Situated on the Konkan Coastline of India, the small town of Gokarna lies in the Uttara Kannada District of Karnataka. The place is well known for its long, beautiful and clean beaches, charming sunsets, and distant horizon with hues playing in the sky coloring it with enchanting shades. A beauty that remained undiscovered for all this while. The rustic nature and the laid back beaches have made it popular amongst the young generations. With an array of coconut and banana trees, clear sands and blue sea, Gokarna is a paradise for all beach lovers. Here is a list of top 5 beaches to visit when in Gokarna.
1. Om Beach
Nature always surprises us with co-incidences had to believe. The beach is named because it is sculpted in the shape of the Hindu religious letter ‘Om’. Om beach has serene surroundings and is also safe for swimming even if you are a non-swimmer. The beach is also a center for all water activities like para-sailing, banana boat rides, surfing and water skiing help you find the adventure side of yours amid the calmness of the place.
2. Gokarna Beach
The Main Beach or the Gokarna Beach is famous amongst the pilgrims because of its closeness to the famous Mahabaleshwar Temple. It is believed that only after a dip in the beach one can enter the holy temple worshiping Lord Shiva. This beach is comparatively a crowded beach but an early morning walk along the same leaves you spell-bound.
3. Half Moon Beach
About 20 minutes away from Om Beach is this love of the solitude seekers. Half Moon beach is in the shape of a half-moon and hence gets its name. It is a secluded from the activities of the town and is also free from the commercialization. The beach is a place in paradise from where you can gaze the horizon for hours and hours and will fall in love with it while enjoying every minute of the same. The clear water of the Arabian Sea and captivating sights of the horizon can leave any one awestruck. Also the place has minimum crowd and is ideal for getting lost in your own company.
4. Paradise Beach
Heading south from the Half Moon beach is this beautiful beach called the Paradise beach. The rocky beach only has access by foot or boat making it pollution free too. The beach remains closed half the year because of the rocks and also for being dangerous for swimming, it is accessible during the peak season. The beach alternatively is also known as the Full-Moon Beach. If you are a sea-food lover and want to indulge into the local cuisine this beach again lives up to its name. It is one of the less known serene beaches in the state. The beach is a heaven for the people who are finding a solace away from the civilization.
5. Kulde Beach
Being most popular amongst tourists, Kulde beach is about 6 kms away from the main town. It lies at a walk able distance from the Om beach. The place being famous also has shacks and resorts and cafes to stay in. One can also indulge in activities like volleyball and beach bums. Though it is risky for swimmers but the view of the Arabian Sea from cliff is enchanting. The huts at the beach are also one of the best accommodations when in town.
If you are a beach lover and are looking for some beautiful and clean yet less crowded beaches Gokarna is your destination. While getting a feel of divinity you also find the escape from the daily life that you are seeking. With a trek through the forest, long strolls along the sea, lazing around at the beaches or indulging into water activities the place offers everything.
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