The Gokarna Mahabaleshwar Temple, located in the serene coastal town of Gokarna in Uttara Kannada district, Karnataka, is a deeply sacred site for devotees of Lord Shiva. Known as the "Kashi of the South", it attracts thousands of pilgrims and tourists every year due to its legendary origins, spiritual ambiance, and proximity to pristine beaches. This temple not only holds immense religious value but also showcases South India’s architectural grandeur and cultural richness.
Temple About
Gokarna Mahabaleshwar Temple is one of the most revered Shiva temples in India. It is famed for housing the Atma Linga of Lord Shiva, believed to fulfill devotees’ wishes and bring liberation.
Temple Description
Built in the classic Dravidian architectural style, this ancient temple has a deeply rooted history connected with Ravana, Lord Ganesha, and the sacred Atma Linga. Pilgrims also perform ancestral rites on the nearby beach, adding to its sanctity.
Temple Specialty
It houses the Atma Linga, equal in spiritual power to Kashi Vishwanath.
One of the seven Muktikshetras in India.
Offers rituals like Pitru Tarpana by the sea.
Strong mythological background involving Ravana and Ganesha.
Temple Address
Sri Mahabaleshwar Temple, Gokarna, Uttara Kannada District, Karnataka – 581326, India
Temple Location (Latitude, Longitude)
14.5469° N, 74.3187° E
Temple Timings
Morning: 6:00 AM – 12:30 PM
Evening: 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Temple Sevas
Rudrabhishekam
Mahapooja
Trikal Pooja
Gokarna Sankalpa
Pitru Tarpana
Traveling Facilities
Well-connected by road, rail, and air.
Local auto-rickshaws, taxis, and bike rentals available.
Food Facilities
South Indian vegetarian restaurants and traditional eateries.
Affordable homemade meal options.
Stay Facilities
Lodges, hotels, homestays, and beach resorts.
Nearby Railway Station
Gokarna Road Railway Station – 10 km
Nearby Airport
Dabolim Airport (Goa) – 140 km
Hubballi Airport – 160 km
Nearby Bus Station
Gokarna KSRTC Bus Stand – 500 meters
Bus Routes to Temple
From Bengaluru, Hubballi, Karwar, Kumta, Ankola
Train Routes to Temple
Trains from Bengaluru, Mangaluru, Karwar, Goa (Madgaon) to Gokarna Road Station
Airways to Temple
Flights to Goa or Hubballi, then road journey to Gokarna
Nearby Cities to Temple
Kumta, Karwar, Ankola, Hubballi, Goa
Nearby Visiting Temples and Places
Om Beach
Koti Tirtha
Murudeshwar Temple
Yana Caves
Mahaganapati Temple
Preferable Visiting Season
October to March (pleasant and festive)
Shopping Famous For
Religious souvenirs
Seashell jewelry
Incense sticks, Rudraksha, local handicrafts
Gokarna Mahabaleshwar Temple is a confluence of spirituality, mythology, and natural beauty. Whether you're a devoted pilgrim, a culture enthusiast, or a beach lover, Gokarna offers a fulfilling experience. Its combination of sacred temples, scenic coastline, and historical significance makes it one of the must-visit spiritual destinations in South India. Visiting this temple is not just a journey of miles, but a journey of the soul.
