Gokarna Travel Guide
A small beach town in Karnataka’s Uttara Kannada district is a serene, clean, and beautiful place. An ideal destination for beach lovers and pilgrims, Gokarna has a massive list of go-to attractions for visitors. This beach destination in India is often referred to as the younger sibling of Goa.
Gokarna is a beacon that helps hundreds and thousands of travelers find a reason to enjoy the beaches. There is an extensive list of places to visit in Gokarna, followed by the number of things that can be enjoyed in this coastal town of Karnataka. It looks like a mirror image of Goa but is less crowded and similar in beauty.
Dive into the Karnataka travel guide for a complete journey through beaches, hills, and heritage sites!
Places to visit in Gokarna
Being relatively less crowded, Gokarna has a lot of serene places where travelers can enjoy the serenity of the place. The entire town is brimming with multiple spas and Ayurveda centers that have actively provided a rejuvenating retreat to the visitors. So for relaxing in this beach town of India, here are the places you can visit.
- Arthigamya Resort & Spa
- Stonewood Nature Resort
- Om Beach
- Mahabaleshawara Temple
- Kundle Beach
Things to do in Gokarna
Do you want to experience the sensation of sand between your toes and salty air in your hair but don’t want to deal with the crowds and chaos of Goa’s beaches? Don’t worry. A budget-friendly trip to Gokarna offers the perfect combination of relaxation and beauty that will refresh your body and mind. Below are the top things to do in Gokarna:
- Ride The Waves and Learn To Surf
- A Fishy Trip on a Catamaran
- The Hyperspeed Adventure that is Karawa Jet Boating
- Stream Chasing While River Rafting
Best time to visit Gokarna
Gokarna offers comfortable weather throughout the year, like any other beach city or town. But the best time to visit Gokarna is during winter, between October and March. These are the months when the humidity in the air is lowest, and the temperature is quite comfortable. It is the ideal time for adventurers to explore and enjoy various activities, for beach lovers to soak themselves in the sun, and for many other reasons.
How to Reach Gokarna
Being a top-notch tourist destination, Gokarna is well connected by all three means of transport. The nearest airport to Gokarna is Dabolim Airport. Several flights from different cities fly to this airport. Moreover, getting a cab or taxi from this airport is easy. One of the best ways to reach Gokarna is by rail. The nearest railhead to this coastal town in Karnataka is Ankola. Gokarna is well connected with the nearby cities via road. Travelers often arrive at their destination via road.
Accommodations in Gokarna
Packed with tourists during the peak season, finding the best places to stay in Gokarna at rush hour can take time and effort. Travelers should arrange their stay in advance when planning a trip here. Like Goa, Gokarna also has a lot of variety regarding accommodation options. Many options are readily available, from resorts, beach huts, and shacks to villas and hostels. While visiting the town, the best places to stay are Viraz Valley, The Regulus Resort, Gokarna Punyashrama, Hotel Gananjaya, and more.
Where to eat in Gokarna
Delicious seafood, continental cuisine, and a few more options to savor—Gokarna has a huge list. For all the foodies who visit this coastal town in Karnataka, there are a lot of tasty cuisines that can be relished. Some of the best places to enjoy them in Gokarna include Dolphin View Restaurant, Mahalaxmi Restaurant, Om Shree Ganesh, Prema Restaurant, Shree Shakti Restaurant, Gokarna Fast Food Center, and many more are popular choices for tourists.
How to get around in Gokarna
To get around the small town of Gokarna, the best mode of transportation is on foot. This town is small and has few establishments and crowds, making it safe to walk around. The roads are compact, and the destinations are within walking distance, making it easy to explore the town. However, for those who are medically or physically challenged, there are options for rickshaws and boat services available.
Travel tips
- Pack light and carry only the essentials to ensure easy mobility during your trip to Gokarna.
- Stay hydrated, and bring a reusable water bottle to quench your thirst while exploring the beautiful beaches and trails.
- Remember to carry sunblock and a hat to protect yourself from Gokarna’s intense coastal sun rays.
- Plan your off-season or weekday visits to avoid crowds and have a more peaceful experience.
- Embrace the local culture by trying the delicious coastal cuisine and interacting with the friendly locals.
- Carry a sarong or scarf to cover up while visiting the temples in Gokarna, as they have a modest dress code.
- Invest in a good pair of walking shoes or sandals to comfortably explore the scenic trails and beaches.
