3-Day Shoestring Budget Itinerary for Gokarna

  1. Day 1: Gokarna Beach Trail
    20 minutes (7.5 km) from Gokarna town

    Start your day at Kudle Beach, one of the more popular beaches in Gokarna with a laid-back atmosphere, good food options, and surf schools. Spend some time here before embarking on a scenic hike along the Gokarna Beach Trail to Om Beach, known for its long stretch of white sand and water sports. Have lunch at one of the beach shacks before continuing on the trail to Half Moon Beach, a secluded, horseshoe-shaped beach surrounded by greenery. End your day at the serene Paradise Beach, accessible only by boat or a tiring climb through a hilly terrain.

  2. Day 2: Temples and Sunset Views
    20 minutes (10 km) from Gokarna town

    Start your day early by visiting the Mahabaleshwar Temple, a 4th-century temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. One of the most important pilgrimage centers in Karnataka, it features intricate carvings and sculptures. Next, head to the nearby Ganesha Temple, smaller but equally impressive, featuring a giant statue of Lord Ganesha. After grabbing a bite to eat, head to the Mirjan Fort, a well-preserved 17th-century fort overlooking the Arabian Sea. End your day at the Shiva Rock Sunset Point, a popular spot among travelers to witness a beautiful sunset over the sea.

  3. Day 3: Waterfalls and Markets
    40 minutes (20 km) from Gokarna town

    Start your day by visiting the Yana Caves, a series of limestone caves nestled in the Western Ghats and surrounded by verdant forests. Next, head to the Vibhooti Falls, a series of cascading waterfalls that form natural swimming pools. Have lunch at one of the nearby stalls before returning to Gokarna town for some souvenir shopping at the North Karnataka Arts and Handicrafts Emporium. End your day with a stroll through the bustling Gokarna Main Market, filled with local shops selling artisanal goods and trinkets.

Time and Costs Estimates

  • Kudle Beach (2 hours) - Free
  • Om Beach (2 hours) - Free
  • Half Moon Beach (2 hours) - Free
  • Paradise Beach (2 hours) - Boat ride: INR 200
  • Mahabaleshwar Temple (1 hour) - INR 10
  • Ganesha Temple (30 mins) - INR 10
  • Mirjan Fort (1 hour) - INR 25
  • Shiva Rock Sunset Point (1 hour) - Free
  • Yana Caves (2 hours) - INR 20
  • Vibhooti Falls (2 hours) - Free
  • North Karnataka Arts and Handicrafts Emporium (1 hour) - Free
  • Gokarna Main Market (1 hour) - Free
  • Total Estimated Costs - INR 265

Useful Tips

If you have more time, consider spending an extra day lounging at Gokarna's beaches or trekking to Kudle Beach Viewpoint for stunning panoramic views. If you have less time, consider skipping some of the beaches or combining Days 2 and 3 into one. Make sure to carry enough cash, as most places do not have ATMs or card facilities available. Finally, bring comfortable footwear for hiking trails and dress modestly while visiting temples.

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