If there is any place I can truly recommend, it would be Gokarna, on the western coast of India.
A fairly long days taxi ride from Hampi, followed by a traditional cramped, adrenaline filled tuk tuk lift to Om beach. Peeling ourselves off of the roof of the tuk tuk and trying to push and pull our huge bags out, we finally saw the serene, picturesque beach.
A beautiful beach, with white gold sand, that is unspoiled, untouched and flowing with tranquility. Along the stretch of beach, it has probably no more than ten guesthouses, (this could have changed) dotted along. The guest houses cater for all, from low cost to more expensive. Be prepared to share bathrooms etc with other guests for the cheaper options.
Walking along carrying our incredibly heavy bags, under the scorching sun, we eventually found a lovely guesthouse, with a private beach shack, which was incredibly sweet. A poster bed, complete with mosquito net - practical, necessary but also makes you feel a little like a royal. An outdoor hammock for snoozing in or reading a book in the afternoons, because sunbathing on the beach is just too much hard work.
Om beach is peaceful and quiet, waking up feels like you are still asleep and in a dream. It feels too good to be true. Waking up to pure shores, warmth, and dolphins swimming in the shimmering sea, whilst you are eating your fresh fruit for breakfast. It feels unreal. It is a true paradise, of clean sands, banana and coconut trees and a picturesque place to enjoy.
Spend days sun basking, or swimming in the lukewarm sea, warm enough to be a bath and enjoy fresh fruit purchased from the locals. Come night time, you might be lucky enough to swim with the plankton and see the sea around and beneath you light up from your movements. It felt like being in Disney’s The Little Mermaid. Please do not partake in this activity on your own though, as it is dangerous swimming in the vast pitch black and Gorkana is known for its dangerous currents.
If you get itchy feet and can’t sit/lay around a lot, you can always take in the vibrant, colourful little town, a very short tuk tuk ride away. It has a couple of gift shops, food stalls and really necessities. It is lovely to take a walk around and meet the locals and embrace the atmosphere. Take a look at the magnificent temple chariot, that was once pulled by elephants in the centre.
The food again, cannot be faulted. All the guesthouses and restaurants produce superb, traditional meals and they are an incredibly reasonable cost.
If you are on holiday this is a perfect place to visit or if you are backpacker, you will meet people here also. It really does have something for everyone and we met some amazing people and made some tremendous memories. If only we could shut our eyes and go back to the dream.
Namaste Gorkarna,
Love Chlobo’s Closet
XXX
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