Things to do in Gokarna

Things to do in Gokarna

Gokarna is one of Karnataka’s most offbeat yet stunning destinations. Known for its pristine beaches, the mighty Western Ghats, waterfalls, ancient temples, and plenty of adventure activities, this place has something for every kind of traveller. It lies in the Uttara Kannada district—an area filled with natural beauty and hidden gems.

If you’re planning a trip to Gokarna, you might wonder where to begin. Let’s start with the adventure side of Uttara Kannada. Dandeli offers exciting river rafting, Nirvana Beach is known for surfing, and Netrani Island is popular for scuba diving. These alone make the region an adventure hotspot.

But it doesn’t end there.

Places You Shouldn’t Miss

Yana Caves
If you haven’t been to Yana, it’s truly one of a kind. Two massive monolithic rock formations rise straight out of the forest, giving the place a dramatic and almost mystical look.

Bheema Eri Gudda
This viewpoint offers a pure, wide-open view of the Aghanashini River flowing through the valleys, surrounded by Western Ghat mountains. It’s peaceful, scenic, and perfect for nature lovers.

Medhane Village
Hidden deep inside the forest, Medhane is a tiny village with just a few homes and farms. The people are humble and warm. It’s accessible only to those who are ready for a bit of thrill—truly an offbeat experience between two mountains. If you love nature and remote places, this one is worth visiting.

Waterfalls Around Gokarna

Uttara Kannada is home to countless waterfalls. Some of the well-known ones are:

Vibhooti Falls

Vajragundi Falls

Hosgode Falls

Hosa Devata Falls

Donne Falls

Netgode Falls

Honestly, there are so many of them that you probably can’t explore all of them even in a few years!
Best season to visit waterfalls: November to December.
Avoid the rainy season, as the trails become risky and the water flow gets too strong.

Beaches You Should Explore

Gokarna is famous for its calm, scenic beaches. Some of the notable ones include:

OM Beach

Kudle Beach

Paradise Beach

Eco Beach

Nirvana Beach

Murdeshwar Beach

Honey Beach

Many of these are popular among tourists, but if you prefer quiet, less crowded beaches, go for Nirvana Beach and Honey Beach—both are serene and perfect for relaxation.

Nearby Attractions

Honnavar
Honnavar is slowly becoming a trending destination. The backwaters of the Sharavathi River here are incredibly clean and peaceful, surrounded by untouched nature.

Murdeshwar
A temple town by the beach, famous for its massive Shiva statue standing tall on a hill beside the sea. It’s monolithic, majestic, and a must-visit if you're in the area.