Om Beach is one of the main tourist spots in Gokarna, Karnataka. It owes its name to the fact that the beach is somewhat shaped like the Hindu symbol ‘Om.’ The beach is known for its white sand and jagged rocks all around and is also perfect for catching the sunset or hiking. Om Beach is perfect for both those who want to enjoy some peace and those who wish to have some fun since this beach is also famous for various water sports. There are many cafes and restaurants nearby.
Om Beach At A Glance
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Situated in the North Canara district of Gokarna in Karnataka, Om Beach is one of the most popular beaches in the state and the entire country. Its white sandy shore, clear blue waters, surrounding cliffs and striking beauty attract large crowds. The beach is called Om Beach because it is shaped by the Hindu symbol ‘Om.’ In other words, the shape of the beach is that of two crescents joined together, forming the symbol mentioned above. You can come here and take a romantic walk on the beach, sit on a beach chair with a book or wait for the sun to set.
However, if you love to get in the water, you can swim here and choose to go for one of their exciting water sports, such as bumper boat riding, jet skiing, speed boating, banana boat riding, etc. Om Beach is also suitable for fishing, and you can also spot humpback dolphins here if you’re lucky. Lastly, the rugged terrain around the beach also makes it great for hiking! Once you are done having fun at the beach or want to take a little break to get a bite to eat, you won’t have to go too far since there are shacks and eateries nearby which serve delicious seafood and food from around the globe.
Must Read: Things To Do In Gokarna
Attractions To Explore Near Om Beach
The following are 5 attractions around Om Beach that you must visit in Gokarna:
1. Mahabaleshwara Temple
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Built-in the 4th century CE, the Mahabaleshwara Temple is an important pilgrimage site in India and is also one of the state’s seven places of salvation, also known as Muktikshetras. Its stunning architecture represents the Dravidian style, and the temple overlooks Gokarna Beach. Devotees come from around to worship the 6-foot-tall Shiva Linga here. It is believed that even those who merely see the deity here shall be blessed; only the top of the Shiva Linga is visible to people.
Location: Koti Tirtha Rd, Kotiteertha, Dandebagh, Gokarna, Karnataka 581326, India
Distance from Om Beach: 8.3 km
2. Yana
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Yana is a charming hill station located a little over an hour away from Om Beach amidst the Sahyadri Hills. It is a must-visit attraction boasting immense greenery and diverse fauna. The most well-known sites here are the two massive limestone monoliths, which are of great religious significance. Known as the Bhairaveshwara and Mohini Peaks, they are said to represent Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. Furthermore, you can also trek to these monoliths. Bird watching is also famous here.
Location: Uttara Kannada, Karnataka, India
Distance from Om Beach: 52.6 km
Suggested Read: Gokarna Beach Resorts
3. Half Moon Beach
Half Moon Beach in Gokarna is one of the less crowded beaches in the region and the perfect choice for those looking for a quiet setting. A cliff separates Half Moon Beach and Om Beach; you can climb atop this cliff for stunning sea views. The water here is ideal for swimming, paddle boating, and canoeing. It isn’t known for water sports. However, you can also camp out on this beach. It is special because the shore is dotted with traditional huts that make for a unique view. Don’t forget to stop by one of the nearby shacks for a snack!
Location: Gokarna, Karnataka, 581326, India
Distance from Om Beach: 600 m
4. Mirjan Fort
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Mirjan Fort is situated near Om Beach, along the river Aghanashini, and was constructed around 1608 AD. The fort spans an area of about 4.1 hectares and is believed to have been the site of battles in the 16th and 17th centuries. The fort was used up until 1785, when the British took over it. The fort is well-known for its magnificent architecture and its impressive secret passageways, canals, moats and more. Mirjan Fort has been declared a protected monument by the Archaeological Survey of India for being an essential site for spice trades with the Portuguese, British and Dutch.
Location: Taluk, Mirjan Fort Road, Mirjan, Karnataka 581333, India
Distance from Om Beach: 26.3 km
Suggested Read: Beaches In Gokarna
5. Namaste Cafe
Image Credit: Alexey Komarov for Wikimedia Commons
Namaste Cafe sits at the top of Om Beach and is a renowned cafe in Gokarna that attracts countless people owing to its delectable food and beverages. If you are spending time at Om Beach, make sure to come here for a bit to enjoy their food. The cafe also offers stunning views of the beach.
Location: Om Beach Rd, Gokarna, Karnataka 581326, India
Distance from Om Beach: 950 m
Ideal Time For A Trip To Gokarna
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To make the most of your time in Gokarna, book your trip between November and February. The peak tourist season is between September and February since the weather is cool and pleasant, not above 32 degrees Celsius. Moreover, the lack of extreme humidity or constant rainfall makes sightseeing enjoyable. You can also enjoy outdoor activities during this time of year.
If you visit during the summers from March to June, you will need to put up with high temperatures and humidity, which will render any outdoor excursions somewhat uncomfortable. It can get as hot as 45 degrees Celsius during this time. However, if you don’t mind the heat, there is still plenty you can do here during the summer. Don’t forget to wear sun protection! The monsoon season is perhaps the worst time to come to Gokarna. The monsoon season here usually lasts from July to October, and although the weather is pleasant during this time, the region receives a lot of rainfall, increasing the humidity. Moreover, rainfall can also make the sea rough and dangerous for water activities, meaning that you cannot enjoy its beaches.
Further Read: Best Places to Visit in Karnataka
One of Gokarna’s many treasures, Om Beach, is a scenic beach you are bound to love, especially if you love going to beaches. Its blue waters, the greenery surrounding it, and the rocky terrain all make for an incredible scenery that will be etched in your brain for years to come. The state has many attractions, so book your trip to Karnataka for a splendid time with your loved ones!
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Cover Image Credit: Nithesh Yashodhar Rai for Wikimedia Commons
Frequently Asked Questions About Om Beach
How much time should one spend in Gokarna?
You don’t need more than 2 to 3 days to explore Gokarna.
Does Gokarna have a vibrant nightlife?
Yes, Gokarna does have a lively nightlife, especially since it attracts large crowds of tourists from all over the world. You can go down to the beach to enjoy a campfire and some live music and dancing; there is often yummy food and drinks to get you through the night. Moreover, if you are feeling adventurous, you can trek around the beaches post sundown or even stay at a campsite. There are many nightclubs too.
How far is Gokarna from Goa?
Gokarna happens to be relatively close to Goa. The two are about 132 km apart and it only takes approximately 3 hours to cover this distance by road.
Is it possible to see bioluminescence in Gokarna?
Absolutely! One of the most popular attractions in Gokarna is the bioluminescence that you can see at some of its beaches including Om Beach, Paradise Beach and Kudle Beach.
What are some popular souvenirs to buy in Gokarna?
Gokarna is best known for its brass lamps and also for prayer beads, jewellery made of sea shells, paintings and idols of deities, incense sticks etc.
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