About Gokarna
A perfect blend of Lord Shiva’s sanctity and serene beaches.
Gokarna is a small temple town on the western coast of India. It is one of the seven majestic Mukti Sthalas of Karnataka. In recent years, it has also become a favorite hub for beach lovers and hippies for its pristine, less-commercialized beaches compared to Goa.
History & Significance
The name Gokarna means "Cow's Ear". Legend says Lord Shiva emerged from the ear of a cow (Prithvi/Mother Earth) here.
The main temple, Mahabaleshwar, houses the massive Atma-Linga. As per the story (linked with Murudeshwar), Ravana was forced to place the Atma-Linga here by Ganesha (disguised as a shepherd boy). Once placed, it got rooted to the ground. Ravana tried to pull it out but only managed to twist it, giving it the shape of a cow's ear. The deity is considered as powerful as Kashi Vishwanath.
Historically, the town was a center of Sanskrit learning and pilgrimage for centuries.
