Goa has for a long time been the go-to vacation spot in India for those who wanted to spend their time at the beach, soak up some sun, and have a good time, which led to an increase in the amount of commercialization and tourism in the region as well as an increase in the number of visitors. Because it is more tranquil and has fewer people visiting at any given time, Gokarna’s beaches have quietly but surely pushed their way into the public eye as one of the Best Things To Do In Gokarna.
Gokarna is a town located on the west coast of India in the Kumta, Uttara Kannada district of Karnataka. It is approximately 140 kilometres south of Goa. Gokarna was historically known as a holy Hindu pilgrimage centre. Today, it is a popular tourist destination in India and around the world due to its picturesque beaches. Are you looking for a beach destination that is low-key, laid-back, and relaxing? Make your way to Gokarna.
Fun things to do in the town of Gokarna
1. Take a hike along the shore.
Sounds unique right? Gokarna features five major beaches that may be walked and explored, providing visitors with the opportunity to experience the thrill of hiking while taking in breath-taking vistas of the ocean. This is one trek you should be doing to cross something off your bucket list. It begins at the main Gokarna beach and continues to the peaceful Paradise beach, the crescent-shaped Half Moon beach, the bustling shacks in Om beach, and ends at the hippie Kudle beach. Start at Gokarna beach and work your way to Kudle beach.
2. Activities in and around the water at the beach
Make sure you give water sports like surfing a shot; these days, most of the beaches in Gokarna, including Kudle, offer a good deal on such activities.
3. Make your accommodations at the shacks and homestays
Gokarna is a must-visit place if you are an adventure lover. It hosts a lot of thrilling and fun-filled adventure sports activities that will remain etched forever in your memory. Experience the best of these activities by staying at Red Earth resorts in Gokarna.
4. Visit the various temples.
If you want to have a spiritual pilgrimage experience, you should go to the Mahabaleshwar temple, which is dedicated to Lord Shiva, and then you should swim in the holy waters of Koti Theertha. The Lord Mahaganapathi temple is home to a Ganesha deity that is approximately 1,500 years old.
5. Take a stroll through the nearby town.
Be sure to walk around the main town of Gokarna, look out for houses built with wooden tile roofs and pillars (known as Henchina Mane), and stop by the local market around the temples to pick up some hippie souvenirs (think Om print kurtas and beaded chains) to bring home with you.
6. Trying new foods
Both Om and Kudle beach feature a respectable number of restaurants serving a range of cuisines, including Iranian, Mexican, Israeli, and Indian food, each of which specialises in creating mouth-watering delicacies. At the Om Namaste Cafe, which has a lively atmosphere and a view of the ocean, you should try the seafood. The Tibetan shacks serve Nutella Pancakes and Bruschettas for their patrons.
7. Pay a visit to the local yoga studios and Ayurvedic shops.
These centres have developed over the years into places that combine holistic fitness and wellness, making them ideal for those looking to relax while also soothing their body, mind, and spirit.
Other attractions around Gokarna:
If you have completed all of the activities mentioned above and are still hungry for more, then you should visit the following locations within 50 to 100 kilometres of Gokarna:
1. The seashore in Murudeshwar is home to what is believed to be the second-largest statue of Lord Shiva in all of India.
2. Fort Mirjan – for the design of its buildings
3. Experience what it was like to be a caveman in Yaana Caves, which will transport you back in time.
4. Vibhuti Falls is a short hike through the forest that leads to a little waterfall close to Yaana Sirsi.
5. Karwar Beach and Sadashivgad Fort – About an hour’s drive from Gokarna, Karwar is home to its collection of one-of-a-kind beaches in addition to the nearby Sadashivgad Fort.
6. The Kagal Fort, which can be found in Uttara Kannada Karwar, may be seen not far from Nirvana beach.
