Gokarna

Gokarna is what Goa was before the crowds — a temple town with a string of cliff-backed beaches connected by walking trails. There are no clubs and very little traffic, which is exactly the point for groups that want a quiet coastal weekend.

The beach trek

The classic route links Gokarna town beach, Kudle, Om, Half Moon and Paradise, and takes roughly four to five hours of walking with breaks. It is best done in the early morning or late afternoon; the middle of the day on those cliffs is punishing. Carry water — the smaller beaches have only a couple of shacks.

Where to stay

Kudle and Om beach have the widest choice of huts and small resorts and are the sensible base for a group. Gokarna town itself is cheaper and closer to the bus stand but further from the water.

Good to know

Gokarna is an active pilgrimage town, so beachwear is not appropriate around the temples. Trails get slippery and some shacks close through the monsoon. Trains from Bengaluru and Mumbai stop at Gokarna Road, about 10 km out, and a shared auto covers the rest.