gokarna places to visit quora

A man who's in love with Travelling

The Ultimate 3-Day Gokarna Itinerary (With Prices)

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

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

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

Table of Contents

How to reach Gokarna

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

How to reach Gokarna by air

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

How to reach Gokarna by Train

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

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

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

How to reach Gokarna by Bus

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

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

The best time to visit Gokarna

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

Places to stay in Gokarna

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

Book your stay at Trippr at no extra cost using this link: Trippr Backpacker Hostel & Zostel

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

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

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

Day 0: Taking the bus from Bangalore to Gokarna

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

Where to rent the scooter in Gokarna

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

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

Scooty Rentals Company in Gokarna : We Gokarna Scooty Rental

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

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

Location : Indian Oil Petrol Pump  

Staying at Trippr Hostel on the Middle Beach

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

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

Visiting the mysterious Yana Caves

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

The second route involves hiking for 2-3hrs.

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

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

Swim under the Vibhoothi Falls

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

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

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

Vibhoothi Falls Parking Fees : ₹10

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

Sunset at the middle beach

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

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

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

Day 2 in Gokarna: Staying at Zostel

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

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

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

Visiting the Murdeshwar temple and the Gopuram

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Stop by the historic Mirjan Fort

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

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

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

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

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

Visiting Mahaganapati Temple & Mahabaleshwar temple 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Having dinner at Zostel Cafe

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

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

Day 3:  Walk to Kudle Beach

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

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

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

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

Reaching the beautiful Om Beach 

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

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

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

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

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

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

Gokarna Beach trek: Heading toward Half Moon Beach

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

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

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

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

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

Is Paradise really found at Paradise Beach?

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

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

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

• Sunset at Kudle Beach

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

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

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

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

Gokarna itinerary for 3 days in brief

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

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

Gokarna 3 Day trip budget breakdown

Where to eat in gokarna.

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

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

Read more : 10 Most Amazing places to eat in Gokarna

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

Read More: Plan your travel for 2024 with these suggestions for 14 Long Weekends

You May Also Like

Hampi Travel Guide: Budget Trip To Hampi In Rs4000

17 Best Things To Do In Hampi(2023 Edition)

7 Most Amazing Cafes & Restaurants in Hampi

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

storiesofraku

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

Vedika more

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

Glad you found it helpful!

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Places To Visit In Gokarna

Top hotel collections.

Beach Resorts

Near Gokarna Beach

Must Visit Places in Gokarna

Mahabaleshwara Temple

Kudle Beach

Water Sports in Gokarna

• Filter (20)
• Trekking & Hiking (2)
• Water Sports (1)

1. Om Beach

1 km from city center 1 out of 20 Places To Visit in Gokarna

Famous for being naturally shaped like the auspicious symbol Om, Om beach attracts tourists round the year.

2. Mahabaleshwara Temple

1 km from city center 2 out of 20 Places To Visit in Gokarna

A Shiva Linga known as the Atmalinga is worshipped in this Mahabaleshwar temple.

3. Paradise Beach, Gokarna

4 km from city center 3 out of 20 Places To Visit in Gokarna

The Paradise beach is accessible only by boat or after some trekking. No water sports are available here but swimming in the calm waters can be fun.

4. Kudle Beach

2 km from city center 4 out of 20 Places To Visit in Gokarna

This is one of the most famous tourist spot, located around 20-minutes (walking distance) away from Gokarna. Here travelers will get a number of simple huts and beach-side eating places where one can enjoy lots of things. A kilometers-long pure white sandy beach surrounded by palm trees is the major attraction of this beach that attracts large number of travelers.

Top Hotels In Gokarna

₽ 798 onwards

₽ 445 onwards

₽ 331 onwards

₽ 1,109 onwards

₽ 431 onwards

5. Water Sports in Gokarna

2 km from city center 5 out of 20 Places To Visit in Gokarna

Known for its idyllic beaches and pristine waters, Gokarna is a favorite among travelers who seek a peaceful vacation. It is the more laid-back and less commercialized version of Goa. Other than the famous Om beach, it has Kudle beach and the more secluded Half Moon and Paradise beach.

6. Gokarna Beach

1 km from city center 6 out of 20 Places To Visit in Gokarna

Located close to Mahabaleshwara Temple, Gokarna beach is most popular with pilgrims coming to visit the temples.

7. Yana Caves

27 km from city center 7 out of 20 Places To Visit in Gokarna

A delightful location for trekkers and hikers, Yaana is situated in the midst of the thick woods of the Western Ghats.

8. Half Moon Beach

3 km from city center 8 out of 20 Places To Visit in Gokarna

Half Moon is a smaller, less popular and hence a less crowded beach, yet quite beautiful beach.

9. Mirjan Fort

13 km from city center 9 out of 20 Places To Visit in Gokarna

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 Centuries and was functional till 1785. Later, the British captured this fort and used it for their armoury. It is embellished with the remarkable architecture of the bygone era, such as canals, moats, secret passageways and various other considerations to fortify its grounds. The splendid fort truly gives the impression of a fairytale castle all covered with grass and overgrowth.

10. Beach Trekking

4 km from city center 10 out of 20 Places To Visit in Gokarna

Coddled in nature? lap, the pristine beaches of Gokarna are already an engrossing sight, add to that the thrill and excitement of a trek and the picture is complete. The 8km trekking activity takes over 7 hours and starts from Bangalore under the guide of a qualified instructor. The joy of this fascinating journey through the lush and dense tropical forests is guaranteed to last a lifetime.

11. City Shopping

1 km from city center 11 out of 20 Places To Visit in Gokarna

There are small shops in the town selling some religious trinkets, incense sticks and some cheap clothes. There are no souvenirs in particular that tourists generally carry from Gokarna.

12. Namaste Cafe

3 km from city center 12 out of 20 Places To Visit in Gokarna

Namaste Cafe is one of the most picturesque cafes in Gokarna offering finger licking delicious food, situated right on the Om Beach. If you are in Gokarna, this place is a must-visit. Situated at one end of the beach, the cafe has a picture perfect setting and tasting the delicious food here with a view is one of the best things to do in Gokarna.

Discover More About Sightseeing & Tourist Attractions in Gokarna

Beaches & Islands

Beautiful Beaches in Gokarna for a ScenicStay

Magnificent Temples in Gokarna

Sightseeing

Things to Do in Gokarna for a Peaceful Beachside Vacation

Places Near

Places to Visit near Gokarna

Beach Camping in Gokarna - An Offbeat Adventure Awaits You!

Gokarna: Offbeat Beach Destination for the Weary

13. Koti Tirtha

1 km from city center 13 out of 20 Places To Visit in Gokarna

A man made tank, Koti Tirtha is considered to be extremely sacred and is used for ritual bathing and immersing idols. The tank is surrounded by temples on all sides.

14. Maha Ganapati temple

56 km from city center 14 out of 20 Places To Visit in Gokarna

Dedicated to Lord Ganesha, this temple is located near the Mahabaleshwara temple and quite popular among pilgrims visiting Gokarna.

18 km from city center 15 out of 20 Places To Visit in Gokarna

A coastal town near Gokarna, Kumta is famous for its temples and beaches.

16. Bhadrakali Temple

1 km from city center 16 out of 20 Places To Visit in Gokarna

This temple dedicated to the Goddess Uma, is a popular religious site in Gokarna.

57 km from city center 17 out of 20 Places To Visit in 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.

18. Nirvana Beach

17 km from city center 18 out of 20 Places To Visit in Gokarna

A lesser-known, relatively secluded and extremely clean beach in Karnataka, Nirvana Beach in Gokarna is a long stretch of golden sand and clear blue water. Ideal for a relaxing and serene getaway, the beach offers excellent sunrise and sunset views and is also great for taking a dip. It is not open for water sports but the beach is perfect for volleyball or simply sunbathing while watching a few fishing boats go by. Just a ferry ride from popular beaches, Nirvana Beach is a wonderful place to spend some peaceful time with family.

19. Small Hell Beach

1 km from city center 19 out of 20 Places To Visit in Gokarna

A must-visit when in Gokarna, Small Hell Beach is a peaceful beach that features golden sand and ultramarine blue water that is exceptionally calm. Given that it is untouched by untouched hands, the surroundings are quite clean and absolutely breathtaking. Surrounded by massive rocks and tall trees, it is ideal for swimming, sunbathing, taking photographs and relaxing. A few fishing boats go by occasionally and add to the scenic beauty of the area.

20. Belekan Beach

1 km from city center 20 out of 20 Places To Visit in Gokarna

Belekan Beach in Gokarna is a remote location accessible mainly via a boat ride from Gokarna Beach that is known for its calm blue water and magnificent views of the hills around. It is close to Moonlight Beach and is a tranquil location perfect for a relaxing day. While swimming is definitely a go-to activity here, it is also great for playing beach volleyball and frisbee. Being here in the evenings allows visitors to catch a glimpse of the gorgeous sunset against the hills and just enjoy the sight of boats littered around on the water.

Places To Visit In Nearby Places

FAQs on Gokarna

What are the top activities in gokarna, what are the top sightseeing places in gokarna, what are the top restaurants in gokarna, how can i commute within gokarna, can you suggest an itinerary for gokarna, browse hotel collections, by hotel type.

Best Homestays in Gokarna for a Fun Getaway

Cottages in Gokarna for a Quiet Getaway

Villas In Gokarna for a Fun Stay

Best Backpacker Hostels In Gokarna

Resorts in Sirsi

By Budget Category

Cheap Hotels In Gokarna

Luxury Resorts In Gokarna

Luxury Hotels In Gokarna

By Star Category

5 Star Hotels In Gokarna

3 Star Hotels In Gokarna

With Specific Facilities

Hotels Near Gokarna Beach

Camping In Gokarna

Resorts Near Kudle Beach

Resorts In Gokarna With Swimming Pool

Near Landmarks

Resorts Near Om Beach

Resorts Near Kumta

Hotels Near Kudle Beach

For Special Purposes

Best Resorts in Gokarna for a relaxing Getaway

Best Beach Resorts in Gokarna

Hotels In Gokarna Near Beach for the Perfect Seaside Vacation

Best Beach Hotels in Gokarna

Pet Friendly Hotels In Gokarna

Similar Places

Filter ( 0 selected)

Get the best offers on travel packages.

Compare package quotes from top travel agents

Compare upto 3 quotes for free

• India (+91)

*Final prices will be shared by our partner agents based on your requirements.

Log in to your account

Welcome to holidify.

Forget Password?

Share this page

1800 22 7979

+91 22 2101 7979

+91 22 2101 6969

+91 88799 00414

Business hours

Top Recommended Destinations

Jammu and Kashmir

Sikkim Darjeeling

Himachal Pradesh

• Chandrataal
• Dharamshala
• Spiti Valley
• Nubra Valley
• Pangong Tso

Punjab & Haryana

• Kurukshetra

Uttarakhand

• Jim Corbett Park

Uttar Pradesh

• Fatehpur Sikri

Andaman & Nicobar Islands

• Neil Island

Andhra Pradesh

• Visakhapatnam (Vizag)
• Chitradurga
• Murudeshwar
• Shravanbelagola
• Athirappilly
• Thiruvananthapuram
• Kanchipuram
• Kanyakumari
• Mahabalipuram
• Pondicherry

Arunachal Pradesh

• Kaziranga National Park
• Manas National Park
• Cherrapunjee
• Bhubaneshwar

West Bengal

• Narmada Tent City
• Rann of Kutch

Madhya Pradesh

• Omkareshwar

Maharashtra

• Chittorgarh
• Kumbhalgarh
• Ranthambore

Australia New Zealand

South East Asia

Dubai Egypt Israel

• Nile Cruise

South Africa

• Johannesburg
• Pilanesberg National Park
• Port Elizabeth (Gqeberha)
• Stellenbosch
• Victoria Falls
• Rio De Janerio
• Los Angeles
• Niagara Falls
• Philadelphia
• San Francisco
• Nuwara Eliya
• Kuala Lumpur
• Genting Highlands
• Nusa Penida
• Ho Chi Minh
• Cherry Blossom Tours

South Korea

Philippines

• Great Barrier Reef
• Great Ocean Road

New Zealand

• Christchurch

Western Europe

• Liechtenstein
• Netherlands
• Switzerland
• Vatican city

Central & Eastern Europe

• Czech Republic

Northern Europe

Mediterranean Europe

• Midnight Sun
• Northern Lights
• Scandinavia

United Arab Emirates

• Ferrari World

Saudi Arabia

An adventure of a lifetime awaits you. Immerse yourself in the untouched beauty of the last frontier on Earth, the serene beauty of icebergs, and witness landscapes that seem straight out of your dreams.

Speciality Tours

POPULAR & available TOURS

Honeymoon special.

Embark on a journey of togetherness.

Inspiring beautiful journeys & Scenic Routes.

Seniors' Special

Golden age celebration tours for 55+ yrs.

Short Trips

Quick getaways to stunning destinations.

Women's Special

Exclusive handcrafted women only tours.

Family Tour Packages

Veena World’s safe, secure, and popular tours

Upcoming Tours

Couples only.

Exclusive tours for middle aged couples.

Luxury Tours

Enjoy the sweet life of luxury & pampering.

One Week One Place

Explore one place at a relaxed pace.

Post Tour Holidays

Explore the city after your big tour.

Treks & Hikes

Exiting adventure & challenges (15-55 yrs).

YOLO Adventures

Experiences for adrenaline junkies (18-35 yrs).

City Walks & Day Trips

Explore the city and culture.

WOW Adventures

Thrilling holidays for family (10-55 yrs).

Students' Special

Dhamaal tours after 10th & 12th exams

Women's Special with Kids

Travel with your kids (boys & girls, under 12 yrs)

Customized Holidays

THEMED EXPERIENCES - Find your reason!

Romantic Holidays

City Breaks

Adventure Stories

Taj Holidays

Air Inclusive Holidays

Luxury Holidays

choose the right tailor-made luxury travel vacations

Island Getaways

explore the tropical island getaways

Buy & Sell Foreign Currency

Aed - uae dirham, gbp - british pound.

All your FOREX needs taken care of

• Top 7 Captivating Places To Visit At Gokarna

Top 7 Captivating Places to Visit at Gokarna

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

Best Places To Visit in Gokarna

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

Lalguli Falls

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

We are an Indian travel company founded in 2013 and excel at domestic and international tour packages including guided group tours, specialty tours, customized holidays, corporate MICE travel, inbound travel and destination weddings.

Post your Comment Please let us know your thoughts on this story by leaving a comment.

Blog categories.

• Travel Guide

Looking for something?

Embark on an incredible journey with Veena World as we discover and share our extraordinary experiences.

Request Call Back

Tell us a little about yourself and we will get back to you

Our Offices

Located across the country, ready to assist in planning & booking your perfect vacation.

Locate nearest Veena World

Listen to our Travel Stories

5 Minute Travel Tips with Neil Patil

Welcome to 5-Minute Travel Tips with Neil Patil, your friendly and caring companion for all things travel! Hosted by the seasoned traveller and https://www.veenaworld.com/'s co-founder https://www.instagram.com/patilneil/, this bite-sized podcast shares https://www.linkedin.com/in/neilpatil1612/'s travel experiences and the best tips, hacks, and insights he's gathered over the years. Whether listeners are frequent flyers or just planning their first adventure, https://www.facebook.com/neil1612 aims to make their trips smoother, more enjoyable, and truly unforgettable. Every Thursday, https://twitter.com/ineilpatil brings a new episode packed with practical advice, from smart packing and finding the best flight deals to discovering hidden gems and ensuring travel safety and comfort. Each 5-minute episode is designed to give listeners useful tips that they can apply right away to enhance their travel experiences. This Podcast is brought to you by https://www.veenaworld.com/ 5-Minute Travel Tips with Neil Patil is here to help listeners become smarter and savvier travellers. Subscribe now and become smart traveller one destination at a time!

Aapla Maharashtra

'आपला महाराष्ट्र' ही पॉडकास्ट मालिका म्हणजे महाराष्ट्राची झलकच. गौरवशाली इतिहास , वैविध्यपूर्ण परंपरा आणि आकर्षक भूगोल लाभलेल्या महाराष्ट्राची ओळख करून देण्यासाठीच वीणा वर्ल्डने ही मालिका सुरू केली आहे. या मालिकेतून महाराष्ट्राच्या रोमांचक इतिहासाचे साक्षीदार असलेल्या गड - किल्ल्यांचा थोडक्यात परिचय करुन दिला जाईल. मग दर गुरुवारी न चुकता ऐका ' आपला महाराष्ट्र ' आणि तुमच्या भटकंतीला द्या नवीन दिशा. Looking to explore the wonders of Maharashtra, India? Tune in to 'Aapla Maharashtra', a podcast series that takes you on a journey through the state's rich history, captivating culture, and breathtaking geography. Join us every Thursday for a new episode and discover the many forts that bear witness to Maharashtra's majestic past. Take your travel experience to the next level with 'Aapla Maharashtra'.

Chalo Bag Bharo Nikal Pado

#ChaloBagBharoNikal Pado, a Hindi podcast by Veena World, is here to take you on a virtual tour around the world. Every episode, our host Neil will be joined by expert travellers with years of experience in the Travel and Tourism industry. They’ll share their personal journeys and stories that you’ve probably never heard of before. A new guest, a new experience. New episode every Wednesday. Join us to Celebrate Life virtually.

Know the Unknown

Know something unknown daily in under 3 minutes

Life Stories by Veena Patil

‘Exchange a coin and you make no difference but exchange a thought and you can change the world.’ Hi! I’m Veena Patil... Fortunate enough to have answered my calling some 35 years ago and content enough to be in this business of delivering happiness almost all my life. Tourism indeed moulds you into a minimalist... Memories are probably our only possession. And memories are all about sharing experiences, ideas and thoughts. Life is simple, but it becomes easy when we share. Places and people are two things that interest me the most. While places have taken care of themselves, here’s my podcast, which I consider to be a great platform, through which I can share some interesting stories I live and love on a daily basis with all you wonderful people out there. I hope you enjoy the journey... Let’s go, celebrate life!

Recommended Tours

Coastal Karnataka

Tour includes, super deal price.

All of Karnataka

The Great Indian Peninsula Road Trip

Starts from

Most commented, calling out the spiritually inclined - 10 places of worship worth visiting in india, top 10 places in china - discover the land of oldest living civilization, a 2 week itinerary for a holiday in africa - trace your roots in the cradle of mankind, handpicked wedding destinations around the world for your big day, keep travelling all year round.

Subscribe to our newsletter to find travel inspiration in your inbox.

Trending videos for you

Top Travel Experiences

With Veena World

Dekho Apna Desh

Places to Visit in 2023

Veena world tour reviews, what are you waiting for chalo bag bharo nikal pado.

"Karnataka coastal tour 20th jan24 to 28 jan 24 : Tour was excellent and it was excellently managed by tour guide and leader Bhushan and... Read more

"Myself with my son we had a very comfortable trip ..Pramod and Neelesh really to... Read more

"Costal Karnataka tour : Sir/Madam This is my first tour with Veena Tours and Travels. Hats off to your management for the excellent Tou... Read more

"Wonderful week"

70 departures

25,390 guests travelled

149 departures

59,700 guests travelled

129 departures

58,633 guests travelled

85 departures

42,748 guests travelled

171 departures

82,268 guests travelled

15 departures

11,980 guests travelled

33 departures

11,481 guests travelled

165 departures

1,24,309 guests travelled

• 11 min read

Places to visit in Gokarna, Karnataka

Have you ever visited a place with some preconceived notion but then discovered a totally different side to that place? Gokarna, located in coastal Karnataka (India), was one such place for us. We planned to travel to Gokarna thinking that it is an easy-going, laid-back beach destination, but never did we imagine that Gokarna is so much more than just being beach, booze and hippie life. With all of the above, Gokarna has an interesting drawn-out historical story that gave us a completely new perspective of the place. Read on to know more about Gokarna, places to visit and our experience.

Location of Gokarna:

Gokarna is located on the western coastline in the Indian state of Karnataka. The small-town falls in the Uttara Kannada district under Kumta taluka. It is located about 150 kilometres south of Goa. Gokarna’s location is flawless, with the Aghnashini River to its south and the Gangavalli River to its north. Both these rivers meet the Arabian Sea, and Gokarna stands in dignity between both the confluences.

How to reach Gokarna:

You can reach Gokarna in one of the following ways:

Dabolim airport in Goa is the nearest international airport (approx. 150 kilometres) to Gokarna. Whereas, Hubballi airport in Hubli is the nearest domestic airport (approx. 145 kilometres) to Gokarna. From Dabolim airport, you can either take a train, bus or taxi to reach Gokarna and from Hubballi airport, you can either take a bus or a taxi to reach Gokarna.

Gokarna Road station is connected to all trains running on the Western Rail lines or Konkan rail lines. Hence, Goa, Mumbai, Pune, Mangalore, and Bengaluru (Bangalore) are well connected to this rail line. Gokarna town is 6 kilometres far from the Gokarna Road railway station, and you will easily get an auto that will take you to the main town. However, being a small station, not all trains might stop at Gokarna Road station. Ankola station to the north of Gokarna and Kumta station to its south are the major railway stations where you can get down. After that, you can easily take a bus or a taxi to reach Gokarna.

Several government and private buses ply from major cities like Bengaluru (Bangalore), Hyderabad, Mumbai, Pune, Goa and Mangalore to Gokarna. Private taxis are also available from these cities that can take you to Gokarna. However, most of the buses will drop you at Madangeri cross or Gokarna cross, which is about 10 kilometres from the main town of Gokarna.

How to reach Gokarna from Madangeri cross or Gokarna cross:

The main Gokarna town is located 12 kilometres away from Madangeri cross or Gokarna cross. You can hop on into a government bus coming from Kumta (Kumta-Gokarna-Kumta route bus). All buses heading to Gokarna from down south will stop at Madangeri cross or Gokarna cross. You can also take an auto from Madangeri cross or Gokarna cross to reach Gokarna. Remember to bargain with the auto drivers. As of 2019, the bus charges are INR 15 per person, and auto charges are INR 250 (can easily accommodate 3 people) from Madangeri cross or Gokarna cross to Gokarna main town. The autos will charge more if you ask them to drop you at the beaches.

Best time to visit Gokarna:

Gokarna can be travelled to throughout the year. However, October to February is an ideal time to visit Gokarna as the weather is pleasant and humidity is at its least. March to May are summer months, and it becomes too hot to chill on the beaches. June to early September is the monsoon when the beaches are either closed or too desolate and unkempt. If your main purpose of visit is to see the lively temples, then the Shivratri festival in March and the Ganesh Chaturthi festival in August is the best time to visit Gokarna.

Ideal duration of visit to Gokarna:

Gokarna is known for its temples and beaches. It can be easily covered in a 3-day duration. However, plenty of interesting destinations near Gokarna are worth visiting like Yana caves, Vibhooti Falls, Mirjan Fort, Murudeshwar and Jog Falls. If you plan to cover each of these places, a 6-day trip duration will be ideal.

Check out other articles of places you can visit along with Gokarna -

1. Best places to visit near Gokarna

2. Kahani Paradise - Luxury villa in Gokarna

3. Travel guide to Murudeshwar

4. Travel guide to Jog Falls

History of Gokarna:

There are several interesting stories and folklore about how Gokarna got its name. Gokarna, meaning ‘Cow’s ear’, is derived from two Hindi language words, Go = Cow, Karna = Ear. Interestingly, even the zoomed-out map of Gokarna town seems to be like an ear (ear-shaped confluence of Aghnashini and Gangavalli rivers to Arabian sea).

It is believed that Lord Brahma, who considered himself superior and creator of the universe, was cursed by Lord Shiva for his arrogance. Lord Brahma penanced and asked for forgiveness from Lord Shiva at the very place where Gokarna exists. Impressed by Brahma’s penance, Lord Shiva appeared in front of him from the ear of a cow. Hence, the place came to be known as Gokarna (cow’s ear).

As per another folklore, the mother of Ravana (demon King of Lanka) was a loyal devotee of Lord Shiva and wanted to worship the main ‘Atma linga’ (Soul of Lord Shiva). Hence, Ravana went to Mount Kailash (abode of Lord Shiva) and performed rigorous penance to please Lord Shiva to offer him the ‘Atma linga’ as a boon. Lord Shiva finally appeared and granted Ravana the ‘Atma linga’ on the condition that he should directly take it to Lanka without placing it on the ground, failing which the linga will permanently embed where it is placed. Ravana started his journey back to Lanka after receiving the boon.

Lord Vishnu knew that Ravana was evil, and he would attain immortality and invincibility if he successfully took the ‘Atma linga’ to Lanka. He also knew that Ravana was punctual in performing his evening prayers. So, he took the help of Lord Ganesha and devised a plan so that Ravana had to place the ‘Atma linga’ somewhere on his way. When Ravana was nearing Gokarna, Lord Vishnu hid the sun with the help of his ‘Sudarshan chakra’, giving an impression of dusk. At this time, Ravana looked out for someone who could hold the ‘Atma linga’ for him till he performed his evening rituals.

Lord Ganesha disguised as a Brahmin boy herding his cow and appeared in front of Ravana. Ravana persuaded him to hold and protect the ‘Atma linga’ without placing it on the ground. As soon as Ravana went for performing his rites, Lord Ganesha placed the linga on the ground and vanished. The ‘Atma linga’ got permanently embedded at that place. Agitated, Ravana tried chasing Lord Ganesha and his cows. He hurt Lord Ganesha’s head in the process, but the Lord was successful in disappearing. As one of the cows started disappearing underground, he grabbed hold of just its ear. Hence, the place was given the name Gokarna (cow’s ear).

Ravana tried to uproot the ‘Atma linga’, and due to force exerted by him, some scattered pieces got detached, which he threw in different directions. The scattered linga fell in Dhareshwar, Shejjeshwar, Gunavanthe, Surathkal and Murudeshwar, respectively, but the main ‘Atma linga’ refused to move. After the pieces scattered in these places, the remaining linga gained the shape of a cow’s ear. Hence, the place was named Gokarna (cow’s ear). Failing to uproot the linga, Ravana called it ‘Mahabal’ (i.e.. Extremely strong). Later, a temple was built here and named as ‘Mahabaleshwara temple’.

Since then, Gokarna has been a pilgrimage centre, but recently due to the influx of tourists to its unspoilt beaches, the eminence of the town has changed to a ‘beach destination’. Gokarna has a laid-back vibe that attracts many foreign tourists, owing to which many shacks, hotels, resorts and restaurants have come up to cater to the incoming crowd.

Nonetheless, a large number of devotees still flock to this temple town to offer prayers. All in all, Gokarna is blessed with two types of places to visit – Temples and Beaches.

Places to visit in Gokarna:

Gokarna religious sites or temples:.

If any of you plan on visiting the below-mentioned religious sites or temples in Gokarna, remember to respect the local traditions. Wear fully covered clothes, be quiet and do not touch objects or idols on the premises.

1. Sri Mahabaleshwara Swamy Temple

The temple was built entirely of granite in the 4th century in Dravidian architectural style. The sanctum sanctorum of the temple houses the ‘Atma linga’, which is worshipped by hordes of pilgrims visiting Gokarna. The Mahabaleshwara temple is regarded as the ‘Dakshin Kashi’ (i.e.. Kashi of the South). It is located very near to the main Gokarna beach. The Hindu festival of Shivratri is celebrated with a lot of pomp and cheer at Gokarna, where a chariot procession or Rath Yatra is held.

2. Maha Ganapathi Temple

This temple was built in honor of Lord Ganesha, who played a pivotal role in saving and installing ‘Atma linga’ in Gokarna. A 5-feet tall granite idol of Lord Ganesha adorns the sanctum sanctorum of Maha Ganapathi temple. You can still see the blow (in the form of a hole) on the head of the idol caused by Ravana. The temple is located next door to the Mahabaleshwara temple. It is a custom to worship Lord Ganesha before the ‘Atma linga’ in the Mahabaleshwara temple.

3. Kotiteertha

This is a man-made pond-like water body that is used for the holy immersions of idols. Kotiteertha literally means ‘Thousand Springs’. Staunch devotees also bathe in Kotiteertha before visiting the temples.

4. Shiva Caves

These caves are also called ‘Gogarbha’ (womb of a cow). It is said that the cow which Ravana caught hold of escaped and made a cave on a nearby hill. Locals believe that by entering Gogarbha, a devotee can reach the holy city of Kashi in Varanasi. Sadhus (saints) and devotees often visit the caves and use them as a resting place while visiting Gokarna.

Gokarna Beaches:

Gokarna could be easily called a hilly destination with pretty beaches beyond the hills. It isn’t that you will drive/ walk on a flat road to reach the beaches; you will have to trek or drive through the winding roads on the hills to get to them. There are 5 beaches of interest in total– 3 towards the south and only 2 facing west. All the beaches are interconnected via trails through hills and forest and can be trekked starting from the Gokarna main beach to the Paradise beach or vice versa. The beach trail trek is quite popular amongst youngsters.

1. Gokarna main beach

This one is probably the longest stretch of beach in Gokarna. As it is closest to the temples, it is frequented by pilgrims more than tourists. The waves at Gokarna main beach are subtle and are best to learn surfing. You can easily reach this west-facing beach via an auto or a rented bike/ scooter.

2. Kudle beach

This beach is not accessible directly via road. It is a 10-minute downhill trek over rocky terrain from the parking area. Kudle beach is popular with hippies and foreign tourists. The beach shore area is extremely broad, with lots of space to sit, relax, practise yoga or play volleyball. The water isn’t deep, and the waves are not violent; hence it is best for non-swimmers. The beach is lined with several shack restaurants and huts for accommodation. The backdrop of Kudle beach is beautifully covered with coconut and palm trees over the hills, and you will be able to see stunning sunset from this west-facing beach. However, we found Kudle beach extremely unkempt and dirty during our visit.

3. Om beach

Om beach is again not directly accessible via road. It can be approached by descending some 100 paved stairs from the parking lot. The drive to Om beach from the main Gokarna town is through hills and is quite scenic. This is the most popular beach in Gokarna and is named so as it is naturally shaped like the sacred Hindu symbol ‘OM. It is amongst the most visited place in Gokarna.

Om beach is well maintained and kept clean. It is a south-facing beach, but still, sunset can be viewed from the rocky part in the middle. The beach is lined with trees providing much-needed shade on the shore during hot days. It also has several colourful boats anchored to its shore belonging to the local fisherman. Om beach is dotted with popular upscale cafes that serve freshly prepared seafood. To get a perfect view of the symbol ‘OM’, you will have to trek to a hill towards the rightmost end of the beach.

4. Half-moon beach

Half-moon beach is named such as its shape resembles that of a half-moon. It cannot be accessed via road. You can reach it only after a 30-minute trek either from the leftmost end of Om beach or through a trail starting from the main road leading to Om beach. The trek to Half-moon beach is through a forested area and is easy to moderate in difficulty level. The trek from Om beach to Hal-moon beach will provide you with awesome views as the trail runs along the hill overlooking the vast Arabian Sea on one side.

It’s best to trek to Half-moon beach in a group or with someone experienced with the trails as there are plenty of chances that you will end up on the wrong trail or get lost on the many zig-zag paths. This south-facing beach is small, just like a lagoon, but clean and beautiful, just resembling a paradise. Half-moon beach is totally cut off from the world and has close to no amenities. Tourists have also claimed to witness bioluminescence in the sea at night-time at the beach, but it's best to visit it before sunset unless you plan to spend the night there.

5. Paradise beach

Paradise beach is another south-facing beach that can only be accessed by trekking. The beach can be reached after a 30-minute trek either from Half-moon beach or from Belekan beach (which can be reached via road). The beach is mostly rocky with some sandy patches in between, and it is dangerous to swim as the waves are extremely strong. Paradise beach is again a small beach hardly resembling a paradise. We did not find anything special about the beach except getting ourselves clicked with ‘Para Para Paradise’ written over the rocks with spray paint which was amusing in a way. There are no shacks or restaurants (which is good), but the beach is popular for illegal camping.

6. Cliff viewpoint

This, of course, isn't a beach but a viewpoint. Towards the right from the Kudle beach parking lot goes a trail up a hill. This takes you to the cliff viewpoint, from where you can see the entire stretch of Kudle beach from a cliff. If you walk some more towards the left, Gokarna main beach is visible. The viewpoint is best visited during sunrise or sunset. Not many people know about this viewpoint; hence it is extremely peaceful and devoid of crowds.

Note: During peak season and good weather conditions, you can hop beaches in a boat if you are not interested in trekking. The boats are operated by local fishermen that take you from one beach to another. Even water sports are available at most of these above-mentioned beaches during peak season. There is also a ferry line that operates from Belekan to Kumta. You can take this ferry, which operates almost every half an hour, to visit the beaches in Kumta like Nirvana beach and Heaven beach.

Gokarna market:

Gokarna's main market is another good place to visit in Gokarna. The market is located near the temples and the Gokarna main beach. Most of the shops sell clothes or items used in temples for worship. You can shop for cheap incense sticks, beads, printed T-shirts, hats, dresses, imitation jewellery, utensils, picture frames of God and Goddesses, souvenirs, and other religious items. Gokarna Thursday market is also quite well known.

Place to stay in Gokarna:

Being a place popular with youngsters and teenagers, we very soon realised that Gokarna lacked the proper infrastructure for a luxurious stay. We found low-budget shacks, huts, cottages and hotels that completely failed to impress us. What we were seeking out was a clean, comfortable, environment-friendly, away-from-crowd, luxurious accommodation with good views, great food and friendly staff.

Thus, we spent a lot of time researching such a place, and we are fortunate that we came across the luxury villas of ‘Kahani Paradise’. It ticked all our boxes and was much more than what we had expected. We highly recommend travellers heading to Gokarna to check them out. Perched on a hill in the middle of forest, Kahani Paradise is a perfect place to leave your world behind and relax. Read more about our experience of staying at Kahani Paradise, Gokarna .

Gokarna left us speechless with its beauty and history and taught us many things. Our trip to Gokarna turned out to be exceptional, not just because it is a great beach destination, but because we got a chance to unearth the rich history behind the magnificent temples, something that very few people tend to explore in Gokarna.

PIN THESE IMAGES

If you love such places, then Gokarna should be your next travel destination. And if you have been there already, do let us know about your thoughts on this magical place in the comment section below.

#India #SouthIndia #Karnataka #BengaluruWeekendOutings #MumbaiWeekendOutings #HyderabadWeekendOutings #PuneWeekendOutings

• Travel Destination

Subscribe Us

Thanks for Subscribing!

Featured Posts

Offbeat Places to Visit in Kashmir, India

Places to Visit in Majuli River Island, Awesome Assam

Places to visit in Dibrugarh, Assam - Awesome Assam

Places to visit near Port Blair, India - The Andaman Odyssey

Places to visit in South Kerala and South Kerala Itinerary

Jatayu Earth's Centre, Kollam - South Kerala

Responsible Tourism - How to travel responsibly

Langza Village and Buddha statue, Spiti Valley - Surreal Spiti

Jog Falls, Karnataka - A Travel guide

Places to visit in Murudeshwar, Karnataka - A Travel guide

Paro Taktsang (Tiger's nest monastery) – A complete travel guide - The Bhutan Odyssey

Explore the Fontainhas of Goa - Offbeat Goa

Travel Guide to Sohra (also known as Cherrapunjee) - The Meghalaya Odyssey

Plan your own trip to Andamans - The Andaman Odyssey

Note - All photos shared here are of lower quality to enable faster loading. If you would like to buy/license any of the photographs you can drop us an Email.   This page might contain affiliate / paid ads which helps in running this website. 

Veda5 - A Review of Ayurveda & Yoga Wellness Retreat in Rishikesh, India

Kaziranga National Park: Famous for One-Horned Rhinos, Awesome Assam

• Trekking & Travel Events
• Travel Organizations
• Himalayan Treks
• Maharashtra Treks
• Karnataka Treks
• Travel Guides
• Weekend Getaways
• Trekking Tips & Advice

Things To Do In Gokarna: Your Ultimate Guide (2024)

Gokarna, often referred to as a hidden gem of South India, is a tranquil coastal town that boasts breathtaking natural beauty, serene beaches, and a spiritual ambience that attracts travellers worldwide. With its pristine landscapes and vibrant culture, Gokarna offers a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. 

In this article, we will delve into Gokarna’s wonders and uncover this mesmerising destination’s secrets. Gokarna’s charm goes beyond its picturesque beaches and lush landscapes. It’s a place where spirituality and natural beauty blend harmoniously, creating a unique aura. This coastal paradise caters to a wide range of tourists, from backpackers seeking solitude to religious pilgrims seeking the blessings of Lord Shiva.

If you’re planning a trip to Gokarna or simply curious about this captivating destination, you’ve come to the right place. Here at “ Nomads of India ,” we’re dedicated to helping travellers like you explore the beauty and culture of India’s most exquisite locations. Let’s embark on this journey together and discover why Gokarna is a must-visit destination.

Table of Contents

Top Attractions in Gokarna: Where Nature Meets Spirituality

Gokarna Beaches: Pristine, Tranquil, and Irresistible

When you think of Gokarna, what comes to mind are its world-renowned beaches, each with unique charm. The sands of Gokarna hold a mesmerizing allure, attracting travellers from far and wide. Let’s explore some breathtaking beaches that make Gokarna a coastal paradise.

Kudle Beach

Kudle Beach, nestled between two rocky cliffs, is a paradise for those seeking tranquillity and a stunning sunset view. Its laid-back vibe, golden sands, and the soothing sound of waves crashing against the shore make it an ideal relaxing spot. Enjoy beachfront cafes, savour local cuisine, and indulge in water sports for a truly memorable experience.

Half Moon Beach

Half Moon Beach, aptly named for its unique shape, offers a more secluded and intimate atmosphere. It’s a perfect spot for camping under the starry night sky. You can reach this pristine beach by hiking from Om Beach or by taking a boat ride. Half Moon Beach offers a true escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life.

Paradise Beach

True to its name, Paradise Beach is a hidden gem. Accessible only by boat or a picturesque trek through the forests, it offers an isolated haven for beach lovers. The palm-fringed shoreline, clear blue waters, and the absence of commercial establishments give it a pure, unspoiled beauty that is simply breathtaking.

Om Beach, named for its distinctive shape resembling the auspicious Hindu symbol ‘Om,’ is a popular destination in Gokarna. Known for its watersports and vibrant shacks, it’s a hub of activity. Embrace the spirit of adventure with activities like jet-skiing, parasailing, and beach volleyball, or unwind and enjoy the mesmerizing views.

Honey Beach

For those in search of absolute serenity, Honey Beach is the answer. This hidden gem is tucked away from the usual tourist spots and offers the perfect escape. Unwind on its pristine shores, and you might feel like you’ve found your own private paradise.

Spiritual and Historical Marvels

Beyond the beaches, Gokarna has remarkable spiritual and historical landmarks enriching the overall experience.

Mahabaleshwar Temple

The Mahabaleshwar Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, holds immense religious significance. This ancient temple boasts captivating Dravidian architecture and is a must-visit for its historical and cultural importance. The temple’s peaceful ambience and stunning architecture make it a serene escape for spiritual seekers.

Mirjan Fort

Mirjan Fort, a historic gem, reflects the grandeur of the past. This fortress dates back to the 16th century and was once a significant defence point of the Queen of Gersoppa. Today, it is a testament to the region’s intriguing history and offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.

Natural Wonders of Gokarna

Gokarna doesn’t just have beaches and historical sites; it’s also blessed with natural wonders.

Vibhooti Falls

Nestled amidst lush greenery, Vibhooti Falls is a serene waterfall that provides a refreshing escape from the heat. Take a dip in the calm waters and revel in the beauty of nature. The journey to the falls is an adventure, with a picturesque trek through the dense forests.

Yana Rocks is a geological marvel with unique limestone rock formations that have amazed geologists and nature enthusiasts for centuries. These towering monoliths are an excellent place for trekking and experiencing the region’s natural wonders up close.

Exploring these attractions is an essential part of your Gokarna experience. Whether you seek relaxation on pristine beaches, a deeper spiritual connection, a dive into history, or a communion with nature, Gokarna has it all. Each site offers a unique perspective on the town, making it a well-rounded and unforgettable destination. So, take advantage of these remarkable attractions during your visit to Gokarna.

Experience the Hippie Vibe in Gokarna

Gokarna’s allure continues with its natural beauty and historical significance. This coastal haven has also embraced a distinct counterculture called the “hippie cult.” As you explore Gokarna, you’ll quickly become aware of the laid-back, spiritual, and alternative lifestyle that attracts hippies worldwide.

Embracing the Hippie Culture

Gokarna’s hippie culture is a captivating blend of bohemian living, spirituality, and an unpretentious love for life’s simple pleasures. It’s not unusual to find travellers engrossed in meditation, practising yoga on the beach, or attending spiritual workshops and retreats. This culture is about reconnecting with the inner self, nurturing a sense of peace, and embracing a more natural and mindful way of life.

Laid-Back Atmosphere

One of the reasons Gokarna has become a hub for hippie culture is its laid-back atmosphere. Unlike the bustling streets of Goa, Gokarna’s slower pace and pristine beaches provide an ideal backdrop for relaxation and self-discovery. It’s a place where you can trade your worries for the soothing sounds of the waves and find solace in the simplicity of life.

Yoga Retreats and Spiritual Experiences

Gokarna has earned a reputation as a yoga and meditation retreat destination. Various centres and ashrams offer yoga classes, workshops, and holistic healing experiences. It’s the perfect place to embark on a journey of self-improvement and self-discovery. The presence of like-minded individuals and experienced yogis creates an environment conducive to personal growth.

Immerse Yourself in Gokarna’s Hippie Culture:

Suppose you’re open to embracing the free-spirited and alternative way of life. In that case, Gokarna’s hippie culture is waiting to welcome you with open arms. It’s an opportunity to step out of your comfort zone, engage in self-discovery, and connect with like-minded souls who have found their own piece of paradise by the sea.

Popular Cafes and Hangout Spots

To fully immerse yourself in the hippie culture of Gokarna, you must explore its famous cafes and hangout spots. These places exude a rustic charm and are known for their relaxed ambience, organic cuisine, and vibrant sense of community. Here are some of the must-visit spots:

Namaste Café

Namaste Café is an iconic beachfront eatery that embodies the true spirit of Gokarna’s hippie culture. With its thatched-roof huts, delicious seafood, and panoramic views of the Arabian Sea, it’s a haven for those seeking a tranquil escape.

Shiva Moon Café

Shiva Moon Café is a spiritual retreat offering yoga, meditation, and holistic wellness sessions. Its open-air setting and serene vibes make it a perfect place to unwind and connect with nature.

Sunset Café

As the name suggests, the Sunset Café is renowned for its spectacular sunset views. It’s a popular gathering spot for travellers to unwind, share stories, and appreciate the twilight skies.

Ganga Café is another gem where you can savour vegetarian and vegan delights while enjoying live music and vibrant discussions on spirituality and life’s mysteries.

Unique Culinary Experiences in Gokarna

When you visit Gokarna, your experience is incomplete without savouring the delectable local cuisine. Gokarna offers diverse culinary experiences that cater to all tastes, from traditional South Indian flavours to international delights. Exploring the local food scene is not just a gastronomic adventure but also a cultural one. Here’s a glimpse of the unique culinary experiences in Gokarna.

Diverse Food Options in Gokarna

Gokarna’s food scene is a delightful blend of South Indian flavours, coastal delicacies, and international dishes. Whether you’re a seafood enthusiast, a vegetarian, or an adventurous foodie, you’ll find something to satisfy your taste buds. Some of the popular dishes and dining options include:

Ice Nutella at Rock Namaste Cafe

This sweet treat at Rock Namaste Cafe is a favourite among travellers. It’s a simple yet heavenly dessert featuring a scoop of vanilla ice cream generously drizzled with Nutella. Combining creamy ice cream and rich hazelnut chocolate sauce is a delightful way to beat the heat.

Prawn Pizza on a Banana Leaf

Experience the fusion of flavours and traditions with prawn pizza on a banana leaf. The freshness of prawns and the uniqueness of serving on a banana leaf add a distinct touch to your culinary journey.

Seafood Lasagna

For seafood lovers, Gokarna offers a delightful twist on an Italian classic. The seafood lasagna is a mouthwatering combination of fresh catch from the sea layered with pasta and rich, creamy sauce. It’s a must-try for those looking for a unique seafood experience.

Food Tours and Recommended Eateries

Consider joining a food tour to make the most of your culinary adventure in Gokarna. These tours take you to the hidden gems and local hotspots, where you can explore the region’s authentic flavours. Here are some recommended restaurants and cafes to get you started:

Namaste Café is not just famous for its beautiful views but also for its mouthwatering seafood dishes. Try their fish thali, and you won’t be disappointed.

Prema Restaurant

Prema Restaurant is known for its wholesome vegetarian food. Their thalis and traditional South Indian dishes are a hit among both locals and tourists.

Gokarna Kitchen

Gokarna Kitchen is a great place to sample local flavours. Take advantage of the Neer Dosa, a rice crepe that pairs perfectly with coconut chutney and sambar.

Street Food Stalls

Gokarna’s streets are lined with stalls offering snacks like bhel puri, pani puri, and masala dosa. These street food options are not only delicious but also provide a glimpse into the everyday culinary delights of the region.

The Importance of Trying Local Cuisine

One of the most exciting aspects of travelling is experiencing the culture through its food. Trying local dishes and specialities is a way to connect with the heritage and traditions of a place. When you visit Gokarna, you’re not just exploring its scenic beauty but also its rich culinary heritage. Sampling the local cuisine is a delicious way to immerse yourself in the culture and truly savour the essence of this coastal town.

So, when you’re in Gokarna, take advantage of the opportunity to embark on a culinary journey. Explore the diverse flavours, indulge in unique dishes, and savour the tastes that make Gokarna’s food scene a vital part of the overall experience. Your taste buds will thank you for it.

In conclusion, Gokarna offers diverse attractions, from its pristine beaches and spiritual sites to adventure activities and a rich culinary scene. To make the most of your visit to this coastal paradise, embrace all Gokarna offers. Whether you seek adventure, relaxation, spirituality, or an epicurean experience, Gokarna has something special for everyone.

Planning Your Budget-Friendly Gokarna Getaway

• Off-Peak Travel

Consider visiting Gokarna during its off-peak season, typically between June and September. During this time, you’ll find reduced prices for accommodations and activities. However, be prepared for monsoon weather.

• Affordable Accommodation

Gokarna offers a wide range of budget-friendly accommodation options. Guesthouses, hostels, and beachside shacks provide comfortable stays at a fraction of the cost of luxury resorts. Some popular budget-friendly options include Zostel Gokarna , HostelLife Gokarna , Hostel EXP and Lostel Gokarna .

• Local Cuisine

Explore the local cuisine, which is delicious and easy on the wallet. Street food stalls and small local restaurants offer authentic South Indian dishes at very reasonable prices. Try the thalis, dosas, and other regional specialities.

• Public Buses:  Travel to Gokarna by state-run or private buses, often the most cost-effective way to reach the town.
• Trains:  Check for budget-friendly train options, and book your tickets well in advance to secure lower fares.
• Carpooling:  Consider sharing a taxi or carpooling with fellow travellers to reduce transportation costs to nearby attractions.

Inexpensive Activities and Attractions

Gokarna offers a range of affordable and accessible activities and attractions that you can enjoy without breaking the bank:

• Beach Bumming

The most pristine and beautiful beaches in Gokarna are free to access. Spend your days sunbathing, swimming, or taking leisurely strolls along the shore.

Gokarna is a trekker’s paradise with many trekking routes that won’t cost you a dime. Explore trails like the Gokarna Beach to Kudle Beach hike for stunning views.

• Temple Visits

The Mahabaleshwar Temple is a significant religious site in Gokarna, and entry is usually free. Soak in the spirituality and history without spending a penny.

• Bonfire Nights

Many accommodations and guesthouses offer bonfire nights on the beach. Join these events for free or at a minimal cost to enjoy music and storytelling under the starry sky.

• Yoga and Meditation

Gokarna is known for its yoga and meditation retreats. While some classes and retreats may come with a cost, many offer free or donation-based sessions on the beach.

• Beach Camping

Opt for budget beach camping experiences at Paradise Beach or Belekan Beach. This saves money on accommodation and allows you to connect with nature.

• Street Shopping

Explore the local markets for souvenirs and trinkets. Bargaining is a common practice, so haggle for the best deals.

A budget-friendly vacation in Gokarna doesn’t mean compromising on experiences. By carefully planning your trip, choosing affordable accommodation, and engaging in budget-friendly activities, you can savour Gokarna’s beauty, culture, and adventure without straining your wallet. Enjoy your budget-friendly Gokarna getaway to the fullest!

Off-Beat Things to Do in Gokarna

Hidden Beaches: Serenity Awaits

While Gokarna is known for its beautiful beaches, some remain lesser-known and offer a more tranquil experience. These hidden gems are perfect for those who seek solitude and untouched natural beauty.

Nirvana Beach

Nirvana Beach is a secluded stretch of coastline accessible via a trek through the forest or by boat. It’s a peaceful haven away from the crowds, ideal for those who want to unwind and connect with nature.

Kagal Beach

Kagal Beach is an undiscovered gem, accessible by a scenic trek through the hills. The lack of commercial establishments means you can enjoy the pristine environment without distractions.

Secret Trails: Explore the Unknown

Gokarna’s lush landscapes hold numerous secret trails that lead to breathtaking viewpoints and secluded spots. These trails offer a sense of adventure and a chance to explore the untamed beauty of the region.

The Cliffside Walk

Embark on a lesser-known trail that takes you along the cliffs, offering panoramic views of the Arabian Sea. The trail is less travelled, making it a peaceful and rewarding trek.

Yana Rocks Trek

While Yana Rocks are known, the trek to reach them has yet to be explored. The route takes you through dense forests, and the towering monolithic rock formations are a sight.

Local Experiences: Embrace the Culture

Immerse yourself in local life by partaking in cultural experiences that few tourists discover. Engaging with the local community allows you to better understand Gokarna’s heritage.

Village Homestays

Opt for a village homestay experience to live like a local. You’ll have the chance to interact with the villagers, learn about their customs, and enjoy traditional cuisine.

Art and Craft Workshops

Participate in workshops conducted by local artisans. Learn the art of pottery, traditional painting, or craft-making, and take home a unique souvenir crafted by your own hands.

Visit Lesser-Known Temples: Spiritual Journeys

While the Mahabaleshwar Temple is famous, Gokarna has several smaller temples that offer a peaceful and spiritual experience without the crowds.

Kotitheertha

Kotitheertha is a serene temple tank surrounded by temples and mythological stories. It’s a quiet place to reflect and soak in the spiritual ambience.

Shri Bhadrakali Temple

This temple, dedicated to Goddess Bhadrakali, is known for its unique architecture and the annual Karthika Deepotsava festival, a lesser-known but enchanting event.

When in Gokarna, it’s essential to venture beyond the famous tourist spots to truly appreciate the town’s hidden treasures. These off-beat activities and attractions offer a unique perspective and a chance to create memorable experiences in this coastal paradise. So, pack your sense of adventure and curiosity and explore the lesser-known side of Gokarna.

In conclusion, Gokarna is a coastal paradise with a captivating blend of natural beauty, spirituality, adventure, and a rich cultural tapestry. Gokarna has something for every traveller, from its pristine beaches to its historic temples, from the tranquillity of its hidden gems to the vibrant hippie culture.

We’ve explored the top attractions, from the serene Kudle Beach to the spiritual Mahabaleshwar Temple, the adventure activities, such as trekking and beach camping, the unique culinary experiences that tantalize your taste buds, and off-beat things to do, including discovering hidden beaches and secret trails.

Gokarna has it all, whether you seek relaxation, spiritual enlightenment, an adrenaline rush, a culinary adventure, or off-the-beaten-path experiences. It’s a place where you can create lasting memories and connections.

So, why plan a visit to Gokarna and make the most of your experience? Whether on a budget or seeking luxury, Gokarna welcomes all travellers. Explore its hidden treasures, engage with the local culture and venture beyond the famous tourist spots. This coastal town invites you to embrace its unique character and create unforgettable journeys.

Gokarna is more than a destination; it’s an experience waiting to be lived. Please take advantage of the opportunity to immerse yourself in its beauty and charm. Start planning your Gokarna getaway today!

• things to do in gokarna
• Share via...

Places to Visit in Gokarna for All Travellers – An Ultimate List!

Akshay kotecha.

• January 1, 2021

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

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

Beaches to Visit in Gokarna

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

Gokarna Main Beach

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

Kudle Beach

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

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Xplore The Earth (@xploretheearth)

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

Half Moon Beach

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

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Nishant Jaiswal (@nishantjaiswal8505)

Paradise Beach

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

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Akshay (@axeontherun)

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

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

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Mit Naik (@mitnaik)

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

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

Places to Visit in Gokarna apart from Beaches

Gokarna market.

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

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Shivu (@alemaarishiv)

Labyrinth (Sunset Point)

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

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

View this post on Instagram A post shared by AbhimAnyu Patwardhan (@click_on_shutter)

Hell’s Cliff

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

View this post on Instagram A post shared by .circles! (@dreamingfingers)

Temples & Religious Sites to Visit in Gokarna

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

Sri Mahabaleshwara Swamy Temple

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

View this post on Instagram A post shared by 💛ಕನ್ನಡಿಗ♥️ (@_kiran_gouda_47)

Koti Teertha

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

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Anusha Rao , Bangalore (@onthegowithnushey)

Maha Ganapathi Temple

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

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Tanvi (@tanderlust)

Shri Umamaheshwar Temple

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

X TRIPS GOKARNA

Back in February 2020, before the Covid-19 Crisis, we had organised a unique and offbeat experience at Gokarna, Karnataka for a small group of like minded travellers looking for a bit of adventure and lots of experiences!

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

If you’d like to stay updated about the cool things we do, you can get on our mailing list!

KEEP ME UPDATED!

Ensure you travel responsibly and keep your carbon footprint to the minimum. Happy Xploring!

This Post Has 2 Comments

Pingback: How to Plan Gokarna Beach Trek - Whole Route Explained!

Pingback: 9 Best Offbeat Things to do in Gokarna - Xplore The Earth

Leave a Comment, Question, Feedback or Opinion! Cancel reply

How Difficult is the Kashmir Great Lakes Trek?

Kashmir Great Lakes trek is undoubtedly one of the most adventurous treks of Kashmir valley. As much as it fills you with thrills, it is important to know that the

Panch Prayag in Uttarakhand

Rivers are considered sacred in India. In Hinduism, rivers are highly significant, andeach one represents a deity. In Uttarakhand, five holy river confluences are collectivelyknown as “Panch Prayag.” The most

Must Visit Attractions Around the World

Our planet unfolds as a captivating repository of wonders, each imbued with a distinctive allure that spans the ages. Whether ancient relics or contemporary marvels, these destinations possess an enchanting

8 Historical Places To Visit In Italy

Italy, a cradle of civilization and a timeless repository of history, boasts a tapestry of historical wonders that beckon travelers to step back in time. From the iconic Colosseum in

Exploring The Best Places To Visit in Singapore

Hop on a captivating journey through the heart of Southeast Asia as we delve into the enchanting tapestry of Singapore—an urban jewel pulsating with diversity, innovation, and cultural richness. Nestled

Discover 8 Most Romantic Spots in Switzerland

Switzerland, with its idyllic landscapes and charming towns, is a dream destination for couples seeking a romantic escape. From the majestic Alps to the serene lakeside retreats, Switzerland offers a

Xclusive Merch Launched

A little about us.

We make content around DIY Adventures, Offbeat & Responsible Travel!

READ OUR STORY

10 Things to Know Before Planning a Trip to Gokarna

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

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

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

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

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

2. Best time to visit

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

3. How to reach

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

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

4. Book your stay in advance

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

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

Fancy a beachfront:

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

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

Rs. 2,700/night/couple

Get spoilt amid luxuries:

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

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

Rs. 13,920 /night/couple

Budget stays:

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

Rs. 1,000/night/couple

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

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

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

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

Rs. 1,622/night/tent

5. Don’t miss Gokarna Beach Trail

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

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

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

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

6. Exploring the Main Town is always a good idea

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

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

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

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

7. Exploring the neighbouring area

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

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

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

8. Rejuvenate yourself with yoga sessions

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

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

9. The best sunset spot in Gokarna

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

10. Collecting Souvenirs

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

*The tariff rates mentioned above are exclusive of taxes.

Karnataka Packages

Further Reads

• Best Things To Do In Gokarna
• November 1, 2019 August 25, 2020
• Archita Lakshmi
• Gokarna , Karnataka , Uttara Kannada , Weekend Getaways From Bangalore

A small holy town of Karnataka and an emerging travel hotspot; Gokarna is one of the excellent holiday options for unwinding yourself and deserves to be on the bucket list of every travel enthusiast.

A very touristic place centered around temples on the coast of Karwar, this hidden gem presents the ideal blend of serenity and magnificence that helps you relax and rejuvenate both your mind as well as the body.

Gokarna is mainly known for its immaculate beaches, historic temples, delectable food, and astonishing landscapes and is a heaven for pilgrims, beach lovers, and hippies.

Table of Contents

Things to do in Gokarna:

We have come up with a list of the most adventurous and revitalizing activities that you can enjoy with your friends or family and are the musts to do things when in Gokarna.

Beach Trekking

Gokarna’s main attraction is not only its beaches, where people come to destress and soak up the sun but is also known for Beach Trekking.

The delight of trekking combined with phenomenal views of the Arabian Sea on one side and rocky hills on the other gives you a unique and unusual experience of a whole new level.

Gokarna has 5 main tranquil and pristine beaches all connected, which can be trekked and explored allowing you to enjoy the cool breeze and meander from one beach to another.

You can hear the humming of waves as you trek through these beaches and will be smitten by the breathtaking landscapes as you move into dense forests and is a paradise for trekking enthusiasts.

The trails are very well marked making it easy for trekking. The total trek distance from Paradise Beach to Gokarna Beach is around 16 kilometers.

Popular Beaches in Gokarna

The small sleepy town of Karnataka, Gokarna has its coastline fringed with some of the most captivating, appealing beaches, and strolling through them will leave anyone feeling refreshed and energized.

Getting a glimpse of the surreal sunset, meandering through the white sandy beaches and hearing the humming of waves, soaking your feet in clear blue water that is spread as far as you can perceive with your eyes are some of the beautiful things that you can experience in these beaches. Here is a list of some of the best beaches in Gokarna.

Gokarna Beach:

Gokarna Beach is a wide and long open beach, which is present in the main town and is quite famous and preferred by the pilgrims. One can witness the lush green Western Ghats on one side and the Arabian Sea on the other when you walk up to this beach.

The Gokarna beach is located at a close distance to Mahabaleswara Temple and it’s a religious practice according to which pilgrims usually take a holy dip here before visiting the shrine.

This beach gives you some of the most alluring sights of the sea and the surrounding hillocks and has gained fame recently as a surfing site.

Deriving its name because of its shape that resembles the sacred letter “OM”, this majestic beach with pristine water and sparkling white sand is only 7 kilometers away from the main town. One can stand on the rocks or walk along the coast of this beach to get an actual glimpse of the Om shape.

Om beach is a great place for all water sports enthusiasts and you cannot miss indulging in water sports here. It’s well known for sports activities like banana boat rides, Skiing, Snorkeling, Surfing, and Parasailing. You can also spot dolphins from Dolphin’s point near Om Beach.

Tourists can respite, dine and relax at several places near the beach or can enjoy their stay at the bamboo huts which are comfortable and classy. Om beach is a perfect and trending place witnessing a large number of travelers every day.

Kudle Beach:

About 6 kilometers from the town Centre and located at a walkable distance from Om beach is the Kudle Beach which is the most popular beach among tourists. The main attraction on this beach is the white sand fringed with palm trees.

This beach is lined with a lot of cafes, shacks, and guesthouses and is quite famous for its scrumptious seafood. Beach shacks are highly recommended if you are looking for an affordable and memorable stay in Gokarna.

You can witness a lot of liveliness in this beach with musicians playing guitars, people practising yoga and martial arts, volleyball players, and tourists lazing around the beach, making it one of the happening places of Gokarna.

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

Half Moon Beach:

Another unruffled beach of Gokarna is the Half Moon Beach which comprises much of Gokarna town and also known as the Crescent beach. It is in the shape of a half-moon and hence its name. This secluded beach gives a quiet beach experience, ideal for people longing solitude.

This attractive cove could be reached either by trek from Om beach or by motorboats from other Beaches. The trek is quite tiring as it involves steep ascents and descents through a rugged path.

It’s an absolute treat to the eyes to watch the roaring waves splashing against the glittery sand and spotting some playful dolphins from this place. Don’t forget to click Instagram worthy pictures and selfies when you are at this place.

Paradise Beach:

A small beach that can be either reached via trek or boats as you head south from the Half Moon beach is the Paradise Beach, also referred to as Full Moon Beach. Surrounded by small hills and islands, this beach is a pollution-free and most unspoiled beach of Gokarna.

As the name suggests this tiny protected cove is a paradise for people yearning solace from the hustle of city life. The calm and beautiful landscapes surrounded by huge palm trees offer a surreal experience to the visitors.

Paradise Beach is a perfect place for you if you want to engage yourself in the true hippie culture.

Relish in a variety of Local Delicacies

Dotted with innumerable shacks on its beaches and good local restaurants, Gokarna has a lot in store to offer for foodies and seafood lovers. Whether you are craving for Indian or Continental food, these food places serve you the best.

If you are looking for authentic and vegetarian Indian delicacies then Prema Restaurant tops the list. Don’t forget to try the famous “GADBAD” and homemade ice creams here.

Do visit Namaste Café on Om Beach and you will fall in love with the ambiance of this place. Famous for its seafood, few lip-smacking dishes to try here are Seafood Lasagna, Prawn Pizza served on a banana leaf, and Ice Nutella.

Moreover, this cafe is beautifully lit in the evenings, and dining here with the captivating sea view and hearing the soothing music of the waves in the background is one of the best things to do in Gokarna.

Mahabaleshwara Temple:

The City of Gokarna holds a few ancient and historical temples that are dated back to the 4th century. One of the primary things to do in Gokarna is to visit the holy and sublime Mahabaleshwara Temple, a masterpiece exhibiting the brilliance of Dravidian architecture.

Also known as Dakshina Kashi, this temple is famous for its Shiva Linga (Athma Linga). Gokarna gained its initial recognition because of this temple.

It’s a common belief that whoever gets a glimpse of the deity here which is over 1500 years old, would bring them good fortune. This pilgrimage is indeed an incredible place for those seeking a spiritual retreat with the Almighty.

Yana Caves:

Located in the Sahyadri Range of Western Ghats, Yana is a small village situated in the forests of Kumta and is about 52 km from Gokarna. Yana Caves are known for the unusual and unique rock formations also called Karst.

Additionally, this hidden wonder houses two magnificent rock formations composed of black limestone which are known as the Bhairaveshwara Shikhara(120 metres) and the Mohini Shikhara(90 meters) surrounded by lush green forests. You need to trek for 3 km within the forest to reach this place.

Vibhooti Falls:

The other attraction which is 8kms away from Yana is a small perennial waterfall surrounded by gigantic rocks and limestone deposits called the Vibhooti Falls. You need to trek to reach this multi-tiered waterfall and the water here is crystal clear.

There is a popular belief that the water that flows from Yana is the sacred ash (vibhooti), and hence the name Vibhooti Falls. The best time to visit this place is during the monsoon and you must include this place in the itinerary.

Mirjan Fort:

Built-in the 16th century by the Pepper Queen Chennabhairadevi, Mirjan fort is located on the banks of river Aganashini in Mirjan village and is 22km from Gokarna. This fort was built with laterite stones spread over an area of 10 acres.

The fort which stands tall amidst the clear blue sky was once a primary center for spice trade which was later seized by the British who turned it into their armory. Currently, it is preserved by the Archeological Survey of India.

This monument which is a site for many battles in the past remains an epitome of architectural elegance and a reminder of our rich history. You can even rent a bicycle, which will make us travel more responsibly and it would cost around 50 to 100 INR/ day.

Shopping in Gokarna:

You can find a lot of tiny shops and local markets in Gokarna bustling with tourists. At flea markets, you can pick up some imitation Jewelry, souvenirs, brass lamps, religious items, clothes, a few handmade products and trinkets made with beads and seashells. furthermore, don’t forget to put your bargaining skills to good use here that can fetch you a fair deal.

Shivaratri Festival in Gokarna:

Maha Shivaratri is usually the main festival celebrated in a grand affair in Gokarna. Thousands of pilgrims throng this place in February or early March to participate in the festival celebration that is held in the main Mahabaleshwar temple.

The main attraction of this festival is the two huge temple chariots bearing the idol of Lord Shiva and the lingam is drawn through the streets of the town, by hundreds of pilgrims with the help of thick ropes and conclude the nine-day festival. Kartika Mahotsava in November is another festival celebrated with great fervor here.

There will be a huge crowd during New Year and Mahashivarathri so avoid going there at this time. As you might not get accommodations and you might lose the sole purpose of visiting Gokarna. If you still want to visit, make sure you do the booking for your stay at least 2 months prior,

Phytoplanktons in Nirvana Beach:

Go for a night walk on the Nirvana Beach to witness the shimmering Phytoplankton’s which turn the sea blue and is caused by a natural phenomenon called Bioluminescence. This electric blue effect will give you a feeling of small LED lights glowing in the water. Very few beaches in the world showcase this wonder of nature.

Heading to Nirvana beach and catching the sight of glistening Phytoplankton’s is an out of the world experience and ranks high on the list of top things to do in Gokarna.

As the name of the beach suggests, this is a place of nirvana for nature lovers.

Gokarna is considered to be one of the best places in south India to do yoga. There are plenty of yoga retreat centers and in many centers, they also teach for free, You can notice a lot of foreign crowds coming here for of learning yoga.

If you are looking to escape from the monotony of life and wish to spend your vacation soaking in natural beauty then Gokarna is the destination perfect for you to visit next.

Also Read; Gokarna Travel Guide

About Author

Leave a Reply

Post Comment

Click one of our contacts below to chat on WhatsApp

Social Chat is free, download and try it now here!

Best things to do in Gokarna | Gokarna Travel Guide

[lmt-post-modified-info]

Along the West Coast of India, in Karnataka, lies this sleepy little town called Gokarna. Gokarna literally, means “Cow’s Ear”. I know it sounds funny and you would wonder why this name. It partly stems from the legend that I have shared above and partly, from its location. Originally a Hindu pilgrimage center, it is now, an important tourist destination – not just as a temple town but its lovely rocky beaches and hills. The place is now a popular alternative to Goa and naturally so – when you check out the best things to do in Gokarna.

In this Gokarna travel guide, I will not only share the key places to visit in Gokarna but also, give you a sample Gokarna itinerary for 3 days. In addition to that, you will find tips on the best time to visit Gokarna, where to stay, what to eat etc. Don’t miss the epic Gokarna story included in the post. That is definitely bound to increase the temptation of planning your own Gokarna trip. So let’s get started.

• 1 Where is Gokarna?
• 2 History of Gokarna | The Gokarna Story
• 3.1.1.1 Gokarna beach
• 3.1.1.2 Kudle beach – one of the most popular beaches of Gokarna
• 3.1.1.3 Om Beach
• 3.1.1.4 Half Moon Beach
• 3.1.1.5 Paradise beach
• 3.1.2 Belekan beach to Tadadi Lighthouse trek
• 3.2 2) Visit the famous Gokarna Temples
• 3.3 3) Relax with a massage
• 3.4 4) Become a Foodie
• 3.5 5) Embark on a few day trips from Gokarna
• 3.6 6) Yoga by the Beach
• 3.7 7) Experience the Star-Studded Sky
• 3.8 8) Indulge in some water sports in Gokarna
• 3.9 9) Get bitten by a photo bug
• 3.10 10) Shopping in Gokarna
• 3.11 11) Experience the stunning Gokarna Sunset with an evening cruise.
• 3.12 12) Discover the salt fields of Sanikatta
• 4 Gokarna itinerary for 3 days
• 5 Common FAQs for Gokarna
• 6 What is the best way to reach Gokarna?
• 7 What is the best time to visit Gokarna?
• 8 Which is the best place to stay in Gokarna Karnataka?
• 9 How many days are required for Gokarna?
• 10 Travel and Photography Tips
• 11 Booking Resources

Where is Gokarna?

Gokarna is a pretty beach town in Karnataka, located by the Arabian Sea. It is around 140 km from Goa which is one of the most popular tourist destinations in India. The town is at the confluence of the Gangavali and Agnashini rivers and it is this delta that is shaped like the cow’s ear. If one were to look for a more logical reason for the name Gokarna – then you have just stumbled upon it. The town is surrounded by loft hills that literally lock each of the sandy beaches of Gokarna – creating a very peaceful and secluded shore experience – quite unlike the beaches of Goa.

History of Gokarna | The Gokarna Story

The Gokarna story goes back to the mythological tale of Ramayana. The demon king Ravana of Lanka came to India to get an Atma linga from Lord Shiva for his mother. He did severe penance and pleased by his efforts, Lord Shiva gave him the Atma linga to take back to Lanka. But that came with “ big conditions apply ” 🙂 . Lord Shiva clearly instructed him to walk with the linga and never leave it on the ground. Not even for a few seconds. He warned him that once it touched the ground, it would not be possible to dislodge it. And so, the mighty King of Lanka walked back home.

In the meanwhile, the other Gods appealed to Lord Vishnu to help them stop Ravana. They feared that with the Atma Linga, he would become unstoppable and even more fearsome. Lord Vishnu hatched a devious plan with Lord Ganesha to stop Ravana. It was known that Ravana was very religious in praying at dusk. And so, he used his celestial weapon – the Sudarshan chakra to hide the sun and create an image of the sun setting. Ravana fell prey to that and looked around for help to hold the Atma linga while he performed his evening pooja. Enter Lord Ganesha in the form of an innocent cowherd.

Ravana appealed to the young cowherd to hold onto the linga while he finished his prayers. The cowherd aka Lord Ganesha in disguise agreed but with one condition that he would call out to Ravana thrice if he wanted to leave. As you might have guessed, Lord Ganesha tricked him, called him thrice while he was performing the pooja and very deliberately dropped the linga to run off. At the same time, Lord Vishnu cleared the sky and Ravana realized he had been tricked.

True to Lord Shiva’s words, the Atma linga got embedded in the same place while the cows began to disappear. Ravana tried to stop one of the cows by holding onto the ear but failed. The earpiece remained to become the confluence of the two rivers and the Atma Linga now resides in a temple that naturally, is one of the key Gokarna attractions.

That is the epic Gokarna story that draws numerous Hindus to this town. In the later years, some of the beaches were used as trading ports by royalties like Tipu Sultan. You can, in fact, get a glimpse of these shores in the next section on the best places to visit in Gokarna.

What to do in Gokarna? | Best things to do in Gokarna

Gokarna is often referred to as the offbeat cousin of Goa. While there are plenty of similar experiences to Goa, it also, is uniquely different from it. For one, it is definitely less crowded and not so touristy which makes it easy for any traveler to feel relaxed. The plethora of Gokarna attractions ensure that your day is filled with fun and excitement – but at the same time, the place allows you to pace these out. Here is a complete list of things that you can consider when planning your own Gokarna itinerary.

1) Beach Trekking in Gokarna

Beach hopping sounds like the most obvious? Am sure. But there is a slight difference here as you really have to trek (not walk) to the beaches in Gokarna. Gokarna is situated amongst the hills and the beaches are literally enclosed by the jutting cliffs. There is no option but to actually climb and descend these hilly rocks to go from one beach to another – which is actually, where the fun and excitement lies.

There are two major beach trekking routes in Gokarna. The first one called the Gokarna beach trek is a 10 km trail that covers the five major beaches in this town. These include Gokarna beach, Kudle beach, OM beach, Half Moon Beach and Paradise beach. The 2nd one is a shorter trail that takes you from a slightly lesser known beach – Belakan beach to the Tadadi Lighthouse. The trail takes you past the Agnashini river to the Arabian sea.

Gokarna beach trek

Of these, the most popular in the list of things to do in Gokarna for solo travelers is the Gokarna beach trek. For one, it is quite easy and light for all trekkers. And the 2nd reason is that the trail is not very secluded – making it safe for solo trekkers. It is a great way to explore the key beaches of Gokarna. You can even stop at each of the beaches and enjoy the various activities that are available there.

Another advantage of this route is that you do not have to walk both ways. If you are tired or want to try something different, you can opt for a boat ride to all these beaches as well. :-). Boat rides are available on Kudle beach as well as OM beach and you can either choose to go with a crowd or hire one exclusively for yourself.

Here are the key beaches of Gokarna that you can explore through the Gokarna beach trekking route.

Gokarna beach

Gokarna Beach is in the main town and is quite popular amongst the locals and the pilgrims. Shivratri is one of the main festivals celebrated in this town and the celebrations are held on this beach. The beach is not preferred by tourists. A nice beach nonetheless. However, I would recommend beginning your trek with the next beach – Kudle Beach, which is one of the main tourist beaches in this town.

Kudle beach – one of the most popular beaches of Gokarna

Circled by hillocks and dotted with rocks, Kudle beach is a pleasure to spend time on. The beach has a lot of shacks and small inns. You can trek up the little rocks along the way and feel the waves splash onto your toes. Not a bad idea to perch on them and stare out of the sea. I totally enjoyed doing the same myself. Trust me, it is a calming sensation 🙂

From the Kudle Beach, you have to trek up a hill and descend down to the most popular beach in Gokarna – OM beach. Named after the serene “OM” symbol of the Hindus, this is not just popular with the tourists but also, amongst the locals. This beach has limited food and restaurant options. This is where you will find numerous water sports activities.

Half Moon Beach

Next beach in the line of the trekking order is the Half Moon beach. The beach feels a little like a lagoon. This has far lesser options of restaurant and shacks and is quite secluded. It is in fact, one of the most peaceful beaches in this stretch – especially since it does not have much to do

Paradise beach

The last beach in the beach trekking route of Gokarna is the Paradise beach. Also, called the Full Moon beach, this is the furthest from the main town. It is quite popular with campers and foreign tourists. In fact, at one point, any one was allowed to pitch a camp and stay here but in the recent years, the camp sites have become commercial and you will in fact, have to rent one from the operators here.

Paradise beach is a great place for people who like water sports, especially kayaking. You can end your Gokarna beach trek here and spend some time enjoying the shacks. From here, you can even hire the ferry I mentioned and get back to one of the more popular beaches like Kudle beach or Gokarna beach. You don’t have to hike back all the way.

Belekan beach to Tadadi Lighthouse trek

The Tadadi lighthouse trek is a comparatively shorter trail that begins at Belekan beach and takes you past a lovely lighthouse. The route is known for its hill-top views. In fact, you can get onto this trail from the Gokarna beach trek itself. Belakan beach, also, referred to as God’s own beach, is accessible from Paradise beach. The only thing that you need to keep in mind is that from Paradise beach to Belakan beach, there is no ferry. Hence, you will have to walk back on your own.

2) Visit the famous Gokarna Temples

Originally a temple town, there are a few ancient temples around Gokarna with a fair amount of history and significance. The key amongst these places to visit in Gokarna is the Mahabaleshwara temple, within the main Gokarna town. This temple is home to the legendary Atma linga which gave Gokarna its name. Built in a typical Dravidian style, the temple has a pedestle with a hole through which the devotees can see the top of the Atma Linga.

Visiting this temple gives you a very serene feeling. The deity here is over 1500 years old. While you are at visiting temples, you can even visit a few others – Aadi Gokarneshwara temple, Ganapati temple, Koti teertha etc. All these are within distance from each other and are connected to each other – either by way of rituals or legends.

For example, the Ganapati temple in Gokarna was built at the spot where Lord Ganesha vanished after setting the Atma Linga down on the ground. The Ganesha idol here has a hole, which is believed to be the hurt that he got when Ravana tried to stop him and ended up giving him a blow. The Koti Teertha temple is actually a pond that is used by disciples to cleanse themselves before entering the Mahabeleshwar temple in Gokarna.

3) Relax with a massage

Most of the hotels and resorts as well as inns on the beaches offer you massage services. The most popular are the Kerala Ayurvedic treatments. You can opt of a regular full body massage or go specific based on your preferences. From a head massage to a foot massage, these massage centers have quite a few options on their menu. A very soothing experience. especially with the waves giving your a background music score 🙂

4) Become a Foodie

With the shacks on the beaches and good local restaurants, the foodie in your is bound to spring out. From Italian pastas to Indian Thaalis – these food places serve your the best. Don’t miss out on two places in particular – the first being in the main Gokarna town called Prema restaurant. This is a non-descript place, with a shabby looking board. Initially, I mistook it for a store but don’t go by the looks. The menu here completely defies its appearance – It has everything from Israeli bread to Pastas and Indian Thalis. The food here is absolutely mouth-watering and AMAZING. So much so, that we ended up going here on two of the 3 days in Gokarna.You have to try out the homemade icecreams and GADBAD here. Check out the Trip Advisor reviews here.

The other must-visit place is by the OM beach – Namaste Cafe. This place has an amazing view of the Arabian sea. The food here is a mix of Italian and Indian. Personally, I felt that the food was much better and tastier at Prema Restaurant but there is no beating the ambiance of this place.  I would recommend an evening here for sure, as the place is beautifully lit and while you wine and dine here, you can hear the vibrant sea in the background and feel the sea mist on your face.

Incidentally, staying and dining at the Namaste Cafe is one of the key things to do in Gokarna for a solo traveler.

5) Embark on a few day trips from Gokarna

There are plenty of places close to Gokarna, each unique in its own way. These places can be covered as day trips from Gokarna. I have shared a few of these in earlier post and you can look up those details in the links added to those destinations.

• Karwar – While you can do a day trip to Karwar from Gokarna, I would highly recommend a stay there. However, if time is of essence, then you can head there in the morning, explore the lovely Mangrove beaches around River Kali, spend some time on Kurumgad island or just enjoy the Devbagh beach.
• Yana – This is a delight for trekkers with its fascinating rocks and caves. The landscapes here are unique and definitely worth a visit. Yana is just 45 km from Gokarna
• Dandeli – River Rafting in Dandeli is an activity that a lot of visitors add to their Gokarna trip. You can book your expedition in Gokarna itself or just head over to Dandeli, which is around 130 km from Gokarna.
• Murudeshwar – Just 55 km from Gokarna is the 2nd largest statue of Shiva. Murudeshwar is worth a visit for the sheer magnificence of this statue that stands against the blue backdrop of the Arabian Sea. You can also, plan a Scuba diving expedition when in Murudeshwar. Netrani Island – just off its coast, has more than 6 amazing dive sites to explore the underwater. In fact, you can enroll for a PADI certification here. Check out my own experience through this post on my PADI certification at Netrani Island
• Mirjan – This is just 11 km from Gokarna and worth a visit for the lovely fort. The mighty fort was built in the 16th century and has plenty of interesting structures to explore.

6) Yoga by the Beach

Do it by yourself or join the groups at various resorts like the Namaste Yoga Farm or the Swarswara resort. It is not unusual to see a lot of tourists practicing yoga in the mornings and evenings on the Kudle beach or the OM beach. You can pick from a 7 day course to a longer course while here.

7) Experience the Star-Studded Sky

The night sky in Gokarna is actually wonderful -clear and star-studded. With the cool breeze blowing on your face, waves splashing along and lovely sand below your feet, a stroll on the beach are exactly what you should do. Try lying down on the beach and counting the stars – Sometimes, meaningless tasks like this add to the charm of the place 🙂

8) Indulge in some water sports in Gokarna

Get your adrenaline going with some watersports on the Gokarna beaches. You can opt for some parasailing, banana boat rides, snorkeling or kayaking. However, note that these are available only during the peak season.

You can also, enroll yourself for some surfing classes that take place on Gokarna beach. You can choose from a variety of courses that are available in this surf schoo l.

Scuba diving is yet another option that you should consider when looking at water sports in Gokarna. However, for this option, you will have to travel to Murudeshwar, which is just 45 minutes away from Gokarna. All the scuba diving schools and shops in Gokarna will take you there.

9) Get bitten by a photo bug

Gokarna Beaches are quite unusual with their rocky surfaces and hillocks. They look really stunning in the evening and morning light and this should contract a shutterbug in you. Take a stroll along with your camera or phone and try to capture the lovely landscape in front of you. Try your hand on catching the waves on the rocks. You can get some pretty beach picture s if you have your GoPro handy.

10) Shopping in Gokarna

Gokarna is a small town and you can literally walk and cover the entire town. You will find pretty little trinkets and bright clothes catching your fancy all the way to the Gokarna beaches. I would definitely not say no to the vibrant and colorful bags being sold in this Gokarna flea market. You can spend a little time just walking around and getting a feel of this small sleepy town.

11) Experience the stunning Gokarna Sunset with an evening cruise.

A recent visit introduced me to a different vantage point for the lovely Gokarna sunsets. This one takes you right in the middle of the Arabian sea. With misty sprays on your face, you can experience the magic of those golden rays as they slowly fade away into the water. What is more is that you get to see the beaches of Gokarna from a very different angle. And yes, you might even meet those friendly dolphins. Check out this post on the Sunset Cruise in Gokarna . It has all the details about the experience, including the price.

12) Discover the salt fields of Sanikatta

This is another discovery that I made enroute to Tadadi port (the place where the Gokarna Sunset cruise begins). The vast expanse of brown salt fields – a traditional industry of Uttara Karnataka is bound to leave you spellbound. If you are lucky, you can catch some of the villagers working here and get a tour of the fields.

Gokarna itinerary for 3 days

Assuming you have 3 days in Gokarna, here is how you could make the best use of them. This sample itinerary allows you enough time to cover the major Gokarna attractions but is not loaded to get you tired. Depending on your interest, you will be able to modify it easily. Take a look

Well, you see, you have enough time to chillax, grab a drink over a stunning sunset and gaze into infinity. Gokarna is that kind of place where you can do lots and yet do nothing. With that I am sure you are all set to bookmark this post for your next holiday. So go on – pin this up.

Common FAQs for Gokarna

What is the best way to reach gokarna.

The closest airport to Gokarna is in Goa. It is around 140 km by road. You can either hire a cab at the airport or get a bus to Gokarna from Goa. If you plan to drive to Gokarna from Goa, you can use this route – Goa Airport – Margaon market (NH 66) – Palolem – Karwar – Mudga – Ankola – Madangeri – Devanna – Gokarna

If you choose to land at Mangalore airport, you can use this route to get to Gokarna by road. There are regular buses as well to Gokarna. The total distance using this route is 229 km and it takes around 4 hours. Mangalore airport – Padubidri – Udupi – Kundapur – Marvanthe – Byndoor – Bhatkal – Shirali – Murudeshwar – Honnavar – Kumta – Mirjan – Madangeri – Devanna – Gokarna

The nearest railway station is at Ankola, which is 20 km from Gokarna town. From here too, you can hire a cab or get into one of the regular buses to Gokarna

What is the best time to visit Gokarna?

The best time to visit Gokarna is between September to April. Summers can be quite uncomfortable while the rains can really dampen the Gokarna experience in July or August.

Which is the best place to stay in Gokarna Karnataka?

Gokarna has quite a few hotels, resorts and home-stays available. Namaste Cafe is a very popular place to stay in Gokarna for solo travelers while Kudle beach resort and Om Beach resort are great stay options for families in Gokarna. There are quite a few more options besides these. You can check them out through the Booking resources section below.

How many days are required for Gokarna?

You can comfortably cover Gokarna in 2 – 3 days.

Travel and Photography Tips

• There are lots of stray dogs on the beaches. Though they are harmless, one can always be a little careful.
• Be a little careful when stepping out in the evening on the beaches. You will see a lot of tourist smoking and drinking. There is a bit of a hippie culture in some parts of Gokarna.
• Carry enough Sun Screen while here.
• Most of the Gokarna beaches are rocky and there are no safe zones marked for swimming. One needs to be careful while getting into the water. Ideally, use the help of the locals to understand the water conditions there.
• A Go-Pro along with your regular camera is ideal. The Go Pro with its waterproof properties works really well for those beach shots. What is more is that it doubles up a good wide angle lens.

Booking Resources

• You can book your hotel in Gokarna through Booking.com using the given link.
• Klook.com has a few private tours that can be booked online for Gokarna and Murudeshwar. Check them out through the given link .
• If you use Amazon for shopping for travel or any of your home needs, do consider using this link .

Popularly referred to as a Restless Ball of Energy. My Mom refuses to entertain my complaints about my equally restless daughter & assures my husband that I was born with a travel bug.

I am a Post-Graduate in Marketing by qualification and a travel blogger by passion. Besides travel, I enjoy photography and if you don’t find me at my desk, I would be out playing badminton or swimming or just running. I believe in planning for every long weekend through the year. And when I cannot travel physically, I travel virtually through this travel blog. My travel stories have also, got published on various websites and magazines including BBC Travel, Lonely Planet India and Jetwings. I have recently published my first book – When Places Come Alive – a collection of stories that are based on legends, landscapes, art and culture of a place which is available in both ebook and paperback format.

182 thoughts on “Best things to do in Gokarna | Gokarna Travel Guide”

A beach and a small town nearby (like Udupi) make a perfect combination.

Seems like a wonderful place.. Thanks for sharing 🙂

wow! what a lovely place… the Shivji statue is mesmerising… 🙂

Absolutely. Udupi is also a good example of this. Have you been to Malpe and Kapu beaches? Different from Gokarna but beautiful nonetheless.

Thanks Anjali

planning to visit end of November with my GF, need to know more about the place

Hi Lokesh, hopefully my post here has given you the required information. Have a good time

It is, isn't it? And especially coz it has a huge blue background 🙂

Lovely post Ami! And great pics as well…

Such a lovely collection of pictures. Once again a place i have read about so much but never been there!

Thanks Siddharth 🙂

Amiazing description. Tempted to make another trip.

Thanks Mridula. Plan a trip and we can go together 🙂

Happy to go again Ashwin 🙂

How safe is Gokarna for a solo woman traveller? What would you recommend .. Kudle or om beach?

I have seen a lot of solo woman travelers to Gokarna and would say that the place is fairly safe. Though make sure you don't loiter out in the night as the beaches are quite secluded. Also, try to pick a good and safe place to say. Om beach as well as Kudle are equally good. Om beach is a little more populated as compared to Kudle. You can opt to stay at Om beach for the same reason. Have a good trip!

OK…I'm leaning towards Gokarna now… Although it sounds a little too tranquil for my son's taste!! Thanks! Great content as usual!

Hello! Can I use information and photos from your article to post it on my web site? It will be translated into Russian. This is my site omcoach.ru Thanks in advance for your permission!

🙂 Thanks . Have a good time

Hi, could you please send me a mail on [email protected] with your requirement.

Hi Ami, I am Planning for a Lone travel to Gokarna by this December End(31 to 2 Jan), please, I will be happy to have your suggestions on my stay at Gokarna. Things that I should be aware of…

1.Should I book any stay in Advance? 2. Are there budget stays available in Gokarna,I am on a shoestring budget 3. Things to do in Gokarna 4. Any other suggestions ,please?

email: [email protected]

Hi Saeem…happy to help. Check your email for the same.

regards, Ami

Thank You very much for the E-mail. If possible could you please share any contacts for stay/shacks there.

Hi Ami .. Your piece of blog added to my excitement for the place 🙂 .. M planning a trip but need some contacts to book some budget place .. Incase you can , please inbox me [email protected] m planning for the Christmas weeknd thanks

Hey Leena…thanks a ton for the compliments. Have a great time at Gokarna. On contacts for a place, well, am afraid the places I know of are completely booked. Hopefully you will something . Ping in and let me know how you liked Gokarna after your visit.

I can only imagine that a cab ride from Goa all the way there is expensive. Gokarna seems much more modern-local touristy than most other places that get highlighted about India. Thanks for sharing!

It is definitely a lot more serene and fun than the other places that are publicized. Getting here from Goa will not be too expensive. You can even opt to take one of those tourist buses or a train from Goa. 😀

Hi Ami, I went through your blog as i am planning to travel Gokarna this week. Very amused to visit this place after reading out your blog, one of the best one i can say after going to various blogs. Thanks for posting this. I am planning for a getaway to Gokarna, can you please share some contact details for stay and things that we can do in and around Gokarna.

Please inbox me at [email protected] . Waiting for your reply, Thanks.

Thank you Arjun. Will be sharing a mail with you shortly.

Please Let me know is it okay to visit in June month ?

Absolutely. It will be a bit hot but the beaches will be as lovely as ever.

This looks like the type of place I would like. A little off the beaten track, good food, good scenery and yoga. This is also an engaging post with lots of links.

So beautiful, of course you get bitten by the photo bug in such a beautiful place!! I must say, the combination of scenery, beach, yoga and food is very hard to beat….

Thanks Gearoid. This is quite an under-rated but beautiful destination

Thanks Marta. This is a place I plan to frequent alright. 😀

This is a really great guide.

Thank you Jessica

Have driven past but not stayed here (my drive from Goa to Hoonavar to Bangalore)! Seems like a destination worth visiting!

We love this place, been there a couple of times, always want to go back.

Oh , you must stop by then. And spend some time here with your camera. You will so love it

Oh no, another place for my to add to my bucket list! Thanks for sharing.

Awesome list! Sounds like there are lots of activities to keep any type of traveler happy!

And definitely worthwhile adding it 😀

Precisely why I so love this place.

Looks like a really beautiful area and this post gives some great insights in it. Great list of sightseeings!

Thanks guys, hoping you have been inspired enough to visit it

Looks like a beautiful place to visit! The beaches look great! Great list of things to do!

Amazing pictures!! This looks like a place I should add to my list 🙂

This looks like a little piece of paradise!!

It is a place that I would love to go to again.

It sure is…love the feeling here

Definitely worth the visit. And totally recommend adding it to your list.

Beautiful! I love the large Shiva statue! It reminds me of the big Buddha in Hong Kong. What is the largest statue in India?

This is on my bucket list – and your photos look amazing. I roadtripped through Kerala in South India, but I would like to go back to visit the places on your list.

Will be honest and tell you,,…I don't know. I have heard of a Shiva statue in Rajasthan but I guess I need to google this one

And am sure you will love it too 😀

Lovely and simple description. Thank you.

Thank you Pratima

Looking forward to visit the place in this month. Can suggest me some budget stays. Pls mail me to [email protected]

Thanks Arjun for dropping by. The ones that I know of are mentioned in the post. 🙂

I have heard of Gokarna, but never been to this place. From your beautiful post and wonderful pictures it seemed to be a serene quiet place, not much visited. I would love to see it soon. 🙂

Thank you Sarmistha. I think you will love it.

Wow! Looks like an amazing place! It is definitely on my bucket list now! And you write in a very interesting way! Love it! Prerna https://www.vivalahighstreet.com

Thank you Prerna. It is a lovely place

I love a good small town that’s walkable. Those are always a lovely time. You mentioned that it was different from Goa. I’ve never been to Goa – is it more crowded?

Goa is quite well developed as a tourist beach, especially North Goa. A few of the beaches are really crowded. Also, because it is so popular, there is a lot of fan fare and events and shacks here. Gokarna is fairly quite and peaceful.

I love beaches, love to visit anywhere soon, !!

They sure are amazing

Waw! The beaches there look stunning!!

An amazing place to spend a peaceful weekend. Water sport can bring adventure, though. Amazing clicks and coverage, Ami.

Thank you Saru :D. Water sports is so much fun

Stunning photos. Looks like a great place to visit. I particularly like that photo of the pale pink mandir. So lovely.

Gokarna is a beautiful place. Unspoilt and lovely

Its one of my most beloved destinations with amazing memories!

Glad to know that and am sure it is a destination that you will want to return to. Thanks for stopping by.

We are planning to visit gokarna for this new year. We went to goa last year, that was incredible. But I’m afraid is that gokarna worth for new year celebration. Actually we are 10 members from chennai. Please any one provide me the details. I will mention the question below. 1. Do I need to book the hotel or resort before?(Resort would be better for us) 2. Is there any fun activities there? 3. What are the water games there? 4. Things to do in gokarna(We all are batchelors) obviously no temple 🙂 5. Your suggestion Please reply me through my E-mail: [email protected]

Glad you are heading to Gokarna Vivek. I think most of your questions are answered in the blog itself. Cheers

One place I have missed is Gorkana. So glad to see this article Ami.Hoping to visit soon and do the same:) http://www.photokatha.in

Thanks Rutavi. Gokarna is amazing

Lovely post; my last visit to Gokarna was in the monsoons and this write up rekindled so many memories! Thanks 🙂

Thanks Shubham. Gokarna is just amazing in any season.

Pity I had been there during my analog days. Not a single good pic I have from that trip. I need to create a trip there soon. Great reasons mentioned.

Thanks Indrani. Gokarna is the new Goa.

Dats beautifully explained Amy … Thnx . M planning to visit in dis mnth end … Cud u guide me with some contact of stay options dere . Thnx . Mailid : [email protected]

Thanks Rishabh. My suggestions are already in the article and have links attached to it. Have a look.

Lovely reading your blog post and the pictures are beautifully weaved. Gokarna is one of the best destination for pilgrimage lovers who enjoy being at beach. Gokarna is known for its endless rows of coconut palms, blue seas and clean beaches.

Thanks. Gokarna is an unexplored wonder!

Awesome place

I am immediately going to chalk out my plans for Gokarna visit. I always thought it as a very pilgrimage type destination where the Purohits would bother you into unnecessary rituals or temple visits..like what happens in some other parts of India..how wrong I was! Just realized after reading your post

Gokarna is an amazing beach destination. A different experience from Goa but beautiful nonetheless. Hope you get there soon.

I just got to this amazing site not long ago, There are many things I can know only after reading your wonderful article. Planning to visit Gokarna very soon..Thank you

Thank you Madhu. Have a good trip

Thank you, Ami

Hey! Ami, We are friends of 4 members had been to Gokarna om- beach and Kudle beach on 26th January and we stayed Kudle Ocean Front resort for one day, It was again one of the most enjoyed moment of my life.

Glad you enjoyed Gokarna..the place itself creates some amazing memories.

I’ve never heard of Gokarna but it looks great in your pictures. I love walking and beaches, so I’m sure I’d like the beach trek. And I would love to eat those Thalis!

Thanks. Gokarna is a gorgeous beach destination that not many know of as yet. I am sure you will love it. Do plan a trip here when you come to India.

Ah so that’s why trekking is not the same as walking– ’cause it’s a big harder to get to the beach. I think I’d like Gokarna because more locals go there. I like to people watch locals hehe.

ooh yes and you will love it even more for its un-crowded beautiful beaches.

what a serene and picturesque travel destination!

It sure is Ishita. A lovely destination

CAN I REACH HERE BY TRAIN FROM GOA

Yes, there are plenty of trains from Gokarna to Goa. 🙂

Hi ami,my son aged 20 is visiting gokarna with his friends. Would appreciate if you can let me know what safety measure they shud take……what NOT to do. Thanx

I understand your concern Nidhi. I would say that they should not go overboard with whatever they do. As long as they follow the regular safety standards, I don’t see a reason to worry. Yes, the beaches here are rocky and hence, would urge people to be careful if they choose to swim here. There are no markers of depth here, so exercise caution. Ideally, stick to the public beaches like OM beach or Kudle beach or Gokarna beach for any kind of swim activity. Trust that would help. Cheers

Hey Ami, I m planning to come to Gokarna on 7 of April I request u to guide me nd mail me on my I’d [email protected]

Hi Ashish, Have shared all the info – stay options, sightseeing, how to get here etc on this post. Let me know if there is anything specific you want to know.

Hey, can you please tell me when is the best time to do water sports in gokarna are there any? do they have sorkeling? I wanna visit gokarna, me and my friends are planning to go, but we also wanna dp the water sports. So can you please tell me when to??

Hey Meghana. Guess you got your answers on Facebook. Have a safe and good trip.

Wow such a nice place, i really want to visit. Thanks for sharing amazing post. Keep sharing. Keep it up.

We are visiting Gokarna on 8th July for four days. Can you please help us things we can explore in this period?

Thanks Vinod for stopping by. I think this post covers a lot of my suggestions. Do let me know if there is something else that I can help you with.

HI Ami, i am visting Gokarna on june 24th cpuld u please helpout with the stay (Stay near by to beach)[email protected]

Hi Vinay, My suggestions are as in this post. I am afraid that these are the only options that I have evaluated!

Hi, i am shivani i want to visit gokarna badly but this time i am travelling alone. So i wanted to know is it safe? Hotels and everything keeping my safety purpose in mind. Please mail me at : [email protected]

There are plenty of solo backpackers in Gokarna. As like any other place, ensure that you have your cautions in place.

One of the best blogs I have ever seen. Thank you for this blog admin. It’s been honor to learn blogging skills from this blog. I have personally visited gokarna, it is most beautiful and untouched.

Thank you so much for your kind words.

I’ve never heard of Gokarna in India before, but it definitely looks really nice from your photos! Also doing yoga by the beach seems exactly like the kind of thing I’d love to do. Saving this now for my future trip to India!

It is an offbeat beach in India but a beautiful one. Hope you get to it soon.

Wow..what a great article. I am awaiting to read some more articles from you. I never went out of Bangalore but this article made me to imagine how beautiful Gokarna will be.

Thanks Naveen, plenty up. Stay tuned.

Hi Ami, till now, I did not hear about this place. Thanks for your information. I think it would be an awesome place to visit. Kudle beach is looking nice. In my next travel plane, I will include Gokarna!!!

Glad you like it Vihas. Have a good trip

Hi, we are a group of 12 people, we are coming first time to Gokarna, can u please help me for weather right now, we are backpackers, we are getting tents, please help me for this thing

I have shared the information that I have on the blog. I do hope that helps you. Good luck with your trip.

love to visit Gokarna if i will get any chance in Future. This article excited me to visit Gokarna as soon as possible. Thnaks to thrilling travel. keep up the good one

Glad you liked the post. Am sure you will enjoy my other travels too. Stay tuned to Thrilling Travel

Sir i wish to go here with my frnd plz mail me details for stay,food amd other

Hi Aditya, please refer to my post above for the links on my recommended stays You may contact them directly for your travel. Have a good time

lovely post…im going on a solo trip to gokarna.would really like to know how safe is it for girls ??n dos n donts regarding the same…is the water sports n adventurous activities nice thr?

Thank you Medha. It is pretty safe and the water sports are fun. Just don’t venture out late in the night – as I caution that to everyone these days. Cheers

very good post Ami….i am planning a solo backpacking trip to gokarna this month end.. i am from kerala… will there be adequate accomodation available near the places mentioned here at shoe string budget. if yes can you give suggest places….

Thank you Earnest. Given you are looking at the month end, not sure if you will find availability. Gokarna is popular during New Years. Also, the places that I can recommend are already on the post. Trust that should help

Gokarna does look like the kind of place to relax, stare at the sea and count the stars. The little town is cute charming and the beaches look great too. Where did you stay?

It sure is a charming place. Stayed at Kudle beach resort 😀

Hi Ami, The experience which you shared is very pleasing. I just planning to visit their in the next month for 3 days. So can you please help me with Stay, things to carry, total Budget of money for the trip and etc….., to my mail. Thanks in Advance. Mail:- [email protected]

Good to know Ramana that you are headed here. As far as the suggestions you have requested, most of it is pretty much what I advised on the post. On things to carry – don’t forget your sunscreen for sure. The rest of course, would be your own personal list. Total Budget would depend again on you and your itinerary. Hope that helps. Have a great time in Gokarna.

Amazing post. Very nice. Thanks for sharing.

Thank you. Glad you liked it

Hi Ami! First of all thanks for the amazing article. It really helped and has made me even more excited to visit the place. I am a college student basically looking for a peaceful getaway with my friends. Just wanted to ask if Goakarna would be the perfect spot for chilling with a drink in one hand and a joint in another?

Not sure of that for I don’t indulge in either, especially the latter. Gokarna has vibe that I would not like to spoil and hence, would not encourage the joint for sure. It is best enjoyed the way it is.

Love this blog. Very Interesting.

Ami, I have never been to Gokarna but I am simply impressed with their beaches. I especially like the Half Moon beach because it is so isolated and remote and I am guessing that’s the case because of the tough trek to it. I would love to trek through the rough paths, through those hills to get to these amazing beaches! Trying the variety of cuisines, getting a relaxing massage or visiting one of those temples with such a majestic setting, are some of the things I’d love to spend time doing. Thanks for this extensive guide!

Thanks Medha. Gokarna is a very different kind of place with unique beaches. It has some of Goa’s vibes but is a lot of Kerala as well. You will love it.

Hi Ami, You are doing great service by sharing your experiences, much of which fill in the pits and black holes in planning visits to places less known. I am escorting two old ladies (my mom and my MIL) almost 80 yrs of age, tricky with keeping balance and cant push them with more than a 100 ft climb for a day. It is a challenge to work out stay, meals and visits to “temples” only, as is the case with many at this age. I am looking at 10 Jun 2018 check-in by evening/late evening and check out on 13th Jun 2018. I will stick with Airbnb as I have many credits to make my stay good. There is however some doubts still out there in the planning. I will be happy to hear from you your mind on the following: 1. Whether to stay at Gokarna or some distance away from Gokarna? 2. Would this time of the year be safe for elder citizens to visit especially when there are heavy rains forecasted? 3. How much time would you recommend for covering as many temples and places of interest at and around Gokarna? Look forward to your opinion please? Regards

It does get quite wet there and yes, it is a mountainous area. Hence, there are risks. In terms of the stay, at least 2 – 3 days for so. And Staying in Gokarna is preferable if temples are your objective

Amazing article. I want to go to Gokarna after reading your article!

I hope you do. It is a lovely place.

its very good to see, that you are helping others to visit good palaces. i am planning to visit Murudeshwar & Gokarna on 09th 10th & 11th July 2018, can you plz help me is it good time to visit or not.

Thanks Mahendranath. Hopefully there will not be too much rain. All the best to you

Wow !! Wonderful information about Gokarna

Thanks for sharing. I’m solo woman traveller and planning to visit here. Can u please recommend places to stay. And do I need to rent a bike to see around. How many days can be spent here?

YOu do not really need a bike here as the distances are short. Gokarna can be good for 2 days or even a week. It is just idyllic. 🙂

Oh my gosh, I am SUCH a foodie that Prema immediately caught my interest. I’ve never had Israeli bread (and would love to try it) but Indian Thalis are one of my favorite things – I love all the little dishes and various tastes! (No wonder you came back to this place several times.) I am also always on the look out for photo opportunities when I travel, so this puts Gokarna high on my list as well. Truly enjoyed learning the legendary Gokarna story. Fascinating!

Thank you so much Jackie. I have a feeling that once you visit Gokarna, you will want to come back again!

Gokarna looks like my kind of a place. Haven’t been there yet but would certainly love to. I just love the thought of a beach, shacks, the food, sunset, treks, shopping and complete relaxation. Scuba Diving is a good opportunity on the third day. Mahabaleshwar Temple & visiting the Salt fields in Sanikatta sound interesting as well.

I am pretty sure from what you are saying that Gokarna is a place that you will want to stay for a long time

Reading your blog, I realize that one day in Gokarna was absolutely not enough. There are so many other places to see, and I really like the three day itinerary you provided in your blog. I am intrigued by the story of the demon king Ravana and his Atma Linga. I just visited the Kudley beach when I was there, and spent some time at Om beach as well. I think the Paradise beach and the Half Moon beach are also very pretty. Also I visited Murudeswara on the way. Your blog brought back my memories.

Ah, time to get back here Shreya. I am sure you will enjoy Gokarna the 2nd time around

Gokarna sounds like such an idyllic place to visit. As I don’t like touristy places, I would probably choose Gokarna over the super popular Goa. I like that there are plenty of things to do here and that the beaches look so beautiful and different from each other. It’s good to know that Om Beach has limited food options but definitely not miss Namaste Cafe with that beautiful view.

Thanks Joanna, Om beach is being developed a little more now and you will get some more options for food soon!

Thank you for sharing a bit of history. It made me appreciate Gokarna. Happy to know that there are many things you can do in Gokarna. I would love to explore the Gokarna Temples.

Yes indeed, the history of the place is what makes it so much more interesting. Hope you can visit soon

What a beautiful place. The story from the history of this place makes it so much more exotic and interesting to visit. I would love to explore all of those beaches. I have been to several amazing beaches that require a little trek but I think that just adds on the experience. Gokarna Temples is also a place I would definitely like to see.

If you enjoy culture and history, then you will definitely love the temples and the legends around them. I hope you can see them in person

Gokarna is a beautiful tourist spot to explore and definitely a alternative to Goa if you’re looking for a beach to own. The legend associated with the name “Gokarna” is fascinating and how the river delta created by the two rivers is also shaped like a cow’s ear, after which it’s named. I would love to go beach trekking in Gokarna, besides visiting the famous Gokarna Mahabaleshwar temple where the auspicious Atmalinga is embodied and venerated. The sea side food shacks look tempting for the variety of food served and also the Gokarna sunset cruise and the brown salt flats of Sanikatta are must visit.I would definitely love to visit Gokarna.

Sounds like you already like Gokarna. I hope you are booking your tickets here .

Gokarna does look like a lovely alternative to Goa. Those beach views would be a huge draw for us when we want a break from seeing the beautiful architecture in India. It might take us several days to check out all the interesting beach spots. And we would certainly want to check out the scuba diving! Always great to know there are some fun day trips if we want to get away.

Gokarna has a very calm and relaxing vibe and it is perfect to get that little breather from the heavy architecture and stories that you might have experienced on your India tour. I hope you add it to your itinerary and visit soon

I still haven’t visited Gokarna! I should really plan a trip there. So, thanks for this guide. I have read the story behind Gokarna of Ravana. Good to know there’s still very less light pollution at Gokarna and you can still see the stars. Didn’t realize Dandeli is close to Gokarna. That would a good trip together.

I am pretty sure you will find it lovely and different from the eastern beaches.

Thank you so much

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

• Group Enquiry? NEW

Places to Visit in Gokarna

• Places To Visit

Gokarna Tourist Places

Here is the list of the best places to visit in gokarna:.

Gokarna Beach

Gokarna beach is amongst the popular places to visit in Gokarna for many reasons. It is the main beach that is located close to Mahabaleshwar Temple and frequented by the tourists who visit here. It is considered holy to take a dip in the waters by the Gokarna Beach before visiting the temple complex and worship Lord Shiva. This beautiful beach is a must visit for nature lovers and offers a scenic retreat for all the tourists in Gokarna. It also boasts of stunning beach stays where people can spend some quality time with nature in Gokarna. The most amazing time to visit the beach is during the festival of Shivratri when it is the most resplendent. Though there aren’t many shacks or cafes here but this beach is one of the most crowded places in Gokarna at times. However, tourists can always visit Gokarna Beach during the time of sunrise to enjoy a laid-back stroll with a beautiful scenery in front of the eyes. Location: Gokarna Beach Road, Dandebagh, Gokarna, Karnataka Best Time to visit: October to March is the best time to visit Gokarna Beach. Distance from Gokarna Bus Main Stand, Banglegudda: It is approximately one kilometre away from the bus station in Gokarna.

Brace yourself for a scenic getaway with a trip to Om Beach when you are in Gokarna. One of the most picturesque attractions in Gokarna, Om Beach is known for its serene landscape. Om Beach is a wonderful respite for adventure junkies who love to exult in the thrill of various water activities. One of the most splendid features of this beach is that it is shaped like the symbol ‘Om’ and attracts scores of crowds who wish to relax and unwind.

Best of Goa

Kudle Beach

Shaped like a perfect ‘C’, Kudle Beach is one of the most beautiful Gokarna tourist places that you’l ever come across. Flanked by coconut trees, Kudle Beach is a wonderful retreat for the lovers of peace and quiet. The sheer beauty and simplicity of the beach is a breathtaking surprise and people visit this beach to enjoy the serene surroundings. Kudle Beach is most famous for offering a spectacular sunset and sunrise in Gokarna.

Mahabaleshwara Temple

Showcasing the brilliance of the classic Dravidian architecture, Mahabaleshwara Temple is one of the must visit Gokarna tourist places. The 4th century temple in Gokarna is most famous for its Shiva Linga known as Atma Linga that is worshipped here and also known as Dakshin Kashi, often being paralleled to the Shiva Temple at Varanasi. This major temple in Gokarna has a 1500-year-old deity that is carved stone of Lord Shiva. If you’re seeking a spiritual retreat, Mahabaleshwara Temple in Gokarna will refresh your soul and offer a peaceful retreat with the Almighty. According to one popular legend, it is believed that the deity of the temple will bestow immense blessings to devotees to those who just get a glimpse of it. For fans of art and culture too, Mahabaleshwara Temple is a beautiful masterpiece for the tourists to appreciate. Location: Koti Teertha Road, Kotiteertha, Gokarna, Karnataka  Best Time to visit: The temple can be visited anytime throughout the year. Timings: It is open from 6:00 am to 12:30 pm and then from 5:00 pm to 8:00 pm Distance from Gokarna Bus Main Stand, Banglegudda: It is just 600 metres away from the bus station in Gokarna.

Best of Bangalore

Half Moon Beach

Listed as one of the most attractive sightseeing places in Gokarna, Half Moon Beach boasts of beautiful surroundings. The beach derives its name based on its shape like a half moon. Half Moon Beach is known for its clean sparkling sands against the transparent blue waters. Mostly famous for foreign travellers and backpackers, Half Moon Beach is a great place to relax and unwind. Half Moon Beach can be visited by a hike from Om Beach which is a thrilling enterprise. Away from all the crowds, this beach is a wonderful destination to indulge in some fun activities as well as indulge in enjoying some mouth-watering food available at the beach shacks nearby. This beach is an idyllic escape from the noise of the city or enjoys some classic beach activities like sunbathing or swimming. Location: Half Moon Beach, Gokarna Best Time to visit: The ideal time to pay a visit to the Half Moon Beach is between October and March Timings: Tourists can visit here any time from 6 am to 6 pm. Activities: Swimming, canoeing, paddle boats, paintball, camping, and cabins Distance from Gokarna Bus Main Stand, Banglegudda: Half Moon Beach is located approximately 5 kilometres away from the bus station in Gokarna.

Paradise Beach

Also renowned as the Full Moon Beach, Paradise Beach is a great spot to relax away from all the civilization in the realm of nature. It a splendid place for those interested in camping and relaxing seeing the blue waves of the ocean crash against the rocks on the white sands. Swimming is one of the most surreal activities which you can indulge in after taking due precautions of safety from the strong currents of the ocean.

Best of Coorg

Namaste Café

Namaste Café is one of the most eminent attractions in Gokarna located on Om Beach. This beach front restaurant offers an ideal space for tourists who want to dwell on the splendid views of the sea with a spectacular plate of food on their tables. Whether you fancy a quiet stroll to feel the sands on the beach or wish to relax in picturesque vistas, Namaste Café is the place to be. This serene property offers a lot of stay options where you can just relax and unwind in Gokarna. It offers unrestricted access to the beach and is an ideal pick for backpackers and budget travellers. The café also offers exotic dishes to get you in the beach bumming mood along with offering compact rooms to make your stay pleasant in Gokarna. Location: Om Beach, Gokarna, Karnataka Best Time to visit: Tourists can visit Namaste Café anytime throughout the year. Entry fee: A room at Namaste Café costs INR 1080/ USD Timings: The check in time is 1 pm while the check out time is 11 am. Distance from Gokarna Bus Main Stand, Banglegudda:  The distance between the two places is 6.3 kilometres.

Mirjan Fort

Mirjan Fort is a majestic masterpiece of architecture that one can find standing gloriously on the banks of Aghanashini river. The fort has many historical events associated with it which makes it a delight for history buffs in Gokarna. It is believed to be built under the patronage of Queen Chennabharadevi, famously known as pepper queen of India in the 16th century. This fort which was once an important centre the spice trade was later captured by the British who used it for their armoury. It is encompassed by a mesmerising landscape and maintained by the Archaeological Survey of India. This magnificent fort in Mirjan speaks of the great history of the region and housed some intriguing artefacts like Chinese Porcelain, clay tablets with Islamic inscriptions and gold coins attributed to Portuguese Viceroy Conde De Sarzedas that were excavated by ASI in 2001. Location: Mirjan Fort, talluk, Mirjan Fort Road, Mirjan, Karnataka Best Time to visit: The fort can be visited throughout the year by tourists. However, the monsoon months are preferred to witness the breathtaking greenery around the fort. Timings: 9:00 am to 5:00 pm are the visiting hours at Mirjan Fort Distance from Gokarna Bus Main Stand, Banglegudda: It is 22 kilometres away from Gokarna bus station.

Best of Chikmagalur

Koti Tirtha

One of the most sacred places to visit in Gokarna, Koti Tirtha is a popular man-made tank that holds great reverence among the locals and tourists. This tank is encompassed by beautiful temples all around and used for ritual bathing and immersing idols. As per one popular legend in Gokarna, Koti Tirtha is believed to be the origin of a thousand springs. Koti Tirtha is situated close to the famous Mahabaleshwar Temple and attracts pilgrims who visit the temple to perform rituals and pay respect to the ancestors. This sacred pond is used by devotees to take a bath and offers a quaint spiritual ambience for all those who seek a religious rendezvous. Location: Koti Teertha, Kotiteertha, Gokarna, Karnataka Best Time to visit: It can be visited throughout the year. Timings: The timings to visit here are from 12:00 am to 12:00 pm Distance from Gokarna Bus Main Stand, Banglegudda:  It is just 700 metres from the bus station in Gokarna.

Nirvana Beach

If you’re looking for offbeat places to visit in Gokarna, then you should add Nirvana Beach to your itinerary for the trip. This beach is secluded from the throngs of crowds and offers recluse to those who wish to have some beach time to enjoy the peace and quiet. People here can dive into the cool blue waters and enjoy a refreshing getaway. One of the gorgeous features of this beach is the beautiful stretch that makes it an absolute delight for watching the sunset and sunrise. It is quite isolated and one can look forward to have a great time with friends and family whether it’s for a picnic or other fun activities on the beach. With beautiful surroundings and its tranquil setting, Nirvana Beach is one of the most serene places you will see in Gokarna. Location: Nirvana Beach, Kumta, Karnataka Best Time to visit: The ideal time to visit this beach in Gokarna is from November to February. Activities: Swimming, picnicking etc. Distance from Gokarna Bus Main Stand, Banglegudda:  The distance between the two places is approximately 10 kilometres via a ferry.

Best of Alibag

Bhadrakali Temple

If you’re looking for the religious places to visit in Gokarna, then Bhadrakali Temple should definitely be on your list. Dedicated to Goddess Uma who is the main deity, this temple is a popular pilgrimage centre. It is a popular legend which says that when a demon known as Vetrasur seized control of the three lokas, the trinity of Lord Vishnu, Lord Brahma and Lord Shiva created a female warrior called Durge. She was given various powers by the gods to defeat the demon and after that Lord Shiva re-christened her as Bhadrakali. She was sent to Gokarna and now believed to be known as the protector of the town. Another legend associated with the temple says that Lord Cishnuto requested the goddess to stay in Gokarna after Ravana abandoned her. Location: Sri Bhadrakali Temple, Main Rd, Gokarna, Karnataka Best Time to visit: The temple can be visited any time throughout the year in Gokarna Timings: Bhadrakali Temple is open from 5:00 AM - 12:00 PM and 4:00 PM - 9:00 PM  Distance from Gokarna Bus Main Stand, Banglegudda: It is just 650 metres (approximately 8 minutes) away from the bus station in Gokarna.

Baada Beach

Known as one of the best Gokarna places to visit and the cleanest beach in town, Baada Beach is a place you should definitely visit when you are here for a holiday. In order to reach Baada Beach, one has to partake an exciting beach trek from Kirki to Gokarna. Surrounded by hills on both sides, this beach is quite peaceful, somewhere you can escape to for some solitude and rejuvenation. It also offers stunning views of the sunset. So, you can spend some quality time sitting on the rocks while capturing the beautiful sights here.  Location: Baad Beach, Gudeangadi, Kumta, Karnataka Best Time to visit: The ideal time to visit Baada Beach is from November to February. Activities: Trekking is one of the most preferred activities at Baada Beach. Distance from Gokarna Bus Main Stand, Banglegudda: It is 16 kilometres away from the bus station that involves a ferry route.

Best of Dandeli

Shiva Cave is a fascinating place to visit on your visit to Gokarna that is not much popular among tourists yet. Consisting of a Shiva Lingam, Shiva Cave is an interesting place that people should visit. With its dark interiors, tourists are advised to carry a torch inside when they are visiting here. It is also home to many bats and has an interesting legend associated with it. With its beautiful surroundings, Shiva Cave is an amazing place to visit for everyone. There is a Shiva Temple where devotees come to seek fulfilment of their wishes. Location: Gokarna Kudle Road, Gokarna, Karnataka Best Time to visit: November to February is the best time to visit Shiva Cave in Gokarna Distance from Gokarna Bus Main Stand, Banglegudda:  It is approximately 5.5 kilometres away from the Gokarna Bus Stand.

Lalguli Falls

One of the most Gokarna tourist places for nature lovers, Lalgulli Falls is a mind-blowing natural creation. It is located in the Uttara Kannada district of Karnataka and draws in scores of tourists every year to witness its picturesque ambience and peaceful setting. The waterfall is surrounded by verdant greenery that adds to the beauty of this place.

Lalgulli Falls is a popular place for people coming along with their families or friends to picnic at the waterfall. Tourists at Lalgulli Falls can also partake in a number of thrilling activities like trekking, river rafting and other water sports at River Kali. 

The natural beauty of Lalgulli Falls is also blessed with a number of birds making it a delight for bird-watchers. When visiting this place, tourists can also pay a visit to a Hanuman Temple that is located near the hill.

Location: Lalguli Falls, Lalguli, Karnataka

Best Time to visit: October to December is the best time to visit Lalgulli Falls.

Timings: The waterfall can be visited any day of the week from 8 am to 7 pm.  

Distance from Bus Station (Gokarna Bus Main Stand, Banglegudda, Gokarna): The distance between the two places is approximately 90 kilometres.

Best of Pondicherry

Mahalasa Temple

One of the most famous religious Gokarna tourist places is the Mahalasa Temple. It is one place that you should most definitely not miss out on when on a trip to Gokarna. Also known as Shri Mahalasa Siddhivinayaka Temple, it is easily accessible from the main bus station in town. Built almost 150 years ago, the temple has an idol of Shri Siddhivinayak, or Lord Ganesha, installed here. It is said that the best time to visit this ancient yet religiously important temple is during Ganesh Chaturthi, Ashwin Shashti and Shravana Sankashti when locals here celebrate Lord Ganesha with opulence and grandeur. Location: Gokarna Road, Madangeri, Karnataka  Best Time to visit: Any time throughout the year is good for visiting Mahalasa Temple in Gokarna. Timings: It is open from 6 am to 9 pm. Distance from Gokarna Bus Main Stand, Banglegudda: It is around 10 kilometres away from the Gokarna Bus Stand.

Uppin Ganpati Temple

Another one of the famous Gokarna tourist places with religious significance is the Uppin Ganpati Temple. Also known as Vinayakar Temple, this beautiful temple has one of the most stunning architectures in Gokarna. Formerly, this temple used to be dedicated to Lord Shiva, and it is after the statue of Ganesha was brought here from Kumta, that the temple started to be dedicated to Lord Ganesh. The temple also has a main hall in addition to an arch. It also offers stunning vistas of the surrounding lush green areas. Location: Uppin Ganapati, Kumta Best Time to visit: Tourists can visit the temple throughout the year. Distance from Gokarna Bus Main Stand, Banglegudda: The distance between the two places is approximately 35 kilometres.

Maha Ganpati Temple

One of the most popular places to visit in Gokarna, Maha Ganpati Temple draws in a number of pilgrims every day. It is located near the famous Mahabaleshwar Temple and dedicated to Lord Ganesha. This temple boasts of a picturesque setting and the spiritual ambience accentuates the beauty of this temple. According to a popular legend, it is said that Ganesha tricked Ravana who was carrying a Shiva Lingam to drop it here and thus the temple was built on this place. This serene place is visited by people to seek the blessings of Lord Ganesha and wonder at the wonderful architecture of this place. For the history buffs, this temple is a great visit to appreciate the beauty of Dravidian architecture. If you are seeking some refreshing time in the company of religion, then Maha Ganpati Temple is one of the must-visits in Gokarna. Location: Ganapati Temple, Gangavali Road, Nadumaskeri, Gokarna, Karnataka Best Time to visit: The most ideal time to visit the temple is from the month of August to December. Timings: The temple can be visited any day of the week. The timings are 5:00 am to 12:00 pm and 4:00 pm to 9:00 pm. Distance from Gokarna Bus Main Stand, Banglegudda: It is approximately 5 kilometres away from the bus station in Gokarna.

People Also Ask About Gokarna

What are the best places to visit in gokarna with family, what are the best places to see in gokarna in winters, what are the best places in gokarna to visit for couples, what are the best beaches to visit in gokarna, what are the amazing places to visit in gokarna at night, what are the famous gokarna tourist places to visit with friends, what are the famous places to visit near gokarna within 100 km, what are the famous places to visit near gokarna with friends.

Gokarna Travel Guides

Gokarna Reviews

Popular Nearby Places Around Gokarna

More things to do in gokarna, more on gokarna tourism, popular related destinations.

Best Domestic Packages

Best international packages, domestic honeymoon packages, international honeymoon packages, places to visit in india, international places to visit, things to do in india, international things to do, popular on thrillophilia.

• We assure the privacy of your contact data.
• This data will only be used by our team to contact you and no other purposes.

Your enquiry has been received successfully. Our destination expert will reach out to you soon!

• TRAVEL TIPS
• How to Reach

How to Reach Gokarna

On Karnataka’s west part, in the Uttara Kannada district, is the little holy town of Gokarna. One of the most notable tourist destinations in Karnataka is the sacred town of Gokarna, which is tucked away on the shores of the Gangavali and Aghanashini Rivers. The town’s combination of being a vacation destination and a pilgrimage center makes it so intriguing. As the lush Western Ghats journey is so interesting, simple, and worthwhile, arriving at Gokarna is not challenging.

Bursting with rich historical and cultural heritage, The sacred city of Gokarna, which is home to several temples, is very significant to Hinduism. Many devotees travel to this town to receive Lord Shiva’s graces because it is a sacred region with several temples. Gokarna also contains a few temples dedicated to Lord Shiva with authentic Shiva Lingam. The three must-see temples in the city are Mahabaleshwar, Murudeshwar, and Maha Ganpati.

Gokarna has grown significantly as a tourist attraction over the last several years thanks to its enticing beaches, which offer a relaxing getaway away from Goa’s visitor crowds. The expansive coastline is the main draw for tourists in the sacred village of Gokarna. For tourists, Gokarna has a long seashore. Amid the highlands, water, and sun, they are quiet and at peace.

Table of Contents

How to reach Gokarna:

How to reach gokarna by airways:.

The Goa Dabolim Airport is the closest airport to Gokarna. There are occasional aircraft to London, foreign planes to the UAE, and national planes to most Indian towns. Gokarna is 157 kilometers from Dabolim airport. From the airport, you may catch a private cab to Gokarna. More choices include taking a flight to Mangaluru Global Airport and catching a train to Gokarna.

How to Reach Gokarna by Roadways:

Several KSRTC buses travel from Mangaluru, Bengaluru, or Goa to Gokarna. Taxis are also available for rent from these locations to Gokarna. Driving through the green Western Ghats is enjoyable because of the decent roadways and significant highways. From Mangaluru, you may alternatively travel the train to Karwar, Ankola and also Kumta before transferring to a bus to take you the remaining distance to Gokarna.

How to Reach Gokarna by Railways:

Several trains arrive or depart at the Gokarna Road railway station. The closest stations are Ankola and Kumta, on the Konkan railway that runs through the town. Gokarna serves as a stop for several trains, such as the Maru Sagar Express, Poorna Express, and local trains like Yeshwantpur. You may take a taxi from the railroad station, around 10 kilometers from the town. The most convenient way to go to Gokarna is to take the 144 kilometers by railway from Goa to the town.

Top Places to visit in Gokarna:

• Gokarna Beach
• Nirvana Beach
• Mahabaleshwar Temple
• Lalguli Falls
• Paradise Beach
• Half Moon Beach
• Maha Ganapati Temple
• Kudle Beach

About Author

Piyush Kumar

We, with our blogs, promotes the traveling lifestyle and helps in guiding people about all the aspects of exploring a new place, shaktipeeth, jyortirlinga, foods, temples, etc.

See author's posts

More Stories

• Shakti Peeth in India

Delhi To Vaishno Devi Train Tickets Price- दिल्ली से वैष्णो देवी देवी के लिए चलने वाली ट्रेन का किराया

Train For Vaishno Devi From Delhi in Hindi- दिल्ली से वैष्णो देवी के लिए जाने वाली ट्रेने

How to Reach Leh-Ladakh

1 thought on “ how to reach gokarna ”.

Way cool! Some very valid points! I appreciate you writing this write-up and the rest of the site is very good.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

You may have missed

• Dharamshala(यात्री निवास)

Cycle Swamy Satram in Shirdi- शिरडी में स्थित साइकिल स्वामी सत्रम की जानकारी

Arya Vysya Satram in Vijayawada- विजयवाड़ा में स्थित आर्य वैश्य सत्रम की जानकारी

Arya Vysya Satram Kanchipuram- कांचीपुरम में स्थित आर्य वैश्य सत्रम की जानकारी

Satram in Tirumala-तिरुमाला में स्थित सत्रम की जानकारी

Karivena Satram in Srisailam- श्रीशैलम में स्थित कारिवेना सत्रम की जानकारी

• Tour Enquiry
• Sign up | Login
• My Bookings
• New User? Sign-up
• Domestic Tours
• South India
• Maharashtra
• Golden Triangle
• North India
• North East India
• International
• Maldives (Discontinued)
• All Domestic Tours
• All International Tours
• Offbeat Tours
• Domestic Cruise Tours
• Jungle Lodges by JLR
• Kabini River Lodge
• Bandipur Safari Lodge
• JLR Kings Sanctuary
• River Tern Lodge
• Kali Adventure Camp
• Hampi Heritage & Wilderness Resort
• K Gudi Wilderness Camp
• Car Rentals
• Destinations
• Tourist Places on Drive
• Driving Directions
• * Workation
• * Tour Plans
• List Property
• Places to Visit in Gokarna

9 Top Tourist Places to Visit in Gokarna

• Gokarna Overview
• Top 9 Places to Visit in Gokarna
• 25 Best Gokarna Tour Packages
• Top Resorts in Gokarna
• Best Time to Visit Gokarna
• How to Reach Gokarna
• Driving Directions to Gokarna
• within 1 km
• within 5 km
• within 10 km
• within 20 km
• within 30 km
• within 40 km
• within 50 km

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. .....

...read more

#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.

Top 5 Gokarna Packages

Gokarna blogs, gokarna related packages, gokarna related pages.

Places to Visit in Popular Sites in India

• Coorg Tourist Places
• Ooty Tourist Places
• Munnar Tourist Places
• Shimla Tourist Places
• Mahabaleshwar Tourist Places
• Chikmagalur Tourist Places
• Wayanad Tourist Places
• Pondicherry Tourist Places
• Goa Tourist Places
• Andaman Tourist Places
• Hampi Tourist Places
• Ajanta Ellora Tourist Places
• Lonavala Tourist Places
• Nainital Tourist Places
• Agra Tourist Places
• Jaipur Tourist Places
• Kodaikanal Tourist Places
• Darjeeling Tourist Places
• Ratnagiri Tourist Places
• Murudeshwar Tourist Places
• Varanasi Tourist Places
• Ayodhya Tourist Places
• Madurai Tourist Places
• Rameswaram Tourist Places
• Shirdi Tourist Places
• Dwarka Tourist Places
• Somnath Tourist Places
• Yercaud Tourist Places
• Dandeli Tourist Places
• Thekkady Tourist Places
• Mussoorie Tourist Places
• Kerala Tourist Places
• Tamilnadu Tourist Places
• Karnataka Tourist Places
• Maharashtra Tourist Places
• Orissa Tourist Places
• Sikkim Tourist Places
• Kashmir Tourist Places

Near By Places

Similar Places

100% SECURE PAYMENTS

Domestic & International Cards Accepted

Our WhatsApp Numbers

International Tours

South India Tours

Goa, Maharashtra, Gujarat Tours

North India Tours

Rest of India

Request Quote

Travellers #

Explore Tour Packages

Discover Affordable Tour Packages

Need Customized Tour? Request Quote

Login / sign-up.

Your Sign in was successful! Itinerary will be downloaded shortly.

Sign up with Trawell.in

Already Created Account? Login Here

Sign in with Trawell.in Account

Forgot Password?

New User? Sign Up Here

Activate Your Trawell.in Account

Your account is activated successfully. Login Here

Reset Your Trawell.in Password

Your password has been reset successfully. Login Here

Booking Policy

Travel - Experience - Share

• Philippines
• Netherlands
• Switzerland
• United Kingdom
• South America
• New Zealand
• Adventure Travel
• Culture & Heritage
• Sustainable & Responsible Travel
• Travel Products & Services
• Travel Tips
• Food & Restaurants
• Hotel & Resorts
• Travel Resources
• Published Work And Features
• Work with Us / Contact Us
• Search for: Search

Perfect 2 Day Gokarna Itinerary – Things To Do In Gokarna

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

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

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

Table of Contents

Perfect 2 Day Gokarna Itinerary – Beaches And Beyond

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

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

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

Amazing Gokarna Trip | 2 Day Gokarna Itinerary

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

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

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

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

Day 1 of 2 Day Gokarna Itinerary

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

Day 2 of the 2 Day Gokarna Itinerary

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

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

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

How To Reach Gokarna

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

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

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

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

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

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

Where To Stay On Your 2 Day Gokarna Itinerary

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

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

Gokarna Trip FAQ

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

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

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

How can I spend 3 days in Gokarna?

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

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

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

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

Flights –   TripAdvisor  or  CheapAir  or  Cleartrip  or  Makemytrip  or  Priceline

Tours –  Click here to book top tours around the world

Hotels – Click to book the best hotels/resorts Choose best stay options with TripAdvisor  or  Cleartrip  or ixigo   or  Makemytrip or goibibo or Hotelscombined or Priceline

Apparels   – Click to buy Menswear or  Womenswear or Kidswear

Accessories/Luggage   – Click to buy Accessories and Luggage items

Do You Love Traveling?

Do you want to know how to travel the world? We have put together a very useful travel resources page with the best travel tips. Go check it out now.

Thanks for visiting our site Voyager – imvoyager.com  and taking the time to read this post!

If you wish to collaborate/work with us then reach us at [email protected]

60+ Million Users Trust TripAdvisor With Their Travel Plans. Shouldn’t You?

Explore these posts:

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

Leave a Comment Cancel Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Privacy Overview

Travel Character

22 Best Places To Visit In Gokarna, Karnataka 2024

Situated in the Uttara Kannada district of Karnataka, Gokarna is a small holy town renowned for its tranquil pristine beaches, ancient Mahabaleshwar temple, adventurous trekking trails, and spectacular views. Every year, a considerable number of tourists visit Gokarna for a relaxing and peaceful vacation.

Gokarna is one of the most serene and budget-friendly destinations, characterized by palm trees, azure seas, and golden sands. The beaches here are not overly fancy or crowded; instead, they are meant to be a haven for slow and relaxing experiences.

Location: It is located in Karnataka just a few hours away from Goa (134 KM).

Best time to visit Gokarna: October to March is the best time to visit Gokarna when the weather becomes pleasant and the temperature lies around 30 deg Celsius. April and May are hottest months when the temperature easily touches 40 deg Celsius.

How to reach: Gokarna does not have an airport; however, it is well-connected by road to major cities in the country, such as Goa, Bangalore, Mumbai, and Delhi. The nearest railway station is in Ankola, situated 20 kilometers from Gokarna. If you prefer traveling by road, KSRTC buses regularly operate from Bangalore, Goa, Hubli, and other major cities in India. For those traveling by air, the nearest airport is in Goa, approximately 140 kilometers away from Gokarna. From there, you can hire a bus or taxi to reach your destination.

Famous for: Gokarna is famous for its relaxing & peaceful beaches and historic temple. The beaches here are perfect for adventure lovers while temples give you religious vibes. If you’re looking to travel somewhere on a budget for a relaxing vacation then you should travel to Gokarna.

Best Places To Visit In Gokarna

1. om beach:.

Om Beach is renowned as one of the most stunning beaches in India. Its distinctive shape adds to its beauty, resembling the sacred Hindu symbol Om. Nestled between lush green vegetation, an expansive stretch of white sand, and the endless expanse of the Arabian Sea, Om Beach is undeniably one of the most picturesque places to visit in Gokarna.

There you can enjoy various adventurous activities such as banana boat rides, bumper rides, kayaking, jet-skiing, parasailing, and surfing.

Witnessing the sunset over the Arabian Sea is always a marvelous experience.

• How to reach: The om beach is located 6 Km from the Gokarna City center. So it’s not a big deal to get there.

2. Nirvana Beach:

Looking for a peaceful atmosphere with blue water and white sand then you should add Nirvana Beach to your bucket list of Gokarna. It is quite an isolated place where you can spend quality time with friends and family .

At Nirvana Beach, you can experience the most beautiful sunset and sunrise of your life. Here you can have a lifetime experience of a bonfire on cool sand with the spectacular sight of lightning phytoplanktons .

• Where: Nirvana Beach Road Hubbanageri/Kagal, village, Kumta, Karnataka
• Entry Fee: No

3. Half Moon Beach:

Half-moon Beach is another beautiful place to visit in Gokarna. It is a small beach located on the coastline of Gokarna and separated from Om Beach by a cliff from where you can witness the amazing view of the Arabian Sea.

The beach earned its name, Half-Moon, due to its distinctive shape that closely resembles a half-moon.

Away from the people into the lap of nature surrounded by the infinite sea and lush green & thick jungle making you feel like you’re the last person on the planet. Therefore, it is the best place to spend some quality time while looking at peaceful waves and a sky full of stars.

Here one can enjoy swimming, camping, paddle boats, canoeing and cabins . As of now there is not water sports is available.

4. Gokarna Beach:

Located on Belehittal Rd in the Dandebagh Village of Gokarna, Gokarna Beach is one of the best places to visit in Gokarna. It is a go-to beach destination, especially for pilgrims who visit Gokarna to seek the blessings of Lord Shiva.

Surrounded by muddy uphill roads and a forest, it is another reason that makes it the best place for a family picnic or hike. Walking along the several kilometers of coastlines is a unique experience as you come across various resorts and cafes. Apart from all of these, you can enjoy bird watching, surfing, sunbathing, swimming, hiking, and trekking.

5. Mirjan Fort:

Mirjan Fort is another best place to see near Gokarna. It is a historical monument embraced with lush greenery even on the walls. Built in the 16th century, the Mirjan Fort is famous for its architectural elegance and cultural marvels.

Located on the banks of the Agnanishi River, the Mirjan Fort is filled with high bastions and ceilings. The fort is spread over 10 acres and approached through the number of steps that lead to the interior of the fort.

• Timing: 6 Am to 6 Pm
• Location: Talluk, Mirjan Fort Road, Mirjan, 11 KM away from Gokarna.

6. Mahabaleshwara Temple:

The Mahabaleshwara temple is one of the most visited temples in Gokarna. It is dedicated to Lord Mahabaleshwara, an incarnation of Lord Shiva. This shrine also finds mention in the Hindu epic Ramayana and Mahabharata . It is one of the most important places to visit in Gokarna.

The main attraction of this temple is 6 Feet tall Shiva Atmalinga which is also the main deity of this temple.

The Mahabaleshwara temple is an amazing example of the beauty of famous Dravidian architecture . The devotees are allowed to see only the top of the linga until the day of Ashta Bandana Kumbhahishekam, a festival that happens once every 40 years.

7. Paradies Beach

Paradise Beach is another beautiful beach lying across the coast of Gokarna Town. It is also known as Full Moon Beach.

It is a 150-meter-long beach. 70% of the part of the beach is covered by rocks and the remaining part is covered by white sand.

The current of the water is powerful so it’s not an advisable beach for swimming. And hiking back to the half-moon beach during the night is not advisable due to the presence of rough rocks.

There you can find fresh water. Therefore, it is the best place for camping, cooking and spending the night in Gokarna while looking at the stars and moon.

8. Murudeshwar Temple

The Murudeshwar Temple stands as one of the most renowned Shiva temples globally, situated atop Kanduka Hill in the town of Murudeshwar, Karnataka. The temple is home to a 123-foot-tall statue of Lord Shiva, making it the second tallest Shiva statue in the world. Surrounding the temple on all three sides is the Arabian Sea, enhancing its allure.

Adjacent to the statue, there is a 20-storey gopura, offering a spectacular view of the magnificent Shiva statue. Additionally, visitors can indulge in jet skiing at Murudeshwar Beach and explore the Murudeshwar Fort.

This temple, with its towering statue and picturesque surroundings, stands as a testament to the rich cultural and natural beauty found in Murudeshwar.

• Distance from Gokarna: 77 KM
• How to reach: Several buses are running between Gokarna to Kumta. And from Kumta you can take a bus to Bhatkal that will drop you at Murudeshwar railway station. From there you can easily walk to the temple.

9. Koti Tirtha – The Holy Pond

Koti Tirtha is one of the best religious places to visit in Gokarna. It is a man-made pond surrounded by temples that hold great religious faith among locals. If you’re looking for a spiritual place in Gokarna then you should visit Koti Tirtha. It is located within walking distance of Mahabaleshwar temple.

Koti Tirtha is believed to be the origin of a thousand springs that’s the reason it is famous as a thousand springs. People come here to take a dip in the lake with the belief that it washes away their all sins.

10. Yana Caves

Located around 52 KM from Gokarna, Yana is a small hill station with immense beauty that attracts any soul. Yana cave is famous for its adventurous sights, diverse wildlife and religious significance hence it is the perfect holiday destination.

It is a great place for trekking and bird watching with eye-catching greenery and the freshness of the Sahyadri Hills. Yana is famous for two natural limestone peaks and Bhairaveshwara Peak & Mohini Peak, which are said to represent Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. Along with trekkers and adventure lovers, Yana attracts thousands of pilgrims every year.

11. Kudle Beach

Kudle Beach is another top-rated tourist attraction in Gokarna. Situated within walking distance from Om Beach Kudle Beach gives you a silent atmosphere and a never-ending sea to enjoy a pleasant sunset.

Either you can sit here or take a long walk along the shore and enjoy the beauty of never-ceasing tides. If you want to spend some time in peace then Kudle Beach is a perfect destination in Gokarna.

12. Gokarna Beach Trek:

The Gokarna Beach trek offers the optimal way to indulge in beach hopping in Gokarna. This 10 KM long trek includes five major beaches: Paradise Beach, Gokarna Main Beach, Om Beach, Half-Moon Beach, and Kudle Beach. You can initiate the trek from either Kudle Beach or Paradise Beach.

This incredible journey involves a one-side ferry ride and a one-side trek. The entire trek can be completed in about 5 to 6 hours, depending on the time you choose to spend on the beaches.

What makes this trek exceptional is its on-foot exploration of all the major Gokarna beaches, passing through lush green hills that stand between them. These majestic hills offer breathtaking views of the Arabian Sea horizon. Much of the trek involves hiking and traversing hills to reach the next beach.

The trek is not overly challenging, making it suitable for individuals with basic fitness levels. However, during the summer months when temperatures fluctuate between 30 to 40 degrees Celsius, it can be quite demanding. Therefore, the ideal time to undertake this trek is between October and February. Remember to bring sunscreen and an ample water supply for a pleasant day.

• Trek Level: Easy
• Trek Length: 10 KM
• Time: 5 to 6 hour

13. Maha Ganapati Temple:

Located next to the famous Mahabaleshwar Temple, Maha Ganpati temple is one of the bedazzling places to visit in Gokarna. The temple is dedicated to the Hindu God Lord Ganesha. Every year lakhs of pilgrims come here to take the blessing of Lord Ganesha, especially on the occasion of Maha Shivratri which is celebrated with lots of joy.

According to the Legends, to seek the blessing of Lord Shiva you’ve to seek the blessing of Lord Ganesha at Maha Ganpati temple before visiting the Mahabaleshwar temple.

The temple is built in the Dravidian style of Architecture. Therefore, it is an interesting place to visit for history and art lovers where you’ll see beautiful sculptures on the wall of the temple. If you’re looking calm and serene place in Gokarna then Maha Ganapti temple would be the perfect place for you.

14. Enjoy Water Sports:

Apart from the famous temple, Gokarna is also famous for its clean & pristine beaches where you can try various adventurous water sports.

Om Beach and Kudle Beach are the best places for water activities in Gokarna. There you can do jet skiing, surfing, snorkeling, banana boat riding, surfing, speed boating, parasailing, rafting, bumper riding, and swimming.

15. Bhadrakali Temple:

Standing at the entrance of Gokarna, Bhadrakali temple was built in honor of Goddess Uma, the form of Goddess Kali. The main deity of the temple, Goddess Uma is believed to be the protector of Gokarna. This temple is the part of Mahabaleshwar temple complex and is situated within the vicinity of many popular temples like Shree Narayana Temple.

Bhadrakali temple has humble built-in architecture and two ferocious lions and 2 warriors on either side of the main gate of the temple. The main statue of Goddess Uma describes Kali in her ferocious form with big eyes staring out in anger, teeth and four hands holding weapons.

Over the last few years, the temple has gained popularity therefore devotees from different places come here to pray, and offer flowers and Parsad. Friday, the day of the Goddess is believed to be the best day for the devotees of Shakti, hence Friday is very crowded for Bharakali temple as many people doing puja for their well-being.

16. City Hopping:

A trip to Gokarna can’t be complete without city hopping. Gokarna has lots to offer to the tourist and still, it is a hidden gem where you can explore so many things such as beaches, temples, and its local street markets.

The shopping in Gokarna is not that glamorous with huge malls and international brands but still, this city has its charm that attracts shopaholic tourists.

It is a divine place with many popular temples therefore you’ll find lots of options to buy related to spirituality. Apart from it there you can buy brass lamps, kallu sakkare, books, handicrafts, and musical instruments.

• Best places to do shopping in Gokarna: Gokarna temple market, car street, and Sri Radhakrishna bookstore.

17. Belekan Beach:

Belekan Beach is a small rocky beach on Gokarna Road, Tadari Port, Karnataka. The beach is situated very close to Paradise Beach. If you want to start the Gokarna beach trek from Paradise Beach then Belek beach is the last spot where you can bring your vehicle.

There is nothing much to do at this beach as it is mostly rocky with little sand. But there are few shacks and accommodation on the beach where you can have food.

If you’re looking for a place where you can spend a peaceful time with nature then Belekan is the place where you need to go. It is a perfect place for nature lovers and peace seekers. Also in the evening here you can spot an amazing sunset. Therefore evening is the best time to visit this beach.

• How to reach: To reach up there is not a big deal as the route and trails are perfectly marked on the Google map.

Located 30 KM away from the Gokarna, Kumata is a beautiful town set on the coastline of the Arabian Sea. Being a coastal region Kumta is famous for its beautiful sandy beaches, historical temples, and divine greenery.

Kumta is a perfect getaway for those who are looking for an unwinding and relaxing holiday in the lap of nature. The pleasant weather throughout the year makes it a crowd-favorite spot around Gokarna.

There are many beautiful beaches like Baada Beach, Kumta Beach and Dhareshwar Beach. Trekking, boating and rock climbing are some of the activities you can try out in Kumta.

• How to reach: Kumta is located within 30 KM driving distance from Gokarna. Taxi or bus is the best way to reach Kumta which takes around 30 minutes from Gokarna.

19. Shiva Cave:

The Shiva cave is located just 500 meters from Kudle Beach, diagonally opposite the rickshaw stand at Kudle Beach. The cave is not that big but there is a small Shiva Linga inside the cave where you can do meditation.

The cave is inhabited by small bats, so it is advisable to bring a torch when entering. Just above the entrance, there is a small hole through which sunlight enters the cave, illuminating the Shiva Linga. Although the cave remains relatively unexplored, it is worth a visit. During Shivratri, Shiva devotees can often be found inside the cave.

20. Lalguli waterfalls:

Located just 90 kilometers away from Gokarna, Lalguli waterfall is one of the main attractions in the Uttara Kannada district of Karnataka. It is a cascading waterfall where the Kali River drops down from varying heights, ranging between 61 to 91 meters.

The waterfall is endowed with natural beauty, featuring magical surroundings, lush greenery, and the melodic chirping of birds. Visitors can also engage in various activities such as trekking, bird watching, rafting, and other water sports on the Kali River. As a result, thousands of tourists visit this splendid creation of nature every year. In addition to the waterfall, one can explore the Hanuman temple located near the hill.

21. Mahalasa Temple

Built over 150 years ago, the Shri Mahalasa temple is one of the most sacred places to visit in Gokarna. It is also known as Shri Mahalasa Siddhivinayaka temple. The main deity of the temple is Lord Siddhivinayak (another name for Lord Ganesha). The temple is located near Gokarna’s main bus stand so you can easily get there.

The festive season is the best time to visit especially at the time of Ganesha Chaturthi and Ashwin Shashti when the temple is fully decorated in a style and celebrated with all the grandeur.

22. Sharavathi Kandla Walkway, Honnavar

If you’re looking for an offbeat experience beyond beaches then Sharavathi Kandla Walkway should be on your bucket list. Located 50 KM from Gokarna, Sharavathi Kandla Walkway is a picturesque wooden walkaway amidst mangrove trees . It is built across an island in the middle of the mangrove and Sharavathi River.

Walking through the lush green beauty of mangroves while witnessing the diversity of nature with the backwater of Sharavathi would give you mental peace. There you can easily spend 2 to 3 hours.

• How to reach – Sharavathi Kandla Walkway is located in Honnavar which is just 50 KM away from Gokarna. Either you can take the KSRTC bus from Gokarna or take a direct train from Gokarna railway station, which takes 30 minutes to reach Honnavar. Sharavathi Kandla Walkway is 3 KM from Honnavar city, opposite Echo Beach.

So, these are the top places to visit in Gokarna which helps you to explore this beautiful offbeat beach paradise of Karnataka. In the below, FAQ’s we’ve answered the most asked questions about Gokarna. And if you still have queries like where to stay, the best time to visit or the nearby places to visit then we’ve created separate guides which you can find by search box or you can ask in the below comment section!

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: how many days are enough for gokarna.

2 to 3 days are enough to explore all the main attractions of Gokarna. If you want to explore other nearby attractions like Murudeshwar Temple, Yana Caves and Kumta then you should have a minimum of 4 days.

Q2: Is Gokarna Worth Visiting?

Yes, you should visit Gokarna once in your life. This place is an amazing combination of religious temples and beautiful beaches. If you love beaches but looking for a peaceful and modest place as compared to Goa then Gokarna is the place where you should go. There you can easily spend 3 to 4 days while exploring beaches and historic temples.

Q3: Which is better Goa or Gokarna?

Both places are known for their beach beauty. But Goa is more crowded and expensive as compared to Gokarna. And Gokarna is still not known by many people. So, if you’re looking for the lesser crowd then Gokarna is the best place to visit.

Q4: What are the best places to visit near Gokarna within 100 KM?

• Murudeshwar temple (76 KM) known for historical temple and scuba diving.
• Yana Caves (52 KM) a small hill station.
• Kumta Town (32 KM) famous for ancient temple and beaches.
• Lalguli Waterfall (90 KM)
• Yellapur (82 KM) is a collection of adventurous treks and beautiful falls.
• Sirsi (84 KM) is a small town surrounded by evergreen forest, majestic falls and historical buildings.

Q5: What are the best places to visit in Gokarna at night?

Mantra Cafe: Located near Zostel, Mantra cafe is an amazing place to enjoy the nightlife in Gokarna. Seating arrangements are facing towards Kudle beach. Therefore, here you can enjoy the cool breeze of Kudle beach with a bonfire. There is a DJ as well so you can enjoy the music while having the delicious food.

Kudle Beach: Kudle Beach is the best place to enjoy the nightlife of Gokarna. There you’ll see huts and restaurants near the beach where you can enjoy delicious food and soothing music. Also, you can camp around the beach with a bonfire.

Nirvana Beach: The beach is famous for the lighting phytoplanktons that glow during the night and give you an amazing view.

Hi Guys, My Name is Pursottam Saini, living the life of my dream – From traveling one destination to another and seeing the places I still don’t believe.

Murudeshwar Temple | Things To Do & Places to Visit in Murudeshwar

27 Best Places To Visit In Manali For A Dazzling Vacation In 2023

The 13 Best Places To Visit In Auli 2024

The 22 Best Places to Visit in Rishikesh For An Amazing Vacation

The 21 Best Places To Visit In Kasol 2023

18 Best Places to Visit in Andaman and Nicobar Islands

11 Best Things To Do in Kumarakom, Kerala

8 Best Tips for Visiting the Taj Mahal

India Travel Tips: 17 Things You Should Never Do in India

Travel Hashtags For Instagram – The Ultimate Cheat List 2023

Leave A Reply Cancel Reply

Your email address will not be published.

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

20 Best Beach Honeymoon Destinations in the World

What Are The Things That The UAE Is Famous For?

The 17 Amazing Things to do in Madrid, Spain

• Havelock Island
• Neil Island
• Baratang Island
• Ross Island
• Chikmagalur, Karnataka
• Travel Inspiration
• Book Your Stay!
• Lucerne. Switzerland
• Philippines
• Hill Stations
• Waterfalls in the World
• Honeymoon Places in the World
• Beach Honeymoon Destinations in the World
• Festivals in the World
• Best Travel Accessories
• India Travel Tips
• Best Travel Hashtags
• Guide To Plan A Perfect Beach Vacation
• How To Plan a Perfect Honeymoon?
• Honeymoon Checklist
• Travel Shop
• Disclaimer Policy

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

Press ESC to close

Looking for Reasons to Visit Gokarna?

That’s how I would say if anyone asks me how the place felt.

Gokarna is a small town located in the southwestern coast of Uttara Kannada district in Karnataka and an hour south of the Goa border by train. It is one of the most important Hindu pilgrimage centers in India.

And Yes! Gokarna becomes the place whatever you want it to be for the few days you stay, it also lets you enjoy your days however you imagined to live without any rules and responsibilities.

Gokarna or Goa or Pondicherry?

I would say that every place has its uniqueness and culture. Not only these places are famous for beaches and beverages, but also famous for its historic old town roads and temples. Goa is a place that has more beaches when compared to Gokarna, so exploring all the beaches would be quite difficult.

Gokarna and Goa are popular with tourist beaches while Pondicherry is popular for its artistic colonial buildings, churches, temples, and statues in the old part of town that still preserves much of the colonial ambiance.

Seasons/ Best Time to visit Gokarna:

Normally Temperature ranges from 14°C – 40°C in Gokarna. The Place will be fully populated during Shivratri and Ganesh Chathurthi since the place has temples of Lord Shiva. The weather is mostly dry at the summer season (March-June) as the temperature goes up-to 40°C. So, summer and the rainy season is usually off-season in Gokarna.

September to March is the suitable time to visit the place since the weather is pleasant and moderate, neither too cold nor too hot. This is the best time to visit as the humidity and heat are also at its least. December-January (especially New Year) is the peak season, also the time hotels are very expensive compared to other seasons. Many Private/Public Parties will be conducted during New Year’s Eve and Night.

Several adventure water sport activities such as boating, surfing, water-skiing, parasailing, and banana boat rides are the fun activities that you can indulge in Gokarna beaches at this time.

Do you think reaching Gokarna is quite easy?

Haha! It’s quite easy to reach from anywhere. Gokarna is about 450 kilometers from Bengaluru , 238 km from  Mangalore , about 59 km from  Karwar , 866 km from Chennai (TamilNadu), 525 Km from Kerala. Gokarna can be reached in various ways such as by Plane, Train, Car, Bus, or Bike. It would become an awesome trip for bike riders since the travel includes curvy roads, hills, highways, etc,

By Roadway:

We reached Gokarna by bus from Bengaluru. It took about 9-11 hrs journey to reach Gokarna where I would say our bus journey was not much enjoyable experience since the overnight journey was horrible due to the bus condition. I suggest you prefer buses once after surfing about the bus ratings in Google/other booking apps.

There are many State Government and private bus services are available from Bengaluru to Gokarna as well as from other places of India. Sugama Travels, Vijayanand Roadlines – VRL, Sea-Bird, Seabird Tourists, Spd travels, SRS Travels are few private buses that provide night journeys as well as a countable day journey from Bengaluru and the ticket fare ranges from 600 -1500 bucks depends on the season time and availability of the seats.

If you are visiting Goa first and then traveling to Gokarna, its just 1-1.30 hours journey by train & 5-5.45 hours journey by bus to reach Gokarna. People from every region of India have domestic bus services to Gokarna. One thing you want is to dive into google and search for the available services from your region.

The nearest Airports Dabolim Airport is appx 106.2 Kms away from Gokarna. Other nearby Airports are

• Hubli of 123 Kms away
• Belgaum of 150 km away
• Mangalore International Airport of 187.4 Kms away from Gokarna.

After reaching the Airport you can reach Gokarna either by Train, Bus or Cab as per your convenience.

By Railway:

If you are traveling by train, pre-booking the tickets is a better option than booking in the last minute of travel. IRCTC gateway provides the available trains to Gokarna. The very nearest railway station is Gokarna Road-6 km from the town and 20 mins travel takes you to Gokarna beach. KSR Bengaluru Karwar Express, Matsyagandha Express ,  Poorna Express ,  Marusagar Express , and Mangalore Local are the Daily Local Trains available.

The other nearest station is Ankola which is about 20-25 km from the town. Few other nearby Railway stations are Kumta Railway Station(32.8 Kms), Honnavar Railway Station(47.8 Kms), Karwar Railway Station (74 Kms). Once you reach the station you can take either Bus( Private/Government) or Cab to reach Gokarna.

Stay and Food in?

There are so many hotels available with beach views having an affordable budget. Beach Resorts are expensive than the hotels away from the beach but as a whole, if you count traveling charges to visit the beaches from normal hotels is almost the same when you stay in beach view resorts. But if you expect the place to be neat and tidy, I’m helpless. I would suggest preferring Beach view Resorts than normal ones.

Food is provided in the same place you stay in, worrying about it can be avoided. One advantage is that there is no restriction to have food only in the Resorts/Hotels you stay, you can have your delicious seafood in other Cafes/Resort nearby since billing for food is separate from room charges. Beverages are also available at cheap price.

The Hut we stayed.

What to see in Gokarna?

Beaches and Temples are the main places to explore.

Gokarna Beach:

Gokarna Beach is the main beach having a Brahmin area look with temples and a lot of holy cows around. I would say that this place is fully populated & polluted among all other beaches. Apart from a few temples and shops, there is nothing special to be explored here. So, my suggestion to you is to visit this beach first and visit the other beaches not to get disappointed with your trip.

Gokarna/Main Beach

Kudle Beach:

The very first beach you will reach from the main beach. This beach is where most of the tourists stay comparing to other beaches since it has a lot of cafes, guesthouses and beach resorts. Kudle beach stretches long with sand which looks beautiful along with the blue sea which is quite crowded and most acquainted with foreign travelers. This place is best suited for swimming, diving, playing volleyball as well as water sports and also situated very close to Om Beach & Gokarna Beach.

Yeah! Kudle Beach lies between the main beach and Om beach which is 6-7 km from the main town. The north side of the beach connects to the main beach, while the south end leads to rocky hills leading to Om Beach. The place becomes quite deserted during the off-season when most of the shacks are closed and visitors on the beach are less.

Kudle Beach 

Kudle Beach

The beach is shaped in a way that it appears to be in the shape of religious symbol ‘Om’ and is named because of it. It is 6.5 km away from the town while it is visited by travelers, backpackers, and hippies. It has two coves adjacent to each other which make the Om shape beautifully.

Om Beach is the spot for water sport activities like bumpy banana ride, speedy jet ski ride, surfing, para-sailing, etc. Namaste Cafe is the well-known shack you could find on Om Beach. You will experience the breathtaking view of the sunset on this beach and don’t miss to click groupies with your gang when sun signouts for the day.

Half Moon Beach:

Half Moon Beach is located south of Om Beach, named since the beach is in a half-moon shape. This beach is very secluded with fewer visitors and can be reached only by trekking into the hills or by boat/catamaran. Trek to Half Moon Beach from Om Beach is such an awesome one where we climbed the rocks and hills with bushes while enjoying the scenic beauty of the sea. You will enjoy the trekking to its most when you go as a gang along with other trekkers.

Even during the peak season, this beach is less populated with tourists. Undoubtedly the best beach if you are seeking solitude and ‘away from civilization’ end. Activities like swimming, kayaking, paddle boats, trekking, camping, etc are the ones you can enjoy here. Hardly one or two cafes you can find on this beach and sometimes you need to inform the Guards/Police before camping here.

Paradise Beach:

This Beach is also one of the secluded places with limited tourists also known as Full-Moon Beach. This is present south to the Half Moon Beach, it is reachable only by trek/boat. The beach is populated only during the peak season and less populated during the off-season since the rocks present makes swimming quite dangerous. But it is a wonderful place for photographic lovers. The breathtaking view of the Arabian Sea on day time while the bright moon and twinkling stars at night time are all that one has to look at while spending time on the Paradise Beach.

Where to go after exploring Gokarna?

Since Goa is only about one hour by train from Gokarna, it is one of the best places to explore. Few other places include Kumta (32 Kms), Karwar(60 Kms), Yellapur(75-80 Kms), Udupi (178 km), Mangalore(230-235 Kms), Murudeshwar(80 Kms) & Jog Falls (112 Kms).

Safety for solo female travelers?

Solo traveling always gives a sense of freedom & independence, coming out of our comfort zone and it becomes one of the interesting stories to tell people when you get back home!

I have noticed that cab facilities like Uber and Ola are less when you are looking at night times, so I suggest that traveling alone at night can be avoided. Apart from this Gokarna is a safer place for female solo travelers where no one would bother you when you are enjoying your own company.

Days to be Planned/Counted:

I would suggest planning for 2-3 days is sufficient in which you can explore all the beaches in 1-2 days and do the shopping for 1 day.

Precautions/Suggestions to be taken care:

• Have cash in your hand before reaching the beaches since ATM’s are nowhere to be seen when you enter the beach areas.
• Handy cash would be helpful since no online transactions are available in most of the local shops/Autos.
• Use of Sunscreen is advice-able while visiting beaches at day time.
• It is advice-able to ask the owner/in-charge of the place you stay in for ‘Safe’ & ‘Unsafe’ local areas.
• Don’t wear or take expensive jewelry while traveling.

Finally, I had a bunch of stories to tell people I see and I hope you too will have.

Have a safe trip along with your loved ones!

Share Article:

Travel like a bird, our unexpected trip to malampuzha dam-palakkad., sathyamangalam – mettupalyam road (sathyamangalam- ooty/kotagiri road)..

Do visit, Hope you’ll have so much fun 🙂

Awesome….this place adds to my bucket list.

Wonderful place to visit. We spend our New Year eve in Gokarna😍. Unforgettable tons of Memories 🤩

Hi Thameez! Glad you have visited this place.

Leave a Reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

• Destinations
• Weekend Getaways
• Travel Hacks
• Inspiration
• Treebo Offers

A Guide To the Best Places to Visit in Gokarna

by middha on July 11, 2018

Karnataka might have great places to see but a town that is often overlooked, when it comes to tourism, is Gokarna. The sleepy coastal town has all the right setting and places for a fine holiday in the South of India.

Ideal for those who love spending time at the beach and those who love spiritual excursions, Gokarna should be on top of your travel list. If you do plan a trip and are wondering where to start your trip from, start with the best places to visit in Gokarna.

Popular Tourist Places To Visit In Gokarna (Beaches)

1. kudle beach.

Kudle Beach

The first thing one will notice about the Kudle Beach is the unique C shaped layout. The beach is a haven of activity with many outdoor enthusiasts often visiting the place.

Popular activities to enjoy at the beach are trekking, yoga, surfing, swimming and meditation. There are a few shacks on the beach that open from 4 am in the morning. They’re a great spot to relax and unwind.

Make sure you visit the beach to watch the breathtaking sunset.

2. Om Beach

The Om Beach should be one of the top places to visit on your trip to Gokarna. The pristine beach has a stunning backdrop and an ambience that is ideal for relaxing. During the tourist season, you can enjoy boat rides to exotic nearby locations. Those who feel adventurous can try their hands at kayaking or jet skiing.

There are good options for accommodations near Om Beach, in case you are looking to spend stay overnight at the beach.

3. Half Moon Beach

Half Moon Beach

The best way to get to the Half Moon Beach is to walk from Om Beach. Shaped like a half moon, the beach is lined with beach shacks. A great place to laze around and unwind, the sea at the Half Moon Beach is safe to swim and you can play some sports on the white sandy shores.

During the tourist season from October to March, you will find tourists sunbathing by the beach. Don’t forget to try the delicious food served at the beach shack on the Half Moon Beach.

4. Paradise Beach

Paradise Beach

Located a few miles away from the Half Moon Beach, the Paradise Beach is as breathtaking as its neighbour. Previously a hub of commercial activity,  today the beach is a preferred choice for tourists who love the laid-back life. There is a lack of activity at the beach, so go only to experience the cool sea breeze and glimpses of the gorgeous landscape. You can enjoy a few boat rides at Paradise Beach during the tourist season as well.

5. Gokarna Beach

Gokarna Beach

This beach is located close to the commercial hub in Gokarna. So, it is no surprise that this beach is often crowded, when compared to the other beaches we have listed here. Swimming at the beach is safe, but don’t try and venture too deep into the sea.

For the best tourist experience, visit the beach during the Shivratri festival. The entire beach is full of colour and fun.

Transport to the beach is easily available so getting to the beach is not a problem.

6. Nirvana Beach

Nirvana Beach

The complete opposite of the Gokarna Beach, Nirvana is peaceful, calm and stunning. Great for unwinding, the beach is a fresh respite from the crowds and noise of the city. Most tourists who come here visit to spend some quiet time in the lap of nature. The beach shore is an ideal spot for a picnic and a fun day out in the sun.

It is pretty easy to get to Nirvana Beach from Gokarna, it is about 10 kilometres away and you have to get to the beach by ferry.

7. Baada Beach

Baada Beach

To get to Baada Beach you need to trek from Kirki to Gokarna. A scenic beach, Baada is one of the cleanest beaches in Gokarna. The exceptional feature of the Baada beach is that it is surrounded by hills on both sides. A gorgeous sight to see, Baada Beach is a lovely place to visit for those who love to bask in nature and relax on pristine sands.

8. Small Hell beach

Small Hell beach

The Small Hell beach is Gokarna is yet another quaint little beach that is surrounded by a beautiful natural backdrop. This beach is a great place to relax in the company of a white seashore and deep blue sea. During the tourist season, the Small Hell beach is a haven for adventure sports. There are many water sports that tourists can enjoy at the Small Hell beach.

9. Belekan Beach

Belekan Beach

The Belekan Beach is a remote beach in Gokarna. To get to the beach, you need to take a boat from the Gokarna beach. The Belekan is a great place to enjoy water sports and outdoor games like volleyball and frisbee.

Since the Belekan Beach is secluded, it is recommended that you don’t stay back too late at the beach, getting back would be a problem as boats depart by 6 pm.

10. Alvekodi Beach

Alvekodi Beach

Located in the Alvekodi village, the Alvekodi beach is a must visit spot for anyone that likes excursions and nature trails. To visit the beach you need to pass through fields and the village. The captivating beach is great for relaxing and unwinding and you can have a lot of fun touring around the place. Make sure to walk to the lighthouse that is located at the end of the beach.

Places to see in Gokarna (Temples)

1. mahabaleshwar temple.

Mahabaleshwara Temple (source)

The Mahabaleshwara Temple dates back to the 4 th century and is one of the top tourist sites in Gokarna. The temple is a fine example of Dravidian architecture with beautiful inscriptions and carvings on the walls of the temple. The temple is famous for housing an old Shiva Linga that is called the Atma Linga by locals.

We suggest that you go in the morning when the temple is less crowded.

2. Maha Ganapati Temple

Maha Ganapati Temple (source)

As the name suggests, the Maha Ganapati Temple was built in honour of Lord Ganesha. Legend has it that Lord Ganesha tricked Ravana into dropping a Shiv Lingam at this site, this is why the temple was constructed here. Surrounded by beautiful scenes, the temple is a joy to visit. The ambience is soothing and the sites around breathtaking. A must visit for every tourist who comes to Gokarna, it is best to come to the temple during the Ganesha festival that is held between August and September.

3. Koti Tirtha

Koti Tirtha

The Koti Tirtha is an important tourist attraction for pilgrims. It is believed to be the starting point of a thousand springs. This man-made tank is used for ritual bathing and immersion of idols during festivals. There are many gorgeous temples around the Koti Tirtha that are worth visiting.

4. Bhadrakali Temple

Bhadrakali Temple (source)

The Bhadrakali Temple is dedicated to Goddess Uma who is considered to be the protector of Gokarna. Legend has it that it was on the request of Lord Vishnu that Devi Uma resided here after she was abandoned by Ravana.

Drop by at the temple to pay respect to Goddess Uma and to enjoy a few moments of silence. For a great cultural experience, visit the temple when special prayers are held, it is a great experience.

5. Tamra Gauri Temple

Tamra Gauri Temple

While visiting the Tamra Gauri Temple do not forget to check out the ornate work on the walls and the beautiful two-armed statue of Goddess Parvathi at the entrance.

The highlight of the temple is that the main idol is considered to be miraculous. If a devotee prayer with faith, he or she is granted whatever they wish for.

The best time to visit the temple is during Diwali. The ambience and atmosphere are very festive.

Gokarna is well known for its beaches and temples and we have listed down the best of both. Whether you love to visit spiritual places, observe great artwork, relax at the beach or want to try adventure sports, you can do it all at Gokarna.

Related posts:

RECENT POSTS

Related Posts

Book a hotel easily.

Early Bird Bonanza : Pre-book your holiday travel now at best prices

Cancel reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

YOU MIGHT ALSO LIKE...

Beaches in Gokarna: From Beach Trekking to Camping under the Moon

Nature blooms everywhere; all you need to do is navigate to these wonderful places. That is why beaches in Gokarna invite wanderers seeking absolute tranquillity and joy. Nestled in the ...

15 Best Places to See Near Gokarna

While the sleepy beach/temple town of Gokarna is ideal for a relaxing trip, there are gems around the region that are not to be missed. If you’re spending a couple ...

12 Must-Visit Temples In Gokarna

Gokarna is a place filled with historical and mythological tales. There are beautiful temples, along with stories and legends surrounding Atma Lingam, Shatashrunga mountain, Lord Shiva and Vishnu, and ...

12 Fun & Cool Things to Do in Gokarna

Gokarna is a beach town located in Karnataka. It has become a famous tourist attraction for the people of Bangalore. Gokarna is an ideal destination for a getaway from ...

Treebo derives its name from "Bo Tree", the fig tree under which Gautam Buddha attained enlightenment. The fig tree family - banyan, peepal among others - has inspired not just our name but also what we do.

Popular Posts

FAMOUS MONUMENTS OF INDIA: DECODE THE LEGENDS AND ANCIENT SECRETS MARKED IN STONE

15 Unique Things to Do at Night in Hyderabad

17 Historical Monuments in Delhi You Just Cannot Miss

Agumbe Village: The Rainiest South Indian Gem That Inspired The Malgudi Days

June 17, 2024

Sao Joao Festival: A Cultural Extravaganza That Showcases Goa’s Festive Spirits

6 Places to Visit in Konark: Treasures of Odisha’s Coastal Town

June 14, 2024

• Terms of service
• Privacy policy

Copyright © 2014 - 2023

• Deals of The Week Our weekly travel deals!
• 5 years ago

Exploring Murdeshwar & Gokarna: Complete Tour Guide

To begin this blog, we looked for an apt statement and nothing can be better than this. People travel and they tell stories, but why do you have to listen to them. Pack your bags, set your wings, travel the world and be a storyteller. No one would dare to stop you. Once it comes to exploring, India is the most beautiful country in the world. Indians as well as foreigners are tempted to visit Goa. But, do we know that Goa is not only about beaches. Just a few kilometers away from Goa, there are two destinations in Karnataka one would love to travel.

Don’t listen to what they say, GO SEE. 

Murdeshwar – the land of Lord Shiva

Famous for the world’s second largest statue of Lord Shiva , Murdeshwar temple is located on the shore of Arabian Sea. The Murdeshwar temple is dedicated to Shiva and there is a 20-storeyed Gopura at the entrance of the temple. There is a lift inside the Gopura which takes you to the 18 th floor in just Rs. 10/- From there you can enjoy the Arabian Sea view and the 123 feet tall Shiva statue . Temple is open all 7 days of the week.

Temple timing:

Morning: 3:00 AM to 1:00 PM / Evening: 3.00 PM to 8.00 PM

How to reach Murdeshwar ?

Reaching Murdeshwar is pretty easy because of the various conveyance options available. One can travel by train or can also opt for a road trip.

• Murdeshwar By train: Murdeshwar railway station is connected to Mangalore and Mumbai. From the station, taxis, rental cars and buses are available which takes you to Murdeshwar. The railway station is just around 3 kms from the town.
• Murdeshwar By road: Reaching Murdeshwar by road is definitely a thrilling experience because of the natural beauty as well as the fresh air. There are private and state run buses from Mumbai, Mangalore, Udupi, Mysore and Goa which connects to Murdeshwar. You can also drive your own vehicle, book a cab or rent a car. It is nearest to Udupi, at a distance of 101 kms, it hardly takes 2 hours to reach Murdeshwar.
• Murdeshwar from Bangalore:   It is 512 kms from Bangalore, but can easily be completed if you have good company.
• Murdeshwar from Goa : – Murdeshwar is just 200kms from Goa. It hardly takes 4 hours to reach, the roads offers abundance of scenic beauty. The best route from Goa is through Canacona, Karwar, Honnawar.
• Murdeshwar from Mangalore: it is a drive of just 3 hours from Mangalore. The distance of 156kms can be completed with zeal through Padubidri and Bhatkal.

Things to do in Murdeshwar:

There are only a few places to visit here. Murdeshwar is known for the temple and the statue. Apart from these two, one can visit the Murdeshwar Fort of Vijayanagara kings, which is near the temple complex. You can also go to Netrani Island, where they provide scuba diving. So you can enjoy some corals and colorful fishes underwater. City shopping is the best activity you can go for.

Exploring Gokarna

Gokarna is a small temple town in Karnataka. The Gokarna temple if dedicated to Lord Shiva also known as Mahabaleshwar. It is considered as an important stop for pilgrims, though the town is small but holds historical and mythological significance. It is one of the seven muktikshetras in India. You would surely love to explore this small temple town.

Gokarna Temple timings:

Morning  – 6:00 AM to 12:30 PM  |   Evening – 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM

How to reach Gokarna ?

At a distance of 78 kms from Murdeshwar, this ancient place is worth visiting. Your Karnataka trip will surely be incomplete without visiting Gokarna.

• Gokarna from Goa:  the nearest airport from Gokarna is Dabolim airport, which is 100kms away. So a drive from Goa is preferable because of the beautiful roads and if you are lucky, you might see a few peacocks or other species on the road.
• Gokarna from Bangalore:  With a distance of 550kms, it is a 12 hour overnight journey to reach Gokarna. The Kochi-Panvel highway is just 9kms from the town.

Places to visit and things to do in Gokarna:

• Om beach – because of the unique shape of the beach through aerial view, it’s appropriately named Om beach. The Arabian Sea is a bit furious here, so it is suggested not to go deep in the water. You can sit on the beach and enjoy the breeze.
• Gokarna beach – walk a short distance from the temple to reach Gokarna beach. It is quite popular amongst the locals and pilgrims. Shivratri is celebrated with pomp and show on the beach. Though, Gokarna beach is a nice place to be at but because it is mostly crowded, cleanliness is not maintained.
• Kudle beach , Paradise beach and half-moon beach – amongst the 5 beaches of Gokarna, these three are less popular but are equally magnificent.
• Shiva cave -if you have time, you can visit the Lord Shiva cave near Kudle beach.
• Shopping – shopping in the town market is real fun. You can bargain and buy the best things.

Places to eat and rest in Gokarna:

Though there are not many options to stay and to eat, but you would really enjoy the low budget experience here.

• Prema restaurant, Gokarna town- though the restaurant looks quite shabby from outside, but you get amazing food here. Starting from pasta to Indian thalis, you will get mouthwatering dishes here.
• Namaste Café, OM beach- basically a beach shack, which gives an amazing view of the Sea, you can eat and relax as the sea breeze soothes your soul and mind.
• Hotel Shivaprasad- located in the main town, it is at walkable distance from the beaches and the temples, and it is a good option for stay in Gokarna.
• Namaste yoga farm-it is nice place to stay in Kudle beach. You can also enjoy yoga here.

Travel tips:

• Be careful while going to the beaches in the evening, it is not risky but being careful is always a better option.
• Keep your valuables carefully, as these are crowded tourist places.
• Best time to visit are the months from October to March.
• Don’t trust strangers.
• Carry medicines, in case an emergency occur.
• Keep yourself hydrated by drinking plenty of water.