An Off-Season Visit to Gokarna!

My husband and I visited Gokarna in July 2019 for a short three-day trip. We decided to take a train journey as it was raining heavily and a road trip didn’t seem feasible. It turned out to be a good decision as it was a scenic route full of greenery and we absolutely enjoyed the picturesque views.

We had booked our stay at the Kudle Beach View Resort & Spa through MakeMyTrip. It was the Dolphin suite which had a private pool, a spacious room and the best view of the Kudle beach as well as of the resort. Kudle Beach was just at a walking distance of 10 minutes hence, we decided to go there as soon as we had checked in. It’s a downhill pathway to reach the beach. There were shacks, and beach hut accommodations.

We took a long walk along the shore admiring the beautiful sand patterns created by the waves. Slowly the calm breeze turned into strong winds and it started raining. We went to a shack for lunch. Meanwhile, the water levels went up and almost reached the shacks. We returned to our resort and spent the remaining day at the lush green gardens and the poolside.

The second day, we rented a bike to travel around. We visited the Maha Ganapathi Temple after which we went to the Sri Mahabaleshwara Swamy Temple and other nearby temples. After that, we went to Gokarna Main Beach. All the temples are located very near to Main Beach. We had our lunch at one of the cafes and then left for Om Beach.

The route to the Om beach was very scenic with hills on one side and coastal views on the other. Being off-season, there were very few vehicles, making it easier and relaxing for us. Om Beach is a rocky beach with strong winds and even stronger waves crashing against rocks. We stayed there and witnessed the immense force of nature. Dark clouds engulfed the ocean and the waves got stronger and brutal.

On our way back, as there were no market areas, we decided to go back to the Main Beach area as we had seen a market there. The markets there were full of shops selling a variety of spices, different kinds of tea, beaded ornaments and more. After purchasing spices and handmade soaps, we headed back to our resort. As we were too tired after having spent such an eventful day, we ordered the dinner in-room and gorged on the delicious meal.

The next day, we got up early to pack as we were to check out and catch a train back to Navi Mumbai. Our stay at the resort was very pleasant and the rustic charm of the town of Gokarna is still afresh in our hearts.

This was the first time we were visiting a beach destination during the rainy season but it was worth the risk. This different side of the beauty of the beaches can be seen only during the rains. The climatic conditions may get harsh at times, but the untamed version of natural forces is something that one must experience at least once. It makes you realize that nature is the most powerful of all and there is so much more to it than what we may have ever imagined.