Gokarna, also known as 'Kashi' of the South, is a much sacred place by the Hindus. Comprising the only 'Atmalinga' in the country, Gokarna is famous being one of the three holiest places (Tri-sthali) - the others being Varanasi and Rameswaram. Gokarna is located in the Uttara Kannada district of Karnataka, washed by the waters of Arabian Sea (in the west), surrounded by the holy rivers Gangavali (in the north), Aganashini (in the south), and Siddeswara (in the east). The word "Gokarna" literally means "cow's ear". There are different folklores and mythical legends linked with the existence of this town.

Here the god is measured as the atma (soul) or prana (life) of Shiva himself. It is powerfully believed that undaunted faith and sincere devotion to Lord Shiva at Gokarna liberates the devotee from the vicious circle of life and death. Mahabaleswar Temple is the major attraction, to visit which, people from far and near throng this place. The 4-day Mahashivratri festival is the extravaganza when the town is whole-heartedly festooned to mark the celebrations. Besides, there are other temples like Maha Ganapathi Temple, Uma Maheshwari Temple, Bhadrakali Temple, Varadaraj Temple, Tamra-Gauri Temple and Venkataramana Temple, which are revered by devotees with equal devotion.

Though renowned as a pilgrimage, travel and tourism has enhanced in Gokarna more due to the presence of peaceful beaches nearby. The natural beauty and touch of serenity at this place, is such that people who visit this place, can never forget its charm throughout their lives. The word of mouth has worked the most to attract travelers to Gokarna. The golden beaches — Kudle Beach, OM Beach, Gokarna Beach, Half-moon Beach and Paradise Beach — adorning this place are just lovely and the word that describes them best is 'serene'. In 1676, a famous English traveler, Fryer, visited Gokarna and wrote, “This place is of such repute for its sanctity and meritoriousness that, for a pilgrimage hither, all sorts from the remotest parts of India come in shoals.” So, Gokarna is actually a place to experience.