Gokarna, Manglore, and Murdeshwara Family-Friendly Itinerary

  1. Day 1: Gokarna
    2 hours (134 km) from Manglore

    Start the day with a visit to the Mahabaleswara Temple, one of the major pilgrimage sites in the region. Afterward, head to the Om Beach, a beautiful crescent-shaped beach with clear water and clean sand. Enjoy some water sports activities and seafood dishes at one of the eateries nearby. In the afternoon, make a stop at the Koti Tirtha, a sacred water tank. Finish the day with a stunning sunset view at Kudle Beach.

  2. Day 2: Manglore
    2 hours 10 minutes (80 km) from Gokarna

    Start by visiting the Kadri Manjunath Temple that dates back to the 10th century. Next, explore the Pilikula Nisarga Dhama, a nature reserve and amusement park. In the afternoon, head to Tannirbhavi Beach near the city and unwind by taking a walk along the shore. End the day with a delicious Mangalorean fish curry and some Kori Rotti, a local specialty.

  3. Day 3: Murdeshwara
    2 hours 10 minutes (128 km) from Manglore

    Start the day with stunning ocean views from the Murdeshwar Temple. Then, visit the Kethapayya Narayan Temple and take a dip in the sacred water tank. Next, take a walk and pose with the world's second tallest statue of Lord Shiva. Afterward, relax on the Murdeshwar Beach and try some street food stalls offering regional delicacies. In the evening, visit the Murdeshwar Fort and enjoy a breathtaking sea view from the top.

Time and Cost Estimates

  • Mahabaleswara Temple (1 hour, free)
  • Om Beach (2 hours, watersports prices vary)
  • Koti Tirtha (1 hour, free)
  • Kudle Beach (2 hours, free)
  • Kadri Manjunath Temple (1 hour, free)
  • Pilikula Nisarga Dhama (3 hours, INR 150 per person)
  • Tannirbhavi Beach (2 hours, free)
  • Mangalorean fish curry and Kori Rotti (1 hour, INR 300 per person)
  • Murdeshwar Temple (1 hour, free)
  • Kethapayya Narayan Temple (1 hour, free)
  • Murdeshwar Beach (2 hours, free)
  • Murdeshwar Fort (1 hour, free)
  • Total Estimated Costs: INR 450 per person

Useful Tips

For those with more time, consider checking out the scenic Kotlingeshwara Temple in Kamalashile, 30 km from Gokarna. Travelers with kids might enjoy the Swami Vivekananda Planetarium and Science Centre in Mangalore, which offers fun and educational exhibits. If you have less time, you may skip some of the minor sightseeings or devote more time to exploring the beaches. It is recommended to visit on weekdays as the beaches tend to be more crowded during the weekends. Do bring sunscreen and sunglasses as the weather tends to be sunny all year round.

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