
Gokarna
india
About Gokarna
Set on the Arabian Sea in the Indian state of Karnataka, Gokarna is an important destination for Hindu pilgrims. They journey here to worship at sacred sites such as Koti Teertha, known as 'The Holy Pond'. Gokarna is also known for golden-sand beaches – some of which are only accessible by boat or trekking over rocks. The town's streets are lined with small shops selling a cheerful mix of handicrafts, jewellery and devotional wares.
Hostels in Gokarna range from a stylish wooden hostel right on the beach, colourfully decorated accommodation with a spectacular clifftop sea view, or relaxed rooms tucked away in lush greenery. You can even go eco-friendly by choosing a Gokarna hostel which runs entirely by solar power. As well as dorms (mixed and single-gender) and private rooms, you can choose to stay in traditional woven huts. Many Gokarna hostels arrange activities like 'photo walks', beach volleyball and trekking. Helpful staff and free Wi-Fi are useful for arranging onward travel.
Most visitors will arrive into Gokarna's town centre, where you'll find thousand-year-old temples and busy market streets. Gokarna Beach is a favourite with both locals and pilgrims – and fishermen on their boats, bobbing out at sea. Along the coast, sandy Kudle Beach is one of the most popular for visitors. Others, like secluded, lagoon-like Half Moon Beach, are only accessible by craggy paths and boat. Furthest from Gokarna town is Paradise Beach, which you might find you have all to yourself.
Many of the top things to do in Gokarna are centred on its beaches. You can go surfing, try snorkelling and other watersports, or attend yoga classes on Kudle Beach. At night, a lack of urban lights means that the beaches are perfect for stargazing – you might even see bioluminescent plankton in the sea as well! Cultural highlights include Mahabaleshwar Temple, dedicated to the Hindu god Shiva, who was believed to have emerged from the nearby rivers.
Dabolim Airport is around 160km away. You can take a bus to Gokarna, which is a 6-hour journey with a change at Margao. The train is faster, but you'll need to take a taxi at either end of the journey – first to get to Madgaon Junction railway station, then from Gokarna Road station into town. It should take less than 3 hours overall. From Bangalore, it's a 9.5-hour bus ride or a 16-hour train. In Gokarna, you can get around on auto-rickshaws or hire a motorbike.
City Info
6 Hostels in Gokarna

Located in Gokarna
Set in Gokarna, Experience Gokarna with HostelExp is 700 m from Gokarna Main Beach.
Located in Gokarna
The Hosteller Gokarna, your best friend for a beach getaway.
Located in Gokarna
The best SEA view backpackers hostel in Gokarna. Zostel Gokarna is your spot to hike, unwind and chill with your mates.
Located in Gokarna
Located in Gokarna, Gokarna Mid Beach Stay welcomes your stay with us.
Located in Gokarna
Set in Gokarna, Borrbo Beach Hostel Gokarna offers beachfront accommodation a few steps from Gokarna Main Beach and offers various facilities, such as a garden, a terrace and a bar.
Located in Gokarna
Just 300 meters from the Beach, You can take a beautiful walk on the beach, All the Villas equipped with Air Conditioner and tea, coffee maker in room, Dormitory is non AC but provided with shared bathroom.
Gokarna is a fantastic destination for backpackers offering a perfect blend of culture, adventure, and affordability. Whether you're planning a short trip or making it part of a longer backpacking journey, this city should definitely be included in your travel itinerary. When looking for accommodation in Gokarna, hostels provide the best value and opportunity to meet fellow travelers.
Whether you're looking for a social party hostel, a quiet retreat, a centrally located base for exploring the city, or something in between, Gokarna has options for every type of traveler. Many hostels in Gokarna offer additional amenities like free breakfast, communal kitchens, outdoor spaces, and organized activities.
When visiting Gokarna, don't miss the opportunity to:
- Explore the local cuisine and nightlife
- Visit historical landmarks and cultural sites
- Connect with other travelers at hostel events
- Discover hidden gems off the tourist path in Gokarna