15 Offbeat things to do in Gokarna

Nestled among the verdant Western Ghats and the majestic Arabian Sea, Gokarna, regularly hailed as 'Mini Goa', is a pleasing concoction of serenity, spirituality, and vibrant beauty. However, there may be more to this coastal metropolis than meets the attention. If your vision of Gokarna is going to beaches, and historic temples, and enjoying sunsets, then think again. Buckle up, as we spark off on an adventure exploring it in a way you in no way have before.

From exploring art in unexpected places to engaging with the local community, discovering hidden natural wonders to indulging in unique culinary experiences, we will take you on a journey that goes beyond the ordinary. Let's delve into 15 such offbeat things to do in Gokarna, each more captivating than the last.

Know a bit about Gokarna

Before diving into offbeat things to do in Gokarna, let’s understand this serene town a little better. Gokarna is found between the Gangavali and Aghanashini rivers, on the Arabian Sea, about 238 km north of Mangalore. This route takes around 483 km from Bengaluru. Gokarna is famous for its temple which was built many years ago and dedicated to the Hindu god Lord Shiva. They say this shrine contains one of the first-ever lingams which are holy representations of Shiva.

Gokarna | Credits: Canva

1. Take a walk At Om Beach

One of the more popular beaches in Gokarna is Om Beach and you should not miss the sunrise or sunset here. The name of the beach comes from its shape which looks like a holy Hindu symbol, ‘Om’. As the sun goes down, the sky turns into a picture of lively colours hence provides an awe-inspiring sight.

• Best time to visit: October to March
• Drive time from The Hosteller Gokarna: 7 minutes (2.4 km)

Om Beach Gokarna | Credits: jj_clicks243, Instagram

2. Try the adventurous cliffside walk at Kudle Beach

With many activities to enjoy, Kudle Beach is an ideal destination for solo travellers, adventurous travellers, and newlywed couples. You will definitely enjoy the walk along the beach, but you should also try the cliff path which gives an amazing view of the coastline. The hiking path is pretty easy and runs atop cliffs offering a breathtaking view of the Arabian Sea. It’s a superb way to appreciate this natural scenery and go for a leisurely stroll away from the hustle and bustle. There are some hidden places on this trail where you can relax freely and have sunset views all by themselves and this makes it an ideal activity for those who like nature and peace.

• Best time to visit: November to February
• Drive time from The Hosteller Gokarna: 8 minutes (2.6 km)

Kudle Beach | Credits: kudlebeach.gokarna, Instagram

3. Enjoy local cuisine at Prema Restaurant

The hippie air of secrecy of Gokarna is incomplete without its colourful food scene. Prema Restaurant, positioned in the heart of the town, is one of the places that you would not want to overlook.

• Drive time from The Hosteller Gokarna: 9 minutes (2.7 km)
• Timings: 10:00 am to 12:00 am
• Cuisine: Cafe, Seafood, Asian
• Cost for two: INR 2,500

Prema Restaurant | Credits: Canva

4. Feel the divine presence at Aghanashini Temple

Gokarna’s lesser known shrine which sits in the midst of a dense forest is a unique element of Gokarna spirituality. It was named after the Aghanashini River that flows nearby and it is called so to mark the area as an abode for peace lovers. The mythical temple is home to the original Athmalinga that Ravana was thought to have carried from Kailash to Lanka. This Shiva temple stands by a seashore, with its waves lending a piece of rhythmic music. You can pray here and enjoy the serene environment.

• Best time to visit: November to June
• Drive time from The Hosteller Gokarna: 13 minutes (3.8 km)

Aghanashini Temple Gokarna | Credits: Canva

5. Embrace stunning views at Half-Moon Beach

The third beach along Gokarna’s coastline is the beautiful Half-Moon. There is a hill that separates it from Om Beach, visitors can have a stunning view of the ocean from here. Some cottages in a typical Indian style line up on the seashore making it look lovely, traditional and cosy. This beautiful beach is perfect for relaxing and chilling out against the backdrop of vast open seas and soft sand.

• Best time to visit: October to March
• Drive time from The Hosteller Gokarna: 15 minutes (3.1 km)

Half-Moon Beach | Credits: sanchari_karnataka, Instagram

6. Hike to the Paradise Beach

Just 20 minutes away from Moon Beach lies Paradise Beach which is hidden from prying eyes. The stunning view and seclusion make it well worth hiking to the beach. If you need peace of mind, then there’s no better place in Gokarna than this uncommon location. This shore is rocky and would be ideal for swimming and sunbathing. The beach also provides a camping site as it offers fresh water. The only way to reach here is through Half Moon Beach or Om Beach. You can go hiking or hire motor boats to get to Paradise Beach.

• Best time to visit: November and February
• Drive time from The Hosteller Gokarna: 16 minutes (4 km)

Paradise Beach Gokarna | Credits: Canva

7. Kayaking in Backwaters

Gokarna is famous for its beaches, but in terms of beauty, the backwaters are not far behind. You can book a Kayaking session with North Coast Adventures which is near Nirvana Beach, Kumta. The Kayaking experience is amazing there as they provide qualified instructors, safety equipment and exhilarating scenic views. This is an opportunity to connect with nature on a quiet and meditative level like no other.

• Activity duration: 30 minutes
• Activity timings: 9:00 am to 4:00 pm
• Drive time from The Hosteller Gokarna: 42 minutes (11.8 km)

Kayaking | Credits: Canva

8. Take a tour of Mirjan Fort

Take a detour from the beaches and temples for a while to visit the historical Mirjan Fort. Located a short drive from Gokarna, this 16th-century fort is steeped in history and provides insight into the region’s past. The fort still tells stories of old technologies being in ruins as it was once an important place for the pepper trade. With its remains, structure, moats and secret passages this is one of the must-see places in Gokarna.

The strategic importance of this site during that time is reflected in the fort’s distinctive construction featuring high walls, watchtowers, and bastions. When walking through these ruins you can hear echoes of battles fought here almost. With plenty of greenery around, you can take panoramic photographs because this fort gives such views.

• Best time to visit: September and February
• Drive time from The Hosteller Gokarna: 40 minutes (25 km)

Mirjan Fort Gokarna | Credits: Canva

9. Witness the beauty of Nirvana Beach

Nirvana Beach is about 11 kilometres away from Gokarna and 13 kilometres away from Kumta town. It is one of the renowned beaches and has something unique for all tourists as well as wanderlusts. It’s one of the few coastal spaces where you’ll find bioluminescent phytoplanktons which lighten up its shoreline at every night. These tiny blue LED-like lights coming from near the shore are simply amazing.

• Best time to visit: November to February, April and May
• Drive time from The Hosteller Gokarna: 40 minutes (11.6 km)

Nirvana Beach | Credits: nirvana_beach, Instagram

10. Take an enchanting tour at Kagal Fort

A hidden gem with a glimpse of the unspoilt beauty and the rich cultural heritage of the coastal part of Karnataka, Kagal is a serene village located near Gokarna. Kagal is another place where you can find peace in tradition., It would be a great addition to your unusual Gokarna vacation. It is a village surrounded by lush greenery, peaceful backwaters and ancient temples.

• Best time to visit: October to March
• Drive time from The Hosteller Gokarna: 41 minutes (12.5 km)

Kagal Fort | Credits: Canva

11. Unwind at the Honey Beach

Honey Beach is situated on the Arabian Sea (a division of the Indian Ocean) and is ranked 46 out of 79 beaches in the Karnataka region which is 401.4 km away from its capital, Bangalore. This is one of the Honnebaila settlement’s beaches; it lies at a distance of only 1.9 kilometres from its centre. There, surrounded by rocks in the mountains, a natural location can be found – at the foot of a cliff.

The Honey Beach is an isolated beach not far from Gokarna. It is less popular than other beaches and therefore it does not attract too many people and tourists. It provides quiet retreats for those wishing to spend their holiday in peace and tranquillity instead of crowded places this season.

• Best time to visit: October to March
• Drive time from The Hosteller Gokarna: 57 minutes (33.5 km)

Honey Beach | Credits: Canva

12. Witness alluring sunsets at Alvekodi Beach

Far from the madding crowd, Alvekodi Beach is the right spot to unwind. This beach gives pristine landscapes, clean blue waters, and a stunning sunset view. The close by lighthouse adds to its appeal, making it a perfect end to your offbeat journey in Gokarna. A hidden beach in the village of Alvekodi which is about 35 kilometres away from Gokarna lies in Kumta. The place serves as an ideal picnic spot with a mesmerizing view of sunset.

• Best time to visit: October to January
• Drive time from The Hosteller Gokarna: 59 minutes (40.6 km)

Alvekodi Beach Gokarna | Credits: Canva

13. Go to the majestic Vibhooti Waterfalls

Vibhooti falls, is a 30 ft waterfall, known for its clear waters, natural beauty and serene atmosphere. For nature and adventure lovers, a visit to Vibhooti Waterfalls is a must. Located in the western ghats about an hour’s drive from Gokarna they are tucked away and offer a cool refuge from the heat. Dense forests surround these waterfalls and as much an experience of destination itself is the trek to reach them. You can have a dip in the cold, sparkling water or just sit back and listen to the sound of falling water after you arrive at this location. It’s an exceptional natural wonder that remains relatively unknown to most tourists.

• Best time to visit: September and February
• Drive time from The Hosteller Gokarna: 1 hour 3 minutes (44.9 km)

Vibhooti Waterfalls | Credits: karnataka.com

14. Explore the enchanting Yana Caves and Hills

A mesmerizing sight, Yana Caves lies around 50 km from Gokarna. The large rock formations, lush green surroundings and peace bring nature lovers, trekkers and photographers to this Gokarna offbeat place.

In pitch dark colour the cave is made up of karst limestone which is famous for its unique structure and mode of formation. Situated right in the middle of woodlands at Kumta, the magnificent rocks rise to a height of 390 ft. These massive rocks bear two separate peaks – the tallest one called Bhairaveshwara Shikhara and Mohini Shikhara respectively.

• Best time to visit: October to January
• Drive time from The Hosteller Gokarna: 1 hour 12 minutes (51.3 km)

Yana Caves and Hills | Credits: Canva

15. Pay a visit to the Basavaraj Durga Island

Basavaraj Durga Island is an island in the Arabian Sea near Honnavar. It is part of Honnavar Taluk in Karnataka State of India. Basavaraj Durga Fort was constructed during Vijayanagar rule in 1590. Keladi ruler Shivappa Nayaka captured it and named it Basavaraj Durga in memory of Keladi prince Basavaraj. The fort is surrounded by a strong fortification raised by gigantic laterite blocks also this fort has eight ruined mounted guns.

• Best time to visit: October to May
• Drive time from The Hosteller Gokarna: 1 hour 12 minutes (37.8 km)

Basavaraj Durga Island | Credits: Canva

Conclusion

With Gokarna’s peaceful beaches, ancient holy places and laidback ambience, it is easy to see why The Hosteller Gokarna is ideal for exploring this town. The hostel is situated amidst lush green woods and is just a small walk from unspoiled Kudle Beach providing both convenience and tranquility in natural surroundings.

The hostel has spacious dormitories and private rooms with balconies that overlook the surrounding scenery. You can relax in common areas or eat healthy vegetarian meals at an onsite cafe. It also offers a relaxing ambience and a perfect location on the beachfront where you can soak up the idyllic coastal culture of Gokarna.
There are various other attractions to keep you busy such as sightseeing, water sports or simply chilling out on the beach. The Hosteller Gokarna provides an authentic experience that combines time-honoured traditions with modern comfort.