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| pic : Wikipedia |
Gokarna is a place in the Uttara Kannada district of Karnataka that is a pilgrimage centre and a tourist spot because of its beautiful beaches.
It is located at the confluence of two rivers Aganashini and Gangavali and the place where the rivers converge forms a shape that's similar to the ear of a cow, hence, the name (Gokarna in the local language literally means cow's ear).
The Mahabaleshwara Shiva Temple in Gokarna makes this place a holy centre for Hindus (especially Shaivites) from all over the country. The temple finds mention in the compositions of Tamil poets Appar and Sambandar who praise the Lord of Tulu Nadu in their hymns. This place was under the rule of the Kadambas, the Vijayanagara kings and was later conquered by the Portuguese
Gokarna Beach is the town's main beach and pilgrims gather here when they visit the Mahabaleshwar Temple. The Kudle Beach is the largest of the five beaches and it is crowded during the peak season— November to February. It must be noted that this is a dangerous place for a swim.
Om Beach has a beautiful coastline that forms the shape of the Hindu symbol Om. The curve of the symbol forms a pool which can be a safe bathing area for even non-swimmers.
Half Moon Beach is a twenty-minute walk from Om Beach and you have to take the path around a hillock to reach here. This beach resembles the shape of a half moon, hence, the name.
Paradise Beach is a rocky beach, but it is also a secluded and beautiful place which gives it the name. This rocky beach is not ideal for swimming as waves constantly crash violently on the rocky shores.
How to reach
By Air
Dabolim Airport, Goa is the nearest airport to Gokarna, situated at a distance of about 140 km. The airport is well connected to major Indian cities as well as European, Asian, American and Middle East countries. Several seasonal charter flights are also available from Dabolim.
By Road
Gokarna is well connected to major cities like Madgaoan, Dabolim, Bangalore and Mangalore via KSRTC (Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation) buses. Travellers can avail private and tourist bus services to reach Gokarna from Bangalore that operates on a day-to-day basis.
By Train
Ankola Railway Station is the nearest railway station to Gokarna, located at a distance of about 20 km. This railway station is well connected to major Indian cities and nearby areas. Tourists can take local bus or hire taxi to reach Gokarna from here.
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