Enjoy beach, yoga, food in Gokarna

Gokarna, a beach town in North West Karnataka serves as the perfect destination for the long weekend at the end of the month. Apart from the pristine beaches, Gokarna has always welcomed pilgrims to its ancient temples. In fact Gokarna, meaning Cow's ear, gets its name from the Hindu epics of Lord Shiva. Reaching Gokarna from Mumbai is fairly easy. Dabolim (Goa), the nearest airport, is around 100 km away. Margao and Ankola (25 km away) are the nearest railway stations. Also, daily buses frequent this beautiful coastal town. From the bus stand, one can take a rickshaw to Kudle beach - one of the four popular beaches of Gokarna. The ride should not cost more than Rs. 100 and be sure to bargain. Once there, it's a lovely walk down to the beach. Umpteen numbers of beach shacks, bargain hotels and even resorts that suit every pocket are present. The beach shacks provide the ultimate beach experience and are equipped with all basic facilities for a nominal price. The next beach, Om beach, is a 20 minute trek away. Om beach gets its name from its shape which is strikingly similar to the auspicious Hindu symbol. Half-moon and Paradise beach and subsequently 20 and 40 minutes away from Om beach and can be reached by foot or ferry. A round trip on average would cost Rs 150 per person on the ferry. The food in Gokarna is exquisite. Continental and coastal cuisine is readily available and at very reasonable prices. Most restaurants have a similar menu barring a few minor additions or deletions. An average meal for two with drinks would cost around Rs. 800. Russian and Israeli tourists frequent Gokarna and their culture manifests in the food. Almost all the eateries are beach front and play light English music adding to the casual atmosphere. The beaches are clean and safe. Since Gokarna is generally overcast, one does not need to worry about the heat. Large trees provide ample shade for a relaxing afternoon, perfect for reading a book or taking a carefree nap. Pleasant water with a heavenly backdrop summarizes a day at the beach in this virgin town. The muddy uphill roads with forest cover on both sides provide for more than a reason to go for a trek or a family picnic. The steep rocks in the shallow sea allow rock climbing for the adventure junkies. Bird and animal life is at plenty around the serene beaches.While in Gokarna, taking a crash course in Yoga is also a great way to spend the mornings. Practicing this ancient Indian art and breathing in the fresh sea air under the orange light of the rising sun can add an all new meaning to the weekend. The main market area, a stone throw away from the bus stand is great for shopping. Bags, purses, idols, accessories etc. are available at very reasonable prices. Local artefacts both abstract and religious flood the market. Haggling does however garner better prices like any other tourist hub. The trendy backpacks made of cloth are a hit with the tourists. Gokarna has that perfect mix of seclusion and adventure which makes you want to come back for more.