Gokarna gets its name from the Hindu legend in which Lord Shiva emerged from the ear of a cow.
As Ravana tried to pull the Atmalinga which was stuck, it came out in the form of Cow’s Ear hence named the place Gokarna (Go- Cow + Karna – Ear).
Modes of travel by Train : Matsyagandha/Sagar Express - Gokarna station or Karwar station and taxi/bus to Gokarna. We reached Gokarna railway station early around 6am and took an auto for the homestay.
We started with the locally famous Gokarna temple and visited Gokarna beach by taking an auto to the temple.
We took an auto to Kudle beach, there are a few shacks where you can have food and drinks. Kudle beach had rocky stones at one side and clear waters on the other.
We trekked from Kudale beach to Om beach, which was a bit tiring but by the time we reached Om beach it was evening and much cooler than before (Few fun water sports are available here)
We went for boating - it covers Half moon beach and Paradise beach.(Price Rs 300, try bargaining) They don't let you set foot on the beach, but show the points from the boat(You can trek and visit these beaches but those are mostly for hitchhikers)
On the way, we visited the Ganesha temple. Make sure you leave early, since the Murudeshwar temple and the lift is closed during afternoon hours and the place has rush. We finally reached our destination around noon - Murudeshwar.(Took 2hrs or so) There was a long queue, but watching the magnificent idol of Lord Shiva along with the Gopuras fills your mind with happiness. You can also take a walk along the Murudeshwar beach beside the temple. After the visit, we had lunch on the way and started on the journey for our next destination.
As you enter the premises on the way to Yana caves, with trees covered on both sides of the road and a foresty feeling, it takes you to a different world altogether. From the foothills you have to climb 300 steps or so but the climb is worth it, especially with the sound of waterfalls continuously flowing through. Although the locals say it's 20 minutes, it's definitely more than that but you don't have need any special skills for the trek as long as you're fit. There's a temple at the foot of the caves, and you can take a round around the temple by walking barefeet inside the caves(Beware of leeches and other insects)
We also stopped over to see a unique museum inside the warship, beside the beach area in Karwar which features Indian Navy exhibits and information.
We spent some time around Tagore beach in the clear waters, collecting shells, clicking pictures and thus, ended the journey on a blissful note.
DAY 1
Our humble abode for next 2 days was Hanchina Mane Homestay and we had informed the owner Mr Rajeev Gaonkar about the arrival timings. After freshening up, we had an authentic South Indian Breakfast made by Mr Rajeev's wife which was too delicious and discussed with them, the places to visit and concluded to reserve the day for beach hopping.
Tip: Go in the morning for viewing dolphins and evening for enjoying the peace.
By the time we were leaving it started raining heavily, so we called the same auto driver and went to Makara Village for dinner and later to the guesthouse, looking forward to the next day.
DAY 2
Since we had already planned the places we wanted to visit, we started early after having a delicious breakfast.
Our first stop for the day was Mirjan fort, since it was near to the guesthouse and not frequently visited. Due to the rainy weather, the fort was covered in greenery and looked quite pretty.
It was almost evening when we came down from the caves.(If time permits, plan a day separately for Yana caves, Vibhooti falls and Sahasrlinga near Sirsi) We went for dinner at Makara Village.
Cost for the car for the day : Rs 2800
Contact details - Mr Subramaniam : 099451 33246
DAY 3
Since, we had reservations for the train to Mumbai via Karwar, we booked the same car for entire day(Rs 1800)and spent the day at leisure by visiting a few famous temples on the way.
