Located in coastal Karnataka, and the latest crowd-puller, Gokarna is the beach haven for the eclectic tribe. An easy-going, laid-back vibe, complete with serene beaches to give you the much needed me-time you need. Tranquility is boundless in Gokarna with beaches to die for, a hippie environment, limited shacks and jungles all around; even two weeks away here is less!
Being on the coastline of Karnataka, the town enjoys a variety of tourists of eclectic cultures around the country and the world. For the food lover, eating here is like eating in paradise: maharashtrian, konkani and south indian influences along with the already prevalent goan vibe of this coastal beach town, make this a haven in all manners. For the short haul trips that really look for peace and quiet, your best bets are Kudle Beach and Om Beach – relax, rejuvenate and forget. A sunset here with boats against the orange sky is as picturesque your view can get on a quiet getaway!
Trekking is a favourite among many vagabonders; and what better way to experience trekking, than via beach trekking? A literal climb from hill to hill brings you to wonderful beaches. And I mean, wonderful, wondrous, waves.
Trek a while and you will reach Half Moon Beach, on just the other side of Om Beach; a secluded, lagoon-smitten paradise. Albeit, with less shacks, eateries and inns; but this is what makes the place special, bountiful and wanted. Now further along the trek, and you want to make this distance, is what the locals call Paradise beach. The pure, untouched cocoon of sand and serene water – one of the most unspoiled beaches of Gokarna.
For the fairly religious, or spiritual searching travelers, and trust me, there are; Gokarna is originally known as a temple town with copious amounts of history and significance. They key spot amongst the dotting temples is the Mahabaleshwar Temple, serving and worshipping Lord Shiva in all its might. Geographically, Gokarna is known as the Cow’s Ear, because of being shaped like one; also known as the main vehicle for Lord Shiva (a bull). Visiting this temple is a serene experience, a touching experience. Release all your energies, to feel the ONE energy; of Lord Shiva.
Now, I will say this. If you are used to high-end accommodations, Gokarna may not be the place for you. Of course, on the other hand, if you are a sucker for massages (who isnt?), Gokarna may just be the place for you. Most of the hotels, shacks and even smaller inns, offer massage services in the form of Ayurvedic treatments, their influences basically hauled from southern india. A massage is just the thing you need to get your body acquainted for a yoga session on the beach. Yes! It just gets better and better. Yoga on the beach is a true taste of Gokarna. Join a group, or do a solo session all by yourself – nothing beats soft sand below your feet, while you ease yourself into flexibility, peace and calm!
While you are already smitten by this quick getaway just a few (quite a few) hours from Mumbai, and an escape from Goa, let me tell you about one from my bucket-list: Kahani Paradise. Hidden in the hills, yet accessible from the beaches of Gokarna, sitting atop a cliff is a villa residence realised as a dream of a British family, with traditional rajasthani doors, beams on ceilings and architectural wonders for arches; this is a true experience in itself. The boutique property holds just six suites, so you know you have your privacy. No demanding, no requesting. A serenity, just as you enter!
Make sure to cross this off your checklist while you enjoy communal meals, spectacular sundowners and your very own exclusivity at this 20-acre estate!
Written By Mohit Gupta
Week 46, November ’20
