Gokarna

Gokarna is also an important centre of Sanskrit learning and houses Bhandikeri Math and Toggu Math. It

is a place where Sanskrit knowledge is passed down from generations in Brahmin families. Many Hindus

also perform the last rites of a person here.

    Mahabaleshwar Temple (Maha: great, bal: strength) is a famous Shiva Temple and it houses the

'Atmalinga'. Named so after Ravana referred to the linga's great strength. [2]

It is situated at the western end of the main street. The main deity here is two-armed, standing and

at least 1500 years old. The idol of Lord Ganesha also is ancient. In the sanctuary is a stone linga,

encased in brass, placed on a coiled stone serpent. The floor of the hall in front has an intricate

engraving of a giant tortoise.

    Maha Ganapathi Temple built in honour of the boy Ganapathi, who deceived the demon Ravana.
    Uma Maheshwari Temple
    Bhadrakali Temple
    Varadaraj Temple
    Tamra-Gauri Temple
    Shanmuka Temple
    Venkataramana Temple
    Kotitheertha is a man-made tank that is used for immersion of idols and ritual bathing. It is

surrounded by temples.
    Shivaratri festival is celebrated here with great enthusiasm. Each year a team builds up two great

temple chariots which are used during the Shivaratri festival. The two great temple chariots lead a

procession through the town's narrow streets, while priests and pilgrims chant hymns in praise of

Shiva. More than a hundred people are needed to pull the chariots with thick ropes while priests

conduct religious ceremonies inside. During the four day Shivaratri festival, the small town of

Gokarna is visited by up to 20,000 pilgrims.