A sleepy beach town named Gokarna that is located off NH17 is in close proximity to the Karnataka- Goa border. One of the popular destinations from the 70s to 80s, the hippies found that this hamlet is more serene and peaceful than Goa. Although Gokarna in summer experiences hot and humid climate, beaches can definitely be added to your bucket list. True charm of Gokarna is that it is both a beach as well as a religious destination at the same time. This much explored offbeat beach destinations that have captured the attention of many tourists. Also, it is only a spiritual town on the western coast of Karnataka that is well known for its Mahabaleshwar Temple.
If you want to sunbathe yourself in the ocean water or enjoy late night parties, Gokarna is a place to explore. This lovely beach town on the Arabian Sea is an awesome place for a vacation and is only 8 hours away by road from Bangalore.
Gokarna In Summer: 6 Places To Visit
When we are talking about places to visit in Gokarna in summer, then there are ample places to add to your travel list. The temples are crafted from Dravidian style of architecture and are truly an architectural gem. Whether you just want to chill or want to experience the serenity, Gokarna has everything to offer.
1. Maha Ganapati Temple
Positioned in close proximity to Mahabaleshwar Temple, Maha Ganapati Temple is one of the best places to visit for spiritual awakening. Dedicated to Lord Ganesha, there is a legendary story that reveals a demon Ravana tricked Ganesha to take the Atma Lingam from him. A black stone idol of Lord Ganesha is placed in this temple and devotees visit this temple before heading towards Mahabaleshwara Temple.
Location: Gokarna Beach Road, Car Street, Dandebagh, Gokarn, Karnataka 581326
Timings: 6 am-12:30 pm, 3-9 pm
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2. Mahabaleshwar Temple
Dated to the 4th century CE, Mahabaleshwar Temple is constructed by Dravidian architectural style. Devoted to Lord Shiva, Mahabaleshwar Temple is also known as Dakshin Kashi. Before visiting this temple, take a spiritual dip in the lovely beach that is just a few meters away after visiting this temple. This temple is visited by pilgrims in huge numbers as it has an important significance. The long queues and elaborate puja will explain it all. Do taste the prasadam inside the temple. They serve delicious sambar and curd rice.
Location: Koti Tirtha Rd, Kotiteertha, Dandebagh, Gokarn, Karnataka 581326
Timings: 6 am-12:30 pm, 3-9 pm
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3. Koti Tirtha
Literally means ‘thousand springs’, Gokarna- Koti Tirtha is walking distance from Maha Ganapati Temple and Mahabaleshwar. Spiritual people should definitely make their visit to this temple that takes a dip into the lake inorder to wash their sins. The place is surrounded with undulating calmness and serenity. You must pay a visit to have a relaxing time on your holiday in Gokarna.
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4. Mirjan Fort
One of the fabulous tourist’s places in the vicinity of Gokarna, Mirjan Fort is a historic marvel that is located 11kms away. Embrace the lush greenery everywhere and it was built during the 16th century by Nawayath Sultanate. Moreover, this fort was later captured by the Vijayanagar Empire. Relish the history of this fort on your vacation in Gokarna.
Location: talluk, Mirjan Fort Road, Mirjan, Karnataka 581333
Timings: 8 am – 5:30 pm
Entry Fee: Free
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5. Half Moon Beach
Renowned as Half Moon Beach, this beach is the third beach that is located on the coastline of Gokarna. Well connected by road and also through hikes & motorboat rides from Om Beach, this beach is named because of its pristine water and craggy shores. One shouldn’t hike back during the post sunset at Om Beach post as there are high chances of getting lost in the dense Jungle. Gokarna’s weather in summer is hot during the day but one can definitely visit this beach in the evening. A rather secluded sojourn for the tourists, beach lovers will definitely love this place and there are no lifeguards around.
Location: Gokarna, Karnataka
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6. Kudle Beach
Kudle Beach is the first among the handful beaches in Gokarna that you will first hit on your visit. Positioned moments away from Om Beach and Gokarna Main Beach, Kudle Beach is counted amongst the top tourist places. The beach encompass few hotels, temporary shacks and huts for accommodation. You will also find a variety of beach restaurants and shacks where you can enjoy chilled beer and food along with the encompassing views of the sea. The tides on this beach are generally high. Be careful when you go for a swim in the water.
Location: Gokarna, Karnataka
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9 Things To Do In Gokarna In Summer
You can indulge in a plethora of activities with family or friends in Gokarna. Are you looking for a budgeted vacation to Gokarna, then you should definitely check out the list below. Make sure you include all these things in your next trip to Gokarna.
1. Beach Trekking
The best thing about the beaches in Gokarna is that they are adjacent to each other. One can easily hike their way to the beaches for a little bit of adventure. Stroll through the rocky beaches of this little town that is one of the best things to do in Gokarna. You can experience an awesome beach trek here instead of simple walk. This is a place where the mountains meet the ocean.
Major Beaches in Gokarna: Kudle beach, OM beach, Gokarna beach, Paradise beach and Half Moon beach
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2. Boat Ride
Are you looking for some adventurous things to do in Gokarna Beach, then do try out Banana Boat Ride. Experience the adrenaline rush by climbing the top of banana boat ride and get pulled by the waves. This is one of the most fun things to do here in the beach of Gokarna. You could also enjoy a public boat ride to Paradise beach which is more secluded from the rest.
Location: Gokarna Beach, Uttara Kannada, Karnataka.
Timings: 9am to 6pm
Duration: 15 Minutes
Cost: INR 300 per person
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3. Food Tour
This is a food paradise for foodies with ample number of shacks available serving Indian platters and for all those who love continental food. You can taste classic idli-dosa or hog onto some fabulous dishes like prawn pizza on a banana leaf, seafood lasagna, and iced Nutella. From Indian to Italian, from Mediterranean to American, you will find all kinds of cuisines in Gokarna restaurants.
Best restaurants: Mantra Café & Cafe Surya
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4. Flea Market Shopping
Alike Goa, there are many flea markets with a lot of shopaholics destinations to lay your eyes on. Selling jewelry and decorative items made of seashells, there are many stalls set up. You can experience a personal essence in each of the items than the commercialized commodities.
Best items you can glance on: Jewelry, picture frames, incense sticks, brass lamps, seashells and prayer beads.
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5. Beach Camping
The beauty of Gokarna beaches cannot be expressed in words and you can carry on camping over here. Sound of waves rushing towards the seashore makes beach camping an unforgettable experience. Also, gazing at the star studded sky, isn’t it amazing? Place your head in the sand and gaze at the open sky for a mesmerizing experience.
Location: Gokarna, Uttara Kannada, Karnataka.
Charges: INR 1500/-
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6. Beach Yoga
Join the yoga sessions held at Om beach every morning apart from other Gokarna activities. Health freaks can enroll themselves in yoga resorts for a minimum of 7 days and return home with loads of memories. You need anybody’s permission if you are a pro at yoga. Just grab a spot on the rocks and ace those yoga poses during sunset or
Location: Om Beach, Gokarna, Uttara Kannada, Karnataka.
Yoga Resorts: Namaste Yoga Farm, Swaswara Resort
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7. Tree House
Climb up the small house that is perched at the top of the tree and grab the glorious view of the calm water, lush green palm trees and foamy white waves lashing at the shores. Gokarna in summer is truly awesome and if you wish to experience the fun of it then visit the beach and explore the tree house.
Location: Kudle Beach, Kudle Beach Road, Gokarna, Karnataka
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8. Beach Sports
Apart Gokarna beach trekking, one can also spend evenings by indulging into various Gokarna activities like playing badminton, volleyball, Frisbee and many other things. Rushing sound of waves, sand and sun will add some extra element to your sports. The ambiance of this area is truly energizing making the games even more fascinating.
Best beach sport activities: Jet ski ride
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9. Get A Massage
To relieve stress and tensions, get a massage at the local spa centers of Gokarna. Lighten up your worldly burdens and rejuvenate your body & soul. Nirvana Ayurveda Therapy Center and Moonshine Trend Unisex Spa are a few popular spas here.
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Gokarna in summer may not be the best time to visit but you will definitely enjoy less crowds and cheaper prices. However, there is no in the enchanting beauty of Gokarna that is for sure. This beautiful town offers a perfect amalgamation of peaceful and adventurous holiday opportunities. Plan a trip to Gokarna and get set for a thrilling vacation. Make uncountable memories along with your families and loved ones.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Gokarna In Summer
What can I do in Gokarna?
There are plenty of things to do in Gokarna like beach trekking, banana boat ride, camping, shop at the flea market, spot dolphins and many more.
What is the best time to visit Gokarna?
The best time to visit Gokarna is from October until March when the weather is warm and inviting. The average temperature is 32 degree celsius during these months.
How far is Gokarna from Goa?
Gokarna is around 147 km away from Goa and one of the easiest travel options is to board a train (Matsyagandha Express) from Goa.
Why is Gokarna famous?
Gokarna is dotted with many temples and pristine beaches like Kudle beach and Paradise beach, making it an ultimate destination for a peaceful vacation.
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A keen observer, an avid reader, a complete foodie, a pet lover and a curious entrepreneur with a vision to empower women. Penning down thoughts and musings come naturally, so, what better way to make a living than do what you love the most. Sujata started off as a content writer and today spearheads a content agency with an all-women team, where each day is about exploring the strength within, overcoming challenges and aiming to scale new heights. Her idea of a holiday well spent is visiting beautiful destinations, experimenting with food and trying out adventure activities.