Gokarna.

What are the best adventure activities to engage in during a visit to Gokarna?

Gokarna offers several adventure activities such as water sports like parasailing, jet-skiing, and surfing, beach trekking connecting five pristine beaches, beach camping under the stars, yoga sessions in tranquil ashrams, and adrenaline-pumping motorbike rides. A stone’s throw away, one can also indulge in scuba diving at Murudeshwar, a popular nearby island. Furthermore, Gokarna provides the option of thrill-seeking paddle boat rides which offer a unique way to explore its waters. Regardless of the adventure – whether it’s jet skiing, surfing, or scuba diving – safety remains paramount in all these activities.

What are places to see on the way to Gokarna?

On the way to Gokarna, don’t miss Jog Falls, one of India’s highest waterfalls, and one of the top tourist attractions. Explore majestic Yana Rocks and the surrounding dense forest, which are also popular tourist attractions. Visit Murudeshwar, a critical site of religious and pilgrimage places tourism, home to the second-largest Shiva statue globally. Make sure to visit Maravanthe Beach, as it offers breathtaking views that are a must-see for tourists. The 16th-century Mirjan Fort is a unique pit stop in your tourism trail, and finally, Karwar, known for its beautiful beaches and historical sites, ends this enriching journey.

In conclusion, Gokarna, a quaint coastal town in Karnataka, India, presents a myriad of enchanting tourist spots. Steeped in the element of tourism, this ‘Mini Goa’ boasts of serene beaches, ancient temples, and inviting landscapes. Catering to various characters of travelers, from the faithful pilgrim to the adventurous explorer, Gokarna offers an unforgettable tourism experience with its rich historical heritage complemented by captivating greenery. For those longing for a tranquil escape, Gokarna is an idyllic tourism destination waiting to be discovered and enjoyed.

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• Goa vs Gokarna: What’s your pick for the Long Weekend?

Long weekends lined up in April. Confusion killing you? Goa vs Gokarna? Baga Beach vs Kudle Beach? Alcohol vs Weed? The two gorgeous destinations are akin in their wealth of sandy shores & azure waters, but who will win if they were to be pitched against each other? So who do you think wins – Goa or Gokarna?

Goa vs Gokarna: A Close Competition

While Goa has been a popular beach getaway for decades, Gokarna is joining the league and attracting travelers across genres. We might have a slightly unfair bias for Goa – the ultimate destination amongst young adults looking for beaches, waters, alcohol & parties. But Gokarna, is no less! A perfect getaway for couples & travelers seeking solace and tranquillity while they indulge in the serendipitous aura of the place is commendable. The only real way to find out is to have a look for yourself.

1. The Sea Shore

There’s no dearth of vast expanses of water and sandy shores in either of the destinations. While Goa’s coastline boats of some of the famous beaches – Anjuna, Baga, Calangute , Mandrem and more, Gokarna too has an incredible coastline with Om, Kudle, Half Moon and Paradise beach. Goa beaches are easily accessible and usually loud & crowded (of course based on the beaches you choose). Gokarna beaches are comparatively calmer, modest with less travellers.

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2. Which Beach to Go to?

Goa: Its all about Crowds and Parties If you’re heading for a fun-family vacation or are travelling as a couple, North Goa beaches are idyllic while those who are looking for pubs & parties, alcohol & adventure, South Goa would be the perfect choice.

Gokarna: Solitude & Peace For those who wish to soak in the water and laze over the sand, Om & Kudle beach are ideal spots. While couples & travellers yearning solitude can trek to Paradise & Half Moon beaches. The beaches could either be reached via motorboats or one can trek through the rugged cliffs, secluded coves & islets. The trek is pretty tiring as it entails ascents & descents.

3. Where to Stay?

Goa: Luxurious Hotels to Shacks This world famous destination attracts tourists all the year round and with international travellers pouring in, the destination offers some of the most exquisite stays at hotels like Vivanta by Taj.

Gokarna: Resorts & Hotels Gokarna is a toned down version of Goa. Though its lined up with amazing shacks and hotels but doesn’t match upto the luxurious accommodations of Goa. moreover, Gokarna isn’t too heavy on the pocket. For a perfect beachfront stay, pick a hotel at Kudle beach.

4. Where to Eat?

Like we said, there’s no dearth of food joints in either of the destinations and almost every cuisine is available. Yet, both the places have a few real amazing hangouts:

Goa: Cuisines & Varieties Be it Russian or Continental or Chinese or scrumptious sea food, Goa serves it all. Britto’s & Anthony’s at Baga beach for a Great Karaoke Night, Amigo’s under Nerul Bridge for splendid Sea Food, KU, Morjim – Run by a French couple for the typical Bali hut style ambience, Salt & Pepper, Little Vagator for its burgers.

Gokarna: Local Delicacies Gokarna is more on the traditional side and serves local delicacies & south-Indian flavored Sea food. Dolphin Bay Café at Om Beach for its delectable food & hospitality with boats lined up right in front to take you for a ride into the sea to spot Dolphins. Surya Café for its delicious Bangda (Mackerel fish) fry / curry & Namaste Café for its Tuna Sandwich and its amazing construction where the café cum shack has been carved out on a rock that leads to the beach.

Planning your holiday in Goa but confused about what to do? These Goa travel stories help you find your best trip ever!

Real travel stories. Real stays. Handy tips to help you make the right choice.

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Pristine beaches & backwaters! Take me there, now!

Prasham's Account Of A Goa Tour Proves That Goa Is More Than A Party Destination

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5. Water Sports

Goa: Indulge in the most unique water experiences in Goa. Go Yachting, try Knee Boarding, Paddle Boarding, Water Skiing, Scuba Diving , Water Scooter and Hrithik Roshan’s Bang Bang Stunt – FlyBoarding on Baina Beach Goa. Gokarna: Beach Football, Beach Volleyball, Parasailing, Banana Boat Ride, Jet Skiing – on Om Beach. You could also try Kayaking organized by Swaswara Resort.

Suggested Read: The Ultimate List of Adventure Holidays In India For Summer

6. Into the water

Goa: Dive in the waters of Netrani islands and swim along the multi-colored corals.

Gokarna: Take a boat ride into the sea and watch the Dolphins play in their natural habitats!

7. Cruises Vs Boats

Goa: Goa definitely has a plethora of cruises and yachts to take you into the inlets of the sea. And what’s more is the cruise entertains you all along with liquor, food, music and performances .

Gokarna: Fishermen on Om beach, Kudle beach, main beach are quite eager to take you on a catamaran ride. Unlike Goa, the splashes of salty water leave you refreshed. You could take the catamaran ride from one beach to the other. For those who love to travel across through the calm serene waters, beach hopping cannot get better than this.

Suggested Read: 10 Ultimate Destinations For Boat And Cruise Vacations In India

8. Shopping

Goa: Shopping in Goa is synonymous with Flea Markets. Shop in Mapusa Friday Market, Calangute Bazar, the Mackies and Anjuna Flea market. For a perfect evening head to Saturday Night Bazar. The myriad of fun activity – performances, stalls, liquor, dance & more – a perfect reason to spend your Saturday in the hustle bustle.

Gokarna: Gokarna offers a traditionally interesting shopping experience too. The streets are loaded with colourful shops selling souvenirs like brass lamps, trishuls, decorative items made out of sea shells. Kallu sakkare, a kind of sugar candy, is the best thing to buy from here.

Suggested Read: Top 21 Shopping Destinations In India To Splurge In A Shopping Spree

9. Nightlife

Goa: With The Town When it comes to go there’s no end to fun! Popular amongst many because it’s cheap, Goa is a paradise for travellers who like to party in full swing. With over 800 nightclubs, pubs, lounges & discotheques, and moonlight beach parties, Goa cannot be compared with any other destination in the world.

Gokarna: All by Yourself Gokarna is a town of contrasts. A Hindu Pilgrimage site, a popular hippie destination and a breathtaking getaway for travellers seeking solitude, Gokarna offers a unique nightlife experience around with the sounds of waves, bonfire, guitars, drums and friends.

10. Glass vs Grass

Goa: Goa is frequented by thousands of tourists every season and mostly because of the cost of liquor in the state. The never ending freedom, infectious aura, trance and beats are a reason enough to drink until the sun shines.

Gokarna: Though a destination of utter religious importance, Gokarna has a fun side to it too! If you wish to stay high and bathe in the glinting waves, Gokarna will be the perfect getaway. Wondering you’re neither into alcohol nor weed, which location to pick? Fret not. It’s your choice to drink or smoke – No one forces you!

Suggested Read: Amazing Indian Bars to Get High (And Pay Low)

Travellers from all over the world land in Goa or Gokarna every year – some to explore the hippie lifestyle and others for getting away from the bustling cities. While Goa is a liberal and free-spirited destination where one could spot a tourist in almost every corner. Gokarna is a small quaint upcoming destination with a majority of locals.

Further Read: 23 Bonfire Places In India to Enjoy With Your Coolest Friends

Though both the destinations have their own charm, but which one do you vote for? Goa or Gokarna?

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Frequently Asked Questions About Goa Vs Gokarna

Which is better Goa or Gokarna?

Goa and Gokarna both are amazing beach destinations in India. Gokarna is comparatively less crowded than Goa, as a lot of people still do not know of this amazing place. If one is looking for a lesser crowd, then Gokarna is a great place to visit.

Is alcohol allowed in Gokarna?

One might not come across a liquor shop in Gokarna, but beer is mostly available at the shacks on the beach here.

How far is Gokarna from Goa?

Gokarna is around 143 km away from Goa and one might take around 3-4 hours to reach via road.

Is Gokarna safe?

Yes, Gokarna is an extremely safe beach destination. One can even travel solo to this city.

Which is better Pondicherry or Gokarna?

Pondicherry and Gokarna, both are amazing destinations. If one wants to just chill at the beach, then Gokarna is a great place, but if one wants to explore the city and is traveling with family, then they can choose to visit Pondicherry.

Which is the best time to visit Gokarna?

The best time to visit Gokarna is post the monsoons. October till late February, the temperature is pleasant here, and one can plan a trip here during this period.

How many days are enough for Gokarna?

Gokarna is that kind of a place where one can easily spend a week just at the beach. But ideally 3 nights and 4 days are good to explore all the beaches and more here.

Is it easy to find vegetarian food in Gokarna?

Yes, the shacks at the beach serve tasty vegetarian food, and one can also find small restaurants in the town which serve South Indian food in Gokarna.

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5 mins read

Did You Know These Legends About Gokarna's History?

30 Jul, 2023

Have you ever heard of the enchanting coastal town of Gokarna in the southern Indian state of Karnataka? Or the legends and story of Gokarna? It's a hidden gem with a fascinating mix of spirituality, history, and stunning natural beauty that has captivated travellers from all around.

The legends and story of Gokarna have transcended time, continuing to fascinate and inspire everyone even today. Join us as we embark on a journey through time and explore these captivating legends and stories.

Here are some of the legends of Gokarna and interesting stories that make it so captivating.

How Did Gokarna Get its Name?

Gokarna 's prominence in Hindu mythology can be traced back to the age of ancient epics. Legend has it that Lord Shiva, one of the principal deities in Hinduism, emerged from the ear of a cow (Go) in this very town, hence earning the name "Gokarna," which translates to "Cow's Ear." This mythological tale is also linked to the fascinating legend of Gokarna and the Atmalinga.

Picture - iStock

Legends And Stories of Gokarna

The legend of lord shiva and the atmalinga of gokarna.

World's second tallest Shiva staue at Murudeshwar temple (Picture - Atma Nirvana)

The most celebrated legend of Gokarna revolves around the Atmalinga, a sacred idol of Lord Shiva. According to Hindu mythology, Ravana, the mighty demon king of Lanka, was an ardent devotee of Lord Shiva. In his quest for immortality and divine powers, Ravana embarked on a rigorous penance at Mount Kailash, the abode of Lord Shiva.

Pleased with Ravana's devotion and tenacity, Lord Shiva appeared before him and offered to grant any wish. Ravana, driven by his ambition, requested the Atmalinga, a divine and invincible representation of Lord Shiva's essence which could make him invincible, to be taken back to Lanka. Despite warnings from sages and gods about the consequences of possessing such power, Ravana remained steadfast in his determination.

Lord Shiva agreed to grant Ravana's wish, but under one condition: the Atmalinga should not be placed on the ground during the journey back to Lanka. If it touched the land, it would become immovable and stay at that place forever.

Carrying the Atmalinga in his hands, Ravana began his journey towards Lanka. The gods were concerned that Ravana's possession of the Atmalinga could lead to chaos and destruction. Seeking to protect the world, they sought the assistance of Lord Vishnu. Lord Vishnu devised a plan and he realised that Ganapati was alone capable of doing it, he along with all the gods pleaded Ganapati to execute the plan. Ganapati accepted and reached Gokarna disguised as a Brahmin boy.

As Ravana was nearing Gokarna, Lord Vishnu was well aware that Ravana was disciplined while performing his periodical prayers, hiding sun with his Sudarshana Chakra— Ravana ended up thinking that it was time to perform his evening rites, Ravana finds the Brahmin boy (Ganesha) and asks him to hold the Atmalinga until he came back from his prayers. Ganapati agreed to hold the linga on one condition that he would do so until he would be able to take the weight of linga and that once he won’t be able to, he would call Ravana three times and if failed to come to him, he would place the linga on the land.

Ganapati calls Ravana three times when he is performing his prayers and places the linga on the land and he vanishes as he doesn’t return while he was in the middle of his rites. The Atmalinga at once got firmly entrenched in the earth. Upset, king Ravana was deeply agitated and tried to pull up the linga, but the linga did not even move. It resulted in him throwing the coverings of the Linga to Dhareshwara, Gunavanteshwara, Murudeshwara and Shejjeshwar (now these are sacred temples). Ravana failed to lift the linga from the ground again and named the Shiva linga as Mahabala, one with great strength, and ever since, the linga is popularly called as Mahabaleshwara. The Atmalinga remained in Gokarna, becoming a symbol of Lord Shiva's divine presence and a sacred pilgrimage site for devotees. It is believed that the lingam in the Mahabaleshwar Temple, the principal temple of Gokarna, is the very Atmalinga that Ravana tried to carry to Lanka. Visiting the temple brings this story of Gokarna to life!

The Legends of Sanctums of Gokarna

The Gokarna Mahabaleshwar Temple, built in the 4th century (Picture - Trawell.in)

Gokarna's spiritual aura is palpable and draws devotees and pilgrims from all corners of the country. The Mahabaleshwar Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, stands as a testament to the town's spiritual legacy. Built in the Dravidian architectural style, the temple features intricate carvings and sculptures that depict various mythological legends (of Gokarna included). The main idol, the Atmalinga, is enshrined in the sanctum and is open to worship by devotees.

The temple is often filled with devotees during major festivals like Maha Shivaratri, when they throng to seek Lord Shiva's blessings and partake in the grand celebrations. The air is filled with the fragrance of incense, the sound of bells, and the chants of "Om Namah Shivaya," creating an atmosphere of devotion and piety.

Adjacent to the Mahabaleshwar Temple is the Maha Ganapati Temple, dedicated to Lord Ganesha, the remover of obstacles. It is customary for pilgrims to visit this temple before proceeding to the Mahabaleshwar Temple, seeking Lord Ganesha's blessings for a smooth and successful spiritual journey.

The Legends of Miraculous Cave Temples of Gokarna

Koti Tirtha's serene sanctum, at Gokarna (Picture - Gokarna Tourism)

Gokarna is not only renowned for its grand temples but also for its unique cave temples, which add to the town's mystical appeal with their legends of Gokarna. One such remarkable site is the Koti Tirtha, a sacred tank that is said to wash all your sins away. Legend has it that the mystic bird Garuda once scooped up Saptashrungi mountain (lord Brahma’s home) and flew away with it, according to legends. When Lord Brahma saw it, he was furious and commanded Garuda to place it on the ground. Garuda dropped it partly on land and partly in the sea. Half of the tirthas on it were immersed in water during this incident, and the leftover one crore were said to have been set on the ground in Gokarna. The literal meaning of the words koti is crore, and tirtha means sacred streams, forming the Koti Tirtha. The annual Koti Linga pilgrimage, held during Karthika Masa (falls between October and November), witnesses thousands of pilgrims visiting Gokarna to bathe in the holy waters of Koti Tirtha and seek divine benediction.

Another notable cave temple is the Shree Bhadrakali Temple, dedicated to the fierce form of Goddess Parvati, known as Bhadrakali. Nestled amidst lush greenery, this temple holds a unique aura that reflects the balance between the gentle and ferocious aspects of the divine feminine. These places give a deep dive into the rich and interesting legends of Gokarna while additionally, letting you experience the culture of the town.

Festivals and Celebrations of Gokarna

Gokarna's colourful and bright Mahashivratri festival (Picture - The New Indian Express)

Gokarna's cultural vibrancy is at its peak during festivals and celebrations. Maha Shivaratri, celebrated with great enthusiasm, witnesses the town adorned with lights and decorations. The streets come alive with processions, music, and dance as devotees celebrate the marriage of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati (It’s as if all the legends of Gokarna come to life during this time). The Karthika Masa, which falls between November and December, invites the Koti Linga pilgrimage and attracts many devotees from all over the country, who embark on a spiritual journey by visiting various temples and holy sites. The atmosphere is filled with devotion, and the entire town is engulfed in the aroma of incense and flowers.

Parting thoughts:

Gokarna , a town of legends, spirituality, and natural beauty, is a tapestry woven with threads of myth and history. The captivating tales of Lord Shiva and the Atmalinga have immortalised this coastal gem, drawing travellers from far and wide. While it remains a sacred pilgrimage site, Gokarna's fame has transcended spiritual boundaries, becoming a haven for seekers of both serenity and adventure.

Whether one seeks solace in the ancient temples or basks in the sun-kissed beaches, Gokarna promises an enchanting and unforgettable experience, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts of all who visit.

What to do now?

To explore these legends about Gokarna's history, click here.

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