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Murdeshwar & Gokarna
- Jun 19
- 2 min read
If you’ve ever been on the train from Margao to Udupi, you might have caught a glimpse of this huge Shiva statue from afar. Now’s your chance to see it in all its glory on this day trip from Goa.
The first stop of the day is Ankola, a charming coastal town in Karnataka located between Karwar and Gokarna, where we’ll stop for breakfast.
From there, we make our way to Murudeshwar, home to a magnificent 123-foot-tall Shiva statue, the third-tallest Shiva statue in the world. Visible from a distance, the statue shines in silver and gold tones and becomes even more impressive the closer you get.
Next to that stands another impressive monumental structure, the Raja Gopura. At 249 feet, it is one of the tallest temple towers in the world. Its detailed carvings make it a beautiful entrance to the temple complex, and you can take a lift to the top for panoramic views of the Shiva statue and the surrounding area.
You’ll be greeted by two life-size elephant statues guarding the steps, setting the tone for what’s ahead. Another highlight is the striking golden Sun Chariot sculpture, which shows the Sun God riding through the sky in a chariot pulled by seven horses. The temple complex also features scenes from ancient Hindu stories and includes the Shanishwara Temple, dedicated to Shani, a god associated with justice and karma.
After Murudeshwar, we continue to Gokarna, an ancient temple town whose name translates to “Cow’s Ear.” It is often referred to as the “Varanasi of the South” and is sacred to millions of pilgrims who visit every year. It is a place where Sanskrit knowledge has been passed down through generations in Brahmin families, who also perform the last rites for many Hindus.
One of the holiest spots here is Kotitirtha, a man-made lake believed to purify those who bathe in it and still used for rituals today.
Famous for its pristine beaches, ancient temples, and scenic landscapes, Gokarna is sometimes called “Mini Goa” due to its tranquil ambiance and unhurried atmosphere, while still maintaining its own unique vibe. Gokarna is an authentic town where you can experience the real India.
Finally, we head to Om Beach, Gokarna’s most famous beach. Named for its distinctive shape, which resembles the Hindu “Om” symbol when viewed from above, it’s the perfect spot to relax and enjoy lunch before starting the journey back to Goa.
