A glance at any travel website shows that Gokarna is one of the most popular tourist destinations in India. People flock here to enjoy the untouched beauty of this quaint little city with its pristine beaches and warm waters. But where should you go to get the most out of your vacation? So here is the list of the top 10 best places to visit in Gokarna in 2 days.
The place has green trees surrounded, clear water with lovely corals, white sands, and a lot of tourists. A walk through coconut groves on palm-lined shore paths will take you to peaceful coves where fishermen pluck their catch from morning until evening and sand artists carve their intricate designs by dusk.
Red cliffs, back-breaking trails, scraggy cliff tops, tiny beaches, and remote villages comprise what may be called a nature lover’s paradise. Gokarna is itself, an excellent beach area to spend your vacations, holidays, and honeymoons.
Table of Contents
- 1. Sri Mahabaleshwara Swami Temple
- 2. Om Beach
- 3. Mirjan Fort – Places To Visit in Gokarna In 2 Days
- 4. Gokarna Beach
- 5. Shiva Cave
- 6. Paradise Beach
- 7. Shree Bhadrakali Temple
- 8. Half Moon Beach
- 9. Gokarna Kudle Beach
- 10. Gokarna Water Sports
1. Sri Mahabaleshwara Swami Temple
When we talk about the best places to visit in Gokarna in 2 days, then Sri Mahabaleshwara Swami Temple comes to my mind, and how I can ignore this calm and serene place in Gokarna. It is situated in Dandebagh, Uttara Kannada district which is a few kilometers from Gokarna town.
The temple is dedicated to Sri Mahabaleshwara Swami and is regarded as one of India’s holiest Hindu temples. It is facing the famous Gokarna beach where devotees are taking birth before they are visiting this serene place in Gokarna (Said local people).
Sri Mahabaleshwara Swami Temple is one of the most popular and famous temples in South India. It is also known as 6 feet tall Shiva Linga or Artmalinga. The temple is built magnificently using white granite and it is the best example of Dravidian architecture.
It is the place in India where devotees are coming around the world to pray for their life and also perform obsequies for their departed. This is the place where should all Hindus pray. If you haven’t visited yet these serene places in Gokarna then you must visit them on your upcoming weekend or holiday.
| Sri Mahabaleshwara Swami Temple Gokarna address | Koti Teertha Rd, Kotiteertha, Dandebagh, Gokarna, Karnataka 581326 |
| Sri Mahabaleshwara Swami Temple Gokarna open timings | 6:00 am – 12:00 pm & 05:00 pm – 07:00 pm |
| Sri Mahabaleshwara Swami Temple Gokarna entry fee | No entry fee |
Google Review – Mahabaleshwar Temple in Gokarna is one of the famous temples of South India and there is a good rich history behind it. I would recommend it to read before visiting the temple. Some of the interesting facts about the temple –
1. No Foreigners are allowed.
2. Men are allowed with lungi as attire (no jeans, pants, or shorts) – It can be bought outside from markets for around 70 bucks.
3. Women are allowed traditional Indian attire like a saree.
Also, lines can be huge on peak days (It took me 1.5 hours in the line on Saturday)
2. Om Beach
Om beach is the best example of geographical significance or appearance on this earth. Located in the southern area of Gokarna, Om is one of the most famous tourist places to visit in Gokarna in 3 days. There are lots of big rocks at the seashore that are the attraction point and enhance the beauty of this beach.
It has very clean and crystal clear water, and nice weather throughout the year attracts a lot of tourists from all around the world. This is one of the most popular and romantic places in Gokarna for couples.
The beach is most popular and famous for its sunset view, romantic shades of red and orange across the sky, and peaceful ambiance. There you can find several restaurants and cafes to have luxurious hospitality to street foods.
So if you are feeling hungry after swimming in the crystal clear water then you can visit Namaste cafe or Elephant restaurant to enjoy your meal. If you plan to spend your holiday with your family, and friends or on a solo trip then Om beach is the best place to visit in Gokarna.
Here visitors can also enjoy surfing, paragliding, trekking, etc. This is also one of the most popular places for couples in Gokarna, where they can have unforgettable experiences ever.
| Om Beach Gokarna address | Beach in Gokarna, India, Karnataka |
| Om Beach Gokarna open timings | It is open 24 hours |
| Om Beach Gokarna entry fee | No entry fee |
Google Review – It is probably the most famous beach in Gokarna. The name comes from the fact that the beach when viewed from the top, resembles an Om symbol. We finished our Beach Trek here which we started at Belekan Beach. This beach is very well accessible via road and you can find many autos outside. There are a lot of water sports also available at the beach plus many shacks options for food. Namaste Cafe is the most popular one.
3. Mirjan Fort – Places To Visit in Gokarna In 2 Days
Considered to be one of the most iconic destinations in Karnataka. Mirjan Fort is also among the best historical and oldest places in Gokarna. It is situated about a kilometer away from the main beach at Gokarna. The place is covered by green moss and it has an outstanding view.
Known by different names – Jainagiri, Khastriya Kunta, or even ‘Tiraya-Betta’ – it was built during Tipu Sultan’s reign over Mysore and was later restored by Haidar Ali. The fort has since then been conquered by Portuguese troops and British troops who used it as a military station up until 1948.
Mirjan fort is situated over 20 – 25 kilometers of area. Once you will enter this place you will see the large entrance walls, darshan hall, flagpole, prayer halls, watch towers, secret doors, and a marketplace. All those things remain with you of the witnessed several battles and vibrant history.
The place has become one of the most famous tourist places near Gokarna. The best time to visit here is in winter or the rainy season because you will gonna witness the beauty of nature at its best surrounded by a greenery environment. If you’re visiting Gokarna then this place should be on your hit list.
| Mirjan Fort Gokarna address | FCQ9+P2P, talluk, Mirjan Fort Road, Mirjan, Karnataka |
| Mirjan Fort Gokarna open timings | Open 08:00 am – 05:30 pm |
| Mirjan Fort Gokarna entry fee | No entry fee |
Google Review – Beautiful and Historical Fort was constructed across the banks of the River Aghanashini, you can witness the beauty of this fort covered with lush green grass after/during monsoon season. The good part is there are no ticket charges here to enter the fort.
4. Gokarna Beach
It is the main beach of the city, on this beach you will see huge crowds and uncountable tourists. Of course, you want to know why Gokarna Beach is famous compared to others am I right? Because besides the beach you will see the famous Sri Mahabaleshwara Swami Temple.
It is also one of the most famous couple-friendly beaches in Karnataka state. You will see most of the couples who got newly married are visiting for making their honeymoon more special. You will see the most crowds, especially in the morning and evening. People are coming here to watch the magnificent sunset view.
Besides this beach, you will find many local street shops, fine dining restaurants, and cafes to fill your pangs of hunger. This is also famous for its best places to eat in Gokarna. If you never visited yet then you must choose the places to stay in Gokarna and I am sure that you can enjoy your vacation.
| Gokarna Main Beach address | Belehittal Rd, Dandebagh, Gokarna, Karnataka 581326 |
| Gokarna Main Beach open timijngs | Open 04:00 am – 06:30 pm |
| Gokarna Main Beach entry fee | No entry fee |
Google Review – Gokarna beach is a very silent and secluded beach. There are plenty of beach shacks available as well. The beach is very clean and tidy. There are plenty of hillocks that surround the beach making the beach even more mesmerizing. Their sunset is a real eye treat, and the rocks that adore the beach are superb. The green covering over the hillocks is very natural, during the monsoon season it will be much greener.
5. Shiva Cave
Located at a distance of 7 km from Gokarna, these caves are rock-cut Shiva temples. The place is very easy to access, it’s only five to ten minutes of walking distance from the hostel path. Once you have reached then you can go straight to the cave.
The name of the cave comes from Lord Shiva, who is worshipped here by local pilgrims. This cave temple is known as Trinetra. This is one of its kind and the largest cave temple in India. The main attraction of these caves is their architecture and sculptures that carry rich narratives and symbols.
This cave has some very intricate designs on the roof, walls, and pillars. Caves have been carved out with locally available stones, while some blocks have been brought from other places to be used as slabs. it is one of the best-hidden places in Gokarna for couples to visit.
| Shiva Cave Gokarna address | G8M8+XV8, Kudle Beach Rd, Gokarna, Karnataka 581326 |
| Shiva Cave Gokarna open timing | Opens 6:00 am – 6:00 pm |
| Shiva Cave Gokarna entry fee | No entry fee |
Google Review – It’s a little adventurous. There is a small temple with a Nandi bull idol. The cave is too isolated. Very tough to locate with a tiny signboard. Be careful and make sure there are no snakes. I found a snake skin in the cave and a dog. Visit the group so you feel safe. But I loved to visit the place. Also, do carry a good torch, mobile lights are of no use.
6. Paradise Beach
Paradise Beach is a great place to visit in Gokarna. if you want to visit paradise beach then you must do the trekking for at least twenty to twenty-five minutes because there is no way to reach it by car or taxi. But it is a worth visiting place in Gokarna.
The place has an outstanding view of the sunset, and you will see the crowd, especially in the morning and evening. People are doing exercises, yoga and morning walk. This is one of the most popular couple places in Gokarna where they can enjoy their time.
The beach has some night camping options as well through locals who have set up some camps. Paradise Beach is also well-known by the name of ‘Full Moon Beach’. The serene environment of the beach offers a great opportunity to spend some time in nature’s lap and find solace.
| Paradise Beach Gokarna address | Gokarna, Uttara Kannada, Karnataka, 581326, India |
| Paradise Beach Gokarna open timing | Open 24 hours |
| Paradise Beach Gokarna entry fee | No entry fee |
Google Review – The very good beach for solo camping. You can start trekking from this beach to another. Calm and quiet place with a lot of beautiful views. Don’t worry about parking. If you pay 30 rs per day they allowed you to park near the beach.
7. Shree Bhadrakali Temple
Located just a few steps away from Nagaraj Temple, Shree Bhadrakali Temple is one of a kind. Bhadrakali Devi is worshiped as the goddess of power and valor who took revenge against Mahishasura, a demon who was given boons by Brahma but defeated all celestial gods.
The city attracts people with its serene atmosphere and scenic surroundings. From beaches to temples, there are numerous things to do in Gokarna that will surely leave you mesmerized. it is one of the best places to visit in Gokarna with family.
| Shree Bhadrakali Temple address | G8XF+MF8, Main Rd, Gokarna, Karnataka 581326 |
| Shree Bhadrakali Temple open timings | Opens 5:00 AM – 12:00 PM and 4:00 PM – 9:00 PM |
| Shree Bhadrakali Temple entry fee | No entry fee |
Google Review – This temple has its history. In past, the Goddess Parvati has been demanded by Ravana after doing long meditation on Lord Shiva. Shiva gives Parvati to Ravana. Ravana then travels to Srilanka, where Lord Ganesha does one trick and makes Ravana fool, saying you bring black women, my father makes you fool, at the same time Parvati takes the form of Bhadrakali, and Ravana lefts Parvati there.
8. Half Moon Beach
People seeking a combination of natural beauty and a quiet, peaceful vacation will love Half Moon Beach. This gorgeous stretch of sand is secluded and largely empty, making it an ideal place to relax, take a dip, or go kayaking.
The water here is perfect for snorkeling as well; it’s not uncommon to spot schools of brightly colored fish swimming just offshore. This is one of the best beaches in Gokarna for families to visit.
To truly appreciate its scenic beauty, book one of our suites with a private pool located right on-site—the infinity pools on either side of your room will look out onto the sea, with nothing but some palm trees separating you from that gorgeous ocean view.
| Half Moon Beach Gokarna address | Near Om Beach, Gokarna, India |
| Half Moon Beach Gokarna open timing | It Opens from 6 am to 6 pm |
| Half Moon Beach Gokarna entry fee | No entry fee |
Google Review – By far one of the best beaches I had been to during my stay at Gokarna with clean shore and water. This is an off-beat beach that requires 10-15 mins of hiking to reach and is not frequented by tourists. When I had been there, I was the only person on the beach. There is one café at the beach which serves basic snacks and drinks where you can relax and look at the beach.
9. Gokarna Kudle Beach
Kudle Beach is a pristine, untouched stretch of white sand that’s sure to enchant even first-time visitors. Kudle beach is located on the south coast of Karnataka, it lies on the Swarna river. The place has been used as a shooting spot for many Bollywood movies.
It’s almost perfect! However, many nearby restaurants or cafes serve food at Kudle beach – so no need to carry your food if you plan on spending time here. As a bonus, there are many local shops all near Kudle beach.
So if you are a shopping lover and want to shop for some local souvenirs then it’s a good place for you. This is one of the best places to visit in Gokarna for couples.
| Gokarna Kudle Beach address | South Gokarna, Gokarna 581326, India |
| Gokarna Kudle Beach open timing | opens 24 hours |
| Gokarna Kudle Beach entry fee | No entry fee |
Google Review – This is the Main beach and most famous beach of Gokarna. Best place to enjoy seawater and on this beach the sea water is very clean and clear. And many shops are also available on the beachside u can also enjoy the food and drinks with a sea view. Must visit the beach in Gokarna.
10. Gokarna Water Sports
Parasailing, jet skiing, and wakeboarding are a few of the several water sports available at Gaali Beach. Parasailing is a popular activity at Gokarna because of its amazing beachfront location and steady winds that make it easy to take off with your parachute.
This is one of the most popular and best places to visit in Gokarna with friends. It’s worth noting, however, that parasailing should only be done by experienced riders and those who can swim or tread water without assistance; don’t do it if you have a fear of heights or you aren’t confident in your swimming abilities.
However, if you are confident about taking on parasailing, it can be an experience you won’t soon forget. This is one of the best places to visit in Gokarna for couples.
| Gokarna Water Sports address | G9H3+6J, Kelaginstala, Karnataka 581326 |
| Gokarna Water Sports open timings | opens 06:00 am – 7:00 pm |
| Gokarna Water Sports entry fee | It depends on the activity |
Google Review – This boating experience was mind-blowing. We got to visit Om beach, half-moon beach, and paradise beach, and saw a lot of dolphins on the way!! The boating was filled with fun and amazing! We got to swim in the middle of the ocean. The boat is in very good condition and the crew is really friendly and helpful.
Places to visit in Gokarna In 2 or 3 Days
if you are planning to visit Gokarna for 2 days or 3 days then I must suggest you visit after the monsoon time. Gokarna is the best place that loves beaches, water sports, and adventures. There are several activities to do in Gokarana for couples, families, and friends.
Places to visit in Gokarna At Night
If you are looking for the best places to visit in Gokarna at night then I must recommend camping. There are many places you can do camping like – Om beach, Kudle beach, Paradise beach, Mirjan Fort, Koti Tirtha, Shiva Cave, and Lalguli Falls.
Places to visit near Murudeshwar
Murudeshwar is a place situated in Uttara Kannada district in the state of Karnataka. It has many places to visit near Murudeshwar like Murudeshwara beach, Raja Gopura, Murudeshwara temple, the Statue of Lord Shiva, Murudeshwara Island, and many more things to do in Murudeshawara.
Things to do in Gokarna for couples
If you are planning to visit Gokarna and are worried about things to do in Gokarna for couples that means you haven’t idea about the places. It is a place that is filled with fun, entertainment, and the best nightlife experience.
What is the famous of Gokarna?
Gokarna is well known for its beaches and nightlife.
How can I spend 2 days in Gokarna?
Uncountable activities are there to do in Gokarna. If you want to spend 2 days in Gokarna and want to explore the places then you must visit the Hindu pilgrimage sites, beaches, and caves.
Is Gokarna worth visiting?
yes! there is no doubt at all.