Gokarna is a serene temple town situated in the confluence of the rivers Gangavali and Aghanashini. The meeting point of these two rivers is in the shape of an ear, and this is the reason why the town got its name, which can be translated into ‘cow’s ear’ in the local lingo. Legends state that Lord Shiva emerged here from the ear of a cow and hence the place got its name.
A Look at the Gokarna Beach Trek
Gokarna has grown into a really popular tourist destination because of its beautiful beaches and because of the fact that it is located just 60 kilometers from Goa. It came under Portuguese influence over the years, and this is reflected in the town’s culture today. The place attracts both pilgrims and regular tourists who come here to sunbathe in the beach.
You can take a trek in the wild along the beach, amongst the lush and virgin hillside forests. Try trekking for an average of 12 kilometers a day if you are really keen on exploring these hills. There are many villages and towns where you can rent rooms during you trekking exercise.
The rocky Western Ghats lie close to the shoreline and they offer a panoramic view that you’ll be able to take in when you’re trekking close to the beaches or deep in the forests. Some mid-level trails for experienced and serious trekkers are also available and these can make your trekking holiday a little more interesting and challenging.
The best idea would be to take a trek along the long coastline; and its secluded beaches that are dotted with rocky cliffs and hillocks make it ideal for experienced trekkers, as they will be able to manage the difficult terrain. You can also hire a boat to reach the more secluded beaches and enjoy a day’s outing by trekking or sunbathing.
How to Reach Gokarna
Gokarna lies at a distance of about 450 kilometers from Bangalore and 220 kilometers from Mangalore. There are buses and trains that connect the town to all parts of Karnataka and nearby Goa. The nearest airports lie in the union territory of Goa and in Mangalore.
There are plenty of hotels and resorts to stay in, suitable to any budgetary requirements, and this is because Gokarna is a tourist destination that attracts thousands of visitors annually. If you’re planning on doing some hardcore trekking, you can camp out and carry your tents along, settling down in clearings and cliff tops with your friends. The town is famous for its fresh seafood and its distinct Konkan cuisine.
From long and quite walks to energetic and thrilling treks, Gokarna is a place where you can do it all!
Also See: