It is the end of the year, which makes it sound like it is time to either take a break, put a full stop on the year-long life’s race to relax or set out of the mundane chores to a fun-filled adventure uproar in the lap of nature. Different people want to end the year in a different way but the answer to the reasons to cherish life and loosen up yourself is definitely nothing but Gokarna! Popularly known to be the less commercialized and laid-back version of Goa, Gokarna is a little town flanked by hills of the evergreen Western Ghats on one side and an infinite Arabian ocean stretch on another to serve you fully and in abundance. The most underrated beaches of Indian, Gokarna was a hideout for a very long time but is now the hippy’s paradise.
The amalgamation of hills and sandy beaches will allow you to walk along the shore, sit idly by the waves tumbling with the sun biding goodbye in the distant hillocks, laze on the sands, frolic in the ocean water, explore the quintessential charm of the village, sit in the beachside shacks and watch the life unfold by the sea, surf the waves, scuba dive into the wilderness of the sea, attend various music fests, join the yoga troupes, trail-trek around the beaches, grab a beer or two and unwind yourself as the breeze splashes on your face and so much more that I forgot to put a full stop.
1. Beaches
Starting with the beaches, of course, there are 5 main beaches here. Gokarna beach is the one in the main town where your adrenaline rush would just start to build. Moving forward with a little trek, that is where the fun and excitement lies, to Kudle beach which is a hotspot for tourists is surrounded by many shacks and inns so maybe you would want to put down your backpacks here for a stay. Again up-the-hill-and down-the-hill trek will lead you to Om beach, named after the serene Hindu symbol, a place where you meet many locals and can eat your way to local dishes. Trek up the small rocks and feel the tickling and refreshing sea-waves splash on your feet and with the serene feeling set off to find your lagoon that is the Half Moon beach, now this is a secluded beach where there are hardly any shops around. Best place for dipping and watching a peaceful sunset we would say. Last but the best, known as the most un-spoilt beaches of Gokarna, Paradise beach is truly a paradise to be in, and by now if you are done with trekking hop on the boats and sail your way towards the paradise. The boating will also lead you to the dolphin’s point where you might get the glimpse of these water beauties.
2. Activities
Rock climbing, trail trekking, camping, jet skiing, parasailing, special night trek from Belekan Beach to Paradise beach to watch millions of glowing Planktons (oh goodness just imagine) set you inner adventure demon free. You can even catch a fishing tour early in the morning to get a unique insight into the procedure of fishing at beach towns.
If you are at Gokarna for one night then get ready to ditch your night’s sleep because you will be amazed by the little shining dots thrown across the sky, yes we are talking about the stars. And not just that, the random nigh-parties at the beach would be your nightmare if you miss it, the perfect opportunity to meet and greet strangers or dance the night away with friends or just sit near the bonfire with your loved ones or start a music jam the night is the king here.
3. Eateries
The foodie in you will definitely spring out as you get Italian pasta to the savoury Indian Thaalis and local veg and seafood dishes in Gokarna. Prema restaurant, in Gokarna town, will serve you the best of all the cuisines and while you are at it do try their home-made ice-creams and gadbad. For a beautiful evening view, delicious food and wine in hand are how you see yourself then head to the Namaste café on Om beach.
Some resorts and inns will provide you with the famous Kerala Ayurvedic treatments, imagine the soothing feeling of massages with the background score of beach-waves.
4. Stays
You can pick hostel stays if you are with friends or family for a fun-filled bonding experience. Tripper hostel, Zostle Gokarna are few which offer sea facing dormitories, cottages and shacks.
Namastey café shack will welcome you with the mix of Bollywood and Contemporary music and is situated right in front of the seascape views, not just that there are other shacks and stays with sea-view and nonchalant hippie settings with magnificent views and mouth-watering dishes to gorge on. Chilled Out Shack, Sangam Shack, Kudle Ocean Front Shack, Moonlight Shack and the stay options are endless.
5. Sacred temples
Located at the confluence of two holy rivers Gangavati-Aghanashini and with the shrines and sacred sites like Mahabaleshwar temple, dedicated to deity Shiva, and Maha Ganapati temple Gokarna attracts many Hindu pilgrims. Koti Teertha is a nearby temple tank where these devotees wash in the holy waters. There is definitely some peace available for your spiritual soul here.
The waves are calling and I must go.
