Gokarna is a ancient temple town, Gokarna is situated in the district of Uttara Kannada in the state of Karnataka which is in India. It is a small town with a population of not more than 25,000 people. This is a center for Hindu pilgrimage and a well-known spot for tourist attraction.
This is a sacred town of temples and its name is also mentioned in the Hindu literature scriptures. The Mahabaleshwar temple is the main temple here and Lord Mahabhaleshwara is the main god of this temple and he is another form of Lord Shiva. There are several beaches around the town area which are the centre for tourist attraction. The terms Gokarna refers to ear of cow and it is said that lord Shiva was born from the cow’s ear. Gokarna is situated at the merging of the rivers Aghanashini and Gangavali that form the shape of an ear.This is a place near the sea and a lot of tourist gathers during the holiday season. It is a temple town and a sacred place for the Hindus. There are many palm and coconut trees situated along the beaches. The water here is blue and crystal clear. There are two main roads in this area around which brick houses and shops are there. The roofs are tiled and the houses are built in the traditional order.
Om Beach, that forms the shape of the Hindu symbol Om, its a beautiful coastline. The curve of the symbol forms a pool which can be a safe bathing ghat for even non-swimmers.The another beach is Kudle Beach: A beautiful white sand beach surrounded by palm trees. At this beach there are simple huts and beach side eating places. You need to bring your own bedding.
How to Reach Gokarna :
By Road: On NH-17, 450 km from Bangalore, 240 km north of Mangalore and about 60 km from Karwar.
By Rail Nearest station : Gokarna (6kms)
By Air: Nearest Airport: Goa