When we talk about the best places to visit in Gokarna, we know there await glistening paradisiacal beaches. But this laid-back fishing town has more to offer. Pilgrims have been coming here to visit the ancient Mahabaleshwar Temple, built with the incredible Dravidian style of architecture. If you decide to expand your horizon even a bit and travel a little further, you’ll have remnants like the Mirjan Fort. There are beaches in Gokarna for everyone, whether you want serenity or just a lot of thrill.
15 Best Places To Visit In Gokarna
This list of Gokarna tourist places tells you about the best sites in detail. You also have Google Maps of each location so you know how to plan your itinerary as well! So, go through this list of best places to visit in Gokarna and leave right away!
1. Gokarna Cliff – A View Worth Witnessing
If you want to explore some of the best Gokarna tourist places and want to be a part of an adventure, then Gokarna Cliff is for you. Reaching here involves trekking and the view from here will simply leave you awe-struck, making all your efforts worth it. On the cliff, there are various options in cafes and other eateries.
Location: Gokarna
Timings: N.A
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2. Subrahmanya Temple – A Must-Visit Hindu Temple
When looking for some religious places in Gokarna, don’t forget to visit this temple. Located in Kotiteertha, this temple is one of the most visited places in Gokarna. It is counted amongst some of the most prominent Hindu temples in the Indian state of Karnataka. This is one of the best Gokarna places to visit.
Location: Kotiteertha, Gokarna, Karnataka 581326
Timings: N.A
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3. Belekan Beach – For A Relaxed Exprience
Image Credit: Aleksriis for Wikimedia Commons
This can be a great place to sit back and relax after a long day of exploration around the city. To reach this beach, you’ll have to go for a trek. The beach is enveloped within breathtaking mountains. Watching the sunset and vast sea can be an experience worth undergoing. This beach is one of the most interesting Gokarna places to visit.
Location: Gokarna, Karnataka 581326
Timings: N.A
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4. Bhadrakali Temple – Great Spiritual Experience
This is one of the best places to visit in Gokarna if you are looking for a religious experience in the city of Karnataka. The temple lies right at the entrance of the city and the city centre is within a walking distance from here. Facing this temple is Shankara Narayan Temple that can also be included in your itinerary. It is rightly considered to be one of the best places to see in Gokarna.
Location: Main Rd, Gokarna, Karnataka 581326
Timings: N.A
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5. Yana Caves – For Adventurous And Curious Travelers
Situated amidst the beautiful Sahyadri Hills, Yana caves are visited by those who are looking for an adventurous experience in Gokarna. Yana is a picturesque hill station that catches the attention of most of the tourists in Gokarna and is flocked by them throughout the year. This hill station is admired for its religious aspects as well and visitors also get a chance to encounter the majestic wildlife here.
Location: Sahyadri Hills, Gokarna
Timings: N.A
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6. Shiva Cave – The Meditation Spot
Gokarna is a town that is known for its temples and peaceful surroundings. On this list of the best places to visit in Gokarna, Shiva cave is a spot that is perfect for those travelers who are searching for tranquility. Shiva cave is not known to many tourists but is located near Kudle Beach. Once you are near the Kudle beach you must stop by this cave and enter it and meditate in front of Shiva statue.
Location: Sri Bhadrakali Temple, Main Rd, Gokarna, Karnataka
Timings: 5:00 AM – 12:00 PM and 4:00 PM – 9:00 PM
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7. Paradise Beach – The Full Moon Beach
Paradise beach is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Gokarna and it is also called the Full Moon beach. Paradise beach is located near Half Moon Beach and is the fourth beach in this town. To add the adventure element in your vacation, you can hoke up to this beach from the Half Moon Beach and then go for a refreshing swim. You can also take a relaxing stroll around the beach while cool breeze touches your face and relaxes your senses!
Location: Paradise Beach, Gokarna, Karnataka
Timings: All day
8. Maha Ganpati Temple – The Colorful Shrine
Located near Mahabaleshwar Temple, Maha Ganapati Temple is among the best places to visit in Gokarna for Hindu followers. It is dedicated to Hindu god, Ganesha and legends say that this is where Ganesha tricked Demon Ravana to take away Atmalingam from him. The temple deity is a black stone idol of Lord Ganesha, and devotees visit this temple first before Mahabaleshwara Temple.
Location: Ganapati Temple, Gangavali Road, Nadumaskeri, Gokarna, Karnataka
Timings: 5:00 am to 12:00 pm and 4:00 pm to 9:00 pm.
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Mahabaleshwar Temple
9. Mahabaleshwar Temple – An Ancient Dravidian Marvel
Dating back to 4th century CE, Mahabaleshwar Temple is built by adopting the Dravidian architectural style. It is dedicated to Lord Shiva, and is also known as Dakshin Kasi (Kasi of the South). This is among the most important temples to visit in Gokarna, since as per the belief the pilgrims visiting or even getting a glimpse of this structure get bestowed with immense blessings. Before entering, the devotees first take a dip in the Karwar City Beach that’s few steps away, in order to cleanse themselves.
Location: Koti Teertha Road, Kotiteertha, Gokarna, Karnataka
Timings: 6:00 am to 12:30 pm and 5:00 pm to 8:00 pm
10. Koti Tirtha – A Holy Spot
Koti Tirtha translates to ‘a thousand springs’, and that is because the legend says this place is the origin of a thousand springs. Koti Tirtha is at a walking distance from Mahabaleshwar and Maha Ganapati Temple. This is among the best places to visit in Gokarna for spiritual people, as people come over to take a dip in the lake with a belief that it washes away their sins. It is a must visit for those who want to explore some of the best Gokarna tourist places.
Location: Koti Teertha Road, Kotiteertha, Gokarna, Karnataka
Timings: 6:00 am to 12:30 pm and 5:00 pm to 8:00 pm
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11. Mirjan Fort – Remnants Embraced With Lush Greenery
One of best tourist places near Gokarna, Mirjan Fort is located merely 11 kilometers away and is a historical marvel embraced altogether by nature’s abundance! So much so, you’ll witness greenery even on the walls. The fort was built in the 16th century, by Nawayath Sultanate and was later taken over by Vijayanagar Empire. This is one of the best places to visit in Gokarna, if you seek to have a good time amidst ruins and nature.
Location: Mirjan Fort, talluk, Mirjan Fort Road, Mirjan, Karnataka
Timings: 9:00 am to 5:00 pm
12. Half Moon Beach – A Hiking Spot
The Half Moon Beach is the third beach located on Gokarna coastline. This one is not connected by roads, but through hikes and motorboat rides from Om Beach. The Half Moon Beach is aptly named, owing to its crystal-clear water and rocky shore. This is a great place if you’re looking for a peaceful beach time. However, it is suggested to not hike back to Om Beach post sunset, as there are higher chances of getting lost in the jungle.
Location: Half Moon Beach, Gokarna
Timings: 6 am to 6 pm.
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13. Gokarna Main Beach – The Pilgrims’ Beach
Forming the coastline of the town, Gokarna Beach is mainly used by pilgrim. This is a long open beach where surfing is a common activity. Devotees come over here to take a dip and then head off to offer prayers at the Mahabaleshwar Temple. Since the beach is generally crowded, you can find peace by moving towards North and spending time at Kudle Beach, which is next up on this list of best places to visit in Gokarna.
Location: Gokarna Beach Road, Dandebagh, Gokarna, Karnataka
Timings: N.A
14. Kudle Beach – A Secluded Spot
Located at a walking distance from Gokarna Main Beach and Om Beach, Kudle Beach is among the top rated Gokarna tourist places. This is a paradise for beach-lovers, as they get to unwind by the sea, with lesser people around. You may not find lifeguards around, so swimming here would not be a good idea if you’re not well-experienced.
Location: Kudle Beach, Gokarna
Timings: 4 am to 6:30 pm.
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15. Om Beach – Where All The Buzz Awaits
Om Beach is called so since it looks like the symbol of Om from up above. This rocky and sand beach is a lovely spot to behold sunset views. This actually is where you can find the best beach shacks in Gokarna. The adventure-enthusiasts have a lot to indulge in too, such as jet skiing and surfing. There are quite many resorts near and by this beach where you can stay for a refreshing vacation.
Location: Om Beach, Gokarna, Karnataka
Timings: N.A
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So, these were the best places to visit in Gokarna which you cannot miss during your escape to this town. For a clearer vision of the same, here are some commonly-asked questions answered! Plan a Trip to Gokarna without wasting a moment and make the best memories of your life.
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Frequently Asked Questions about Places to Visit in Gokarna
Is Gokarna ideal for a solo trip?
Yes, Gokarna is an offbeat place and serves to be an ideal escape for peace seekers and solo travellers. Whether you are planning a solo trip or a holiday with friends and family, Gokarna won’t disappoint you.
What are the places to visit in Gokarna in 2 days?
If you’re visiting Gokarna for two days, it is suggested you visit Om Beach, Kudle Beach, Paradise Beach, and Mahabaleshwar Temple.
Is it safe to plan a trip to Gokarna during Covid?
You need to follow all the mandatory travel guidelines mentioned by the authorities to ensure a safe travel experience. Avoid crowded places and keep sanitizing your hands after touching surfaces. Maintain social distancing and remain masked in public places.
What are the places to visit in & around Gokarna in 3 days?
3 days is a great duration for a holiday in Gokarna, especially if you want a lazy getaway. During this period, you can cover almost all the best places to visit in Gokarna and around like Om Beach, Kudle Beach, Mahabaleshwar Temple, and Mirjan Fort.
Which are the lesser-known places to visit in Gokarna?
Gokarna itself is a lesser-known haven. However, Paradise Beach is among the least-known places in Gokarna.
How many days are enough for a vacation in Gokarna?
A 2-3 day trip is perfect for exploring all the places and relaxing in Gokarna.
How to reach Gokarna?
Gokarna can be reached by air, train, and road. Dabolim airport in Goa is the nearest airport which is around 140 km away. The nearest railway head is located 20 km away in Ankola. If you are travelling from a nearby city, especially Bengaluru, Mangalore, Hubli, Goa, etc. then you can also plan to go on a road trip.
Is Gokarna a religious destination?
Gokarna is a serene town on the western coast in the Kumta taluk of Uttara Kannada district of Karnataka. The place is home to many temples.
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