Dedicated to Lord Ganesha, this temple is located near the Mahabaleshwara temple and quite popular among pilgrims visiting Gokarna. As per the legend of Lord Shiva's blessings, visitors are supposed to seek the blessings of Lord Ganesha before visiting the Mahabaleshwara temple.
This temple dedicated to the Goddess Uma, is a popular religious site in Gokarna. The legends state that the Goddess was requested by Lord Cishnuto reside in this temple after she was abandoned by Ravana.
Om beach is a wonderful beach located in the town of Gokarna. Shaped like the symbol 'Om', this beach offers plenty of adventure sports to the thrill-seekers. The view of this beach during sunset is one to be cherished forever. It is usually lined with shacks on the sides offering cheap accommodation and restaurants with global menus. There is also a bunch of fun water sports activities available on Om Beach, including speedboats, surfing etc. Visitors can even enjoy boating here.
Om beach derives its name from its shape, which is formed by two semi crescents joined together. The unique black rock formations here attract a lot of travellers. One can spot fishermen boats, small cafes and eateries and crows swirling up in the sky at this beautiful beach. The beauty of this beach compels many visitors even to cross the danger area (marked by red) and play in the splashing waves. This place is a heaven for all the shutterbugs, with some mind-blowing sceneries amidst the rocky terrain.
A 6 feet tall Shiva Linga here at the temple is known as the Atmalinga is worshipped here. Built using white granite, it is a classic example of the beauty of Dravidian architecture. A 1500 years old carved stone Lord Shiva idol in the standing position represents the main deity. The temple has been mentioned in the Hindu Mythics of Mahabharata and Ramayana and it is said to be as significant as Kashi, hence it earning the title, Dakshin (South) Kashi.
The fourth beach lying across the coast of Gokarna Town, Paradise Beach is also well-known by the name of 'Full Moon Beach'. Located in the state of Karnataka, the Paradise Beach is about 150 meters in length and out of this almost seventy percent of the beach is entirely covered in rocks. The rest of the beach is adorned with clean white sand all over. Not much water sports are available here but swimming in the calm waters here is a great way to refresh your mind and body. The serene environment of the beach offers a great opportunity to spend some time in nature's lap and find solace.
Paradise Beach is not accessible by road and can only be reached via other beaches, namely the Half Moon Beach and Om Beach. Visitors need to hire a motor boat from either of the above-stated beaches to reach the Paradise Beach. This beach can also be reached after a small hike from the Half Moon Beach. Via this route, it will not take you more than 20 minutes to reach. Paradise Beach was earlier known as the hot spot for all the hippies, due to the trade of weed going on here. As soon as this caught the eye of the Government authorities, all these antisocial activities were curbed, shacks were broken, and all kinds of commercial activities were prohibited here.
During the night time, you can often spot small troops of foreign travellers staying here, camping and cooking their meals. Availability of fresh water well on the beach makes it an ideal spot for camping. The water from this well is clean and safe for drinking. Swimming is highly enjoyable here but swimming far across the shore is risky due to the presence of very strong currents. Visitors can enjoy local cuisine in the nearby localities as well.
Kudle Beach is one of the many beaches of Gokarna, situated only a short trek from Om Beach. A complete recluse, this beach offers the most silent and serene atmosphere to enjoy a sunset, a walk along the shore or simply sit and observe the never-ceasing tides. Many local people prefer this beach for a morning or evening walk or practising yoga, as the Kudle beach is not invaded by large groups of tourists and as a result, has a very little crowd and quite serene.
The beach is usually deserted, except for the peak months from November to February, when it is flocked by foreign travellers and backpackers who choose Kudle beach for its privacy. The sea is calm and shallow enough to have a bath or simply for dipping your feet, but it is always better to be careful. If you are planning to stay here overnight, there are a few proper hotels, which tend to be full during the peak seasons. However, from around October to March, the local people also put up temporary shacks and huts for makeshift accommodation and food. They are not the best option, but an option nevertheless. If you are of the adventurous type a night spent on the beach in a small hut listening to the sound of the waves is as perfect as it can get.