Gokarna

Gokarna weather

Gokarna is located on the shores of Arabian sea on the West coast of India in the state of Karnataka. The weather is dry and humid. The summer months from April to June is very hot with average maximum temperature of 36’C and minimum temperature being 23’C. The monsoon months from June to September receives heavy rainfall with average maximum temperature at 28’C and minimum at 21’C. The winter months from November are cool and pleasant with average maximum temperature at 32’C and average minimum temperature at 17’C.

It is famous both as a center of pilgrimage and a popular beach destination. The sprawling secluded beaches, the low cost of accommodation in comparison to Goa has attracted more international tourists. The famous beaches of Gokarna include Om beachm Kudle beach, Paradise each and Half moon beach.

The Mahabaleshwar temple housing the Atma Linga of Lord Shiva draws big crowd of pilgrims. The famous festival of Mahashivaratri dedicated  to Lord Shiva is held in the month of February/March.

Being close to another popular tourist destination Goa, Gokarna attracts tourist from all over the globe. The low turnout of tourists of  in comparison to Goa, the secluded beaches and the connectivity to major cities have attracted more international tourists. The international tourists book their accommodation one year in advance. They stay for 5-6 months enjoying the seashore and leave once the monsoon sets in.

The town is the home of Lord Shiva known by the name Mahabaleshwar has the temple. It is the temple of Atma Linga of Lord Shiva.

Best time to visit Gokarna

The best time to visit is post monsoon months from October to March. The weather is comparatively cool and pleasant to visit beaches and engage in water sports activities and to walk on the beach. The summer months are very hot and humid. It is difficult to walk on the sand. Even monsoon months are not advisable as it receives heavy rainfall.

How to reach Gokarna

As it is located 7 km from the national highway 66, Gokarna is well connected by road. The Konkan railway line that connects major cities, passes at 10 km from Gokarna. Hence travelling by train to Gokarna is equally convenient.

By road- It is 485 km from Bangalore, 230 km from Mangalore, 177 km from Udupi and 154 km from Panjim Goa.

By rail-  Gokarna-Road railway station is the nearest at 10 km

By air-  Hubli airport is the nearest at 152 km

Things to do

The advantage of Gokarna being on the sea shore, water sports like water scooter and Banana boat are a major activity. A walk on the beach in the morning relaxes your body and mind. The cool breeze blowing on the sea refreshes your mind. You can sight Dolphins on OM Beach as well.

Yana a famous trekking trail is at 50 km. You can go on a day trip. You can visit Mirjan Fort that is  famous for its architectural elegance. It is located at a distance of 21 km. It is built on the banks of the river Aghanashini.  You can engage in white water rafting in Dandeli  located at a distance of 130 km. You can visit St Mary’s Island off the coast of Malpe near Udupi.

Accommodation

Accommodation for all types of traveler is available.  You can stay in a tent accommodation as well. You have to book your accommodation in advance during peak tourist season. You have the option of staying in Murudeshwar as well.

Places to visit near Gokarana

Murudeshwar for Snorkeling and Scuba diving

Goa a popular beach destination,

Dandeli for seasonal White water Rafting and safari

Mirjan Fort,

Sahasralinga,

Apsarakonda