Gokarna

If you love the ambiance of Goa and want to stay away from the crowd, Gokarna is the ideal destination for you. For this reason, this coastal tourist destination has flourished over the years. As people have traveled for the calm and quiet that can be experienced here beside the stretches of the Arabian Sea.

History of Gokarna

Hindu mythology has some exciting stories about Gokarna, and that is how the place gets its name which means cow’s ear (go-cow, Karna-ear). It developed as a tourist destination that could provide an alternative to Goa and became popular among foreign tourists.

Shrimad Bhagavata Purana mentions Gokarna as being the home of two brothers Dhundhakari and Gokarna. 

Brahma, out of arrogance arising out of his power to create the universe, sat penancing to redeem himself from the curse of Shiva. The latter appeared in front of him from the ears of a cow. So the place became famous as Gokarna or ear of the cow. Hindu Puranas says that when Parashurama, the sixth avatar of Vishnu, created Kerala, it was from Gokarna to Kanyakumari.

As per Indian Mythology, Ravana was given Atmalinga by Lord Shiva with an obligation that it would permanently stay where it is first placed on the land. But, while Ravana was engrossed in performing rituals, Ganesha came as a boy and planted it in Gokarna. Once placed, Ravana could not move it from the ground. In anger, he started throwing the pieces of the Linga, which resulted in Murudeshwar, Dhareshwara, Gunavanteshwara, and Shejjeshwar temples.

Things to Do and Major Attractions

While those craving the beach find Gokarna to be an attractive destination, there is also something in store for the spiritual tourist. The Mahabaleswar Temple is located here, and Lord Shiva is worshipped in this temple. Koti Temple is another major holy site in Gokarna, and the temple tank is used by the devotees to bathe them. The place is, of course, famous for the calm and quiet beaches which provide the ideal destination for spending quality time.

Om Beach is the most famous among the several beaches in Gokarna. Paradise and Half Moon beaches are even more secluded and offer a peaceful retreat by the sea. The white sandy beaches of Kudie beach and Gokarna beach also pull a lot of tourists to experience a perfect beach vacation. Those who are interested in water sports can indulge in activities such as parasailing, scuba diving, jet-skiing, snorkeling, and many other fun activities. Tourists also take an interest in some other locations in Gokarna, such as Shiva Cave and Maha Ganapati Temple.

People and Culture of Gokarna

The people here are comfortable in the Kannada language, and they also speak English and Konkani. Being a tourist destination, the language will not be a barrier here, and the people are very hospitable. The region is populated by a predominantly Hindu population.

Local Food and Popular Shopping Items

You can treat yourself to all kinds of cuisine in the various restaurants of Gokarna, but it is advisable to try out local delicacies such as seafood like Lobster, fish, shrimp, and crab. Some of the best eateries in the region are Ocean Pearl, Café Surya, Mantra Café, Dolphin View, and many others. 

For those who love shopping, you can pick up some idols and pictures of Gods and Goddesses. The incense sticks and brass lamps that are available in Gokarna are popular among tourists and can be found in most street stalls and markets.

Best Time to Visit Gokarna

The months from October to March are a good time to visit Gokarna due to the comfortable weather. From November to February, the tourist footfall is at an all-time high.

Availability of Accommodation Type

For cheaper forms of accommodation, you can choose places such as Shanti Paradise and Arya Ayurvedic Panchakarma Centre. If you seek luxury and comfortable living, then resorts like Kudle Beach View Resort, Sanskurti Resort, etc., will allow you a pleasant stay.