Located 56 km away from Karwar, Gokarna is a temple town as well as a well-known center for Sanskrit learning. Gokarna which literally means cow’s ear is known as the 'Kashi of the South' with its temples dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is believed that Lord Shiva materialized from the ear of a cow. This town situated along the Karwar coast between Gangavali and Agnashini is famous for the Mahabaleswara temple dedicated to Lord Shiva with the Atmalinga (a revered Shiva Lingam). There is an enormous chariot, which is taken out in a procession on Shiva's birthday in February. The Tambraparni Teertha or river here is considered sacred to perform rites for the dead. Gokarna is also famous for its beautiful deserted beaches like Kutle, Om, Half moon, Paradise etc. which rival even Goan Beaches.