View the route
Date of the journey:- December 2019
Distance travelled:- 70 miles
Getting from Cola beach to the next destination of Gokarna, meant the decision whether to take the train or bus.
The train departed from Canacona in the late afternoon, arriving in Gokarna late at night, so the bus it was. No option but to get a taxi from our accommodation Blue Lagoon Cola beach to Canacona bus station for a fixed price of 1000 rupees. Pick up is from the Blue Lagoon side of Cola beach. This side was chosen at 100 rupees more than the other, as it had fewer steps to go up with the backpacks on.
From Canacona bus station there was no direct bus to Gokarna. So, we got the 1145 hrs bus to Karwar bus station for 50 Rupees each, for the hour-long journey. A quick turnaround, 15 minutes at Karwar, and we were on the next bus to Ankola bus station. A 50-minute journey for 33 Rupees each.
For the last leg of the journey, we caught the bus from Ankola to Gokarna bus station. Another 50-minute journey, this one only costing 25 Rupees each. All of these buses were local buses, so we were travelling with the locals.
A benefit of catching the bus over the train is that Gokarna bus station is in the town. Whereas the train station is some 5 miles out of town.
Our intention was to make our way straight from Gokarna town out to OM beach, where we wanted to stay. A tuk tuk was the easiest way and was only 150 Rupees. Once at OM beach, we were a little disappointed at the accommodation on offer.
We were directed by a beach vendor to Shantidham cafe. They had chalets to rent and we were fortunate to get the last one. As you get to Om beach, turn right and take the coast path about 10 minutes walk. Set up on the cliff, this venue has wonderful views over the sea and along the coastline.