Luxury holidays in Gokarna

Coast into balmy, palmy Gokarna for ancient culture with beaches to spare. On the shores of the Arabian Sea, Gokarna is a beach-buff favourite thanks to its array of palm-fringed options: the ever-popular Kudle and Om beaches are perfect for bar-hopping, but those in the know will seek sandy sanctuary in the seclusion of the quieter Half Moon and Paradise beaches. Not just a pretty face, Gokarna is also a sacred Hindu pilgrimage spot – dive into the town’s legend-laden past with a stroll through temple-clad streets; catch a glimpse of a deity, so the story goes, and you’ll receive a blessing for your beach-side break.

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When to go

Visit Gokarna between October and March for balmy beach-ready weather. April and May tend to be hot and sticky, and monsoon season runs from June to August.

Getting there

  • Planes

    Seasonal flights touch down at Goa’s Dabolim, the nearest airport, direct from London Gatwick and Manchester. Connecting flights are available year-round from other UK and European cities. From Goa, it’s a 100-mile drive to Gokarna.

  • Trains

    Gokarna Road Station is a handy six miles away from the centre of town and is served by regular trains from major cities on the Konkan Railway, including Mumbai and Margao. From there, take a taxi or auto-rickshaw into town. Trains often arrive in the early hours, so be prepared to snooze.

  • Automobiles

    Buses for the brave run regularly to Gokarna from other Indian cities, including Bangalore, Mangalore, Margao, Mumbai, Hubli and Panaji. You can also hop on a privately-operated bus from Hampi or Hospet.