After five exhausting years, three friends met once again to cherish old memories and create new ones. From Kochi and Hyderabad, we thought of a holiday in Gokarna, a peaceful coastal city in Karnataka, famous for pristine beaches and hippie culture. We all booked a flight from Kochi and two from Hyderabad and reached Goa, where we hired a taxi for the 2-hour drive to Gokarna. The anticipation was high, and with Gokarna being less touristy and quieter than its well-known sibling, Goa, we knew that this was the place to be.
Om Beach
Our first stop was the iconic Om Beach, which gets its name from the shape of the shoreline, resembling the Om symbol. The calm waters and soft sands were perfect for a swim. We also relaxed on the beach with some coconut water. There were a few vendors around, but it wasn’t overcrowded, which made the experience much more peaceful compared to the bustling beaches of Goa.
Kudle Beach
Kudle Beach offered a stunning sunset view that took our breath away. We spent the evening walking along the beach, enjoying the tranquility and beauty of nature. It felt like we had the whole place to ourselves. The laid-back vibe here is something we hadn’t experienced in Goa, and it was exactly what we needed.
Mirjan Fort
We decided to explore a bit of history at Mirjan Fort, a hidden gem tucked away in the outskirts of Gokarna. The fort is surrounded by lush greenery, and the serenity of the place made it a perfect stop for a quiet afternoon. The views from the fort were breathtaking, and we had it all to ourselves, which added to its charm.
Gokarna Main Beach & Sunset Point
Gokarna Main Beach was perfect for a relaxed stroll in the morning. The crowds here were minimal, and the beach was much cleaner compared to the popular beaches in Goa. In the evening, we headed to Sunset Point, a viewpoint offering panoramic views of the Arabian Sea. Watching the sun set over the horizon was the perfect end to our day.
Yoga at Gokarna’s Ashrams
Being in Gokarna, we couldn’t resist indulging in a morning yoga session. The town is home to many yoga ashrams that offer classes for visitors. We joined a class near Om Beach, which helped us reconnect with ourselves and each other in the most peaceful setting.
Gokarna Temple Visit
Lastly, we visited the famous Miracles Gokarna Temple, known for its religious significance. The temple’s spiritual ambiance and rich history made it a meaningful part of our trip. It was a great place to reflect and experience the local culture.
Costs and Challenges
Our flight tickets cost around ₹7,000-₹9,000 each. The overall cost for the 4-day trip, including accommodation, food, and transport, came to about ₹15,000 per person. We faced a few challenges, like the lack of extensive public transport, but renting a cab and hiring local guides helped.
Why Gokarna Over Goa?
Gokarna’s charm lies in its peaceful nature. Unlike Goa, where beaches are often crowded and commercialized, Gokarna offers a more laid-back atmosphere with cleaner beaches and fewer tourists. This allowed us to enjoy the scenery, reflect, and spend quality time without the overwhelming crowds.
In the end, Gokarna proved to be the perfect place for our reunion—a refreshing break from the hustle and bustle, making it a trip to remember.
