Gokarna, a rapidly developing tourist destination, is a small beach town in the Indian state of Karnataka, set on the western coast of India. It is a gateway to the encompassing state, and is today, one of the most popular tourist destinations in southern India. From Bangalore it takes around 12 hours journey by road to reach this little beach-town. In case, if one is travelling by train then Karwar, Kumta, Ankola, Madgaon, and Mangalore are the nearest rail heads to the town.
Gokarna, is primarily a pilgrimage destination. Owing a great significance associated with the Hindu Lord Shiva, the town is among the most revered sites for the Shaivites. There exists a magnificent Shiva temple in the town, which is also conceived to be one of the handful of temples in the entire nation, which are claimed to be the original image of Lord Shiva (that is lingam). Before getting recognized as a popular beach destination for a laid-back and tranquil holiday, tourism in the town was primarily based on religion and pilgrims. However, even today the town hasn’t lost a single bit of its religious significance, and each year devotees and pilgrims in the count of thousands, visit the town. The Mahabaleshvara Temple, located at the Western end towards the town’s beach is a must visit. There exists a huge statue of Lord Shiva, right beside the beach and amidst of lush green meadows. The statue is the only big structure in the area and is easily visible from a considerable distance. In addition, a couple of other must visit temples in the town include: Murudeshwara Temple, Bhadrakali Temple, and Maha Ganapati Temple. Each of these is not a pristine venue for worshipping, but is also a fine exhibit of the architectural brilliance.
For those who seek a relaxing, laid-back holiday can head to the beautiful beaches of the town. In total there are 5 beaches in the town. Out of which the Half Moon Beach, Om Beach, and the secluded Paradise Beach are the most cleanest and quiet beaches. Meanwhile, the Gokarna beach is quite popular with pilgrims on the account that there exists the revered Shiva temple. In addition, the Kudle and the Om beaches are very popular with tourists, because of their sun-kissed beaches, shallow water, and low waves that are perfect for surfing, boat ride, and Jet Skiing etc. Today a large number of foreign as well as domestic tourists flock to the town. The months of winter are the peak tourism season, because of the fact that the town receives warm winter climate. For a beach lover Gokarna is an ideal destination to unwind. It is replete of tourist attractions, including spas, excellent beach, restaurants, shopping complexes, multiplexes, shacks, entertainment centers, outdoor activity centers, and a couple of Gokarna hotels.
Talking about the hotels in the town; irrespective of the travelers visiting the town with spiritual, business, or leisure purposes, the hotels in this beach town, welcome all with great enthusiasms and offer them a genuine hospitality. The Om beach Resort is one of the finest 3 Star hotels in Gokarna, and is ideal stay-over option for a relaxed-tranquil holiday. Its close proximity to the popular Om Beach and several other tourist attractions, makes it popular amongst leisure travelers. In addition, it offers a stay that is content and convenience.