3-Day Nature Itinerary for Gokarna and Dandeli

  1. Day 1: Gokarna Beaches
    2 hours (53.3 km) from Hubli Airport

    Start your trip with a visit to the Om Beach, named after its shape resembling the Hindu symbol 'Om.' Take a dip in the water or enjoy water sports like surfing and banana boat rides. Next, visit the Half Moon Beach where you can relax in a picturesque setting. Lastly, head to Kudle Beach, a hub for hippies, and catch the breathtaking sunset view.

  2. Day 2: Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary
    3 hours (116 km) from Gokarna

    Get in touch with nature at the Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary. Take a guided jeep tour through the forest, where you can spot various wildlife like deer, bison, and leopards, among others. Try a river rafting adventure in the Kali River, which flows through the sanctuary. End your day by visiting the Sykes Point, a viewpoint overlooking the stunning valley scenery.

  3. Day 3: Ulavi Temple and Kavala Caves
    1.5 hours (40.8 km) from Dandeli

    Visit Ulavi Temple and experience a combination of history and nature. This ancient temple dedicated to Lord Shiva is surrounded by jungles and nestled along a stream. Next, visit the Kavala Caves, a natural limestone cave system featuring stalactites and a beautiful waterfall. End your trip by strolling through the lush greenery of the Dandeli National Park. You may spot some exotic bird species like the hornbill or the Malabar grey hornbill.

Time and Costs Estimates

  • Jeep Safari and River Rafting in Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary (3-4 hours, INR 2,000)
  • Water sports at Om Beach (1-2 hours, INR 1,500)
  • Ulavi Temple entry fee (INR 5)
  • Kavala Caves entry fee (INR 20)
  • Total Estimated Costs (excluding accommodation): INR 2,525

Useful Tips

If you have more time, you can include a visit to the Mirjan Fort, located midway between Gokarna and Dandeli. The fort has an interesting history and offers a beautiful view of the surrounding area. If you have less time, you can opt to skip the Kavala Caves and Ulavi Temple visit and instead spend more time at the Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary.

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