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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.

Explore Other Places

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

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• 10 Water Sports In Gokarna: Delve Into Unlimited Fun Activities

25 Oct 2021

Besides popular temples, the small temple town of Gokarna on India’s western coast in Uttara Kannada district of Karnataka is equally known and famous for its clean beaches. They attract travellers from all over the world to feel the peaceful vibes while also exploring the region to the best possible extent. Beaches are all about sands, shades, sun, waves, seafood stalls, beach shacks, and beach volleyball et al. The most thrilling of all this are water sports in Gokarna that literally keep the tourists hooked.

India has a rich heritage, where an ordinary looking village may amaze you with its hidden beauty. Gokarna in Karnataka is one such example. Here are the list of water sports in Gokarna that give the travellers an opportunity to make the best use of their time.

1. Jet Skiing

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Jet Skiing is counted amongst one of the most exciting water sports in Gokarna that as an activity enchants many people. The average power of the Jet Ski remains 100-135 hp. The great thing about such machines is that you don’t need to be an expert in riding them. They are easiest to handle, and in addition to that, instructors are readily available to help you.

Duration: 10-15 minutes Cost of Activity: INR 450/- Onwards Water Temperature: Ranges from 28-30 degrees from Oct-March Best Spot: Om Beach Other Activities to Do: Beach trekking, morning walk, etc. How to Reach: The location is easily accessible via Public or Private transport.

Must Read: 35 Things To Do In Gokarna To Escape The Monotony Of Life

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2. Banana Boat Ride

Banana Boat riding is one of the best water sports in Gokarna to explore the beautiful Arabian sea. The Banana Boat ride gives you ample surprise movements with some really unforgettable memories to cherish. The exciting part of this ride is that the driver of the powered boat attempts to flip the banana boat upside-down by doing sharp turns for fun.

Duration: 15 min Cost of Activity: INR 600/- Onwards Water Temperature: Ranges from 28-30 degrees from Oct-March Best Spot: Om beach, Gokarna Beach Other Activities to Do: Parasailing, snorkelling, sightseeing, other water sports like surfing, scuba diving et al. How to Reach: Reachable by road, train and airways.

Suggested Read: 5 Best Hotels In Gokarna For Offbeat Travelers

3. Scuba Diving

Gokarna has some amazing places to go for Scuba Diving. So, if you are a beach person and planning to go for scuba diving this vacation, here is your chance. In the Gokarna Beaches , you will also get to see some of the most beautiful sea flowers and many different kinds of corals as well.

Duration: 30-45 min Cost of Activity: INR 300/- Onwards Water Temperature: Ranges from 28-30 degrees from Oct-March Best Spots: Om Beach, Gokarna Beach, Kudle Beach Rd Other Activities to Do: Boating, beach walk, camping, underwater photography, sightseeing. How to Reach: All kinds of private and public transport is easily available to the boarding point.

Suggested Read: 15 Best Places To Visit In Gokarna For A Harmonious Flee

Surfing is becoming a popular sport in India. For catching the waves, you just need to be at the right place at the right time. Waves usually rise between three to five feet most of the year. And, the best beach waves can be found on the main Beach near the Mahabaleshwar Temple.

Duration: 1.5- 2 hrs Cost of Activity: INR 450/- Onwards Water Temperature: Ranges from 28-30 degrees from Oct-March Best Spot: Kundle Beach and Om Beach are worthwhile places for water sports in Gokarna. Other Activities to Do: Beach Trekking, Shanti Yoga, visit Mahabaleshwara and Maha Ganpati Temple. How to Reach: The location can be easily accessed by the Public or Private transports.

Suggested Read: 7 Major Airports In Karnataka For A Safe & Joyful Trip In The Air

5. Parasailing

It is an entertaining water sport, with two important instruments namely – the parachute and a speedboat. This sport is a prominent one in Gokarna. One of the safest things with this sport is that this remains the most well-maintained beach activity. You are abreast of it what make Parasailing best in India.

Duration: 3-4 hrs Cost of Activity: INR 1000/- Onwards Water Temperature: Ranges from 28-30 degrees from Oct-March Best Spots: Om Beach Other Activities To Do: Beach trekking, shopping, morning walk, Yoga point, visiting famous temples. How to Reach: Om Beach can be reached by either walking or hiring an auto for the short ride. The nearest airport is the Dabolim Airport in Goa.

Suggested Read: 14 Gokarna Resorts For Every Budget, Meant For Blissful Stay

6. Speed Boating

Gokarna, being located between Karnataka and Goa, is blessed with the pristine white sandy shores and crystal blue waters. It is advised to get a brief on the activity and follow each and every minute instruction. And, finally, you can feel the powdered sea drops as you cut through the waves since speed boating is amongst the top water sports in Gokarna.

Duration: Around 15-20 minutes Cost of Activity: INR 1000/- Onwards Water Temperature: Ranges from 28-30 degrees from Oct-March Best Spots: Om Beach Other Activities to Do: Beach trekking, yoga, etc. How to Reach: Local Transportation is available from the major points of connectivity.

Suggested Read: 10 Awesome Places To Visit Near Coorg On Your Next Holiday To Karnataka

7. Snorkelling

Gokarna is known for its snorkelling sites as well. The exciting thing about snorkelling here is that water is relatively free of rip tides, which makes it one of the best water sports in Gokarna to enjoy.

Duration: Each session lasts for around 10-15 minutes Cost of Activity: INR 1500/- Onwards Water Temperature: Ranges from 28-30 degrees from Oct-March Other Activities to Do: Beach trekking, silvery moonlight on the full moon nights, morning walks, Yoga. How to Reach: The location can be easily accessed by Public or Private transports.

Suggested Read: Get Ready To Swoosh Across The Jog Falls While Ziplining In Karnataka!

8. River Rafting

The experience of white water rafting in Kali River in Dandeli is the most happening water game in Dandeli. Dandeli remains a top water sport in Gokarna location. The best time to go for rafting is during the rainy seasons.

Duration: Each session lasts for around 10-15 minutes Cost of Activity: INR 1400/- Onwards Water Temperature: Ranges from 27-31 degrees from Oct-April Best Spot: Kali River Other Activities to Do: Beach trekking, Yoga point etc. How to Reach: Public or Private transport services.

Suggested Read: 7 Things To Do In Tumkur That Are Worth Taking A Trip To Karnataka

9. Bumper Ride

Gokarna is one of the scenic beach towns in Uttara Karnataka. Considered one of the most popular places for water sports in Gokarna, Om beach remains an ideal location for Bumper Rides. Such boat rides are of around 15 minutes and are full of fun and enjoyment. Moreover, never forget to follow the instructor.

Duration: Each session lasts for around 15 minutes Cost of Activity: INR 700/- Onwards Water Temperature: Ranges from 28-30 degrees from Oct-March Best Spot: Om Beach, Gokarna Other Activities to Do: Beach trekking and morning walks etc. How to Reach: Located at the outskirts of Karnataka, Gokarna can be easily accessed by Public or Private transports.

Suggested Read: 10 Best Adventure Activities In Karnataka That Will Sweep You Off Your Feet

10. Swimming

Among the many water sports on Gokarna beaches, swimming is considered as a favourite one. The depth of the water is linearly gradual. It is advised for those who are not good at swimming to refrain from it. It is a calm beach and one of the best spots along the Arabian Seashores for a good swim, therefore, swimming exploration is worth trying.

Duration: Not Fixed Cost of Activity: Not applicable Water Temperature: Ranges from 28-30 degrees from Oct-March Best Spot: Gokarna Beach Other Activities to Do: Camping on the beach, beach trekking, sightseeing, cave exploration. How to Reach: The location can be easily accessed by Public or Private transports.

Further Read: 9 Museums In Karnataka: Top Creative Spots With A Rich Heritage

As the cost of water sports in Gokarna is comparatively a pittance, hardly do any of the sports make you feel financially overburdened. You simply need to focus on involving in them dedicatedly. Make sure that you keep a tab on the health instructions and then you are free to have loads of fun while on your trip to Gokarna .

Disclaimer: TravelTriangle claims no credit for images featured on our blog site unless otherwise noted. All visual content is copyrighted to its respectful owners. We try to link back to original sources whenever possible. If you own the rights to any of the images, and do not wish them to appear on TravelTriangle, please contact us and they will be promptly removed. We believe in providing proper attribution to the original author, artist or photographer.

Please Note: Any information published by TravelTriangle in any form of content is not intended to be a substitute for any kind of medical advice, and one must not take any action before consulting a professional medical expert of their own choice.

Frequently Asked Questions About Water Sports In Gokarna

How many beaches are there in Gokarna?

Gokarna has five major beaches, namely the Gokarna Beach, Kudle Beach, Om Beach, Half Moon Beach and Paradise Beach.

What should be worn while going for Jet Skiing?

For skiing, usually a bathing suit and live-vest are enough. But, if the water or weather is on the colder side, then a wetsuit or drysuit would be better.

Is Camping allowed in Gokarna?

Yes, camping is allowed in Gokarna. Paradise Beach in Gokarna is the only beach where camping is the most feasible.

What is the best season to visit Gokarna?

The best time to visit Gokarna is from October to March. At this time, the weather is warm and pleasant with an average temperature of 32 degree celsius.

What is the distance between Goa and Gokarna?

The aerial distance, road distance, is 91 km and 147 km respectively. And, the distance through railways is 87 km.

Is Gokarna safe?

It is one of the safest places to travel in South India, especially for those who are travelling solo.

How many days are enough for Gokarna?

Minimum 3 and a maximum of 4 days are enough to witness all the iconic attractions and experience the thrilling activities of Gokarna.

How to reach Gokarna?

Gokarna is easily accessible. It is connected by various major cities nearby via different modes of transport that is by air, road and railways.

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Top Things to Do in Gokarna, Karnataka

Places to visit in gokarna, explore popular experiences, tours in and around gokarna.

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

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

Gokarna Beach Trek

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

Areca Plantation Walk & Vegetarian Breakfast at Areca County

Shore & Cities of Karnataka

Gokarna Nature Walk (3 Hours Guided Trekking Experience)

Gokarna Food Crawl (2 Hours Guided Food Tasting Tour)

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

Bangalore to Kovalam South India Temple & Beach

Private sightseeing tours, top attractions in gokarna.

Other Top Attractions around Gokarna

Cultural & Theme Tours

Tours & sightseeing, walking & biking tours, what travellers are saying.

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

21 Best Tourist Places to Visit in Gokarna

Gokarna is a beautiful coastal town on the west coast of India. And it’s a must-visit if you want to enjoy a vibrant culture, spirituality and natural beauty in one place. It’s a perfect blend of pristine beaches, serene temples and lush greenery.

The beaches are the top places to visit in Gokarna. They’re the highlights of Gokarna. You’ll be mesmerized by the crystal-clear waters, soft sand and breathtaking sunsets you witness.

Om Beach, Paradise Beach and Kudle Beach are the most popular beaches in Gokarna. They offer stunning views of the Arabian Sea, and they’re perfect for relaxing and rejuvenating. You can sunbathe, swim or simply soak up the town’s laid-back charm.

Gokarna is a hidden gem of a destination. The laid-back vibe of the beaches makes it an irresistible destination. And it attracts tourists from all over the world, providing them with an escape from city life.

Apart from its beaches, Gokarna is also known for its ancient Hindu temples. They’re some of the most revered religious sites in the country.

The Mahabaleshwar Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, is the most popular. It’s a 16th-century shrine built in the Dravidian style, with Sahyadri Hills in the backdrop. And it has a spiritual environment everyone can relax in, while participating in daily rituals.

Whether you want a relaxing beach holiday, a spiritual journey, or an adventure in the bright outdoors, Gokarna is ideal. This tropical paradise offers a buffet of experiences to its visitors.

Check this list of places to visit in Gokarna and nearby, and plan an itinerary to experience its charm for once.

1. Mahabaleshwar Temple

Mahabaleshwar Temple is a historic and culturally rich temple in Gokarna. It’s a Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, and it’s considered one of the important pilgrimage sites for Hindus. The shrine also finds mention in the Hindu epics Ramayana and Mahabharata.

It’s also called Dakshin Kashi (Kashi of the South). A 6-foot-tall Shivalinga is the presiding deity worshipped in the temple. The devotees can see only the top of the linga, but believe that even a glimpse of it brings blessings.

As per the customs, you must take a dip in the beach nearby before entering the temple. It’s also believed that you should take blessings from Lord Ganesha in the nearby Maha Ganapati Temple before coming to this temple.

Besides its religious significance, Mahabaleshwar Temple is known for its architectural beauty, too. It’s a beautiful example of Dravidian architecture. The intricate carvings, stunning architecture and peaceful atmosphere of the temple make it a must-visit place.

• Entry Fee: Free
• Timings: 6 AM – 12.30 PM and 5 PM – 8 PM
• Distance from Gokarna: Close to city center

2. Maha Ganapati Temple

Maha Ganapati Temple in Gokarna is another must-visit temple after Mahabaleshwar Temple. It’s dedicated to Hindu god Ganesha, and it’s located next to Mahabaleshwar Temple.

The temple deity is a black stone idol of Lord Ganesha. And as per the traditions, devotees must visit this temple before entering Mahabaleshwara Temple. You’re supposed to seek the blessing of Lord Ganesha to have your wishes fulfilled by Lord Shiva.

The temple is built in the Dravidian style of Architecture. And you’ll see beautiful sculptures on the wall of the temple. Maha Shivratri is the festival celebrated with lots of joy when lakhs of pilgrims come here to take the blessing of Lord Ganesha and then Lord Shiva.

• Timings: 5 AM – 12 PM and 4 PM – 9 PM

3. Kudle Beach

Kudle Beach is a picturesque beach known for its crystal-clear waters. It’s one of the most popular beaches in Gokarna, with breathtaking sunsets. The peaceful atmosphere of Kudle Beach makes it the perfect place for a relaxed beach getaway.

The beach is close to Mahabaleshwar Temple. And it’s among the most blissful places to visit near Gokarna Mahabaleshwar Temple.

The water at Kudle is calm and shallow enough to go for a refreshing swim. You can also enjoy activities like surfing, parasailing and jet-skiing. And if you don’t want to, you can lie flat soaking up the sun.

In addition to the activities, you should also try the restaurants and cafes nearby. They serve a range of local and international cuisines.

Kudle Beach is a preferred destination for those who want a serene place to practice yoga and meditation. While the morning hours belong to people doing exercises, the evenings are for those who want to go for a romantic walk along the shore. The sunsets are mesmerising.

• Timings: 6 AM – 6 PM
• Distance from Gokarna: 7 km from city center

4. Om Beach

Om Beach is a crescent-shaped beach close to Kudle Beach. It’s another popular beach in Gokarna, offering an unforgettable beach experience. The shape of the shoreline resembles the “Om” symbol. Two crescents join together to form the “Om” shape, which you can see from the nearby cliff or via a drone.

The beach is the host to most of the water sports in Gokarna. You can enjoy kayaking, jet-skiing and banana boat rides, to name a few. It’s also among the busiest places in the town. You can even go on dolphin-spotting rides in Om Beach.

Along with irregular rock formations that give the beach a texture, the forest and lush greenery surrounding it give it a character. You can capture some memorable scenery amidst the rocky terrain shrouded in greenery.

Watching the sunset from Om Beach is always a marvellous experience. The beach is lined with shacks offering global menus in their rustic environment.

Om Beach is also the starting point for a trek (or boat ride) to Half Moon Beach and Paradise Beach nearby.

5. Half Moon Beach

Half Moon Beach is a secluded and peaceful beach in Gokarna, having a striking resemblance to that of a half moon. It has a small and rocky shore, surrounded by thick forests, which is accessible only on foot or via boat.

If you’re looking for a peaceful beach time, Half Moon Beach is an ideal place. It’s the best place to spend time away from civilization, gazing at the star-lit sky. Here, it’s only you and the infinite sea splashing its waves on the rocks.

The beach is separated from Om Beach by a cliff. You can get a panoramic view of the sea from the top as you walk down to Half Moon Beach.

6. Paradise Beach

Paradise Beach is another secluded and unspoiled beach spread across the coast of Gokarna. Much of the beach is covered in rocks, and can be reached only if you hike your way over and around the rocks. The hike will take you to the best part, adorned with clean white sand.

It’s an excellent destination to set camp and spend the night under a starry sky. A freshwater well on the beach has ample water for your needs.

A stroll along the coast is quite relaxing. The serene environment of the beach provides a great opportunity to spend time in the lap of nature away from the crowd. Swimming, also is delightful, as long as you’re close to the shore.

• Distance from Gokarna: 8 km from city center

7. Gokarna Main Beach

Gokarna Main Beach is mainly a pilgrimage destination. It’s a long, open beach crowded with religious tourists. Devotees come over here to take a dip and wash their sins. Then, they head off to pray at Mahabaleshwar Temple nearby.

Other popular activities at Gokarna Beach are practicing yoga and meditation. The peaceful and spiritual environment of the beach attracts many health enthusiasts. The quiet mornings of the beach make it an ideal place to connect with nature and find inner peace.

Also, shopping at Gokarna Main Beach is an excellent opportunity to explore the local culture. Religious souvenirs such as prayer beads and idols of deities are popular among pilgrims.

The beach has many street vendors and shops selling traditional handicrafts and clothing items. You’ll also find bags, purses, trinkets and other things representing the local culture to take back home. Trendy backpacks are a favourite, usually among solo tourists.

8. Koti Teertha

Koti Teertha is one of the popular religious places to visit in Gokarna other than its temples. It’s a sacred man-made tank used for ritual bathing and immersing idols. Many people take a dip in the lake with the belief that it washes away all their sins.

It’s within walking distance from Mahabaleshwar Temple, and many other small temples surround it. It offers a quaint spiritual ambience for those seeking inner peace.

Koti Teertha is believed to be the origin of a thousand springs. Local people and religious tourists revere it.

• Timings: 6 AM – 9 PM

9. Yana Caves

Yana Caves is a popular tourist destination near the coastal town of Gokarna. It’s a unique rock formation with two massive black rock pillars in a remote forest. Tourists love the place also for its stunning natural beauty.

A trip to Yana Caves is popular among those looking for adventure activities around Gokarna. It’s one of the top nearby places to visit in Gokarna.

Trekking is the most popular activity at Yana Caves. You have to walk through dense forests to reach the caves. And the destination welcomes you with towering rock formations to admire. You can enjoy its breathtaking scenery, gurgling streams and majestic wildlife as you trek through the muddy trails.

The ride from Gokarna to Yana Caves is equally fascinating. You can feel the air getting colder and the landscape becoming greener as you ride up the hilly terrain.

If you’re interested in learning about the religious and cultural significance of the caves, hire a guide for the trek. You’ll learn about the various legends and myths associated with the caves.

• Entry Fee: ₹20 per person
• Timings: 8 AM – 6 PM
• Distance from Gokarna: 51 km

10. Mirjan Fort

Mirjan Fort is a hidden gem in Gokarna and another of the must-visit places nearby. It dates back to the 16th century, and it’s a testament to the rich cultural heritage of the region. With its picturesque location on a hill, the fort offers stunning views of the coastline.

The fort is spread over 10 acres, and you can approach the interiors through the steps. It’s in ruins. But you can explore the ramparts and bastions which have stood the test of time.

Mirjan Fort was built by Nawayath Sultanate, and it’s a must-visit place if you love to explore nature. The serene environment makes it an ideal spot to unwind. You can enjoy a picnic or a relaxing walk in the lush green gardens surrounding the fort.

The fort gives the impression of a fairy-tale castle from the bygone era. It has moats, secret passageways and various other fortifications to ensure safety. And it’s believed to have witnessed many past battles in the 16th and 17th centuries.

Legends say that Mirjan Fort was among the most important places for the spice trade with Dutch, Portuguese and British. It’s well-preserved today by the Archaeological Survey of India.

• Distance from Gokarna: 25 km

11. Murudeshwar

Murudeshwar is a small, stunning seaside town near Gokarna. It’s famous for its Lord Shiva temple, with one of the tallest statues of Lord Shiva in the world. The statue towers over the Arabian Sea, giving the impression as if emerging from the sea.

The temple, too, is a beautiful reflection of the Hindu religion. And it offers visitors a spiritual retreat and a peaceful atmosphere for meditation and reflection.

Besides its religious significance, Murudeshwar is known for its pristine beaches and natural beauty. You can spend a day lounging on the soft, golden sand or having a refreshing swim in the sea. The town is also surrounded by lush green hills and forests.

If you’re looking for places to visit in Gokarna for scuba diving and snorkelling, Murudeshwar is one of the best places. The crystal-clear waters and vibrant coral reefs are a perfect setting for exploring the underwater world.

It’s among the most beautiful places to visit near Gokarna and a favourite picnic spot for the local people. The beaches and the adventure activities around attract many people.

• Timings: 3 AM – 1 PM and 3 PM – 8 PM
• Distance from Gokarna: 81 km

12. Jog Falls

Jog Falls is a scenic waterfall near Shimoga, among the most popular places to visit from Gokarna. It’s a majestic natural wonder and one of the highest waterfalls in India. It’s a must-visit destination for tourists looking to experience the raw beauty of nature.

The waterfall cascades down a cliff in multiple tiers, creating a picturesque scene that will take your breath away. You can watch it from different viewpoints at the top.

If you’re looking for a more immersive experience, take a scenic hike to the base of Jog Falls, and feel the mist of the crashing water on your face. The trek also provides an opportunity to explore the surrounding jungle and soak in the beauty of the place.

You can visit Jog Falls as a day trip from Gokarna. And on the way, you can explore several activities and places to visit in Gokarna with friends.

• Entry Fee: ₹10 per person
• Timings: 7.30 AM – 9.30 PM
• Distance from Gokarna: 115 km

13. Bhadrakali Temple

Bhadrakali Temple can be among your go-to local places to visit in Gokarna for a soulful and spiritual experience in the silence of the day. You’ll find the temple right at the city entrance.

Goddess Uma, in the form of Kali, is worshipped here. Kali is in her ferocious form, with big eyes staring out in anger and four hands holding weapons. She’s believed to be the protector of Gokarna.

Bhadrakali Temple is a part of the Mahabaleshwar Temple complex, and it’s close to many other popular temples of Gokarna. It’s relatively simple compared to many other magnificent temples in the vicinity.

It’s not as popular as Mahabaleshwar Temple but many people visit it and take the blessings of Goddess Uma. Especially on Fridays, devotees flung from all corners of the city to pray.

14. Nirvana Beach

Nirvana Beach is a lesser-known and secluded beach near Gokarna. It’s a beautiful place in Kumta, perfect for beach lovers and adventure seekers. This pristine stretch of crystal-clear waters is a true paradise for those looking to escape bustling daily life.

You can spend your day soaking up the sun and swimming in the warm waters. It’s also an excellent spot to watch the setting sun and the evening orange-grey hues of the sky.

Nirvana Beach is a perfect destination to connect with nature and create memorable moments for a lifetime. With its serene surroundings and crystal-clear waters, you can have a relaxing beach getaway and spend some peaceful time with family and friends.

While the beach offers gorgeous views, it doesn’t have a lot of water activities. You can always try fishing, beach-side camping and all-night bonfires.

• Distance from Gokarna: 10 km

15. Belekan Beach

Belekan Beach is a secluded beach in a remote location surrounded by mountains. It’s known for its clear blue waters and magnificent views of the hills around. A peaceful beach with no crowd, Belekan Beach is a perfect destination for nature lovers.

Belekan Beach allows you to just sit back and relax after a long day of travels and treks. The sunsets here, too, are particularly alluring.

While the beach doesn’t have many water sports facilities, you can enjoy beach-side games like frisbee and volleyball with your friends. Other activities you can enjoy here are swimming, looking at occasional dolphins, and building sandcastles.

At Belekan Beach, you’ll also find plenty of opportunities for nature photography. It provides excellent views of blue waters, coconut and palm fronds, and gorgeous sunsets illuminating the rocky beach.

16. Shiva Cave

Shiva Cave is a lesser-known Hindu temple in Gokarna. Tucked away on a mountainside, it’s an old sacred location known locally as Gogarbha (cow’s womb) Cave. And it’s among the best places to visit in Gokarna for those who seek tranquility.

The cave temple has a Shivalinga where devotees meditate. It’s said that this linga belongs to Ravana, the king of Lanka. He received it from Lord Shiva with a warning that wherever the linga touches the land, it would establish itself there.

Ravana was tricked into placing the linga on the ground. And it caused this cave to manifest around the linga.

The interior of Shiva Cave temple is dark and eerie. It’s also home to a large number of bats. So, visiting the cave, even in broad daylight, can be unsettling. It would help if you take a torch with you when you’re going to explore the cave.

• Distance from Gokarna: 6 km from city center

17. Mahalasa Temple

Mahalasa Temple (also known as Shri Mahalasa Siddhivinayaka Temple) is another revered temple in Gokarna. It’s a 150-year-old temple built with a small idol of Sri Siddhivinayaka (Lord Ganesha).

Later it was dedicated to the Kuladevata, by the Gauda Saraswat Brahmin community. And it was reconstructed entirely.

A large number of devotees gather during festivals and special occasions and pray for their well-being. Some of the most important festivals observed here are Ganesh Chaturthi, Ashwin Shashti and Shravana Sankashti. These festivals are celebrated with all the grandeur.

• Distance from Gokarna: 10 km from city center

Kumta is a charming town on the coastline of the Arabian Sea, close to Gokarna. This glorious beach town is known for its beaches and natural beauty. It’s all about relaxing, unwinding and enjoying its picturesque surroundings.

Beaches like Baada Beach, Kumta Beach and Dhareshwar Beach adorn the coast of Kumta. The sound of waves splashing the shore creates a calming ambience.

It’s also home to Nirvana Beach and Hodbandur Beach.

Apart from its beaches, tourists visit this small town for water activities. You’ll find many water sports in and around the town.

Then, there’s Yana Caves, known for its magnificence. It’s closer to Kumta than Gokarna, and it’s a must-visit. Rock climbing and trekking are other adventure activities that tourists should try during their visit.

• Distance from Gokarna: 35 km

Karwar is a port city near Gokarna known for its water sports. The town is dotted with pristine beaches, making it a popular tourist destination. You can enjoy the games or take a long stroll on the picturesque beaches.

Rabindranath Tagore Beach is the most popular here. And it’s counted among the best beach places to visit near Gokarna. It’s said that this serene and peaceful stretch of sand motivated Rabindranath Tagore to write his first play. Today, it’s a hub for diving and snorkelling.

Majali Beach, Tilmati Beach and Binaga Beach are other beaches you can visit in Karwar. You can enjoy various activities like dolphin spotting, bird watching and boat cruises here.

If you’re interested in exploring the city’s history and culture, you can start at Sadashivgad Hill Fort. Among the other popular places of tourist interest are Kot Shiveshwar, Dargah of Peer Shan Shamsuddin Kharobat and Oyster Rock Lighthouse.

Karwar Harbour, Kurmagad Island and Warship Museum are a few other places that might pique your interest in Karwar.

In addition to its beaches and historical landmarks, Karwar is also known for its lip-smacking seafood. You can sample some fresh seafood dishes prepared using traditional methods.

• Distance from Gokarna: 61 km

Sirsi is a small town near Gokarna known for centuries-old temples and monuments. Among the most prominent ones are the ancient temples in Banavasi, like Madhukeshwara Temple. Many people visit them because of the heritage architecture and delicate carvings. Green and expansive farms surrounding them make the place a relaxing getaway.

Marikamba Temple and Sahasralinga Temple are other must-visit temples in and around Sirsi. The majestic Unchalli Falls is another point of tourist interest that adds Sirsi to the list of top nearby places to visit in Gokarna.

Then, there is Sodhe, a historical spot every history lover should explore. At Sodhe, you can spot beautiful rock art and patterns dating back to prehistoric times.

Sirsi is the ultimate destination for a one-day getaway from Gokarna. A trip through the green forests and hills will make your Gokarna holiday refreshing.

• Distance from Gokarna: 84 km

21. Yellapur

Yellapur is a small town near Gokarna. It’s a beautiful holiday destination with a heart-warming climate, natural sights and cascading waterfalls. And it’s among the preferred places to visit near Gokarna for nature lovers and adventure travellers.

It’s a tourist hotspot with a variety of pretty waterfalls. The most popular is Sattoddi Falls, with its green forest landscape. Shirley Falls and Magod Falls, with their pristine waters, are the other falls you should visit.

The town also has some stunning trekking trails surrounded by dense vegetation and various wildlife species. Jenukallu Gudda trek is especially famous. It offers a wholesome experience and takes you to spectacular sunset views.

Other Places to Visit in Gokarna

Apart from these famous tourist places, there are many more places to be visited in Gokarna. If you’re into adventure, you can trek to the Gokarna cliff. The Cliff provides you a panoramic view of the entire blue ocean beneath you. You can also view the surrounding landscapes and the river flowing nearby from the top.

Uppin Ganpati Temple (also known as Vinayakar Temple) is another of the famous Gokarna tourist places to visit. And if you have time, drive to Udupi to see the magnificent Sri Krishna Temple and Anegudde Vinayaka Temple.

You must also take a food tour and test your taste buds while in Gokarna. You’ll find local cuisines as well as fusion seafood dishes in the restaurants of Gokarna.

Gokarna also has an active nightlife. It has several beach shacks and cafes with live music and drinks. Some beach-side shacks also organize bonfires till the wee hours of the morning.

You must also explore the local markets and street shops while in town. Shopping in Gokarna is all about buying souvenirs like brass lamps, prayer beads and other religious items. Picture frames and statues of deities are also available in the shops.

Other items to check in the flea markets are musical instruments, handmade jewellery and decorative items made of seashells. Medicinal herbs and spices are also found in Gokarna.

During your Gokarna trip, you must also see all the prominent places to visit around Gokarna. Apsarkonda needs a special mention here. The village is known for its unexplored beaches and waterfalls.

Then, there's the lush Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary nearby, offering an authentic jungle adventure. You can take jeep safaris or trek past the dense vegetation. Anshi National Park (also called Kali Tiger Reserve) inside the wildlife sanctuary has a wealth of wildlife wonders to explore.

Gokarna is a pleasant amalgam of nature, culture and religion. It’s slow and relaxing, and you can easily visit all the places over a long weekend. It has several charming beaches, vibrant shops and tranquil temples to explore. Every corner of the town exudes serenity, but it also offers endless adrenaline-pumping opportunities.

And when you want to go beyond the places to visit in Gokarna, rent a bike and take a ride around. You can explore the hills, ride through the forests, or walk around the beaches. You can even zoom along the roads to the neighbouring towns.

Plan your visit between November and February when the weather in Gokarna is the best. It’s connected well by roads to the major cities around.

Bangalore to Gokarna Tour Packages

Hyderabad to Gokarna Tour Packages

Mumbai to Gokarna Tour Packages

Mangalore to Gokarna Tour Packages

Top Tourism Places to Visit in Gokarna

• Kudle Beach Gokarna
• Om Beach Gokarna
• Paradise Beach Gokarna
• Mahabaleshwar Temple Gokarna
• Half Moon Beach Gokarna
• Gokarna Beach
• Maha Ganapati Temple Gokarna
• Cocopelli Surf School Gokarna
• Kotitirtha Gokarna
• Shiva Cave Gokarna
• Anshi National Park Gokarna
• Murudeshwara Temple Gokarna
• Yana Gokarna
• Lalguli Falls Gokarna
• Kumta near Gokarna
• Mirjan Fort Gokarna
• Bhadrakali Temple Gokarna
• Baada beach Gokarna
• Belekan Beach Gokarna
• Mahalasa Temple Gokarna
• Small Hell Beach Gokarna
• Sirsi Gokarna
• Nirvana Beach Gokarna
• Yellapur Gokarna
• Karwar Gokarna
• Jog Falls Gokarna

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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26 Top Places to Visit in Gokarna(Things to do Included)

Are you planning a trip to Gokarna and looking for the top places to visit and things to do? Your search ends here! After visiting multiple times, I’ve put together a complete Gokarna guide. This guide will take you on a virtual tour of Gokarna’s top attractions and activities. You’ll discover the hidden gems and must-visit spots in Gokarna, from exploring the picturesque Om Beach to embarking on a thrilling beach trek.

Read More: Plan your travel for these 14 Long weekends in 2024

Table of Contents

Best Places to visit in Gokarna

1. gokarna beach.

The main Gokarna beach is a famous tourist spot amongst the locals and is very close to the Mahabaleshwar Temple. The pilgrims who come to the temple first visit the beach to take a dip. You can also do various activities like camel riding or water sports at Gokarna Beach. 

Gokarna Beach is also the starting point of the famous Gokarna beach trek, which covers other beaches of Gokarna.

Read More: A budget trip to Gokarna in under ₹3000

2. Kudle Beach

One of the most famous beaches of Gokarna, Kudle Beach is a long-stretched beach covered with hills on both sides. 

To reach Kudle Beach from either side, you need to trek down a few hundred meters. Kudle Beach is a famous tourist spot amongst both local and international travelers. You can also opt for different water sports on Kudle Beach like jet skiing, parasailing, a banana boat ride, and many more activities.

If you are looking for a great spot to watch the sunset, Kudle Beach has to be your choice! It’s one of my favorite spots to watch the sunset.

The beach also has a lot of shacks where you can stay for cheap!

Where to Eat on Kudle Beach: Sea Rock Cafe

Where to Stay on Kudle Beach: Sea Rock Cafe has its accommodation which you can directly reach and book

3. Om Beach

Om Beach has to be the most famous beach in Gokarna. It’s called Om Beach because it’s shaped like the ‘ॐ’ religious Hindu symbol, representing the sound of ‘Om’.

To see the Om shape of the beach from a height, it’s best to view it from the Om Beach Viewpoint which lies between Om Beach and Half Moon Beach.

To reach here you can either take an auto from the town or also trek from Kudle Beach. 

The famous Namaste cafe is also situated on Om Beach, which has some amazing beachfront views. The beach is also getting popular with other activities like camel rides and dolphin-watching tours.

One can also take a boat from here to reach Paradise Beach if they don’t want to trek.

Note: Parts of Om Beach have a sudden drop in a sandbank, which can be dangerous for people who don’t know how to swim.

Where to eat on Om Beach:  Namaste Cafe, Nirvana Cafe

4. Half Moon Beach

Half Moon Beach is a cute little beach on your Gokarna beach trek. It’s a small beach shaped like a half-moon, thus the name. What’s also exciting is the scenery behind the beach with all the rice fields, it makes the whole scene very picturesque.

To reach the Half Moon beach you can either trek from Om Beach or Paradise Beach or you can take a boat from Om Beach. I would really prefer the trek, as it’s very thrilling and offers some amazing views of the sea.

There are two small restaurants on Half Moon Beach which are a great spot for a quick snack on your Gokarna Beach trek.

Read More: The perfect 3 day Gokarna itinerary

5. Paradise Beach & Small Hell Beach

Paradise Beach is your last stop on the Gokarna beach trek if you start from the town or Kudle Beach. It is a very secluded beach which can only be reached via the beach trek or boat. The beach has some amazing views and I have seen one of the best sunsets when I was camping here in 2019. 

While on the way from Half Moon Beach, you will also find a small beach on the way to Paradise Beach, this beach is called Small Hell Beach. 

Earlier, there was no official camping in Paradise Beach, so if one had to camp they had to manage everything by themselves. Currently, there is a company that manages everything for you. 

But because of this, I feel Paradise Beach has lost its charm, with so many small shops and the camping setup it’s become a tourist hub!

6. Mahabaleshwar Temple & Mahaganpati Temple

The Mahabaleshwar temple in Gokarna is one of the most prominent religious sites in the region. It is dedicated to Lord Shiva and holds great importance among Hindu devotees. 

According to the legends, Lord Shiva dropped the Atmalinga (a form of himself) into the sea at Gokarna, and it is believed that the temple was built around this sacred object. Another mythical tale associated with the temple is that it is the place where Lord Ravana performed penance to please Lord Shiva. The temple is also believed to be one of the seven sacred Muktikshetras (places of salvation) in Karnataka.

When Lord Ravana couldn’t lift the linga, he called it ‘Mahabala’ or ‘the strongest.’ That’s how the temple got its name, Mahabaleshwar.

Just beside the Mahabaleshwar temple is the Maha Ganpati temple which you should visit first according to the Hindu religious beliefs. 

Note: For men, a dhoti is mandatory to enter the temple. For women, no short or revealing clothes are allowed.

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

The temples also serve Prasad Bhojana which I will highly recommend

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

7. Middle Beach

Middle Beach in Gokarna is on the same stretch as Gokarna Beach but a little ahead and it might also be one of my favorite beaches in all of Gokarna. There are two main reasons for that. All the other beaches in Gokarna have started to get very crowded and Middle Beach is still a little untouched. The other reason is this beach has the best sunsets. 

If you want to experience the other beaches, it’s better to stay near Kudle Beach. But if you want a crowd-free beach, then Middle Beach is a great option.

Where to eat in Middle Beach: Bhagvan Cafe, Sunset Cafe, Chez Christophe French Cafe

Where to Stay in Middle Beach: Trippr Gokarna

8. Jatayu Teertha

Jatayu Teertha is another scenic spot that is also famous because of it being linked to Ramayana. Some say when Jatayu was trying to save Sita from being taken away by Ravana, he was killed and fell at the same spot. According to Hindu mythology, his wing was first cut, which landed at this spot, and he fell in a place near Varkala which is famously known as Jatayu Earth’s Centre.

This spot has some of the best views of the sea, just like the beach trek. While not many tourists know about this place, the place still has a lot of garbage.

There is no beach, but you can get closer to half-submerged rocks. The path can be a little risky, so it’s advised to not go there alone.

Jatayu Teertha falls between Gokarna Beach and Kudle Beach.

Location : Jatayu Teertha

9. Gogarbha Cave

Gogarbha Cave is still an offbeat spot in Gokarna, and not a lot of people know about it. It is also known as the Shiva Cave or Gokarna Cave and is near Kudle Beach

According to Hindu mythology, the cave is said to be where Lord Shiva came out from a cow’s ear, which is why it’s called Gogarbha.

Inside the cave, there’s a Shiva Lingam. They say that if you make a wish here, it can come true.

Location : Gogarbha Cave

10. Belekan Beach

If you want a quieter beach than Middle Beach, Belekan Beach is the one for you. The beach is famous because you can also start the Gokarna beach trek from here. The trek from here first leads you to Paradise Beach, Half Moon Beach, Om Beach, and to Kudle & Gokarna Beach.

While the beach doesn’t have many activities to do, you should visit the Anjaneya Temple which is situated close to the beach.

Places to eat in Belekan Beach : Om Shanti Paradise Cafe

These were some of the best places to visit in Gokarna. The next section focuses on places to visit near Gokarna, which can either be visited by a scooty or car

11. Kotiteertha(Holy pond of Gokarna)

I have lost count now of how many times I’ve been to Gokarna, and it was only this time(Mar’24) that I had the chance to visit Kotiteertha. It is a holy water pond and translates to  Thousand Springs or a Crore holy water. For me, this place denotes the real Gokarna. The lanes that lead you to the pond and the houses that still show the mix of Karnataka and Maharashtra cultures are truly amazing.

The locals generally visit the holy pond and take a dip in it. Don’t forget to visit the Naga temple(Snake temple) which is on the way to Kotiteertha when you come from the Ganapati Dev temple.

Location: Kotiteertha & Naga temple

Places to visit near Gokarna(Within 100kms)

12. yana caves.

Yana Caves are well known for their unique rock formations that took thousands of years to form naturally. The main attractions are two big limestone rocks called Bhairaveshwara Shikara and Mohini Shikara. These caves are sacred for Hindus and pilgrims visit them.

At the entrance of the cave is also a small temple which you must visit.

There is also a mythological story behind the formation of the caves. It is said that a demon king named Bamasura was given a boon by Lord Shiva, because of which he could burn anyone to ashes. He then started to misuse his powers. Lord Vishnu then transformed into Mohini, a seductress, and then made him burn himself to ashes, and thus the caves were formed.

The best time to visit the caves is during Maha Shivratri as the people around celebrate a 10-day-long festival at Yana Caves.

Cave timings: 8 am – 6 pm

Location: Yana Caves

Distance from Gokarna: 57 km

13. Vibhoothi Falls

Vibhoothi Falls is a beautiful waterfall located 45 km away from Gokarna. The waterfall is nestled inside the forest, and one needs to walk a few 100 meters from parking to reach the waterfall. The waterfall cascades down from a height of 25 feet and is a beautiful sight to watch. 

Don’t forget to pack your swimming gear as you can take a refreshing dip in this waterfall. For people who don’t know how to swim and want to get under the waterfalls, you’ll find a local providing life jackets at a very minimal cost. 

While there are spots to jump into the waterfall, it can be dangerous. Thus I advise you to be cautious.

Timings: 8 am -5:30 pm

Location: Vibhoothi Falls

Parking Fees: ₹10

Distance from Gokarna: 45 km

14. Murudeshwara Temple

How can a trip to Gokarna be completed without visiting the Murdeshwar Temple? Murdeshwar temple is a well-known Hindu sacred place devoted to Lord Shiva. People visit it for two main reasons:

• It has the world’s second-largest statue of Lord Shiva, towering at 37 meters (about 121 feet).
• The temple boasts the world’s second-largest gopuram (entrance tower), with 18 floors and a towering height of 72 meters (about 237 feet)

And this is not all. You can also climb(take a lift) to the 18th floor of the Gopuram and have an amazing panoramic view of the temple and sea. 

There are several other watersports that you can try near the temple. This has to be one of the most beautiful temples one can visit.

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.

Distance from Gokarna: 82 km

15. Mirjan Fort

Mirjan Fort is an old fortress constructed in the 16th century by the Vijaynagar Empire leaders. When you go there, you can check out the strong walls, secret pathways, and tall watchtowers of the fort. 

The best time to visit is during or just after the monsoon season when the fort’s walls turn lush and green due to the overgrown grass.

This astounding fort should be on your list when you visit Gokarna.

Note: You are not allowed to take your camera inside the fort, only mobile photography allowed

Fort Timings : 8 am – 5:30 pm

Distance from Gokarna: 25km

16. Nirvana Beach

Nirvana Beach is the most secluded beach near Gokarna. The beach is famous for its sandy shores and mesmerizing sunsets. To reach here, you can either take a ferry from Om Beach or come by road.

While there are few resorts to stay on this beach, it’s not crowded like any other beach in Gokarna. 

If you are looking for some quiet time, who knows you might find nirvana at this beach here.

Distance from Gokarna : 48 km

17. Honnavar Mangrove Walk

Honnavar Mangrove Walk, also known as Sharavathi Kandla Mangrove Boardwalks, is a popular tourist attraction known for its natural beauty and serene ambiance. Located in Honnavar, 45 km away from Gokarna, this nature walk has recently gained popularity because of Instagram.

The elevated wooden pathway takes you through the dense mangroves, providing stunning views of the surrounding river and its inhabitants. You can read more about the boardwalk here. This unique tourist spot is one of the best places near Gokarna. You can also take a boat ride here and explore the Honnavar backwaters.

Entry Fees: ₹10

Timings: 9 am – 6:30 pm

Location: Sharavathi Kandla Mangrove Boardwalk

Distance from Gokarna: 58 km

18. Apsarakonda Waterfalls

After visiting Vibhoothi Falls, I was excited to visit the Apsarakonda Waterfalls. Though it’s a very popular waterfall near Honnavar, it is very important to understand it’s a very small waterfall and should be best visited during the monsoon.

When I visited in January, it seemed more like a stream of water dropping from a height.

The waterfall has very picturesque surroundings and is popular amongst couples for their pre-wedding shoot.

Timings: 6 am – 6 pm

Location: Apsarakonda Waterfall

Distance from Gokarna: 70 km

Waterfalls to visit near Gokarns within 150kms 

19. jog falls.

The majority of you would have heard about the famous Jog Falls in Karnataka. Jog Falls is situated in the Shimoga district of Karnataka and makes for a great day trip from Gokarna.

The Jog Falls is also considered to be one of the highest waterfalls in India, falling from a height of 830ft. The waterfall is formed by the River Sharavathi, which cascades down the rocky landscape in four distinct segments known as Raja, Rani, Rocket, and Roarer.

Without giving away too much about the falls, this is a must-visit for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts visiting Gokarna during monsoon.

Jog Falls Entry Fees: ₹10

Timings : 7:30 am – 9:30 pm

Location: Jog Falls

Distance from Gokarna: 117 km

20. Sathodi Falls

Sathodi Falls is a beautiful waterfall located in the Yellapur district in Karnataka. It is nestled amidst the lush green forests of the Western Ghats, making it a popular destination for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts. The waterfall cascades down from a height of around 50 feet.

To reach the waterfall, you have to walk a few hundred meters to reach this picturesque waterfalls. While you might see a lot of people swimming, it is not advised as it can get really dangerous because of the flow of water.

To have a real experience of how this waterfall unfolds, check this video by Not in Office .

You should also visit Shivpura Hanging Bridge, which is close to the waterfalls.

Timings: 6 am – 5 pm

Sathodi Falls Entry Fees: ₹10

Location: Sathodi Falls

Distance from Gokarna: 106 km

These were some of the most prominent tourist attractions in and around Gokarna that you must visit. But this is not all Gokarna has to offer. Let us look at some of the best activities and things to do in Gokarna.

Things to do in & around Gokarna

21. water sports at kudle beach.

As I mentioned earlier, Kudle Beach has become a great hotspot for water and adventure lovers. You can try different water sports like jet skiing, kayaking, banana rides, and parasailing. 

If you’re looking for an adrenaline-pumping experience, you should try the water sports at Kudle Beach.

22. Dinner in Chez Christophe French Cafe

Chez Christophe is one of the hidden gems of Gokarna. If you are looking for a nice ambient cafe with great music, you need to visit here.

The cafe offers chilled vibes with authentic French Cuisine, you read that right. During the evening, you can find an artist performing at the cafe and making the atmosphere more lively.  

Finding this place can be a little tricky, but it is all worth it. Do try the crème brûlée dessert as it is a specialty here. Overall they have great food and a good ambiance.

Looking to explore more places to eat in Gokarna? Read this blog 10 Most amazing cafes & restaurants in Gokarna

23. Gokarna Beach Trek

Gokarna is famous for its beaches, but what it’s also famous for is the beach trek to reach these beautiful beaches. The trek starts from Gokarna town or Gokarna beach, covering all the other famous beaches like Kudle Beach, Om Beach, Half Moon Beach, Hell Beach, and Paradise Beach. Each of these is 20-40mins apart and offers some of the best views of the landscape Gokarna has to offer. 

Some parts of the trail are very risky and it’s advised to do it with a group.

24. Sunsets from different beaches

If you’re like me and love sunsets, Gokarna is not going to disappoint you. I have seen some of the most beautiful sunsets here and there’s not just one spot, there are multiple spots where you can enjoy the sunset. Here are my top spots to watch the sunset from in Gokarna:

• Middle Beach
• Kudle Beach
• Jatayu Teertha
• Small Hell & Paradise Beach

25. Dolphin Watching from Om and Kudle Beach

Apart from beaches and temples, Gokarna is also famous for spotting dolphins. One can spot the dolphins in these two ways

• Take a boat tour early in the morning from Om Beach, Kudle Beach, or Middle Beach
• While trekking, there are spots between Kudle Beach to Om Beach, and Om Beach to Half Moon Beach.

While there is no surety as to when one can see them, you can try your luck.

26. Honnavar Backwater Boating

Did you think the backwaters only existed in Kerala? The Honnavar Backwater might not be as famous as the Alleppey Backwaters, but you can’t miss this unique experience when visiting Gokarna. 

You can directly go to Honnavar backwater boating or Contact Ramanna(9980771411) to book your Honnavar boating experience. The boating is 1 hour long and they take you around the backwaters, and mangroves and also show you the railway bridge. The best time to do this boating would either be during Sunrise or sunset.

When I visited the backwater with my friend I paid 1k for an hour-long boat ride which I found to be the true value for money.

How to reach Gokarna

Gokarna is a popular tour spot, and there are several ways to reach Gokarna depending on where you start.

If you’re traveling from Bangalore or Mumbai you can easily reach Gokarna via air, bus, or train.

The closest airport to Gokarna is the Dabolim Airport in Goa, which is 140 km away from Gokarna.

If you prefer to travel by train, Gokarna Road is the nearest railway station. 

The best time to visit Gokarna

If you want to experience the beaches of Gokarna, it’s best to visit during October and March. The weather is pleasant after the monsoon, and it’s not hot. If you want to visit Gokarna to experience some of the best waterfalls, it’s best to visit during the monsoon from June to September.

If you’re looking for fewer tourists, the months from April – June would be best but the weather would also be touching 40°

Where to Stay in Gokarna on Budget

Book your stay at these spots using these links at no extra cost.

• Cafe Sunset Middle Beach, Gokarna
• Hostel Exp, Gokarna
• Trippr Hostel, Gokarna
• Zostel Gokarna
• Sea Rock Cafe

Frequently Asked Questions about Gokarna

Q1. Which is the best month to visit Gokarna?

Ans. It depends on your preference. If you want to experience the beaches, it’s best to visit between October & March

Q2. What is the budget for Gokarna?

Ans. Gokarna is a great place if you’re looking for an affordable trip. You can explore and enjoy the town for 2-3 days with a budget of around 3000 to 5000 rupees.

Read more: Budget trip to Gokarna

Q3. How many days are enough for Gokarna?

Ans. It’s best to visit Gokarna for 3 days to cover all the amazing beaches and temples in and around Gokarna.

Q4. Is Gokarna safe for female travelers?

Gokarna is safe for female travelers, but unlike any other place, it’s best to be cautious and not go out to the beach by yourself.

If you have any other questions about Gokarna drop them below and I’ll try my best to provide you with all the answers! Let me know which place should I cover next in the comments!

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Is it good to visit Gokarna in summer

storiesofraku

It is going to be hot, so during the day you can’t really be outside. But I would say mornings and evening are still very pleasant. If you’re going by mid April then I would still suggest yes, but after that maybe some other spot like a hill station

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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.

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

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

Gokarna Beach Trek

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

Areca Plantation Walk & Vegetarian Breakfast at Areca County

Shore & Cities of Karnataka

Gokarna Nature Walk (3 Hours Guided Trekking Experience)

Gokarna Food Crawl (2 Hours Guided Food Tasting Tour)

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

Bangalore to Kovalam South India Temple & Beach

Private sightseeing tours, top attractions in gokarna.

Other Top Attractions around Gokarna

Cultural & Theme Tours

Tours & sightseeing, walking & biking tours, what travelers are saying.

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

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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Perfect Gokarna Itinerary For 4 Days – 96 Hours In Gokarna

When you love beaches but Goa seems too crowded & expensive, Andaman & Lakshadweep are too far and Bali & Maldives are out of budget then visit Gokarna . The coastal town of Karnataka, Gokarna is famous for its beaches, beachside trekking and temples. Gokarna has a perfect blend of hippie and religious vibes. The beaches here are nothing less than a wonder while the temples have a great religious significance, especially among Lord Shiva Devotees. Major tourist attractions in Gokarna are not too fancy and are meant for a relaxing and rejuvenating vacation. So cancel out all your plans and visit Gokarna for a slow relaxing vacation with our complete Gokarna itinerary for 4 days –

Is Gokarna Worth Visiting?

The clear crystal beaches, less crowd, peaceful atmosphere, religious historical temples and adventurous water sports make Gokarna a crowd favorite destination. Due to its beach beauty, Goa regular tourist has now moved to Gokarna where the crowd is low, beaches are cleaner and most important of all affordable. And the Gokaran beach trek which covers 5 major beaches is one of the best beach treks in India

Apart from beach beauty, Gokarna is also famous among devotees of Lord Shiva as the famous Mahabaleshwara Temple has Atma Linga. So, if you’re looking for a place to relax on the sea shore then Gokarna is a worthy place to visit.

Best time to visit Gokarna

October to March is the best time to visit Gokarna when the climate becomes pleasant for sightseeing. The temperature hovers between 15 to 30 degree Celsius which is perfect to enjoy the beach beauty of this town. Just after the peak monsoon season during this time the natural beauty is at its peak making the surrounding a treat to watch. For more, you can check out the complete guide of the best time to visit Gokarna with temperature & seasons.

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How to reach Gokarna

Gokarna is well connected by train, road and flight to all major cities of Karnataka. So, here are 3 possible ways to reach Gokarna –  

• By Road – Road is the most scenic way to reach Gokarna. Driving through the western ghat on one side and the vast Arabian sea on another is so mesmerizing that you’ll forget all the problems. The 144 KM road journey from Goa to Gokarna is one of the best road trips in India. You can also find direct buses or taxis from nearby cities like Goa, Mangalore, Bangalore etc. to Gokarna.
• By Train – Gokarna has its own station named Gokarna road at a distance of 10 Km from the main city. But it is a small station so it is not connected to major cities. Therefore, there is another railway station in Ankola at a distance of 26 KM from Gokarna which is the major train station near Gokarna. You can easily find direct trains from Goa, Bangalore, Delhi, Chennai etc. to Ankola.
• By Flight – The nearest airport to Gokarna is Dabolim Airport of Goa at a distance of 154 KM or 4 hour’s drive. Dabolim airport has excellent connectivity to almost all major airports in India. From Dabolim, you can easily get a taxi or bus to reach Gokarna.

How many days are enough for Gokarna?

You would need a minimum of 3 days to enjoy Gokarna at its best. And if you have more than 3 days then you can easily enjoy Gokarna beach beauty along with temples and nearby attractions like Yana caves, Murudeshwar and Jog falls. So let’s find out the best possible Gokarna Itinerary for 4 days –

The Complete Gokarna Itinerary

First day in gokarna –.

Mahaganapati Temple – Start your journey with the blessings of Lord Ganesha. Wake up early in the morning and attend the aarti of Lord Ganesha at Mahaganapti temple of Gokarna.

Mahabaleshwara temple – Just a few steps away from Mahaganapati Temple there is the most famous temple of Gokarna, Mahabaleshwara temple. It is dedicated to Lord Shiva and the main attraction of the temple is 6 feet tall Atmalinga . This temple has huge religious significance among devotees of Lord Shiva. Therefore, every year thousands of pilgrims visit the Mahabaleshwara temple to witness the Atmalinga.

Gokarna Beach – Now visit Gokarna beach which is just 350 meters away from the Sri Mahabaleshwara Temple. It is one of the beaches in Gokarna where you find lots of families and pilgrims. Surrounded by tall palm trees, it is the longest beach in Gokarna . You can easily spend hours walking along the coastline. There are many cafes & restaurants along the beach where you can enjoy the delicious seafood. Adventure lovers can indulge themselves in Kayaking, boating, hiking and surfing.

Mirjan Fort – Visit Mirjan fort which is just 21 KM away from the Gokarna. Spread over 10 acres, Mirjan fort is a historical monument that embraces architectural and natural beauty. The fort was built in the 16th century by Chennai Bhairavi Devi, the queen of Geroppa. There are various watch towers on the fort from where you can capture amazing pictures of surrounding regions. The fort is easily accessible by cab & bus from Gokarna.

Tadadi Port – For sunset visit Tadadi Port which is just 7 KM from Gokarna. It is also known as the land of Palm trees. Tadadi port is famous for fishing and agriculture. The cruise would be a wonderful experience on the water of the Aghanashini river & Arabian sea.

Gokarna Cliff Sunset Point – There are many cliffs in Gokarna from where you can enjoy the panoramic view of the sunset over the Arabian sea. Just  ten minute hike away from Kudle beach parking  there is a famous sunset point where you can spot tourists watching the sunset. Just sit there and enjoy the peaceful combination of sea and sunset.

Day 2 in Gokarna

Gokarna beach trek – Today you would take the Gokarna beach trek which is around 10 KM long. To complete the trek you would need around 5 to 6 hours depending on your speed & how much time you spend on each beach & taking pictures. The Gokarna beach trek covers 5 famous beaches of Gokarna  – Gokarna main beach, Kudle beach, Om beach , half moon beach and Paradise beach. This whole journey includes one-way trek and one-way ferry ride.

It is an easy trek that requires basic physical fitness and you don’t need any tour guide to take this trek. You can trek this on your own.

Trekking and hiking between these beaches would take you to many hidden places which you can’t visit by vehicle. Therefore, the Gokarna beach trek is the best way to enjoy the true raw beauty of Gokarna . The trek will start from Gokarna beach and ends on Paradise beach or reverse. You can also include Belekan beach which is situated near Paradise beach.

Route – Gokarna Main Beach -> Kudle Beach -> Om beach -> Half Moon beach -> Paradise beach -> Belekan beach

Day 3 in Gokarna

Day 3 in Gokarna would be your adventure day. On day 3 you should try different water activities in Gokarna like boat rides, surfing, swimming, Banana boat ride, parasailing, jet skiing, speed boating, and bumper ride.

Om beach – Start your day with the refreshing vibes of Om beach. This beach is actually shaped like the Hindu religious symbol Om . There are rocky terrains at the beach where you can sit and enjoy the spectacular views of the sunrise. It is one of the best beaches in Gokarna to watch the sunset & Sunrise. There you can enjoy activities like speed boating, banana boat ride, jet skiing, bumper boat ride and trekking. There are some famous cafes where you can enjoy breakfast like Namaste cafe, Ganesh cafe, sunset cafe etc.

Half moon beach – Take a boat from Om beach to Half moon beach. Surrounded by the lush green & thick jungle, Om beach is the best place to seek some peace in Gokarna.

Kudle Beach – Now visit Kudle beach to enjoy different kinds of water sports like Banana boat ride, jet skiing, parasailing, bumper ride, surfing, swimming, and speed boating. Kudle beach is the best place in Gokarna for water activities .

Enjoy the nightlife at Paradise beach – In the evening visit Paradise beach for a beautiful sunset and happening nightlife. Paradise beach is mostly covered by rocky terrains from where you can capture the sunset. And if you’re lucky enough then you can witness the bioluminescent phenomenon  at the beach. There are many shacks & cafes around the beach where you can enjoy bonfire, moonlight dinner and music & dance.

Day 4 In Gokarna

Yana Caves – Rent a bike or car and leave for Yana caves which is 48 Km from Gokarna. Yana caves are famous for its amazing natural beauty, mythological significance, unique structure and pattern of formation. Situated in the middle of forest, it is the best place to visit near Gokarna . There are two famous natural limestone peaks named Bhairaveshwera Shikara and Mohini Shikara which are believed to be representing Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati.

Murudeshwar Temple – After exploring the Yana caves head towards the Murudeshwar temple which is 75 KM from Yana caves and 77 Km from Gokarna. Murudeshwar temple is home to the second tallest statue of Lord Shiva  with a height of 123 feet. Surrounded by the Arabian sea and serene beach, it is one of the most beautiful temples in India. There is a 20-storey gopura from where you would get the bird’s eye of the entire temple complex.

Where to stay in Gokarna –

In the last few years, Gokarna has grown into a popular tourist attraction. There you can find various kinds of accommodation options like hostels, luxurious & budget hotels, beach shacks & huts, resorts and beach hotels. Check out the following hotels in Gokarna –

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best things to do in gokaran at night.

Om beach, Paradise beach, Halfmoon beach and Kudle beach are the best place in Gokarna for happening nightlife. There you can enjoy beach bonfire, dj night, and delicious food. The Gokarna beach trek is another interesting thing you can do in Gokarna.

What are the best places to visit near Gokarna?

Murudeshwar Temple, Yana Caves, Jog Falls, Netrani Island, Kumta, Karwar, Yellapur, and Dandeli are the best places to visit near Gokarna.

Is Gokarna cheaper than Goa?

Yes, Gokarna is way cheaper than Goa. Due to its slow-paced life it is known as the laid-back version of Goa. The hotels, cafes, and water sports are cheaper than Goa. Unlike Goa, Gokarna is not overcrowded and is still not that commercialized.

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Sri Mahabaleshwar Temple

#1 of 9 Places to Visit in Gokarna

At a distance of 500 m from Gokarna Bus Station, Sri Mahabaleshwar Temple is a sacred Hindu temple situated in Gokarna, Karnataka. It is one of the important places of pilgrimage in South India , and among the must include places in Gokarna Tour Packages . The Mahabaleshwar Temple in Gokarna enshrines the Aatmalinga or Pranalinga of Lord Shiva. This is one of the best places to visit in Gokarna . This temple is regarded second only to the Kashi Vishwanatha Temple in Varanasi and is often called the Dakshina Kashi. The temple is said to be one of the seven sacred Muktikshetras and is visited by Hindus to perform the death rites for their ancestors. According to the legend, Ravana performed a severe penance to Lord Shiva to possess his powerful Atmalinga. Pleased by his penance, Shiva gives him the Atmalinga. .....

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#2 of 9 Places to Visit in Gokarna

At a distance of 6 km from Gokarna Bus Station, Om Beach is a pristine beach situated in Gokarna. Along the Arabian Sea coast, it is one of the most famous Karnataka beaches , and among the must visit Gokarna tourist places . Om Beach is the most famous beach in Gokarna. It is shaped as two semi crescents joined together forming the shape of Om (Hindu religious symbol) hence the name Om Beach. Om Beach is further along the coast from Kudle Beach. The curve of the symbol forms a pool which can be a safe bathing area for even non-swimmers. Blessed with tropical weather, the area has plenty of palm trees dotting its coastline. Its azure waters are ideal for an exciting dolphin spotting trip. Om Beach is the center for several water sport activities such as boating, surfing, water-skiing, parasailing, and banana boat rides, which will surely spike your adrenaline .....

Gokarna Beach

#3 of 9 Places to Visit in Gokarna

At a distance of 800 meters from Gokarna Bus Station and 300 meters from Sri Mahabaleshwar Temple, Gokarna Beach is also known as Main Beach and is also known as Indian Beach. Gokarna Beach is the closest beach to Gokarna town. It is one of the most popular sightseeing spots in Gokarna. This beach is mainly used by Indian pilgrims because it is located right behind the Mahabaleshwar Temple. As per the religious customs, pilgrims usually visit the temple after a dip in the waters of this beach (not mandatory though). It is a long open beach and also known for surfing. Tourists can enjoy the view of the rocky mountains on one side and Arabian Sea on the other, while reaching Gokarna Beach. The Gangavalli river meets the sea near the beach. This part of the Arabian Sea is little aggressive and swimming here is not recommended. The beach may not look very pretty due to a lot of litter, but this beach is famous for sunset. .....

Yana, Near Jog Falls

#4 of 9 Places to Visit in Gokarna

At a distance of 24 km from Benne Hole Falls, 30 km from Kumta, 55 km from Sirsi, 86 km from Karwar, and 103 km from Jog Falls , Yana is a village in Uttar Kannada district in Karnataka. It is well known for the unique rock formations in the Western Ghats. Among the most prominent places to visit in Jog Falls , Yana is famous for two massive rock formations known as the Bhairaveshwara Shikhara and the Mohini Shikhara. The huge rocks are composed of solid black, crystalline Karst limestone. Bhairaveshwara Shikhara is 120 m (390 feet) in height, while the Mohini Shikhara, which is smaller, is 90 m (300 feet) in height. A cave temple dedicated to Lord Shiva is found at the base of the Bhairaveshwara Shikhara. Water drips from the projecting rocks over the Shiva lingam, and people call this water Gangodbhava. The idol of Goddess Parvathi is found at the base ..... Distance (From Gokarna): 51 Kms Trip Duration (From Gokarna - Including Travel): 4 Hours/Half Day .....

Unchalli Falls, Near Jog Falls

#5 of 9 Places to Visit in Gokarna

At a distance of 36 km from Sirsi, and 54 km from Jog Falls, Unchalli Falls is a magnificent waterfall situated at Heggarni in the Uttara Kannada district of Karnataka. It is one of the best waterfalls in Karnataka , and among the must include places in Jog Falls Tour Packages . Also known as Lushington Falls, Unchalli Falls is created by a 116 m drop in the Aghanashini River. The Aghanashini River here takes a deep plunge to create this spectacular waterfall. The waterfall is named after J.D. Lushington, a district collector of the British empire who discovered it in 1845. This waterfall is also known as Keppa Joga because of the deafening sound it makes. It is one of the top Jog Falls tourist places . Heggarne is the nearest village to Unchalli Falls, which is about 5 km away and the last 2 ..... Distance (From Gokarna): 98 Kms Trip Duration (From Gokarna - Including Travel): Half Day to Full Day .....

Mirjan Fort

#6 of 9 Places to Visit in Gokarna

At a distance of 11 km from Kumta, 22 km from Gokarna, 31 km from Honavar, 59 km from Karwar and 56 km from Murudeshwar , Mirjan Fort is a beautiful fort located in the village of Mirjan near Gokarna. It is one of the most popular heritage places to visit in Gokarna . Located on the banks of the Aganashini River, a tributary of Sharavathi River, the Mirjan Fort is known for its architectural elegance, and is one of the must include places in Gokarna Tour Packages . Built over an area of about 10 acres, the fort is approached through a series of wide steps that lead to the interiors of the fort. It is a double-walled fort built using laterite stones and has high walls and bastions with high turrets. The fort has four entrances and is surrounded by a moat with interconnected wells. Mirjan Fort has .....

#7 of 9 Places to Visit in Gokarna

At a distance of 22 km from Dharwad, 57 km from Gadag, 76 km from Dandeli, 100 km from Belgaum, 102 km from Sirsi, 104 km from Badami, 147 km from Gokarna, 169 km from Karwar, 177 km from Panjim, 183 km from Shimoga, 205 km from Murudeshwar, 210 km from Ballari, 361 km from Mangalore, 406 km from Bangalore, 435 km from Mysore, and 527 km from Hyderabad, Hubli, officially known as Hubballi, is a city in the Indian state of Karnataka. It is one of the must include places in Karnataka tour packages , and among the best places to visit near Kolhapur . Hubli or Hubballi is one of the fastest-growing cities in the state of Karnataka, and the second-largest city in the state after Bangalore. Lying on the 'Golden Quadrilateral' this multi-faceted city is also known as the cultural, educational, and music capital of the state. The city boasts numerous monuments and monasteries, ..... Distance (From Gokarna): 147 Kms Trip Duration (From Gokarna - Including Travel): Full Day .....

Basavaraja Durga Fort, Near Murudeshwar

#8 of 9 Places to Visit in Gokarna

At a distance of 1 km from Pavinakurva village, 12 km from Honnavar, 48 km from Gokarna and 36 km from Murudeshwar , Basavaraja Durga Fort was an island fortress situated in the Arabian Sea off the coast of Honnavar Taluk in Uttara Kannada District of Karnataka. The fort was constructed in 16th century during Vijayanagara rule. Shivappa Nayaka, the Keladi ruler captured the fort and gave it the name of Basavaraja Durga in memory of Keladi Prince Basavaraj. This fort is surrounded by a strong fortification raised by gigantic laterite blocks also this fort has eight ruined mounted guns. Basavaraja Durga Fort is built at a height of 50 m above sea level and the island covers a total area of 19 hectares. The inner section of the fort is almost empty and only the external part is survived today. The top of the island is a plateau covered with dry grass and trees. The island has ..... Distance (From Gokarna): 48 Kms Trip Duration (From Gokarna - Including Travel): 2-3 Hours .....

#9 of 9 Places to Visit in Gokarna

At a distance of 84 km from Gokarna, 99 km from Shimoga, 100 km from Dandeli, 102 km from Hubli, 115 km from Karwar, 125 km from Murudeshwar, 196 km from Belgaum, 202 km from Panjim, 277 km from Mangalore, 376 km from Mysore, 395 km from Bangalore, and 588 km from Hyderabad, Sirsi is a small hill station located in the Uttara Kannada district of Karnataka. It is the main commercial center and a business hub in the Malnadu region, and among the must include places in Karnataka tour packages . Situated at an altitude of 2000 feet, Sirsi is a tourist destination that is surrounded by thick forests and towering hills. It is one of the most popular places to visit near Hubli . Sirsi is a place full of surprises and one can visit numerous religious spots, waterfalls, and forests replete with rich flora and fauna as part of Sirsi holiday packages . In ..... Distance (From Gokarna): 84 Kms Trip Duration (From Gokarna - Including Travel): Full Day .....

Most Asked Questions on Gokarna

Winter from October to February is the best time to visit Gokarna . December is also the busiest season and hotels are usually very expensive in this season. Summer would be quite hot and humid but the evenings are pleasant with cool breeze.

Gokarna usually requires complete one full day to visit the most important attractions. Several tourists usually prefer visiting Gokarna along with Murudeshwar which requires an additional day. There are several wonderful places near Gokarna like Udupi, Mangalore, Murudeshwar & Jog Falls that can be visited with additional day for each place.

Budget of Gokarna trip depends on the trip duration and category of hotel you choose for your stay along with the kind of vehicle you prefer. Gokarna tour packages offered by Trawell.in start from as low as INR 8000 per person for a 3D/2N trip and from INR 10750 per person for 4D/3N vacation.

Ensure to cover most important places to visit in Gokarna like Sri Mahabaleshwar Temple, Om Beach, Gokarna Beach, Mirjan Fort and Basavaraja Durga Fort. Murudeshwar which is around 75 km from Gokarna and can be visited along with Gokarna.

Gokarna is an ideal destination for adventure seekers as well those want a break from the chaos of everyday life. Travellers have the option of simply strolling down the beautiful serene beaches or participating in the myriad water sports like parasailing, banana boat ride, surfing and jet-skiing that it has to offer. Parasailing at OM beach is the most suggested activity you can indulge in Gokarna. Kudle beach is one of the hotspots for snorkeling and scuba diving.

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16 Best Places To Visit in Gokarna

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Gokarna, often referred to as the ‘Mini-Goa’ of Karnataka, is a charming coastal town nestled along the Arabian Sea. Its pristine beaches, lush greenery, and a blend of spirituality and adventure make it a must-visit destination for every traveler. In this comprehensive guide, we will take you on a journey through the Best Places To Visit In Gokarna, revealing its hidden treasures and answering your burning questions about this captivating town.

Introduction To Best Places To Visit In Gokarna

Table of Contents

Gokarna, located in the Uttara Kannada district of Karnataka, India, is a picturesque destination that offers a delightful mix of natural beauty and spiritual significance. While it has gained popularity in recent years, it has managed to retain its tranquil charm and pristine landscapes.

If you’re wondering where to head on your next vacation, Gokarna should definitely be on your list. In this article, we’ll introduce you to the top places to visit in Gokarna, each offering a unique experience. Whether you’re an adventure enthusiast, a seeker of spirituality, or simply looking for a peaceful getaway, Gokarna has something to offer everyone.

Popular Places To Visit In Gokarna

Gokarna cliff.

The Mesmerizing Vantage Point

Perched on the western coast of India, Gokarna boasts of a captivating cliff that offers panoramic views of the Arabian Sea. The Gokarna Cliff is not only a visual treat but also a haven for adventure seekers. You can indulge in thrilling activities like paragliding, rock climbing, and trekking while enjoying the stunning sunset.

Subrahmanya Temple

A Spiritual Oasis

Gokarna is renowned for its temples, and the Subrahmanya Temple is one of its most significant spiritual landmarks. This ancient temple, dedicated to Lord Subrahmanya, exudes a divine aura that’s sure to captivate your senses. The intricate architecture and serene atmosphere make it a must-visit for those seeking spiritual solace.

Belekan Beach

Serenity by the Shore

Belekan Beach, also known as Paradise Beach, lives up to its name with its pristine shores and crystal-clear waters. To reach this secluded gem, you can opt for a short trek or take a boat ride. Once here, relax on the soft sands, take a dip in the azure waters, and revel in the tranquility of this unspoiled paradise.

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Bhadrakali Temple

A Blend of Devotion and Art

The Bhadrakali Temple in Gokarna is a testament to the rich cultural heritage of the region. This temple dedicated to Goddess Uma, also known as Bhadrakali, is a prime example of Dravidian architecture. The colorful sculptures and intricate carvings will leave you in awe. It’s a place where spirituality meets artistry.

A Geological Marvel

Nature enthusiasts and adventure lovers will find the Yana Caves fascinating. Situated amidst lush forests, these unique limestone rock formations are a geological wonder. The two main formations, Bhairaveshwara Shikhara and Mohini Shikhara, are surrounded by legends and myths. Trek through the forest to reach these magnificent caves and soak in the natural beauty.

Unveiling Mystical Depths

Gokarna is known for its caves, and the Shiva Cave stands out as a mystical wonder. As you descend into the cave’s depths, you’ll encounter awe-inspiring stalactites and a sense of tranquility. This cave has a spiritual significance and is often visited by devotees and meditation enthusiasts.

You may also like : 10 Best Beaches in Gokarna That You Must Visit – Travel India Travel

Paradise Beach

A Slice of Paradise

Paradise Beach lives up to its name with its golden sands, turquoise waters, and lush green surroundings. It’s a hidden gem accessible via a short hike through the forests of Gokarna. This pristine beach is a perfect spot for relaxation, sunbathing, and beach picnics away from the crowds.

Maha Ganpati Temple

Divine Blessings Await

One of the prominent landmarks of Gokarna is the Maha Ganpati Temple. Dedicated to Lord Ganesha, this sacred site is known for its unique idol of Lord Ganesha with its trunk turning to the right. It’s a place of spiritual significance and a must-visit for those seeking blessings and solace.

Recommended Read : 10 Most Popular Temples in Gokarna – Travel India Travel 6 Popular Hill Stations Near Gokarna – A Serene Escape Amidst Nature – Travel India Travel

Mahabaleshwar Temple

Ancient Beauty in Stone

The Mahabaleshwar Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, is a masterpiece of Dravidian architecture. Its intricate carvings and serene ambiance create an aura of divinity. This temple holds immense historical and religious significance and is a testament to Gokarna’s rich heritage.

Koti Tirtha

A Holy Tank’s Serenity

Koti Tirtha is a sacred tank located in the heart of Gokarna town. It’s surrounded by temples and is a place where devotees take ritual dips before visiting the nearby temples. The tranquil atmosphere and cultural richness of Koti Tirtha make it a place to experience the town’s spiritual essence.

Mirjan Fort

A Historic Marvel

Mirjan Fort stands as a testament to the region’s rich history . This centuries-old fort, with its intricate architecture and intriguing past, offers a glimpse into Gokarna’s historical significance. As you explore its ruins and walk through its echoing corridors, you’ll be transported to another time.

Also read: 36 Things To Do In Gokarna – Your Guide to Unforgettable Experiences – Travel India Travel

Half Moon Beach

Nature’s Serenity

Half Moon Beach, named for its unique crescent shape, is a tranquil oasis nestled between rocky cliffs. To reach this hidden gem, you can opt for a trek or take a boat ride from Gokarna. The pristine shores, crystal-clear waters, and the soothing sound of the waves make it an ideal spot for relaxation.

Gokarna Main Beach

Sun, Sand, and Spirituality

Gokarna Main Beach, located near the town center, is not just a place for sunbathing and beach activities; it also holds spiritual significance. It’s a place where the sacred merges with the serene. Witness the local rituals, take a dip, or simply enjoy a beachfront meal with a view of the Arabian Sea.

Kudle Beach

Sunset Delights

Kudle Beach, with its golden sands and stunning sunset views, is a favorite among travelers. A short walk from Gokarna town, it offers a variety of beachfront cafes serving delicious cuisine. Whether you want to bask in the sun or savor fresh seafood, Kudle Beach has it all.

You may also like : 6 Best Places To Visit in Gokarna in 2 Days | Things To Do in Gokarna – Travel India Travel 10 Best Places Near Gokarna – Exploring Karnataka’s Hidden Treasures – Travel India Travel

The Om-Shaped Wonder

Om Beach derives its name from its distinctive shape, resembling the sacred Hindu symbol ‘Om.’ It’s not only a visual delight but also a hub for water sports and adventure. From parasailing to jet skiing, this beach caters to thrill-seekers.

Frequently Asked Questions About Best Places To Visit In Gokarna

• The best time to visit Gokarna is from October to March when the weather is pleasant and ideal for outdoor activities.
• Yes, Gokarna offers a range of water sports like parasailing, jet skiing, and banana boat rides at its beaches, especially at Om Beach and Kudle Beach.
• Absolutely! Gokarna is family-friendly, with serene beaches, cultural attractions, and plenty of opportunities for relaxation.
• Yes, Gokarna is known for its temples, including the Mahabaleshwar Temple and Maha Ganapati Temple, making it an excellent choice for a spiritual journey.
• Pack light clothing, sunscreen, a hat, comfortable footwear, swimwear, and any necessary medications. Don’t forget your camera to capture the stunning landscapes!
• Yes, Gokarna offers a wide range of accommodations, from budget hostels and guesthouses to luxury resorts, ensuring there’s something for every traveler’s budget.

Gokarna, with its enchanting beaches, temples, and natural wonders, is a hidden gem waiting to be explored. From the adrenaline rush of the Gokarna Cliff to the spiritual serenity of Subrahmanya Temple, this coastal town has it all. Whether you’re seeking adventure, spirituality, or simply a peaceful getaway, Gokarna has something to offer every traveler.

So, pack your bags, soak in the sun, and let Gokarna’s beauty and charm leave you with unforgettable memories. It’s time to embark on your journey to one of the Best Places To Visit In Gokarna, a destination that promises an experience like no other.

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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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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.

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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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Gokarna is a city located in Uttara Kannada district of Karnataka , and is etymologically translated to ‘cow’s ear.’ According to popular mythological belief, it is the place where Lord Shiva emerged from the incarnation of Mother Earth in the form of a cow. Interspersed with ancient temples, the town is home to one of the oldest temples since time immemorial known as Mahabaleshwar, enshrined with Lord Shiva. The town is about 59 km from Karwar, 483 km from Bengaluru, and 238 km from Mangalore. Furthermore, the rustic outlook of the town has attracted the attention of a lot of travelers and foreigners. There are several beaches, pilgrimage sights, and waterfalls that are reverberating tourist attractions. In fact, the town is situated around the River Aghanashini, which is considered to be deemed and sacred site for devotees. However, due to the recent tourist influx, the town attracts both adrenaline seekers and those looking for spiritual solace. It is the town of golden beaches named after the way they are shaped like Om Beach and Half Moon Beach. Paradise Beach does no injustice to its name! The tall palm trees, serene waves of the ocean gushing towards the rocks, and the evenings spent watching the sun melting into the ocean add a surrealistic appeal to the place. Apart from beaches, there is the Mahabaleshwar Temple that attracts many devotees and saints. Yana is another dainty town located in the vicinity of Gokarna, whose lavish surroundings and rocky terrain is perfect for activities like cycling and trekking. Mountaineering is another popular sport. The serene beaches pose as perfect sites for watersport activities like surfing, scuba diving, snorkeling, parasailing, and jet skiing. If you want to indulge in watersport activities, then the best time to visit the place is post-monsoon, from September to December. Winters in Gokarna are flamboyant, with a mildly cold climate and lush green surroundings. Summers in Gokarna are hot and humid, followed by the showers that cool the surroundings down with heavy rainfall.

Gokarna Packages

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1. Paradise Beach to Half Moon Beach: The serene views and the quiet surroundings of Paradise and Half Moon Beach make this trek one of the most peaceful treks. The trek is comparatively easier than the other ones in Gokarna and is best done during the morning or before sunset. 2. Kudle Beach to Om Beach: Kudle Beach and Om Beach have a tiny hill in the middle which you can trek on for some of the most stunning panoramic views of the ocean. Try and finish this trek during the sunset to catch a glimpse of the beautiful sunset from the top of the hill. 3. Half Moon Beach to Om Beach: The trek between the Half Moon beach and Om beach is great for devouring the beautiful views of the coastal town of Gokarna. Stop at one of the shacks to taste the seafood delicacies around Om beach to take a refreshing break from the trek. 4. Paradise Beach to Belekan Beach: The trek from Paradise beach to Belekan beach is one of the most beautiful and relaxing ones. The quiet beaches and secluded areas during the trek will surely calm you down.

Which are the famous places to visit in Gokarna?

What are the best things to do in gokarna, what are the best adventure activities to do in gokarna, what is the best time to visit gokarna, what can i buy in gokarna.

You can buy a variety of different things in Gokarna such as: -Incense sticks -Brass lamps -Picture frames -Prayer beads -Psychedelic T-shirts -Hippie clothes -Musical instruments -Books -Homemade soaps -Spices.

Is Gokarna beach safe?

Yes, Gokarna beach is extremely safe as it is always brimming with the crowd, and it has many lifeguards who'll take care of your safety. There is a constant patrolling on the beach so that you stay extremely safe while enjoying water-based activities at this beach.

How many days are enough for Gokarna?

Which are the best water sports to do in gokarna.

Gokarna has one of the most loved beaches across India, where you can try some of the crazy water sports. 1. Banana Boat Ride: This water sport is the best of all as it is full of thrill and gives you a memorable experience which you never imagined. The sharp twist and turn of the boat upside-down will give you a unique experience. Two of the most loved beaches, the Om beach, and the Gokarna beach, are ideal to try this water sports activity. 2. Scuba Diving: Explore the underwater sea beauties as you dive into the famous beaches of Gokarna. This adventure activity can be experienced at the Om beach, Gokarna Beach, or Kudle Beach. You'll also witness a varied range of corals as well as beautiful sea flowers while trying this activity. 3. Parasailing: The exciting sport involves two major components – a big parachute and a quick speedboat. Considered to be the most thrilling beach sports activity, it gives you the bird's eye view of the coastlines of Gokarna. A strong rope is attached to the parachute at one end and the speed boat on the other end into which you are securely harnessed.

Which are the best places for shopping in Gokarna?

Which are the best places for scuba diving in gokarna.

Here are the most popular scuba diving sites in Gokarna. 1. Netrani Island: This is the ideal site for scuba diving adventure in Gokarna, where you can spot a variety of sea animals like sea cucumbers and rays. If you're a novice in this field, then you can also take the guidance of an instructor before trying this activity. 2. Om Beach: Brace yourself for the best experience of your life as you enjoy an amazing scuba diving adventure at Om Beach. You'll not only get to explore the underwater world of this beach, but you'll also witness coral reefs and seashells while enjoying this activity.

What is the best local food in Gokarna? Where can I get to try it out?

What are the famous pilgrimage spots in gokarna.

The temples have a significant history surrounding them. While Shiva is the main deity, there are several temples that are a must-visit. 1. Mahabaleshwara: It is a classic example of the beauty of Dravidian architecture. It Faces Karwar city and the Arabian Sea. 2. Koti Tirtha: Man made tank is surrounded by temples and used to immerse the Idols. 3. Maha Ganpati Temple: As per legend, the temple was made to honor boy Ganesha for deceiving Ravana and keeping him from completing his penance.

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Watch: Kentucky Derby ends with photo finish

Mystik Dan won the 2024 Kentucky Derby on Saturday at Churchill Downs.

But it took several minutes for spectators to know the result as the 150th running of the race went to a photo finish.

Sierra Leone took second with Forever Young third.

Mystik Dan and jockey Brian Hernandez Jr. had 18-1 odds to win.

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Kentucky Derby 2024: Start time, live stream, horses, TV channel, odds, favorites, how to watch

The 150th running of the kentucky derby will take place on saturday afternoon at churchill downs.

The 150th Kentucky Derby will run on Saturday with 20 horses competing to reach the winner's circle. This year's Florida Derby winner, Fierceness, is trained by Todd Pletcher and enters the weekend as a 5/2 favorite.

The mint juleps will be flowing and the hats will be as wacky as ever when the fans reach the grounds of Churchill Downs on Saturday. Fans and celebrities from across the globe make their way to Louisville on the first Saturday in May every year to witness this incredible spectacle and this year is no different.

Pletcher has won the Eclipse Award as horse racing's top trainer eight times, and he will have Fierceness ready to go when the horses fire out of the starting gate on Saturday evening. Pletcher already has two Kentucky Derby winners on his resume (Super Saver in 2010, Always Dreaming in 2017).

So which horses do you take? And in what combinations?  Visit SportsLine to get Demling's picks for exacta, trifecta and superfecta bets for the 2024 Kentucky Derby.

There were some concerns about thunderstorms reaching the area around post time, but that no longer seems to be in the forecast as there is just a 15% chance of rain at 6:57 p.m. ET, according to the Weather Channel.

Below is all the information you need to know about the 150th Kentucky Derby.

How to watch the 2024 Kentucky Derby

Date: Saturday, May 4 Post time: 6:57 p.m. ET Location: Churchill Downs -- Louisville, Kentucky TV: NBC | Stream:   fuboTV  (try for free)

2024 Kentucky Derby odds, positions

No. 1 post: 1 Dornoch (20-1) No. 2 post: 2 Sierra Leone (3-1) No. 3 post: 3 Mystik Dan (20-1) No. 4 post: 4 Catching Freedom (8-1) No. 5 post: 5 Catalytic (30-1) No. 6 post: 6 Just Steel (20-1) No. 7 post: 7 Honor Marie (20-1) No. 8 post: 8 Just a Touch (10-1) No. 9 post: 10 TO Password (30-1) No. 10 post: 11 Forever Young (10-1) No. 11 post: 12 Track Phantom (20-1) No. 12 post: 13 West Saratoga (50-1) No. 13 post: 14 Endlessly (30-1) No. 14 post: 15 Domestic Product (30-1) No. 15 post: 16 Grand Mo the First (50-1) No. 16 post: 17 Fierceness (5/2) No. 17 post: 18 Stronghold (20-1) No. 18 post: 19 Resilience (20-1) No. 19 post: 20 Society Man (50-1) No. 20 post: 21 Epic Ride (30-1)

Where is the Kentucky Derby?

Per tradition, the Kentucky Derby will take place at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Kentucky.

How long is the Kentucky Derby?

Since 1896, the race has been 1 1/4 miles.

Who wins the 2024 Kentucky Derby, and how can our 2024 Kentucky Derby cheat sheets make you a better horse racing handicapper?  Visit SportsLine to see Jody Demling's Kentucky Derby picks  and see all the intel on the 2024 Kentucky Derby field with our 2024 Kentucky Derby cheat sheet and past performance.

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Places to Visit near Gokarna

Top hotel collections.

Beach Resorts

Near Gokarna Beach

Here is the list of 15 Places to Visit near Gokarna

1. yana, kumta.

Yana is a place packed with every element of nature enhancing its beauty further with two rock formation. Located 28 km from Kumta, each formation is very huge standing at a height of 90 m and 120m and are known as Mohini Shikhara and Bhairaveshwara Shikhara respectively.

Distance from Gokarna: 49 km

2. Murudeshwar, Karnataka - Seashore, Scuba Diving and the Shiva

Known For : Murudeshwar Temple Netrani Island Murudeshwar Beach

With its major attraction as the huge Shiva temple , Murudeshwar is a religious site which also serves as the connecting point for popular scuba diving destination Netrani. Murudeshwar is home to the second tallest statue of Lord Shiva in the world. With the shimmering Arabian Sea on three sides and the magnificent Western Ghats imposing their presence on this town, it is a favourite picnic spot for the folks from Kerala and Karnataka.

Distance from Gokarna: 78 km

Best Time: October to May

8 Murudeshwar Attractions

3. Half Moon Beach, Gokarna

Half Moon Beach is a small beach situated in Gokarna. It is separated from the Om Beach by a cliff from where tourists are bound to get an amazing view of the Arabian Sea. Numerous village huts in the classical Indian style can be spotted lined up by the beach giving it a rather traditional and homely touch altogether.

Distance from Gokarna: 5 km

4. Sathodi Falls, Dandeli

Several unnamed streams near Kallaramane ghat unite together to form the Sathodi Falls. This beautiful waterfall lies in the Uttara Kannada district of Yellapur, in Karnataka. A few years back the non-locals were completely unaware of its existence until it started attracting tourists. The Sathodi waterfall is 15 metres tall and appears to be rectangular.

Distance from Gokarna: 86 km

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5. Paradise Beach, Gokarna

The fourth beach lying across the coast of Gokarna Town, Paradise Beach is also well-known by the name of 'Full Moon Beach'. Located in the state of Karnataka, the Paradise Beach is about 150 meters in length and out of this almost seventy percent of the beach is entirely covered in rocks. The rest of the beach is adorned with clean white sand all over.

Distance from Gokarna: 8 km

6. Mirjan Fort, Kumta

Located on the banks of River Aghanashini, Mirjan Fort is a royal reminder of our glorious history. It is situated about 11 km from the town of Kumta in Karnataka and is spread over an area of 4.1 hectares. The fort is also believed to be a site for many past battles in 16th and 17th Century and was functional till 1785. Later, the British captured this fort and used it for their armoury.

Distance from Gokarna: 22 km

7. Sirsi, Gokarna

If you wish to visit a place that is a commercial yet tranquil, Sirsi is the ultimate destination for a getaway. Providing with the best of both worlds, this city lies in the Uttar Kannada district in the state of Karnataka. This city circumscribed with dense forests and waterfalls provides the travelers with many picturesque spots where they can unwind and relax.

Distance from Gokarna: 81 km

8. Kodachadri Hills, Maravanthe

Kodachadri Hills serve as a stunning backdrop of evergreen forests to the town of Maravanthe. Located in the Western Ghats at a height of 4411 feet above the sea level, they also proves to be one of the good trekking trails, beginning at the South Kanara Forest.

Distance from Gokarna: 173 km

9. Anshi National Park, Dandeli

Anshi National Park is a part of the Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary and covers about 500 square kilometres of the natural reserve. It is a famous Tiger Reserve and is now called the Kali Tiger Reserve. With a high biodiversity that is most specific to the Western Ghats of India, the attraction is a favourite amongst nature and animal lovers.

Distance from Gokarna: 110 km

10. Kudle Beach, Gokarna

Kudle Beach is one of the many beaches of Gokarna, situated only a few minutes' walk from Gokarna Beach or Om Beach. The beach is a paradise for those who love peace and quietude while they travel. A complete recluse, this beach offers the most silent and serene atmosphere to enjoy a sunset, a walk along the shore or simply sit and observe the never-ceasing tides.

Distance from Gokarna: 6 km

11. Jog Falls, Karnataka - The majestic waterfalls

The second-highest plunge waterfall of India, Jog Falls is a major tourist attraction in Karnataka. Located on the border of Shimoga and Uttara Kannada districts of Karnataka, Jog waterfalls is the highest waterfall in the state. Also known as Gerosappa Falls or the Joga Falls, these falls are one of the most important attractions in all of South India.

Distance from Gokarna: 112 km

Best Time: July to December

9 Jog Falls Attractions

12. Honnemaradu, Karnataka - The Land of the Golden Sands

Known For : The Honnemaradu Reservoir Dabbe Falls Rafting in Honnemaradu

Honnemaradu is a small cozy village, by the Honnemaradu Reservoir. The deserted village is like a live amusement park, just without any boundaries. The little village has very few people, and the only attraction is the water sports done at the Honnemaradu lake. Honnemaradu is a place like no other. And though every tourist destination has a unique set of things to offer, Honnemaradu takes it a notch higher.

Distance from Gokarna: 131 km

Best Time: October to December, March to Apr

10 Honnemaradu Attractions

13. Karwar, Karnataka

Known For : Kurumgad Island Sadashivgad Fort Devbagh Beach

Karwar with its gorgeous scenic beauty and a subtle sparkle of religion and history is a beautiful tourist destination. The pristine beaches glimmering along the Arabian sea coastline, the imposing mountains, and the rich flora and fauna make it a photographer's delight. It is a place where you can witness the beautiful clash of Konkani, Kannada and Marathi cultures and escape from the hustle and bustle of cities.

Distance from Gokarna: 60 km

Best Time: November to April

22 Karwar Attractions

14. Udupi, Karnataka

Known For : St. Mary's Island Malpe Beach Krishna Temple

Udupi is a coastal town in Karnataka, most famous for its vegetarian cuisine and South Indian restaurants all over the country. With carefully carved temples, laidback beaches and unexplored forests, Udupi is also the place where the educational hub of Manipal is located. Situated 60 km. from Mangalore, Udupi is famous for its culture. Surrounded by the Arabian Sea on one side and the Western ghats on the other, this pilgrim centre is the most important city in Karnataka after Bangalore and Mangalore.

Distance from Gokarna: 178 km

Best Time: Throughout the year

31 Udupi Attractions

15. Goa - Beaches, Sunsets and Crazy Nights

Known For : Calangute Beach Fort Aguada Cruise in Goa

Lying on the west coast, Goa is one of the smallest states in India known for its brilliant beaches, scrumptious food and Portuguese heritage. Panjim, the capital city located in the centre is well-connected with an international airport and roads and trains run from North to South part of Goa. With a coastline stretching for over 100 kilometres, Goa has numerous beaches that attract millions of visitors. While Baga and Calangute are more popular among the Indian family crowd, Anjuna and Arambol draw a lot of foreign tourists.

Distance from Gokarna: 155 km

Best Time: October to March

197 Goa Attractions

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Women's T20 World Cup: Scotland qualify for first time after eliminating Ireland in battle for place at 2024 edition

Kathryn Bryce stars with bat and ball as Scotland beat Ireland to reach Women's T20 World Cup for first time; Ireland miss out on fifth appearance at tournament; 2024 Women's T20 World Cup, in Bangladesh, live on Sky Sports from October 3 with England to play South Africa in opening game

Sunday 5 May 2024 19:43, UK

Scotland have qualified for the Women's T20 World Cup for the first time after beating Ireland in the battle for a spot at the tournament proper in Bangladesh this October.

The top two sides in the qualifying competition in the UAE reach the 10-team main event in the autumn, joining England, Australia, India, Pakistan, South Africa, New Zealand, West Indies and Bangladesh.

Scotland snatched the first of those remaining spots - Sri Lanka saw off UAE to claim the other - after defeating Ireland by eight wickets in the semi-finals thanks to a superb all-round display from skipper Kathryn Bryce.

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WORLD CUP BOUND. HISTORY MAKERS. pic.twitter.com/VjBeCeQRAB — Cricket Scotland (@CricketScotland) May 5, 2024

Bryce took 4-8 from four overs, including the wickets of Amy Hunter and Gaby Lewis for ducks in the first over of the game and opposing captain Laura Delany for two in the fifth, as Ireland slumped to 47-6 before Leah Paul (45) and Arlene Kelly (45) propelled their side to 110-9 with a stand of 60.

But that total proved insufficient as Bryce struck an unbeaten 35 from 29 balls after opener Megan McColl had hit 50 from 47, with Scotland reaching their target in 16.2 overs to qualify for their first World Cup in either the 20-over or 50-over format.

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4️⃣ overs 8️⃣ runs 4️⃣ wickets Ridiculous from the skipper 🤌 #FollowScotland pic.twitter.com/kdhBNl0p3w — Cricket Scotland (@CricketScotland) May 5, 2024

Ireland, who won each of their four matches in the group stage, have missed out on a fifth appearance at the T20 World Cup.

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The main tournament begins on October 3 with England taking on South Africa in the opening match before hosts Bangladesh tackle one of the qualifiers later the same day.

The entire competition will be broadcast live on Sky Sports as Australia look to claim the title for the third time in a row and England target a first victory since the inaugural edition in 2009.

Women's T20 World Cup groups

• Group A: Australia, India, New Zealand, Pakistan, Qualifier 1
• Group B: South Africa, England, West Indies, Bangladesh, Qualifier 2

It's one of the biggest sporting events in a generation. Tyson Fury and Oleksandr Usyk collide for the undisputed world heavyweight championship on Saturday May 18, live on Sky Sports Box Office. Book the fight now .

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Kentucky Derby Day races 2024: Results from Saturday's undercards at Churchill Downs

Moments after Gun Pilot crossed the wire first in Saturday’s Churchill Downs Stakes, Steve Asmussen pulled aside Cristian Torres for a brief conversation in the winner’s circle.

“First of many, man! First of many!” Asmussen told Torres, referencing the fact the jockey had just won his first Grade 1 race.

A stunning juxtaposition.

Asmussen, who’s won more than 10,000 races as a trainer (making him the winningest trainer in North American history), speaking to a jockey who had just forged new ground in his career.

"To get a Grade 1 (victory), it's a special day," Torres said. "It's something that I cannot explain how I feel -- I feel like I'm in a cloud right now. I'm blessed."

Gun Pilot, who won the 7-furlong race after leaving the gate at 5-1 odds, returned $12.68 on a $2 win wager. Here Mi Song , at 20-1 odds, finished second and returned $18.86. Zozos , at 9-2 odds, was third and paid $4.58.

Zozos was one of three prerace favorites along with Hoist the Gold and Tejano Twist .

But that trio, and the rest of the field, failed to stare down the barrel of Gun Pilot, who surged to the lead in the stretch and pulled away to win by more than 2 lengths, clocking a winning time of 1:21.95. 

"We talked about it beforehand: of him getting away clean, not giving him too much to do, just use enough of him to not be in the middle of the track," Asmussen said of Gun Pilot's winning trip. "Textbook. Just a beautiful ride by Cristian."

Torres redirected the credit.

"He's a nice horse," Torres said. "He (does) everything that I asked him for."

An obvious question after the victory: What’s next for Gun Pilot? When the possibility of the Metropolitan Handicap — more well-known by its abbreviated name, the "Met Mile" — was broached, Asmussen couldn’t hide his disinterest.

"We're gonna pet him. We're gonna pet on him for a while," he said of Gun Pilot. "We targeted this, and he came through for us."

While Asmussen couldn’t care less about the future, Torres didn’t mind thinking back on the past. On this day last year, he wasn’t at Churchill Downs. Instead, he was competing in races in Arkansas, at Oaklawn .

“Being here, this is what we work for: to win these big races,” Torres said. “I've been blessed in my short career.”

-Ryan Black

Chad Brown horses sweep top spots in Distaff Turf Mile Stakes

Chili Flag , who went off at 4-1 odds, finished first in the $750,000 Grade 2 Churchill Distaff Turf Mile Stakes in 1:35.95 on Saturday at Churchill Downs.

The top three on the board all are trained by Chad C. Brown . Coppice , at 8-5 odds, and Delahaye , at 6-1 odds, finished second and third, respectively.

Chili Flag paid $10.06 to win on a $2 wager. Coppice returned $4.18 to place, and Delahaye paid $4.04 to show.

Brown is the winningest trainer in this stakes, with five career wins. This was his fourth consecutive win in the race.

Irad Ortiz Jr. rode Chili Flag to victory in what was his fourth win of the day.

-Prince James Story

Program Trading edges Naval Power in Turf Classic

Program Trading , among the race favorites at 4-1 odds, won by a nose over Naval Power , another favorite, in the $1,000,000 Grade 1 Turf Classic at Churchill Downs on Saturday. 

Program Trading paid $10.18 to win on a $2 wager. Naval Power, trained by Charles Appleby and owned by Godolphin, returned $4.34 to place, and Webslinger paid $6.92 to show.

Long shots Trikari, Formidable Man and Lagynos return big payoffs in American Turf

In a photo finish, Trikari , who went off at 47-1, won the Grade 2, $600,000 American Turf Stakes to earn jockey Umberto Rispoli’s 2,000th career win, clocking 1:43.59 for the 1 1/16 miles.

“It means a lot to me, and it means a lot more today,” said Rispoli, who will try to add a second win of the day when he rides Endlessly in the Derby.

Rispoli started the day by riding Front Run the Fed in the Twin Spires Turf stakes race then rode Evvie Jets in the Grade 2 Churchill Distaff Turf Mile. He finished eighth in both races.

Endlessly and Trikari are both owned by Amerman Racing Stables. H. Graham Motion trained Trikari, while trainer Michael McCarthy is making his Derby debut with Endlessly.

“Graham did an amazing job,” Rispoli said. “I'm glad, and thanks to him and his crew for bringing the horse in top shape in this race.”

Trikari has now won back-to-back races and improved to 3-1-0 in four career starts. 

Formidable Man, at 24-1 odds, and Lagynos, at 36-1, finished second and third, respectively.

On a $2 bet to win, Trikari returned $96.34. Formidable Man paid $23.22 to place, and Lagynos returned $19.60 to show. A 50-cent trifecta paid $2,985.51. The 2/4/3/11 $1 superfecta was worth $69,493.26.

The race included four graded-stakes winners in Agate Road, Neat, Stay Hot and Can Group. 

Legend of Time, the 6-5 favorite, finished fifth.

Last year, Javier Castellano rode Webslinger to first in 1:41.54, less than a second short of the race record (1:40.93). Castellano was back this year and rode Cugino, who finished fourth.

-Alexis Cubit

Cogburn upsets favorites to win Twin Spires Turf Sprint

Saturday marked the first time in the starting gate for Cogburn since Sept. 9, when he competed in the Grade 2 Turf Sprint Stakes at Kentucky Downs . He placed fifth in the 11-horse field that day.

Thankfully, trainer Steve Asmussen said Saturday, Cogburn’s owners gave the OK to allow the thoroughbred to rest up for a long layoff, aiming for this summer’s turf sprint season.

That decision paid off handsomely Saturday at Churchill Downs, as Cogburn captured the $600,000 Grade 2 Twin Spires Turf Sprint. 

In a stout field that featured a trio of favorites — Motorious , Mischief Magic and Big Invasion — in the 5 ½-furlong race, the competition concerned Asmussen less than the draw. Cogburn drew Post 14.

“Well, he took care of that in one jump,” Asmussen said, as Cogburn then was off to the races, beating runner-up Filo Di Arianna to the wire. Mischief Magic placed third.

“Obviously, his turf races are beyond excellent,” Asmussen said of Cogburn, who went off at 8-1 odds and returned $18.78 on a $2 wager, “and we're very fortunate to have him.”

Filo Di Arianna paid $24.50, while Mischief Magic returned $4.04 to show.

Saturday’s win continued a successful run for Cogburn, who has won seven times in 13 starts (winning percentage of 54%). He owns a win-place-show rate of 69% (7-2-0 in 13 races).

“I think that's what he's capable of,” said Asmussen, the winningest trainer in North American history in terms of victories , with more than 10,000. “And that's what we'll be getting to campaign the rest of the year.”

With sights squarely set on the Breeders’ Cup .

“He showed how fast he was at that level,” Asmussen said, “but it was toward the end of (last) year.” 

Former Kentucky Derby hopeful Seize the Grey victorious in Pat Day Mile Stakes

Seize the Grey , a 2024 Kentucky Derby hopeful before a disappointing finish in the Blue Grass Stakes, finished first in the $600,000, Grade 2 Pat Day Mile Stakes in 1:35.96 on Saturday.

Jaime A. Torres rode Seize the Grey, who went off at 9-1 odds, to victory. Seize the Grey paid $20.84 on a $2 win bet.

Nash , at 5-2 odds, and Vlahos , at 5-1 odds, finished second and third, respectively. Nash returned $4.46 to place, and Vlahos paid $5.50 to show.

Seize the Grey, who is trained by D. Wayne Lukas and owned by MyRacehorse (Michael Behrens), finished seventh in the Grade 1 Blue Grass Stakes on April 6 at Keeneland . 

Lukas said he would strongly consider running Seize the Grey in the Preakness Stakes on May 18. 

“We got nothing to lose. You stick him in there, and he earned his way to run (in) the Preakness. I mean, he's qualified for it, and he's nominated for it, so why wouldn't we give those people that opportunity,” Lukas said.

“Bob (Baffert) called me last night and talked to me for about 45 minutes. We talked about getting together at the Preakness and having some fun. We both do well there, and we both have had a hell of a run in there.”

Baffert, who didn’t have any horses in the Kentucky Derby because of his ongoing Churchill Downs suspension, has won the Preakness a record eight times , and Lukas has won the second leg of the Triple Crown six times. 

Seize the Grey won his 3-year-old debut — an allowance optional claiming race — on Feb. 24 at Oaklawn Park and then finished third in the Grade 3 Jeff Ruby Steaks on March 23 at Turfway Park before his disappointing showing in the Blue Grass.

Favored Vahva rallies down stretch to win Derby City Distaff

A rivalry between fillies Vahva and Alva Starr grew stronger Saturday at Churchill Downs. 

The latter and jocke y Tyler Gaffalione took the lead on the final turn of the Derby City Distaff; but the former, with Ortiz Jr. aboard, surged past her down the stretch to claim the $1 million, Grade 1 race. 

Running out of Post 10, Ortiz and the 4-year-old daughter of Gun Runner covered 7 furlongs in 1:21.75. 

They tracked the pace early from the four to five path and raced in the three path along the turn. Trailing Alva Starr by a head at the stretch, Ortiz made a bid nearing the eighth-pole and edged Gaffalione by 2 lengths. 

“I just let her be there, let her be happy,” Ortiz said. “I had confidence that my filly was going to catch up.” 

Flying Connection finished third with jockey Florent Geroux aboard. 

WIth 8-5 odds, Vahva returned $5.44 on a $2 wager for the win. Alva Starr, the second choice at 2-1, paid $3.66 to place; and Flying Connection (11-1) returned $5.20 to show.

Vahva improved to 5-3-2 across 12 starts, remained undefeated at Churchill Downs and delivered trainer Cherie DeVaux her second career Grade 1 victory. 

When did DeVaux think her horse had it? “After she crossed the finish line,” the trainer said. 

Alva Starr and Gaffalione bested Vahva and Ortiz by half-lengths in the Grade 1 Madison Stakes on April 6 at Keeneland. But DeVaux’s filly won the first matchup, the Grade 2 Raven Run last October at Keeneland, by half a length with jockey John Velazquez aboard.

The Derby City Distaff is part of the Breeders’ Cup Dirt Dozen. First- second- and third-place finishes in these races will receive a tiered bonus bankroll that will be applicable to Breeders’ Cup fees (pre-entry and entry). 

DeVaux said reaching that stage is the ultimate goal for Vahva. 

“She’s just one who has a nice, special presence about her,” DeVaux said. 

-Brooks Holton

This story will be updated.