Gokarna Beach

If you haven't already, you can try your hand at the surfing, which can be quite easily pursued here. The wave here is perfect for both beginners and advanced surfers, and you can easily hire all sorts of surfing gear such as surfboards, wetsuits, flippers and even kayaks. Surfing school by the name of 'Cocopelli Surf School' (+91 8105764969) offers some really good lessons that can last over a few hours to a few days according to your preference. You can safely pursue surfing under their guidance and who knows, you might turn out to be the next Mick Fanning!

Gokarna beach is an unlikely destination for a trekking adventure. The trek route begins in Bangalore and is a 7 - 10 kilometres hike before you reach the final destination. The trek will take you through a number of beaches such as Paradise Beach, Half Moon Beach, Rock Climbing, Dolphin's Point, Om Beach and Kudle Beach. The highlight of the trek is its scenic beauty, with gentle hills surrounding the beaches as you make your way through the trail. You can also trek up to the Mirjan Fort, which is another attraction worth visiting. The trek is spread over a period of two days, and you can get package deals to ease your travel.

In addition to surfing, a number of other activities are available here for you to try out. Start your day with some Yoga, which will not only refresh your mind but also renew your spirit. A number of resorts offer Yoga classes overlooking the sparkling blue sea, but you can always do your own thing whilst enjoying the serene environment. You can also explore the waters for what they are by the means of a banana boat which is often attached to a jet ski and pushes you right into the waves! Worry not, it's all in good fun and you will have you wanting to go for Round 2! You can also acquaint yourself with the underwater life by means of snorkelling, where you can get a good look at all the fish that call the Arabian Sea their home.

The best months to visit this destination is from October to March. Morning and evening hours here are enjoyable hours through the day.

Undoubtedly, shopping is one of the most looked forward to activity pursued in any destination, and if you are in Gokarna you will have quite a few items to choose from. The main market area is great for shopping as there are bags, purses, idols, trinkets, souvenirs and other items like jewellery, clothes and accessories available at reasonable prices. Local artefacts are also there which includes both abstract and religious. Trendy backpacks are a favourite among the tourists. You can also grab a few religious souvenirs such as prayer beads and idols of various Gods and Goddesses. Most shops have similar items, so it is a good idea to check around for the prices before you actually buy something.

Continental and coastal cuisine are readily available and at very reasonable prices in Gokarna. Most restaurants have a similar menu barring a few minor additions or deletions. An average meal for two with drinks would cost around Rs. 800. Russian and Israeli tourists frequent Gokarna and their culture manifests in the food. Almost all the eateries are beach front and play light English music adding to the casual atmosphere. Some of the popular shacks at Gokarna Beach include:

1. Kudle Ocean Front Shack
This relaxing resort is located right on the beach, with cottages nestled among coconut trees and hammocks. You can enjoy the sunset and the beach for around INR 2,000 for non-AC rooms and INR 2,500 for AC.

2. Om Beach Resort
A quaint little place, Om Beach Resort will promise a delightful stay. One of the most popular beaches, this resort allows you to unwind in their quiet gardens or walk into the sands of the seashore. Prices start around INR 3,000.

3. Namaste Cafe
With a laid-back vibe and the sky in your line of sight, Namaste Cafe is an affordable getaway in Gokarna. Mud cottages and good food are an accompaniment should you choose to stay here. Prices starting at INR 1,080 and onwards.

4. Chilled Out Shack
The name suggests a whole lot about this “chilled out,” cafe. Delicious food and courteous staff will always welcome you here. They offer pocket-friendly huts, starting at just INR 300, depending on the accommodation you choose.

Gokarna is located just a few hours from Goa and Bangalore. KSRTC has a number of buses plying from Bangalore, Mangalore, Panjim and Hubli, while a number of private operators run buses from Bangalore to Gokarna as well. You can also drive your way to this destination.