Located on the western coast of India, Gokarna is a small town in Karnataka that boasts of pristine beaches, ancient temples, and scenic landscapes. It is often referred to as the ‘Mini Goa’ due to its tranquil ambiance and laid-back vibe. Gokarna is a popular pilgrimage destination for Hindus and attracts several tourists seeking a break from their busy lives. In this article, we will take you through the top 20 places to visit in Gokarna, providing you with a comprehensive guide on their location, entry fee, timings, and distance from Gokarna center, to help you plan your trip better.
Places to Visit in Gokarna for an Unforgettable Trip
1. Om Beach
Named after its unique shape resembling the Hindu symbol ‘Om,’ Om Beach is one of the most popular beaches in Gokarna. With its golden sand, clear blue waters, and lush green hills, Om Beach offers a serene and picturesque setting for beach lovers and nature enthusiasts.
- Location: Gokarna
- Entry Fee: Free
- Timings: Open 24 hours
- Distance from Gokarna Center: 5 km
2. Kudle Beach
Nestled between two rocky hills, Kudle Beach is another scenic beach in Gokarna that attracts visitors with its calm waters, golden sand, and stunning sunsets. It is one of the best places to visit in Gokarna in 2 days for a relaxing beach vacation.
- Location: Gokarna
- Entry Fee: Free
- Timings: Open 24 hours
- Distance from Gokarna Center: 6 km
3. Mahabaleshwara Temple
Located in the heart of Gokarna, Mahabaleshwara Temple is a revered Hindu shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple’s ancient architecture, intricate carvings, and spiritual ambiance make it one of the top places to visit in Gokarna for history and culture enthusiasts.
- Location: Gokarna
- Entry Fee: Free
- Timings: 6:00 AM to 12:30 PM and 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM
- Distance from Gokarna Center: 1 km
4. Maha Ganapati Temple
Located near Mahabaleshwara Temple, Maha Ganapati Temple is a popular temple in Gokarna dedicated to Lord Ganesha. The temple’s vibrant colors, ornate carvings, and spiritual significance make it one of the must-visit places in Gokarna.
- Location: Gokarna
- Entry Fee: Free
- Timings: 6:00 AM to 12:30 PM and 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM
- Distance from Gokarna Center: 1 km
5. Half Moon Beach
Accessible only by boat or a short trek from Om Beach, Half Moon Beach is a secluded and serene beach that offers a peaceful escape from the crowds. With its crystal clear waters and rocky terrain, it is one of the best places to visit in Gokarna for adventure seekers.
- Location: Gokarna
- Entry Fee: Free
- Timings: Open 24 hours
- Distance from Gokarna Center: 7 km
6. Paradise Beach
Also known as Full Moon Beach, Paradise Beach is another secluded and stunning beach in Gokarna that can be reached only by boat. With its soft sand, turquoise waters, and lush greenery, Paradise Beach is one of the best places to visit in Gokarna for a serene beach experience.
- Location: Gokarna
- Entry Fee: Free
- Timings: Open 24 hours
- Distance from Gokarna Center: 8 km
7. Mirjan Fort
Located on the banks of the Aganashini River, Mirjan Fort is a well-preserved ancient fort that showcases the rich history and culture of the region. The fort’s impressive architecture, intricate carvings, and lush green surroundings make it one of the top places to visit in Gokarna for history buffs and photography enthusiasts.
- Location: Mirjan
- Entry Fee: INR 5 per person
- Timings: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM (closed on Fridays)
- Distance from Gokarna Center: 22 km
8. Yana Caves
Nestled in the Western Ghats, Yana Caves is a mystical and serene site that offers a unique natural wonder. The caves feature two massive rock formations known as the Bhairaveshwara Shikhara and the Mohini Shikhara, surrounded by lush green forests, streams, and waterfalls. It is one of the best places to visit in Gokarna in 2 days for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
- Location: Kumta
- Entry Fee: INR 10 per person
- Timings: 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM
- Distance from Gokarna Center: 53 km
9. Gokarna Beach
Located near Mahabaleshwara Temple, Gokarna Beach is a popular and crowded beach that attracts visitors with its golden sand, clear waters, and lively ambiance. It is one of the best places to visit in Gokarna in 1 day for a quick beach getaway.
- Location: Gokarna
- Entry Fee: Free
- Timings: Open 24 hours
- Distance from Gokarna Center: 1 km
10. Shiva Cave
Located near Gokarna Beach, Shiva Cave is a small but serene cave that is believed to be the meditation spot of Lord Shiva. The cave’s spiritual ambiance, natural beauty, and ancient history make it one of the best places to visit in Gokarna for those seeking inner peace and solitude.
- Location: Gokarna
- Entry Fee: Free
- Timings: Open 24 hours
- Distance from Gokarna Center: 1 km
11. Mahalasa Temple
Located near Gokarna Beach, Mahalasa Temple is a sacred Hindu shrine dedicated to the goddess Mahalasa. The temple’s ancient architecture, intricate carvings, and spiritual significance make it one of the top places to visit in Gokarna for those seeking a glimpse into the region’s religious culture.
- Location: Gokarna
- Entry Fee: Free
- Timings: 6:00 AM to 12:30 PM and 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM
- Distance from Gokarna Center: 1 km
12. Bhadrakali Temple
Located on a hill overlooking the Gokarna Beach, Bhadrakali Temple is a Hindu shrine dedicated to the goddess Bhadrakali. The temple’s serene surroundings, panoramic views, and spiritual significance make it one of the top places to visit in Gokarna for those seeking a peaceful and spiritual experience.
- Location: Gokarna
- Entry Fee: Free
- Timings: 6:00 AM to 12:30 PM and 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM
- Distance from Gokarna Center: 2 km
13. Nirvana Beach
Accessible only by boat or a short trek from Om Beach, Nirvana Beach is a secluded and stunning beach that offers a peaceful and pristine environment. With its crystal clear waters, soft sand, and lush greenery, it is one of the best places to visit in Gokarna for a serene and rejuvenating experience.
- Location: Gokarna
- Entry Fee: Free
- Timings: Open 24 hours
- Distance from Gokarna Center: 7 km
14. Koti Tirtha
Located in the heart of Gokarna, Koti Tirtha is a sacred water tank that is believed to be the meeting point of several holy rivers. The tank’s serene surroundings, ancient history, and spiritual significance make it one of the must-visit places in Gokarna.
- Location: Gokarna
- Entry Fee: Free
- Timings: Open 24 hours
- Distance from Gokarna center: 1 km
15. Kavala Caves
Nestled in the midst of dense forests, Kavala Caves is a hidden gem that offers a unique and thrilling experience to adventure seekers. Visitors need to trek down around 400 steps to reach the caves, which feature a small temple, a waterfall, and a breathtaking view of the surroundings.
- Location: Kagal
- Entry Fee: Free
- Timings: 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM
- Distance from Gokarna Center: 13 km
16. Belekan Beach
Located near the Kudle Beach, Belekan Beach is a secluded and unspoiled beach that offers a peaceful and pristine environment. With its crystal clear waters, soft sand, and lush greenery, it is one of the best places to visit in Gokarna for a serene and rejuvenating experience.
- Location: Gokarna
- Entry Fee: Free
- Timings: Open 24 hours
- Distance from Gokarna Center: 6 km
17. Shri Vinayaka Temple
Located near the Mahabaleshwara Temple, Shri Vinayaka Temple is a revered Hindu shrine dedicated to Lord Ganesha. The temple’s spiritual ambiance, ancient architecture, and cultural significance make it one of the top places to visit in Gokarna.
- Location: Gokarna
- Entry Fee: Free
- Timings: 6:00 AM to 12:30 PM and 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM
- Distance from Gokarna Center: 1 km
18. Baada Beach
Accessible only by boat or a short trek from Om Beach, Baada Beach is a secluded and picturesque beach that offers a serene and tranquil environment. With its crystal clear waters, rocky terrain, and lush greenery, it is one of the best places to visit in Gokarna for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
- Location: Gokarna
- Entry Fee: Free
- Timings: Open 24 hours
- Distance from Gokarna Center: 7 km
19. Maha Maya Temple
Located near the Gokarna Beach, Maha Maya Temple is a sacred Hindu shrine dedicated to the goddess Maha Maya. The temple’s spiritual ambiance, ancient architecture, and cultural significance make it one of the must-visit places in Gokarna.
- Location: Gokarna
- Entry Fee: Free
- Timings: 6:00 AM to 12:30 PM and 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM
- Distance from Gokarna Center: 1 km
20. Bhagawathi Temple
Located near the Kudle Beach, Bhagawathi Temple is a Hindu shrine dedicated to the goddess Bhagawathi. The temple’s serene surroundings, ancient history, and cultural significance make it one of the top places to visit in Gokarna for those seeking a glimpse into the region’s religious culture.
- Location: Gokarna
- Entry Fee: Free
- Timings: 6:00 AM to 12:30 PM and 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM
- Distance from Gokarna Center: 6 km
Gokarna is a hidden gem that offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, spiritual significance, and cultural richness. The town’s pristine beaches, ancient temples, and lush green forests attract several tourists seeking a peaceful and rejuvenating experience. In this article, we have covered the top 20 places to visit in Gokarna, providing you with a comprehensive guide on their location, entry fee, timings, and distance from Gokarna center. We hope this article helps you plan your trip to Gokarna and explore the town’s hidden treasures. Whether you are seeking a serene beach getaway, a spiritual experience, or an adventure-filled trip, Gokarna has something for everyone.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. What are the best places to visit in Gokarna in 2 days?
A. Some of the best places to visit in Gokarna in 2 days are Om Beach, Kudle Beach, Yana Caves, and Mahabaleshwara Temple.
Q. Are there any places to visit in Gokarna at night?
A. Yes, some of the places to visit in Gokarna at night are the Gokarna Beach, Om Beach, and Kudle Beach, which offer a lively ambiance and a vibrant nightlife.
Q. What are the top places to visit in Gokarna?
A. Some of the top places to visit in Gokarna are Om Beach, Kudle Beach, Mahabaleshwara Temple, and Yana Caves.
Q. What are the best places to visit in Gokarna in 1 day?
A. If you have only one day to explore Gokarna, you can visit the Gokarna Beach, Mahalasa Temple, Koti Tirtha, and Shiva Cave.
Q. What are the famous places to visit in Gokarna?
A. Some of the famous places to visit in Gokarna are Om Beach, Kudle Beach, Mahabaleshwara Temple, and Yana Caves.
Q. What are the nearby places to visit in Gokarna?
A. Some of the nearby places to visit in Gokarna are Mirjan Fort, Kavala Caves, and Belekan Beach, which are located within a short distance from the town center and offer a unique and thrilling experience.
FAQs
Top 20 Places to Visit in Gokarna: Beaches, Temples, and More? ›
1. Sri Mahabaleshwara Swamy Temple Gokarna. This temple is one of the most famous temples in Gokarna in lieu of its religious importance in the Hindu scripture. It is considered one of the seven places of salvation, i.e., Mukti Kshetras in Karnataka.
Which is famous temple in Gokarna? ›1. Sri Mahabaleshwara Swamy Temple Gokarna. This temple is one of the most famous temples in Gokarna in lieu of its religious importance in the Hindu scripture. It is considered one of the seven places of salvation, i.e., Mukti Kshetras in Karnataka.
Which temple to visit first in Gokarna? ›Mahaganpati temple is very old temple. Located just before Mahabaleshwar temple. Main temple in Gokarn is of Shiva known as Mahabhaleshwara. After entering in Gokarna first you can take darshan of Ganesha in Mahaganpati temple.
Which is the famous beach in Gokarna? ›Baada Beach
You can easily spot it as you walk from Kirki to Gokarna. One of the best family beaches, it is a must visit as you will not even feel that you are at a beach in India. This beach is surrounded by hillocks on both sides. It also has some boulders in the middle.
Gokarna is known for the beaches. The Gokarna main beach is in town and Kudle beach are west facing. Om beach, Half moon Beach, Paradise Beach (also known as Full moon) and Belekan beach are south facing.
How many days are enough in Gokarna? ›You can explore Gokarna over a 2 to 3 days trip but if you have some more days in hand, places near Gokarna can also be explored! Go far and beyond to be a part of Karnataka's history and culture. Yana Caves – Located at a distance of 52 kilometers from Gokarna, Yana lies in Kumta village of North Karnataka.
Can we touch atma linga in Gokarna? ›The temple is not much developed but the value of the temple is very high. The linga is not visible as it is covered but they allows to touch the linga . There is a small hole on the top through that we can touch the Atmalinga.
What is special about Gokarna beach? ›Gokarna's Om beach offers excellent sunset views. Water sports: Jet Ski ride, banana boat rides, parasailing and surfing are some of the activities to try in Gokarna's Om beach. Activities are offered by private operators and not all activities may be available at all times.
Which is the big Shiv temple in Gokarna? ›- Gokarna Beach. One of the most popular beaches in Gokarna, Gokarna Beach recently gained fame for being a surfing site. ...
- Half Moon Beach. ...
- Kudle Beach. ...
- Paradise Beach. ...
- Nirvana Beach. ...
- Baada Beach. ...
- Belekan Beach. ...
- Alvekodi Beach.
Which is the glowing beach in Gokarna? ›
Which is the glowing beach in Gokarna? Ans - The Honey Beach of Gokarna is known as the glowing beach because of the bioluminescent water.
Which beach is less crowded in Gokarna? ›Nirvana Beach – Relax And Unwind
It is one of the untouched and unexplored beaches in Gokarna with a very long shoreline. You will not find a large crowd or many tourists on this beach and you can relax and enjoy in solace.
A Flowy Dress
By loose we do not mean ill-fitted, we mean atleast one element in the outfit that should make you look chilled out and not uptight. Be it puffy sleeves, flowy gowns, or a loose neckline, until and unless you can feel the damp hair move through your clothes, you are not really beach ready.
- Trippr Gokarna - Beach Hostel. 8.8 kms from Nirvana Beach. ...
- Zostel Gokarna. 7.2 kms from Nirvana Beach. ...
- Namaste Yoga Farm. 6.6 kms from Nirvana Beach. ...
- HosteLife Gokarna. ...
- HosteLIT Gokarna - Backpacker Hostels. ...
- Nisarga Homestay. ...
- Cocopelli Guest House. ...
- Kahani Paradise.
Clean beaches and crystal clear water are what is missing in Goa. Gokarna is less crowded than Goa. People who want to spend some quality or stay in peace should visit. It is the best place to spend your vacation by the beach and relax from your daily routine.
What is the dress code in Gokarna? ›Quick Facts. Dress Code: For men only dhoti is allowed. They can't enter temple wearing shirts, t-shirts and vest. Women are allowed only in salwar suit and saree.
Which is the best time to visit Gokarna? ›October to March is the best time to visit Gokarna. Summer is not considered the best time to visit Gokarna due to the scorching heat.
Which is the hidden island in Gokarna? ›If you are looking for underwater adventure like Scuba Diving or Snorkelling in Gokarna, you should head to Netrani Island. Netrani Island is located 19 km off the Murudeshwar Coast and is a heart shaped coral island.
Is Gokarna safe for solo female? ›Yes Gokarna is largely a safe place as it is mostly filled with both Indian and foreign tourists only who are concerned with their own business more than anything else.
Do foreigners visit Gokarna? ›It is now a favourite with most of the foreign tourists travelling to India for some Sun, sand and sea. We will see today how much warmth and fun we can get from this very holy, beautiful and exotic place. 1. The most beautiful beach in Gokarna is the Om beach, without a shadow of doubt.
Is Gokarna costly? ›
...
Budget Trip To Gokarna In Under Rs 3000 : Gokarna Travel Guide.
Things to know | Details |
---|---|
What is Gokarna famous for? | Gokarna beach trek, camping and it's beaches |
Where to stay in Gokarna | Zostel or other cheaper shacks on the beaches |
Budget for Gokarna | Rs 3000 - 3500 |
Gokarna is also known as the southern Kashi of India and has been popular for Shraddha Pujas such as Narayana bali Puja, Tripindi Shraddha, Thila Homa, Navagraha-purak-aghorastra-puja, Narayan bali, Mrityunjaya Homam, Pind daan, Varshik Shraddh and many more Pujas performed by local priest families since times ...
Can we stay at beach at night in Gokarna? ›Yes, you can go to Gokarna beach at night. You can opt for a night trek to the beach and stay overnight at the beach shacks and tents. It is one of the best ways to experience Gokarna nightlife. Campfires and bonfires are arranged at the beaches with live music, dance, food, and drinks.
Can we touch lingam? ›Yes you can touch it.
What is the myth of Gokarna? ›Gokarna means “cow's ear” in Sanskrit. Legend has it that when the 10-headed Ravana, the demon king of Lanka, tried to pull the Atmaling gifted to him by Lord Shiva, it came out of the ground in the form of a cow's ear, hence giving the place its name.
Can we drink in Gokarna? ›Is alcohol allowed in Gokarna? One might not come across a liquor shop in Gokarna, but beer is mostly available at the shacks on the beach here.
Can you swim in Gokarna beaches? ›Gokarna is the home to one of the most scenic beaches in India. Beaches of Gokarna are fun to swim at, less crowded and very clean! This is what makes Gokarna one of the best alternatives to Goa for every Beach Lover.
Which is the most powerful Shiva temple? ›# | Jyotirlinga | Location |
---|---|---|
1 | Somnath | Prabhas Patan, Veraval, Gujarat |
2 | Mallikarjuna Swamy | Srisailam, Andhra Pradesh |
3 | Mahakaleshwar | Ujjain, Madhya Pradesh |
4 | Omkareshwar | near Indore, Madhya Pradesh |
...
Tungnath | |
---|---|
Deity | Shiva |
Festivals | Maha Shivaratri |
Location | |
State | Uttarakhand |
Bhuteshwarnath (or Bhooteshwarnath) (भूतेश्वरनाथ महादेव) also known as Bhakurra Mahadeva (भाकुर्रा महादेव) is a temple of Lord Shiva, situated near Maroda Village of Gariaband district. It is in the middle of the Gariaband Forests. It is The Largest Natural Shivlinga (Lingam) in the world.
Can we see dolphins in Gokarna? ›
Paradise beach at Gokarna is the best spot for watching dolphins swimming. To watch dolphins, you need to take a boat to the middle of the sea to spot dolphins swimming.
Which beach in Gokarna has the best sunset? ›Kudle beach is best known for its sunset views and trust me you will get the most instagrammable pictures here. The sunset views will bring out the photographer in you for sure. To behold this sight, all you have to do take a small trek from OM beach. You will be astonished by the sheer beauty of this beach.
Can we cover Gokarna in 2 days? ›There are 2 types of people who visit Gokarna. Firstly, its the Hindu devotees who come here for the temples. Secondly, the backpackers looking for the beaches and the chill vibes. No matter what type of traveler you are, you can spend 2 days in Gokarna to explore both the temples and the beaches here.
Which month can we see bioluminescence in Gokarna? ›🗓️Dates: 15th - 18th March . 🔗Check out the link in bio or inbox us for more .
What beach has blue glowing sand? ›Torrey Pines State Beach is a coastal bioluminescent beach located in the San Diego, California. The waves here give a vivid blue glow as they crash ashore. And it is visible only after nightfall.
Can you swim in the glowing beach? ›Things like bioluminescent algae that twinkle along the seascape can poison sea life from fish to sea turtles and can make humans very sick if they come into contact with it, so swimming is not advised.
Which is better Coorg or Gokarna? ›Gokarna is full of cool air, great beach views, ideal beach trek time, and to indulge into water sports. One such ideal time to visit Gokarna. From Coorg Gokarna is 7 hours away. My advice would be to club both, else if you are planning to visit only one place I would suggest Coorg.
Where can I take a bath in Gokarna? ›Koti Tirtha, a prominent man-made tank that has great devotion among locals and tourists, is one of the most sacred spots to visit in Gokarna. This tank is surrounded on all sides by gorgeous temples and is utilised for ritual bathing and idol immersion.
Which color dress suit in beach? ›We recommend white dresses, white polo shirts, and white linen for your beach photoshoot apparel. A white wardrobe looks beautiful against the colors of the sand, water, and sky at the beach.
How do you roam around Gokarna? ›The better way to go is to go to Ankola and then take another bus to Karwar from there. You can also take the KR-2 train from the Gokarna Road train station. The station is around 9 km outside Gokarna town. Auto rickshaws charge something between ₹100-130 for the trip.
Which is better Pondicherry or Gokarna? ›
Gokarna is best, serene and peace. Gokarna is your answer.
Is Hampi better or Gokarna? ›It's beautiful,peaceful and serene. But if you interested in historical monuments and heritage sites than hampi will be great.. Depends on how you want to turn this trip into. if you are interested in History , Hikings , Hunt for sunrise and sunset spots then head to Hampi .
What are the aesthetic places in Gokarna? ›Om Beach, Kudle Beach, Half Moon Beach, Paradise Beach, Namaste Cafe, Mahabaleshwar Temple, Gokarna Beach, Mirjan Fort, Koti Tirtha, Nirvana Beach, Bhadrakali Temple, Baada Beach, Shiva Cave, Lalguli Falls, Mahalasa Temple and many more.
What is the legend of Gokarna? ›Gokarna means “cow's ear” in Sanskrit. Legend has it that when the 10-headed Ravana, the demon king of Lanka, tried to pull the Atmaling gifted to him by Lord Shiva, it came out of the ground in the form of a cow's ear, hence giving the place its name.
What is special about Paradise Beach Gokarna? ›The fourth beach lying across the coast of Gokarna Town, Paradise Beach is also well-known by the name of 'Full Moon Beach'. Located in the state of Karnataka, the Paradise Beach is about 150 meters in length and out of this almost seventy percent of the beach is entirely covered in rocks.
Which beach glows at night in Gokarna? ›Which is the glowing beach in Gokarna? Ans - The Honey Beach of Gokarna is known as the glowing beach because of the bioluminescent water.
What is the dress code for girls in Gokarna temple? ›Quick Facts. Dress Code: For men only dhoti is allowed. They can't enter temple wearing shirts, t-shirts and vest. Women are allowed only in salwar suit and saree.
Which statue is famous in Gokarna? ›Murdeshwar is famous for the world's second tallest Shiva statue, the town lies on the coast of the Arabian Sea and is also famous for the Murdeshwar Temple.
Who is the god of Gokarna? ›The temple faces the Gokarna beach on the Arabian Sea. The temple deifies the Pranalinga ("the reality of God which can be captured by the mind") also called Atmalinga or Shiva Linga In legend, it is said that the deity of the temple will bestow immense blessings to devotees, even to those who only glimpse it.
What is the name of Shiva in Gokarna? ›Mahabaleshwara Temple
Mahabaleshwara Temple in Gokarna houses a 6 feet tall Shiva Linga known as the Atmalinga.
What is better Goa or Gokarna? ›
Clean beaches and crystal clear water are what is missing in Goa. Gokarna is less crowded than Goa. People who want to spend some quality or stay in peace should visit. It is the best place to spend your vacation by the beach and relax from your daily routine.
How much is the boat ride in Gokarna? ›One of the best attractions in Gokarna is the banana boat ride in Om Beach. Banana boat riding in Gokarna costs from Rs. 600 per adult for a duration of 2 hours.