Gokarna

Cow's Ear- for that's what `Gokarna' actually means- is a mundane way of describing a place as pretty as this. Named for the ear-shaped confluence of two rivers, Gokarna, is noted more as a pilgrimage centre than as a beach. This is not apt, because Gokarna, with its coconut palms, blue seas and clean sands, is perfect for an idyllic vacation by the sea. Situated along the Karwar coast, in northern Karnataka, Gokarna is beach-utopia. A somnolent one-street town consisting mostly of wooden houses, Gokarna is in close proximity to four beaches. Of these, Kudle Beach (Kutle Beach), a kilometre-long stretch of white sand fringed by palm trees, is the nearest; just about 20 minutes' walk from Gokarna.

Getting There:
Air: Nearest airport is Mangalore.
Rail: Konkan Railway passes through Gokarna (10 km from the town)
Road: The Gokarna is well connected by road with Karwar, Mangalore, Bangalore

Accommodation: Swaswara-A CGH Earth Experience, Hotel Gokarna International, Om Beach Resort

Weather and Best season to visit
Gokarna is pretty much a round-the-year destination, although you'd be well advised to avoid it during the monsoon, when heavy rain can make it muddy and messy. In February-March, festivities mark Maha Shivratri, and along with other celebrations, there's a colourful procession in Gokarna. January and February, when the weather's good, are anyway a great time to visit the town.