Gokarna – The little picturesque town

Posted on October 19, 2016 by Ghoomophiro

Located right in the heart of Karnataka, Gokarna is one little temple town renowned for its picturesque rocky beaches, hills, and natural beauty soaked in religious traditions. The town is also an essential pilgrimage centre for the devotees of Hindu religion who pay a visit to this place from all over India and other countries through the year. The name of the place literally translates to ‘Cow’s Ear’, the holiest animal for Hindus.

How to reach

The nearest airport to Gokarna is the Dabolim Airport in Goa, which is about 140 km away. The nearest railway station is at Ankola, approximately 20 km.

The place is also well connected by a network of roads. The KSRTC buses ply frequently from Bengaluru, Mangalore, Hubli, and many other cities of Karnataka.

Places To See

Om Beach

The beach derived its name from its shape, which at the bird’s eye view forms a majestic ‘OM’. One of the most popular destinations in Gokarna, you should not miss this Beach for all the cool fun it packs. There are tonnes of water sports and other activities such as jet-skiing to enjoy. The beach is surrounded by a variety of Cafes and Shacks where you can enjoy some delicious foods.

Half-Moon Beach

Half-moon beach is approximately a kilometre hike from Om Beach. The beach is a potpourri of exotic locales and sparkling water world. It is normally less crowded than Om Beach and thus gives you ample opportunity to explore the place in detail.

Mahabaleshvara Temple- Dedicated to lord Mahabaleshwar, it is one of the oldest temple here and the main pilgrim site. It is said to be next in sanctity to the one and only Vishwanath Siva Temple in Varanasi. Thus, it is often regarded as ‘The Kashi of the South’.

Maha Ganpati Temple- According to the local Brahmins, the statue of Ganapati at Maha Ganpati Temple was made in the beginning of Dwapara Yuga i.e. much before the birth of Lord Krishna. The locals here believe that the Shiva temple should be visited only after first visiting the Ganesha temple.

Koti Tirtha- The name Koti Tirtha literally means – a thousand springs.  Located in Gokarna, at walking distance from the Mahabaleshwara Temple, Koti Tirtha happens to be one of the most sacred water resources where pilgrims take a bath. The importance of the lake stems from the fact that this sacred water source is a freshwater lake, fed by springs, though in such close proximity to the sea.

Mirjan Fort- Mirjan fort is a grand monument in Gokarna which serves mostly the history enthusiasts among the tourists. However, even if you aren’t a history buff, the place still remains a wonderful place to not miss.

There is the bouquet of activities that you won’t mind trying while being here.

Beach Trekking

There are five popular beaches in Gokarna. One of the best ways to explore the beauty of the place and know it from inside out is trekking along the beaches that are separated by rocky hills. Unfold the beauty of the surroundings and add the fun and excitement of trekking along the beach.

Offer Prayers in the Temples

Gorkana is originally a temple town. It is full of temples rich in history and religious values. One of the most popular temples is Mahabaleshwar Temple. The Deity of these temples is more than 1500 years old. Some other temples to visit are Ganapati Temple, Aadi Gokarneshwara Temple,  Koti Teertha among others.

Indulge in Water Sports

Your trip to any beach is incomplete if you don’t indulge water sports fun. Gokarna is a heaven for those who love waters sports and fun. Indulge in sports such as Jet-Skiing among, parasailing, banana boat rides, snorkelling or kayaking.

Places to Eat

One of the best ways to know a destination is to its food. There are some of the most exotic Cafes, Shacks, and Restaurants on the beaches. Indulge in local delicacies and be a foodie for a good reason.

The restaurants such as Shree Shakti, Pai hotel and Pritish love cafe along with the snack stalls on the beaches are appealing to everyone. However, being a pilgrim place, do not expect it to offer the nonvegetarian food.

Best time to visit

The place is full of tourists almost every time a year, so there is no specific time in a year which you must wait in order to book your tickets. But summers are the time when everybody starts getting ready for the beaches and hence, the time around it may make you struggle to book the places to stay.

Stay

Among the many, there are a few good places such as Namaste Sanjivani, Hotel Shivaprasad and the Namaste Yoga farm where you could have a great comfortable stay.

It’s going to be good fun while being at Gokarna!! An idyllic getaway for Banglorians.