tourist places in udupi malpe

Stories by Soumya

The Travel Blog of a Culture Addict

Malpe Beach Udupi Complete Travel Guide: 9 Best Things To Do + Where To Stay

Last Updated on May 5, 2021 by Soumya

Are you planning a trip to coastal Karnataka and have added Malpe beach Udupi to your itinerary? I am sure you are looking for the best things to do in Malpe beach including the best places to stay. This post of mine is going to help you with that.

On my recent tour of Karnataka’s coast, Malpe Beach was one of my favorite destinations. That was because Malpe beach in Udupi is not just a place to experience the most thrilling adventure sports but also the perfect place to take a deep dive into Mangalorean cuisine and Coastal Karnataka culture . I have amazing memories from Malpe and would love for you to have them too.

In this complete travel guide of Malpe beach , you will learn.

• All about the best things to do in Malpe beach and when to do them.
• How to plan your day with help from local stakeholders and experience local culture?
• Best resorts and hotels in and around Malpe beach and how to have a holiday that fits your budget.

Let’s get started with some of the most interesting Malpe beach activities and then drill down into local experiences.

Table of Contents

Best things to do in Malpe beach Udupi

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Visit St. Mary’s Island

One of the best things to do at Malpe beach is to take a short, 2-hour trip to the nearby St. Mary’s Islands . A set of 4 small islands, this Malpe beach island is unique because of its exclusive rock formations that cannot be seen anywhere else but the Giant Causeway in Northern Ireland and some places in Iceland.

These rocks are sheer vertical cliffs of all sizes and heights with hexagonal cross-sections. With soft white sands, tall swaying palms, and azure blue waters, these rocks present us with one of the most surreal sights in India. It is as if an artist was at work here, carving nature into its full glory.

Check out our ultimate travel guide to St. Mary’s Island.

Engage in thrilling water sports

If you are the adventurous kind, then you can easily spend a day or two on Malpe just enjoying water sports. I tried winch parasailing for the first time in my life and it was amazing. They took us to the middle of the sea on a motor-boat and all I had to do was get into the harness and fly in the air. Click here to book your parasailing ride at Malpe beach.

Some of the other water sports available at Malpe beach are jet-ski, beach parasailing, banana boat rides, zorbing, stand-up paddling, kayaking, speed boating and surfing.

Go for a sea walk

One of the newest attractions of Malpe beach is the very picturesque Malpe Seawalk . Apart from giving you a stunning view of the beach and the sea, it is also the perfect place to get some pictures for your gram.

Malpe Seawalk is located by the Malpe harbour which you can get to by following the Malpe-Udupi road. Or simply walk from the Malpe beach. You can watch fishermen going out for their catch, enjoy a sunset by the sea, or just soak in all the beauty around you.

Lounge on the beach

Of course, this goes without saying, isn’t it? When you are at a beach as pretty as Malpe, then you cannot help but spend some time just lounging around and appreciating the beauty of it. There are benches under palm trees where you can just sit down for a good chat or have a small picnic.

Explore the amphitheater

This is right next to the Malpe Seawalk and is a much newer addition. A part of the shoreline has now been converted into a huge amphitheater that can seat 250 people at a time, attractive sculptures, and a huge garden.

This is not just another way of wooing more tourists to the beach, it actually provides great insights into the local culture . For example, the sculptures represent local life – of fishermen going out into the sea. Also, I watched a Yakshagana performance at the amphitheater right here.

Watch a Yakshagana performance

Honestly, watching a Yakshagana performance is one of the best things to do at Malpe beach. And like I said, the open air amphitheater on the beach is the perfect place to watch it. You will have to plan a little because performances are not held regularly here. Connect with Sudesh Shetty [ [email protected] ], the head of Malpe Development Committee, in case you are interested in one. Or check out the Facebook page of Malpe Beach which gets regularly updated with events and happenings.

Yakshagana is a traditional dance-cum-theater form of coastal Karnataka . It is usually based on a story from the Hindu epics, Ramayana and Mahabharata, and involves amazing dancing prowess, elaborate costumes and head-dresses, and intricate facial make-up. If you are a culture vulture like me, then you are going to love it.

Read my simple-to-understand, 5-minute read on Yakshagana dance before you plan to include that in your itinerary.

Visit Malpe port and fishing harbor

Malpe is an important trading port and fishing harbor on the western coast of India. For centuries, Malpe port was the connecting point between Tulu Nadu and the western world. It was also inhabited by the Mogaveeras, a fishing community that did brisk business on the coast, for a long time.

Today you can visit the fishing harbor and see a number of fishing boats lined up. You will also see fisherwomen selling fresh catch of the day. Crabs, shrimps, and a variety of salt water fish abound.

Taste the delicious coastal cuisine

Good food and coastal Karnataka go hand-in-hand. An abundance of sea food, age old recipes, exclusive spices make the coastal Karnataka cuisine lip-smackingly delicious.

Try an ultimate coastal spread on Malpe beach at Fisherman’s Bay Beach Cafe with some chicken pulimunchi, chicken sukka, grilled fish, kori roti, and of course some prawn ghee roast. The food here is heavenly. And if you are a vegetarian, there are plenty of options for you too.

Related: 17 Best dishes of Mangalorean cuisine

Watch a beautiful sunset

And of course, you have to watch a stunning sunset when you are in Malpe. All the beaches of Karnataka, by virtue of being on the west coast of India, present you with beautiful sunset viewing opportunities. Check out the sunset times here and don’t miss one when you are in Udupi.

Best hotels near Malpe beach

If you wish to spend a few days at Malpe in order to enjoy the sun, sand, and the sea, then here is a list of great hotels near Malpe beach for all budget types.

• Paradise Isle Beach Resort (Booking | Tripadvisor ): Located right on the silver sands of Malpe beach, Paradise Isle Beach Resort is exemplary of luxury and comfort. Stunning sea view rooms, an ocean-view restaurant with seafood specialties, swimming pool and spa make your holiday so much memorable.
• HisGrace Beach Cottages & Tents : Located only 700m from the Malpe beach, this property has some really good customer reviews. It is known for its fabulous location, great hospitality, and amazing food.
• Hometown Galleria, Manipal ( Booking | Tripadvisor ): If you are not really looking for a beachfront property and wish to stay in the city, try Hometown Galleria in Manipal. Clean, comfortable rooms, a restaurant, and a fitness center are the key highlights of this property.

Or book the best hotel on Booking or Tripadvisor .

Best time to visit Malpe beach Udupi

The best time to visit Malpe beach is during the winter (Nov – Feb) and summer (Mar – May) months when all the water activities are in full swing and skies are clear. Personally, I am a little biased towards winter because temperatures are mild and humidity is low. So, if you are looking for a good winter vacation destination in India , then Malpe beach is a good idea.

Monsoons are a bad time to visit Malpe beach. St. Mary’s Island and several water activities are closed because of rising water levels and rough seas. Plus, it is difficult to enjoy your time on the beach in all that rain.

How to get to Malpe beach near Udupi?

Malpe beach is located at a distance of 6km (3.7 miles) from Udupi. It is easy to get here by car, bus, or tuk-tuk. If you are coming from Mangalore or Bangalore, you can take the train to Udupi Railway Station. And then take a cab or tuk-tuk from there to get to Malpe beach.

Several buses also run from Mangalore to Udupi. Book your bus ride on KSRTC website here . If you are looking for a cab to take you around Malpe or the whole of Karnataka’s coast , I highly recommend R. R. Tours & Travels [Contact number: +91 9845331926].

Malpe beach FAQ

Is Malpe beach safe?

Malpe beach is a safe beach on the Karnataka coast. The waters are not harsh and the surface is sandy and pebbly not rocky. You can easily walk in the waters even if you do not know how to swim. But make sure you stay close to the shore.

Is Malpe beach open?

Yes, Malpe beach is open during summer and winter months.

How far is Malpe beach from Udupi?

Malpe beach is a little under 6km (3.7 miles) from Udupi. You can get to Malpe from Udupi by car, taxi, or tuk-tuk. The ride takes only 15 minutes. You can also take a bus from the Udupi bus station.

How do I get from Malpe beach to St. Mary’s Island?

You can take a ferry from Malpe beach to St. Mary’s Island. The ferry service runs between 9 am – 5pm every day except during monsoons. Check out our guide to St. Mary’s Island for details .

Is St. Mary’s Island open now?

Yes, St. Mary’s Island is open during winter and summer. Every year, the island is closed between May 15 – September 30 on account of monsoons.

Malpe Beach Travel Essentials

• Udupi is the best place to stay when traveling to Malpe beach. Find the best hotels in Udupi .
• Check out Tripadvisor Reviews here for Udupi .
• If you are looking for specially curated tours for Malpe beach, please feel free to connect with  Poonam Shetty from Dream Holidays, Manipal [+91 96865 74959]  and/or  Roshan Pinto from R.R.Tours & Travels [+91 98453 31926] . I highly recommend both of them for their local insights and ability to provide the best travel experiences.
• Before planning your trip, check out our ultimate list of the best places to visit in Coastal Karnataka and find out what to eat in Coastal Karnataka .
• The coast is sunny and hot throughout the year. Do not forget to pack your sunscreen and hat.
• Be sure to carry your swimming costumes for some wonderful time at the beach.

Loved our guide for Malpe beach in Udupi? Pin it for later!

You may also like:

• St. Mary's Island Malpe: Why You Need To Visit This…
• Yakshagana Dance Of Karnataka: A Traditional Theater…
• 13 Best Places To Visit In Coastal Karnataka

6 thoughts on “ Malpe Beach Udupi Complete Travel Guide: 9 Best Things To Do + Where To Stay ”

I am in udupi and was explore and came across your blog. I am planning to visit Malpe this week end after reading your experience.

Thanks Regards Navneeet

Glad to know that Navneeet. Hope you have a great time in Malpe.

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Malpe Beach Tourism

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Opening and Closing time of Malpe Beach

Disclaimer: It's important to check the most current information before planning your visit, as opening hours can vary and might be subject to change due to special events, maintenance, or unforeseen circumstances. A reliable way to confirm the opening hours is to contact the local tourism board, check the official website (if available)

Entry Ticket Pricing for Malpe Beach

Disclaimer: Please note that prices are subject to change, cross check required .

Tips when you are visiting to Malpe Beach

Other Suggested Reads for Malpe Beach

• Best time to Visit in Malpe Beach
• Malpe Beach Tourism History
• FAQS about Malpe Beach
• Malpe Beach Tourist Map

Best things to do on Malpe beach in Udupi

My first visit to Malpe beach was just after my wedding. As my memory serves, the beach was an endless stretch of soft white sands and the gentle waves of the Arabian Sea. Coconut vendors and chaat stalls populated the shore in the evenings around sunset when most families with kids came down to destress and enjoy the various Malpe beach activities. As I continued to visit this place over the last few years, I saw it change. What was already a safe shore became a much more welcoming and fun place to be in when in Udupi. In fact, if you ask me, it should be your base to stay in Udupi.

This guide on Malpe beach Udupi will endorse my last sentence about why you need to stay here. From a complete list of activities on Malpe beach to when to visit and where to stay , I have covered it all in this blog post. I am sure that by end of this article, you will be all ready to book your next vacay to this beach destination in Karnataka.

• 1 Where is Malpe Beach?
• 2 A brief history of Udupi Malpe beach
• 3.1 Swim in the Arabian Sea
• 3.2 Learn surfing on Malpe beach in Udupi
• 3.3 Try some fun games & water sports on Malpe beach Karnataka
• 3.4 Visit St Mary’s island in Malpe
• 3.5 Discover Daria Bahadurgad fort
• 3.6 Explore the Balarama temple in Malpe
• 3.7 Gorge on some local food on Malpe beach
• 3.8 Go for a Malpe sea walk
• 3.9 Enjoy the sunset at Malpe beach
• 3.10 Catch an event at the amphitheatre
• 3.11 Story of Jatayu lives on in Lepakshi temple
• 3.12 Go shopping in the local beach market
• 3.13 Capture some birds on a beach walk
• 3.14 Explore the massive ship-building yard in Malpe
• 3.15 Interact with the local fishermen
• 3.16 Rent an e-auto and spend the day beach hopping from Malpe to Padubidri
• 3.17 Entertain the kids with the fun games on Malpe Udupi beach
• 3.18 Malpe floating bridge – the latest among the places to visit in Malpe
• 4 Other Places to visit near Malpe
• 5 FAQs on Malpe beach
• 6 What is the best way to reach Malpe beach?
• 7 What is the best time to visit Malpe beach in Udupi?
• 8 What is the best place to stay on Malpe beach Udupi?
• 9 Is Malpe beach clean?
• 10 Is scuba diving available at Malpe beach?
• 11 Is there any Malpe beach entry fee?
• 12 Travel and Photography tips

Quick links for your Malpe and Udupi trip

In case you are looking for some quick links to tours, places to stay and travel accessories for your trip to Udupi and Malpe, you can consider using these online options.

• You can book your hotel in Malpe through Booking.com using the given link. There are several options for a stay in Manipal and Udupi too.
• Mangalore Shore excursion tour
• Excursion to Karkala and Moodbidri from Mangalore
• For any local tours, transfers and stays in the Coastal Karnataka region, you can get in touch with Ms. Poonam of Dream holidays, Manipal on +91 9686574959 or Mr. Roshan Pinto of RR Travels on +91 9845331926 . They are specialists in this region and can arrange for a flawless travel experience here.
• If you use Amazon for shopping for travel or any of your home needs, do consider using this link .

Where is Malpe Beach?

Malpe beach is located at the confluence of the Udayavara River and the Arabian Sea. The distance from Malpe beach to Udupi is just 6 km.

A brief history of Udupi Malpe beach

For centuries together, Malpe beach and town has been an important port connecting the local Tulu tradesmen to the West. In fact, one can find the earliest mention of Malpe in Ptolemy’s texts dating back to the 2nd century.

One can even attribute the beginning of the famous Udupi Sri Krishna temple story to Malpe beach Karnataka. It is here that the current idol of Sri Krishna in Udupi was discovered by Madhavacharya ji ( Read the full story here ). The famous voyager to India – Vasco Da Gama too, made a stop – albeit at a small isle off the coast of Malpe. It was he who gave this coconut island its present-day name – St Mary’s island.

Besides being a port, Malpe beach has always been a fishing harbour. The locals called Mogaveera are the ones who have always dominated the fishing industry here. The same continues to thrive even today – naturally given the marine diversity owing to the confluence of freshwater and saltwater.

However, this can be seen only on one part of the beach. What happens on the rest of the beach is what makes Malpe one of the most attractive destinations in Karnataka. All that coming up in my next section.

Things to do in Malpe beach Udupi | Best Malpe beach activities

Just 6 km from Udupi town, Malpe beach has always been very popular with the locals. However, in recent years, it has gained a reputation of being one of the key beaches of Karnataka. The reasons for these are best explained with this list of the best things to do in Malpe beach. Check them out and remember to tell me which one of these is your favorite.

Swim in the Arabian Sea

What makes Malpe beach perfect for a good swim in the Arabian Sea is the absence of sudden depth. The ocean floor is fairly even and the waves are quite gentle for the most part of the year. Add to that the warm tropical weather that makes the water actually quite therapeutic. With all that, how can one resist the lure of that ocean?

Of late, the beach authorities have started placing red flags in areas to warn visitors to steer clear of the water. Be attentive to the same – they are meant for your security.

Learn surfing on Malpe beach in Udupi

One of my recommendations to enjoy the playful waves at Malpe beach is to try your hand at surfing. In fact, this is one of the key adventure activities in Malpe beach that makes it unique. Sign up for a beginner’s course and learn to conquer those waves. There are a few surf schools in Udupi that offer a variety of courses – suited for beginners and Pros.

I had a first-hand experience with Kadal Surf school which operates out of the beach shack called Kaliyuga Toddy Cafe. The surf classes generally start at 6:30 am on all days except Sunday. You can get in touch with Rohan or Tanvi at +91 7760604327 to find out the prices and enroll yourself. They are truly a professional bunch who know how to get you to learn this sport well. At the end of my 3 hours session, I had managed to get upright on the waves not once but multiple times 😀

Try some fun games & water sports on Malpe beach Karnataka

There are a plethora of options when it comes to water sports on this Karnataka beach. From fun banana boat rides to jet skiing and even parasailing over the sea – you can avail them all on the shore. I even found, zorbing on the beach – something that I definitely want to try when I get to Malpe beach again. All these Malpe activities can be booked on the spot. The cost is fairly reasonable.

Visit St Mary’s island in Malpe

Stand on the shores of Malpe beach and look straight at the Arabian Sea. You are bound to spot a few islands with tall coconut trees. The largest one is called St Mary’s island – the same one that Vasco Da Gama landed on. This island has been given the tag of being the national geological monument for its rare basalt volcanic rocks – found only here.

One of the best things to do in Malpe beach is head out to this island for a day picnic. That is when you can discover its pretty shell beaches and coconut-laden lanes. Read through this exclusive post on St Mary’s island to get details on how to get here and what to expect at the isle.

Discover Daria Bahadurgad fort

St Mary’s Island is just one of the four isles that you can see from the shore. The other three are called North Island, South Island and Daria Bahadurgad island. The last one is where you can visit a heritage fort built by Basavappa Naik – a ruler from Bidanur. Though the fort is not a big one, it does have picturesque spots. Besides this, you can visit an old tile factory located here. There are ferries available on Malpe beach that can take you to the Daria Bahadurgad fort.

Explore the Balarama temple in Malpe

Close to the beach is a temple dedicated to the elder brother of Lord Krishna – Balarama. The temple is also called Vadabhanda Balarama Temple . It is said to have been established by the same Madhavacharya ji who later built the famous Udupi Krishna temple. The temple is renowned for its architecture and its stone idol of Lord Balarama. Another one of the key places to visit near Malpe beach.

Gorge on some local food on Malpe beach

Stay back and grab a good meal at one of the beach cafes on Udupi Malpe beach. There are tons of options to pick from – from Fisherman’s Bay Beach cafe to Malpe beach shack and Kori Roti beach cafe. If you love seafood, you will go crazy with the options here – most recommended being the prawn ghee roast and prawn sukka. Don’t fret if you are a vegetarian for there is plenty there too – team your Kori roti and Paneer Gassi or try some Shavige with the coconut curry. I would not say no to the Neer Dosas and Kadabus too.

For dessert, do not miss the famous Udupi Gadbad ice cream that is available across these food joints. In fact, there are two or three exclusive ice cream shops that also, sell a lot of other types of sundaes.

Go for a Malpe sea walk

The latest addition to the lovely beach is a 450 m long sea walk that treats you to the best sights of Malpe beach. Malpe sea walk stretches between the river and the Arabian sea giving you a beautiful view of the islands. The well-developed walkway has numerous benches for you to just sit around and enjoy these sights. Pretty sculptures including one of a fisherman’s family add to the beauty of this place. Malpe Sea walk can be accessed for INR 20 per person – a price that is totally worth the experience here.

In the evening, you will find a few food trucks in the parking area. From authentic south Indian dosas to chaat options, you will actually find yourself wanting to sample it all.

Enjoy the sunset at Malpe beach

You must catch the sunset at the beach. Trust me, it is truly divine to see the sun sinking into the Arabian sea. The sunset can be caught at any point on the beach but I do recommend heading to the Malpe Sea walk for it. If you are a photographer, you will definitely enjoy from this place. Another suggestion would be to witness it from St. Mary’s island.

On my last trip, I could not stay back for a sunset at St. Mary’s island but did capture a lovely sunrise from St. Mary’s island. It should give you a good idea of what to expect.

Catch an event at the amphitheatre

Right next to the Malpe Sea walk is an open-air Amphitheatre that seats around 250 people. A large statue of Garuda marks the stage where if you are lucky, you can witness various performances. You can check this Facebook page for updates on various events . I got lucky to witness a Yakshagana dance.

A little about the dance – Yakshagana is a heritage folk dance – a dance drama that still lives on in Udupi. The dance involves the use of colorful masks and costumes and is performed to live music. With the use of mudras and bhavas, the dancers tell a story from the epic tales of Ramayana and Mahabharata. I got to witness the tale of Jatayu who attempted to save Sita when Ravana was kidnapping her. Trust me, it definitely added to my lively experience at Malpe beach.

Story of Jatayu lives on in Lepakshi temple

Read and re-live the story of Jatayu and his sacrifice at the Lepakshi temple near Bangalore. The gorgeous temple also, has a giant footprint that people say belongs to Sita. Check out this post right here.

Go shopping in the local beach market

From colorful beach wear to quirky jewelry, the tiny Malpe market along the beach is a fun shopping experience. You will also, find shell craft and decor for your homes in these small stalls. The stalls are open from 9 am to 9 pm every day.

You also have a few tattoo studios in the market. I haven’t tried any myself but I did see a lot of people getting inked here. The prices too seemed reasonable. So, you might want to give it a try.

Capture some birds on a beach walk

Early morning or a sunset stroll on Malpe beach will introduce you to a variety of water birds. Some of the common ones include sandpipers, terns, Brahminy kites, swifts, rock pigeons, mynahs, egrets and various species of gulls. The best place to capture them is when you walk towards the northern side of the beach. Though not as clean as the commercial side, it is the quieter end of the beach and hence, tends to attract more of the winged beauties.

Explore the massive ship-building yard in Malpe

Right next to the Malpe sea walk is the huge shipbuilding yard of Malpe port. You may or may not get access to visit inside. However, you can just walk past the building along the lane. On one side, you will see numerous workshops that make various parts for the ship. On the other side, you will see boats and ships of all sizes. Talk to a few locals and you will get a good insight into how this industry works.

Interact with the local fishermen

The fishermen clan has been the oldest community of Malpe port. You can still see them in action when you walk toward the sea walk early in the morning. While some are busy casting their nets, many spread out their catch to dry in the sun. Some of them are just happy to share their stories.

Rent an e-auto and spend the day beach hopping from Malpe to Padubidri

This is one of the newest things to do on Malpe beach that I discovered on my last visit. You can just rent one of those electronic autos and go beach hopping from Malpe . Make sure you take the Malpe Padukere stretch where on one side you will see the serene backwaters and the other side has the roaring sea. The drive itself is extremely beautiful with the narrow road lined with swaying palm trees.

There are many offbeat beaches like Padukere beach, Pithrody Udyavar beach, Mattu beach and Uchilla beach that you will pass by. While you can stop at most of these, definitely plan a longer halt at Kapu beach for its lighthouse and Padubidri beach for its Blue Flag shore.

Entertain the kids with the fun games on Malpe Udupi beach

There are numerous carnival games for kids on Udupi Malpe beach . From fun merry-go-rounds to mini Ferris wheels and dashing boats (not cars) – there is a range of activities on Malpe beach for kids. These are available from 4 pm in the evening at a very reasonable rate. The kids are bound to have so much fun that they will not want to leave this place.

Malpe floating bridge – the latest among the places to visit in Malpe

Launched in 2023, the new floating bridge or pontoons is the latest addition to the list of Malpe tourist places. The fun 120m bridge allows you to walk right into the Arabian sea. What makes this Malpe adventure activity fun is that the bridge sways with the waves and challenges your sense of stability.

The Malpe floating bridge entry fee is INR 150 for 15 minutes of fun. Remember to wear flat, waterproof shoes with a good grip or just ditch the same and walk barefeet onto the swaying pontoon. The timings for the floating bridge are from 8 am to 6 pm . At a time, only 100 people are allowed onto the bridge.

Other Places to visit near Malpe

There are plenty of other places that you can consider visiting from Malpe.These can be done as day-trips from Malpe and include beaches, historical places as well as cities. I consider Malpe as an extension of Udupi town and hence am not including this in the list below. Check them out –

• Mangalore – An important port town of Karnataka with its own history. This is just 59 km from Malpe. You can do a full day tour that includes its temples, shore excursions, a beautiful church and more.
• Manipal – A student town that is just 14 kms from Malpe beach. It has some happening cafes, pubs, malls and an unique attraction – the Hasta Shilpa heritage village .
• Byndoor – a quaint beach town where the backwaters flow into the beach. This is 72 km from Malpe
• Karkala – 46 km from Malpe, this town is well known for its basadis (Jain temples) and the St. Lawrence Attur church that almost reminds you of the Disney castle.
• Kapu beach – 20 km from Malpe, this beach with the lighthouse also offers scuba diving.
• Padubidri – the town with the blue flag beach – just 30 km from Malpe beach
• Mulki – a paradise for surfers with a beach known for its bioluminence. This is just 40 km from Malpe beach.

Well, that concludes my section on what can you do on Malpe beach. The next section is dedicated to answering all your frequently asked questions to give you the right tips for your own trip to Malpe beach Udupi.

FAQs on Malpe beach

What is the best way to reach malpe beach.

The distance from Udupi to Malpe beach is just 6 km and once you are in the town, you can just hire one of the local auto rickshaws to get here.

There are three ways to get to Udupi – 1) You can fly to Mangalore which is just 55 km from Udupi. From here, you can either get into a bus, hire a private cab or take a train to Udupi 2) Udupi has it own railway station with a fairly good connectivity. 3) You can do a road trip to Udupi.

What is the best time to visit Malpe beach in Udupi?

In terms of season, the best time to visit Malpe beach would be from October to February – that is the winter months. Monsoons are quite heavy in this region, sucking the fun out of the beach. Summers are quite harsh and hence can be avoided.

The beach is accessible throughout the day. You can actually spend one entire day here with the number of attractions available. There is enough place to pitch your own umbrella or use one of the many shades that are added to the beach. The coconut tree cover also, gives you adequate shade throughout the day.

What is the best place to stay on Malpe beach Udupi?

There are numerous Malpe beach resorts that offer you sea front views. The most popular option to stay on Malpe beach is Paradise Isle beach resort. Another option that I happen to come across stays called Blue Waves front cottages and Hai Tide collages. You can book them using the booking resources below.

Is Malpe beach clean?

The main section of Malpe beach is very clean and well-maintained. Every morning, there is a sandboni or a sand cleaning machine that removes the accumulated rubbish and ensures that the place is perfect for the visitors of the day.

Is scuba diving available at Malpe beach?

No, there is no scuba diving on Malpe beach. However, you can get to Kaup beach which is just 19 km from Malpe beach for this activity.

Is there any Malpe beach entry fee?

At the moment, there is no entry fees for Malpe beach.

Before you go, pin this

Travel and Photography tips

• Don’t forget to carry your sunscreen. Add a pair of flipflops to your packing list as well as sunglasses and an extra pair of clothes.
• There are plenty of food stalls and restaurants on Malpe beach Karnataka
• Please do not leave your trash on the beach. The authorities have installed plenty of bins for disposal.
• If you are a photographer, a basic prime lens would be sufficient. If you have ND filters, you will find them useful for capturing the sunset here.

Popularly referred to as a Restless Ball of Energy. My Mom refuses to entertain my complaints about my equally restless daughter & assures my husband that I was born with a travel bug.

I am a Post-Graduate in Marketing by qualification and a travel blogger by passion. Besides travel, I enjoy photography and if you don’t find me at my desk, I would be out playing badminton or swimming or just running. I believe in planning for every long weekend through the year. And when I cannot travel physically, I travel virtually through this travel blog. My travel stories have also, got published on various websites and magazines including BBC Travel, Lonely Planet India and Jetwings. I have recently published my first book – When Places Come Alive – a collection of stories that are based on legends, landscapes, art and culture of a place which is available in both ebook and paperback format.

22 thoughts on “Best things to do on Malpe beach in Udupi”

Hello Admin, I like this article.I was searching over search engines and found your blog site. I like your blog site…. great job. Keep it up

Thank you so much. Keep visiting us

Malpi Beach looks like a picture book image of a tropic beach. Great that it is also good for swimming most time of the year. As I am quite interested in strange rock formations I would enjoy a visit to the strange basalt rocks too.

St Mary’s island is definitely a must-do when on Malpe beach. Am sure you will love the place. Thanks for stopping by

There certainly seems to be a lot of great activities to do on Malpe beach, I think I would love to swim in the sea and take a walk along the sea pathway and then book to see the heritage dancing – the costume the dancer is wearing in your photo looks spectacular.

You will love the Yakshagana performance. It is so lively and of course, the beach is just amazing. Thanks Angela for the lovely comment.

Isn’t always wonderful to re-visit a place and rekindle our memories, especially your honeymoon or shortly thereafter. It’s great to hear that you recommend Malpe beach and your memory of the beach being an endless stretch of soft white sands and the gentle waves of the Arabian Sea lives up to the same experience today. Now, with endless things to do, I can see why it would be a great family friendly destination.

So much so that I am already planning a getaway there again! 😀

That’s one fun beach! I have only been to Bangalore in Karnataka. But am really keen on seeing St Mary’s Island, have head a lot about it. Zorbing is also on my list of to do activities now, as is eating at a shack. The sea walk is amazing.

You should definitely plan a trip to Udupi – so much to experience and see and of course, stay at Malpe

It did not take much to convince me that we need to visit the Malpe Beach if we are in the Udupi region. Soft white sand, blue waters and great sunsets are always a draw for us. A trip to see basalt columns on St Mary’s island sounds interesting . They look similar to ones we saw on the Giants Causeway in Northern Ireland. And we would definitely plan to stay long enough to catch the local show at the amphitheater.

It is relaxing and yet energy packed. Loved that bit about Malpe

It seems an awesome place to decompress if one needs a break. Azure ocean, sandy shores, and beautiful sunset are all wonderful. The water activities are a bonus. It’s the sea walk that got me!

I am pretty sure you are going to love the place. Thanks for stopping along

As a beach-lover, you had me at warm, gentle ocean waves with no sudden drop – and then reeled me in with so much more! I would love to visit Malpe Beach and view Mary’s island, try delicious seafood, stroll the sea walk, and be present in this lovely place with multiple, fascinating historic references. Easy to see why it makes a great home base for visiting Udupi!

Sigh, I am so craving to get there again. It is one amazing place. Thanks for stopping by Jackie.

I have never been to Udupi though I have heard so much about it. Malpe beach looks really nice, especially the sunset. I’d love to take some surfing lessons here, the waves look pretty awesome for that!

I am sure you will enjoy the variety that Malpe offers. Hope you get to it soon.

Malpe beach in Udupi is a beautiful coastal destination to explore.I would love to go zorbing and parasailing on the beach and grab some delicious prawns on one of the sea shacks. And of course I would love to enjoy a cultural show in the Malpe beach amphitheatre.

You got your list ready Puloma. Now time to book your tickets.

Your article on Malpe Beach in Udupi is a comprehensive guide to an amazing destination. I love how you’ve covered everything from the beach’s historical significance to the wide range of activities available there. It’s clear that Malpe Beach has something for everyone, from serene sunsets to thrilling water sports.

Your detailed tips and FAQs provide invaluable insights for anyone planning a visit. Thanks for sharing this fantastic destination with us!

Thank you so much. Glad you liked it and found it useful

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Malpe Beach: Famous Coastal Paradise in Karnataka

Malpe Beach, located on the western coast of India, is a pristine stretch of sand that offers an idyllic getaway for travelers seeking tranquility, adventure, and natural beauty. This detailed guide covers everything you need to know about Malpe Beach, including its overview, location, timings, entry fees, transportation options, activities, nearby attractions, significance, history, frequently asked questions, and a comprehensive conclusion. Visit during One Day Udupi Local Sightseeing Trip By Cab

Overview of Malpe Beach

Malpe Beach is one of the most picturesque and serene beaches in Karnataka. Known for its golden sands, clear blue waters, and swaying palm trees, Malpe Beach is an ideal destination for beach lovers, adventure enthusiasts, and those looking to relax by the sea. The beach is also famous for its seafood, water sports, and the scenic St. Mary’s Island, located nearby. Read More Udupi Sri Krishna Temple: Best Spiritual Haven in Coastal Karnataka

Location of Malpe Beach

Malpe Beach is situated in the coastal town of Malpe, approximately 6 kilometers from the city of Udupi in Karnataka, India. It is part of the Udupi district and lies along the Arabian Sea, making it easily accessible from various parts of Karnataka and neighboring states.

Address: Malpe Beach, Malpe, Udupi, Karnataka, India.

Timings and Entry Fees of Malpe Beach

• Malpe Beach is open to visitors 24 hours a day. However, the best time to visit is during daylight hours to enjoy the various activities and scenic views.
• Water sports and other beach activities typically operate from early morning until sunset.

Entry Fees:

• There is no entry fee to visit Malpe Beach. However, certain activities and water sports may have separate charges.

How to Reach Malpe Beach

Malpe Beach is well-connected by air, rail, and road, making it easily accessible for both domestic and international travelers.

• The nearest airport is Mangalore International Airport (IXE), located approximately 60 kilometers from Malpe Beach. It serves both domestic and international flights, connecting Malpe to major cities across India and abroad.
• From Mangalore Airport, you can hire a taxi or use public transportation to reach Malpe Beach.
• The nearest railway station is Udupi Railway Station, located about 6 kilometers from Malpe Beach. Udupi Railway Station is well-connected to major cities like Bangalore, Mumbai, and Chennai.
• From Udupi Railway Station, you can take an auto-rickshaw, taxi, or local bus to reach Malpe Beach.
• Malpe Beach is accessible via well-maintained roads. Regular bus services, as well as taxis and private vehicles, connect Malpe with nearby cities such as Udupi, Mangalore, and Bangalore.
• If driving from Bangalore, take the NH75 and NH169A routes, covering approximately 400 kilometers.

Things to Do at Malpe Beach

• Relax on the Beach:
• Enjoy the serene ambiance of Malpe Beach by lounging on its soft sands, basking in the sun, or taking a leisurely stroll along the shoreline.
• Water Sports:
• Engage in various water sports activities such as jet skiing, parasailing, banana boat rides, and surfing. These activities are available from local operators on the beach.
• Visit St. Mary’s Island:
• Take a short boat ride to St. Mary’s Island, known for its unique basalt rock formations, pristine beaches, and crystal-clear waters. The island is a perfect spot for picnics, photography, and exploring natural beauty.
• Indulge in Seafood:
• Savor delicious seafood at the numerous shacks and restaurants along the beach. Fresh catches of the day are prepared in a variety of local and international styles.
• Beach Volleyball:
• Participate in or watch a game of beach volleyball. The wide stretch of sand makes Malpe Beach an ideal location for this popular beach sport.
• Sunset Views:
• Witness breathtaking sunsets over the Arabian Sea. The vibrant hues of the setting sun create a picturesque scene perfect for photography and relaxation.
• Experience traditional fishing methods by interacting with local fishermen. You can even join them on a fishing trip to learn more about their way of life.

Nearest Tourist Places of Malpe Beach

While visiting Malpe Beach, consider exploring these nearby attractions:

Udupi Sri Krishna Temple: Best Spiritual Haven in Coastal Karnataka

Kaup Beach: Best Coastal Gem of Karnataka

St. Mary’s Island: Best Geological Wonder of Karnataka

Significance and history of malpe beach.

Malpe Beach holds significant cultural and economic importance in the Udupi district. Historically, Malpe has been a major port town, contributing to trade and commerce in the region. The beach and its surroundings have a rich maritime heritage, with fishing being a prominent livelihood for the local communities.

The development of Malpe Beach as a tourist destination has enhanced its significance, attracting visitors with its natural beauty, water sports, and proximity to other cultural landmarks like Udupi Sri Krishna Temple. The beach is also a gateway to St. Mary’s Island, which is geologically significant due to its unique rock formations formed by volcanic activity millions of years ago.

Is Malpe Beach safe for swimming?

A: Yes, Malpe Beach is generally safe for swimming. However, it is advisable to stay within designated swimming areas and follow safety instructions provided by lifeguards.

What is the best time to visit Malpe Beach?

A: The best time to visit Malpe Beach is from October to March, when the weather is pleasant and ideal for beach activities and sightseeing.

Are there accommodation options near Malpe Beach?

A: Yes, there are several accommodation options near Malpe Beach, ranging from budget hotels and guesthouses to luxury resorts, providing comfortable stays for visitors.

Can I rent beach equipment at Malpe Beach?

A: Yes, you can rent beach equipment such as umbrellas, chairs, and sports gear from local vendors along the beach.

Is there parking available at Malpe Beach?

A: Yes, there is ample parking available near Malpe Beach for visitors arriving by private vehicles.

Are pets allowed on Malpe Beach?

A: Pets are generally allowed on Malpe Beach, but it is recommended to keep them on a leash and ensure they do not disturb other visitors.

Malpe Beach is a coastal gem that offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, adventure, and cultural experiences. Whether you seek relaxation on its golden sands, thrill in its water sports, or spiritual solace in nearby temples, Malpe Beach promises an unforgettable experience.

As you explore the serene shores and vibrant marine life, immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage and warm hospitality of the region. Malpe Beach is more than just a destination; it is a journey into the heart of Karnataka’s coastal charm, where every wave tells a story, and every sunset paints a memory.

Plan your visit to Malpe Beach and let its tranquil ambiance and scenic beauty captivate your senses. Whether you are a solo traveler, a family on vacation, or a couple seeking a romantic escape, Malpe Beach welcomes you with open arms and the promise of a memorable seaside retreat.

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Malpe Beach

Label : Top Attraction

Tags : Beach

Timings : Open throughout the day (Best time to visit: October & December)

Time Required : 2-3 hrs

Entry Fee : No entry fee

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Malpe Beach, Udupi Overview

On the top of the list of exquisite unexplored beaches in India is the Malpe beach. It is located at a distance of 66 kilometres from Mangalore and 6 kilometres from Udupi in Karnataka. The pristine white sand, pleasant weather, and the delectable food shacks here and the sea walk make Malpe Beach an ideal spot for a quick escape. The latest addition to the beach by the authorities are the free wifi facilities that is available 24 x 7!

The vast coastline of this hidden gemstone of Karnataka has four rocky islands. The northern-most island is the Daria-Bahadurgad, the middle one is the Daria-Gadara-Kallu, while the southernmost island is the Kari-Illada-Kallu. The fourth rocky island, St. Mary’s Island, is the most famous and frequently visited one. This beach is situated at the mouth of the Udyavara River, which is a small river that flows around this beach and is commonly referred to as the Malpe River by the locals.

Read More on Malpe Beach

Spring zouk festival, activities at malpe beach, water sports, adventure activities, other attractions at malpe beach, best time to visit malpe beach, what to eat at malpe beach, how to reach malpe beach, top hotel collections.

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• Malpe beach
• Places to Visit in Udupi

• Timings : 24 Hours
• Entry Fee : No fee

One of the top places to visit in Udupi , the pristine beauty of Malpe beach is exquisite and uncharted destinations offering a crimson view of nature.  It is situated at a distance of around 10 kilometers from the railway station of Udupi .

Malpe beach is spread across the Malpe port and the Swarna Nandi River, the finest of all beaches in the state of Karnataka. The most talked-about port of Karnataka the Malpe beach is a stretch of endless hues, starting from golden sand to blue sea. The white sand beach of Malpe and the rocky outlet is a secluded section where tourists love to explore from time to time.

It is a lovely destination for exploring boats and swimming if visited.

Malpe beach has a never-ending shoreline which is considered to be the hidden gemstone of the South. There are unbelievable top four beaches located here.

•         The foremost northern side of the beach is the Daria Bahadurgad •         In the middle resides the Daria Gadara Kullu •         In the southernmost part of it lies the Kari Illada Kallu •         The forth is the most talked-about famous location St. Mary’s island 

The main beach came out of the ordinary beach which is situated at the mouth of the river Udyavara, a small river flowing around the beaches. This is referred to as the Malpe river.

This unique amalgamation is a perfect spot for peaceful walks, adventures and pleasant weather conditions.

Malpe beach water sports

Malpe beach is known for its extravagant series of water sports. There is numerous adventurous water sport here which makes the place happening. You will get a variety of water activities accessible which includes the;

•         banana rides •         water scooter rides •         surfing •         speed boat rides •         speed boat cruises 

These can be availed to reach to the St. Mary’s Island from Malpe beach.

Other adventurous activities include,   •         Jet skiing •         Trekking •         White river rafting •         Rock climbing  •         Kayaking •         Parasailing  •         Rappelling •         Sea walk on the Malpe beach

These rides can be explored to travel to various destinations across the virgin beach. The backwater is a fantastic scenic beauty that requires exploration in and around.   Malpe beach parasailing

Parasailing at the lovely Malpe beach is a wonderful view exploring the beauties of nature. You will experience an unmatched beauty flying in the shades of blue. These adventurous offerings have an optimistic pristine view of the Malpe beach will leave you in spellbound condition.

Malpe beach sea walk

Whenever we talk about the sea walk, the first place comes in our mind is Malpe beach sea walk. It is one of the state’s foremost sea walk beaches inaugurated in recent times. Amidst the sea walking through the trail, with the sea on both the sides is a mesmerizing view to witness. The gentle breeze and the loveliness of nature create a much-desired place to visit and explore once you are at Malpe beach.

Other attractions at Malpe beach

Gorgeous sunrise and sunset of Malpe beach, a wonderful view to witness. Apart from this, the reputed and popular temple of Ananteshwara and temple of Balarama is located here. It was built by the Mogaveera king Maindan. The temple has wide long verandas and antique structuring which makes the architecture look amazing.

Off the location of Malpe beach, there is a Daria Bahadurgad Fort, an amazing tourist destination. Exporting of the processed fishes to foreign countries is practiced. The old tile factory is also noticed in this place.

Best time to trip at Malpe beach

To explore the beach it is best if you visit around October to January months. During this time the weather is enjoyable and pleasant for sea walks and exploring the water activities. The sultry summers are not at all pleasant for water sports.

Spring Zouk festival at Malpe Beach

Conducting amazing DJ nights and parties are part of the most attractive fair, Spring Zouk festival.  The countless food options, the multi-cultural blasts, the traditions of the festival are a must-witness view here. The festival name is drawn from the spring season.

The main motive is to promote worldwide music bands and the DJs.  You will find music from classic to modern to folk and tribal songs. If you are planning to visit the beach, in February, then do witness this festival.

Malpe beach foods 

When you are at Malpe beach, you must explore the fantastic tasty seafood. You’ll get lovely multi-cuisine available here at the locals. Selling of coconuts is surplus. Exploring the extravaganza of food here is an added exquisiteness of the beach.

Among the places to visit in Udupi , exploring the fantastic Malpe beach and even the side by location St. Mary’s island is an additional beauty to discover. This stands as a remarkable attraction and a necessary addition to your Udupi Tour Packages.

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10 Amazing Places To Visit In Udupi (2 Days)

Udupi, a coastal town in Karnataka, is a fascinating destination due to the seamless blend of history, culture, traditions, and nature. Tourists who visit this place in the Southern region of India can’t get enough of the blend of Hawaiian and spiritual vibes. With diverse water activities, backwaters, unique beaches, historic temples, and museums, the city has it all. 

If you’re planning a trip to Karnataka and curating your itinerary, don’t worry, we’ve got your back. In this article, we highlight the top 10 amazing places you must visit in Udupi. Let’s get right to it.

Places To Visit In Udupi

Table of Contents

1. Malpe Beach

A trip to Udupi is incomplete without visiting Malpe Beach. Bustling with locals and tourists, Malpe Beach is crowded throughout the year. Scuba diving, flyboarding, cliff diving, slacklining, zorbing, parasailing, speed boating, and much more are available just for you. It’s almost like you’re at a water sports buffet counter. Besides these, you can also witness the floating bridge that gets its name from the architectural design. The bridge is built into the sea, and the creation is nothing less than art.

Just 2 Km from the Malpe beach is the Sea Walk Malpe, a 450 m narrow path from the beach to the sea. From here, you can see ships and boats moving in and out of the harbor.

There are plenty of accommodations and restaurants near the beach. So if you’re planning to stay here for a few days, you can find places around Malpe Beach. 

• Floating bridge entry fee: Rs. 150 per person

2. St. Mary’s Island

A stone’s throw away from Malpe Beach resides St. Mary’s Island. The small isle is known for the basaltic columnar rock formations, which you mustn’t visit on your trip to Udupi. This place alone will take up a lot of time as you can explore a lot. Sometimes you might even find yourself endlessly gazing at certain landscapes, and rightly so. So, we’ve created a separate guide for St. Mary’s Island , and you check it out to know more.

3. Kaup Beach And Lighthouse

Standing tall at 130 feet, Kaup Lighthouse is one of its kind in India. The towering building resides on a rock and offers a view of the Arabian Sea, long stretches of sand on either side and a lush green landscape behind the lighthouse. Above and beyond this, you can also witness the backwaters nearby. The place is open only in the evenings, making it perhaps one of the best spots to watch the sunset.

The beach is also named Kaup and, like Malpe, offers several water sports and adventure activities. A few of those include scuba diving, parasailing, jet skiing, banana riding, bumper riding, etc. The crowd here is sparse compared to Malpe Beach, hence more serene and peaceful.

• Entry Fee for the lighthouse: Rs. 10 for Indians, Rs. 25 for foreigners. Extra charges for still and video cameras.
• Timings: 5 PM to 6:30 PM
• Parking: Available

You can also visit Kodi Lighthouse , open between 4 PM and 5:30 PM, for a similar entry fee. The views differ from both the lighthouses, which we believe is incentive enough for you to visit both.

4. Backwaters Kayaking

Kayaking can be a fun and exciting way to explore the backwaters. You can relax and stay active simultaneously while enjoying the tranquility of nature. As you row through the water, you will surround yourself with green mangroves and the sound of the wildlife and get a sense of belonging. While you have to paddle through and reach the other end, you wouldn’t want to leave the place and its unique atmosphere.

In Udupi, there’s more than one place for you to kayak. In fact, there are three places, including Saligrama , Kundapura, near Kodi Beach , and Kemmannu .

5. Varanga Jain Temple

The Varanga Jain Temple is situated in the middle of a lake and is also known as Kere Basadi, which literally translates to “Lake Temple.” Constructed about 850 years ago, the 12th-century Jain temple is accessible only via boat. Coconut trees surround the abode of god, and you can marvel at the majestic mountain ranges forming the temple’s natural backdrop. While going in the boat, be careful as numerous fish and snakes are in the water here. 

The main deity of this temple is Parshwanatha, the 23rd Tirthankar. The unique shrine is also called Chaturmukha Basadi, as it has four entrances, housing one deity on each side. The four gods are Parshvanatha, Neminatha, Shantinatha, and Anantanatha.

• Timings: 7 AM – 1 PM, 3:30 PM – 6 PM
• Entry fee: Rs. 10 per person (includes the boat ride)
• Restroom facilities: Available

Here are a few things to note – We recommend you go as early as possible. Mobile cameras are only allowed. You are allowed to carry DSLR and professional cameras but are prohibited from taking pictures. There are no shops nearby. So, make arrangements for food, water, and other liquids.

6. St. Lawrence Shrine Basilica

St. Lawrence Shrine Basilica or Attur Basilica is a 17th-century old Roman Catholic church that welcomes people from all religions. The European-style architecture is exquisite, and you can’t take your eyes off the marvelous architecture. 

Every inch of the interior and facade carries an archaic vibe, and architects and history buffs must visit the Basilica. You can buy gift items from the church store and visit the miracle pond right behind the church.

• Timings: 6 AM – 8 PM
• Entry fee: Free

7. Kudlu Theertha Falls

Located in the Someshwara Wildlife Sanctuary on the road connecting Udupi and Agumbe, Kudlu Theertha is a 300 m tall waterfall. You must hike to reach these falls, and the trail will take you through the forests, wherein towering trees form a canopy of leaves and provide shade to passersby. The terrain is a good blend of streams, steps, flat land, and steep surfaces. Overall, the adventurer in you will be satisfied.

People come here from Agumbe, Udupi, and nearby places. At the entrance, there are snacks and fresh drinks. Note that there are plenty of leeches during the monsoons, so carry salt with you and be careful while hiking.

• Timings: 9 AM – 3 PM
• Duration of hike: 40 mins – 1 hour to reach the waterfalls, 30 mins while returning
• Entry fee: Rs. 50 for Indian adults, Rs. 25 for kids below 6 years, and Rs. 100 for foreigners. Extra charges for the camera.
• Restroom: Available near the parking lot.
• Parking: Rs. 15 for two-wheelers, Rs. 20 for autos, Rs. 50 for cars and jeeps, Rs. 100 for bus

You can also visit the Durga Falls, Parapaadi Arbi Falls, Jomlu Theertha Falls, Belkallu Theertha Falls, and Gogi Gundi Falls, which are spread in the Udupi district.

Note: At the entrance, bags are thoroughly checked for plastics which are prohibited inside the premises.

8. Mattu Beach

A unique stretch of coastal beaches with sea and river on either side of the highway lies Mattu Beach, Maravanthe Beach, and Pithrody Udyavar Beach. The equidistant stones laid on the golden shores create a contrasting image, thus pleasing your eyes.  You only need a ride along this shoreline to witness the picturesque landscape. People come here from different places to click photographs, shoot videos with a drone, and more. But, the place isn’t merely for tourists but also for explorers who want to get away from city life for some time.

9. Udupi Shri Krishna Temple

Dedicated to the Hindu god Krishna (an avatar of Lord Vishnu), the Shri Krishna temple is one of the important pilgrimage sites for Hindus in Karnataka State. The temple is known for its intricate architecture and is believed to be over 1000 years old.

• Entry Fees: Free
• Timings: 4:30 AM – 10 PM, 5 PM – 9 PM

Free food is served to devotees every day. Know the etiquette before visiting Hindu temples .

10. Hasta Shilpa Heritage Village Museum

Hasta Shilpa Heritage Village Museum is for you if you love architecture, culture, and history. It is an open-air museum and a cultural complex with 23 houses portraying the nation’s cultural wealth in all its glory. The place has preserved traditional buildings, art, and artifacts of fine craftsmanship. Information about each architecture is described near the entrance of each house.

The detailing of each wall, floor, ceiling, furniture, etc., is complex. As soon as you enter a house, you hear a classical song or an instrument being played in the background matching the locale from where the house originally came. All these elements together transport you back to those days when people used to actually live.

• Entry Fees: Rs. 300 for adults, Rs. 150 for students (ID proof required), and children above 10 years. Free for kids below 10 years. Extra charges for the camera.
• Timings: 10 AM – 5 PM. The last entry is at 3 PM
• Duration of the Tour: 2 hours

Note: The entry passes are available online or at the counter at the Museum. The entry passes are non-refundable once issued.

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Twins - Agalya and Atchaya

Agalya and Atchaya are the owners and authors of TwinsOnToes, a travel blog that helps travelers explore smarter, longer, and more affordably. With a wealth of experience from traveling since 2017 and writing over 350 blog posts, their tips and insights reflect a deep passion for the great outdoors. When not blogging about their favorite destinations, they are often found hiking remote trails or seeking out thrilling adventures.

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Wow, what an insightful post on the hidden gems of Udupi! As someone who loves exploring off-the-beaten-path destinations, this article really caught my attention. The way you’ve described each place and its unique charm is truly captivating.

I’ve always been intrigued by the rich cultural heritage and serene landscapes of Karnataka, and your blog post has given me even more reasons to visit Udupi. From the tranquil vibes of St. Mary’s Island to the awe-inspiring architecture of Sri Krishna Temple, each destination seems like a must-visit.

I particularly appreciate the inclusion of practical tips and recommendations for travelers. It’s evident that a lot of thought and effort went into curating this list. I’ll definitely be bookmarking this page for future reference when planning my trip to Udupi.

Thank you for sharing these hidden treasures with us! Looking forward to reading more of your travel adventures.

Thanks Harshal for taking time to comment. We’re glad that you found it useful. The whole aim of this blog is to help people with complete and right information.

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42 Amazing Places To Visit In Udupi – Udupi Travel Guide

Udupi in the southern Indian state of Karnataka offers many experiences, the places to visit in Udupi range from temples to beaches & much more.

Udupi is more than just a destination . Yes, there are many places to visit in Udupi and its surroundings, Udupi offers a plethora of experiences that range from the spiritual to the epicurean. But what makes Udupi different from any other tourist destination, is the fact that the name, “Udupi”, has become an integral part of Indian culture and nomenclature. Thanks to the ubiquitous and enterprising Udupi Restaurants across the country that have redefined the meaning of breakfast and evolved a unique cuisine , Udupi has become a household name. Udupi district is indeed the crest jewel of the coast of Karnataka .

Table of Contents

Places To Visit In Udupi – Udupi Travel Guide

Udupi along with other districts of coastal Karnataka has also been the cradle of Banking in India and has nurtured many a bank that grew into monoliths in the industry. Udupi District has also fostered the growth of what is known as the “ Campus Town of India “, the cosmopolitan university town of Manipal . A student town and center of education Manipal is known to be one of the most cosmopolitan towns in India and is located within Udupi District and is administered by the Udupi City Municipality.

Places To Visit In Udupi – A Travelers Paradise | Udupi Tourist Places | Best Places To Visit Near Udupi

Udupi for many is synonymous with the Krishna Temple known as the Shri Krishna Matha or Udupi Krishna Matha . The Krishna Matha was established in Udupi in the 13th century by the philosopher-saint, Mahavacharya. The temple is one of the principal pilgrimage sites in India and the Matha a leading proponent of the Dvaita philosophy of Madhavacharya. What Adi Shankracharya is to the Advaita philosophy of Hinduism, Madhavacharya is for the Dvaita philosophy.

In many ways, Udupi seems to reflect the persona of Lord Krishna himself. The Lord is known for his multiple personalities, he was at once a friend, philosopher, guide and teacher, lover, husband, an innocent and mischievous child, a master-strategist, and much more. Udupi too means different things to different people. For some it is a center of spiritual learning and salvation, for some, it is the place to indulge in their epicurean fantasies, while for others Udupi means a holiday on the beach in one of the many beach resorts in the region.

About Udupi – Places To Visit In Udupi

Udupi is the name of the city which is the headquarters of a district in the southern Indian state of Karnataka by the same name. Udupi is associated with the famous Udupi Krishna temple also known as Udupi Sri Krishna Matha that was founded by Madhavacharya , the founder and proponent of the Dvaita school of Hindu Vedanta philosophy , in the 13th century.

However, the history of Udupi dates back even beyond the time of Madhavacharya. It was a center of learning and Vedic studies with two temples that preexisted the Udupi Krishna temple. These were the temples of Shri Ananteshwara and Shri Chandramouleeshwara , which are believed to date back to the 8th century.

Geographically Udupi is located on the coast of Karnataka. It is bounded by the Arabian Sea on one side and by the districts of Kundapura, Karkala, and Dakshina Kannada on the other three sides. Udupi is an important destination on the tourist map of Karnataka . Udupi temples, Udupi cuisine, Udupi culture, and the many weekend getaways from Udupi, make Udupi in Karnataka, an irresistible attraction for all types of travelers.

Udupi has something to offer for everyone including adventure seekers, lovers of heritage, nature lovers, beach lovers, religious travelers, and spiritually inclined travelers. We hope this Udupi blog post serves as a complete Udupi travel guide and helps you plan your Udupi trip and Udupi itinerary.

Best Places To Visit In Udupi | Udupi Sightseeing | Udupi Attractions | Udupi Tourist Places

Udupi District is a place that is teeming with attractions and there can be not a single dull moment with so many things to do in Udupi. The must visit places in Udupi and nearby include some of the best beaches, heritage sites, and museums, nature and wildlife sites, and much more. Things to do in Udupi range from worshipping at religious places, water sports, trekking and hiking, cultural events and festivals, indulging in local cuisine, and much more.

Temples In Udupi | Udupi Spiritual Tourism | Udupi Religious Tourism

Udupi is a blessed land. The presence of numerous ancient temples, Churches, Mosques and Jain temples drape the region in an aura of spirituality and mysticism. People of different religions and beliefs flock Udupi district with devotion in their hearts and hope in their eyes. Here are some of the important religious centers in Udupi and nearby.

• Udupi Krishna Matha
• Ananteshwar Temple
• Chandramoulishwar Temple
• Anegudde Vinayaka Temple
• Shree Durga Devi Temple
• Sri Brahmi Durga Parameshwari Temple
• Shri Amruteshwari Temple
• Shri Indrani Panchadurga Parameshwari Temple
• Sri Mookambika Temple Kollur
• Mahalinga Temple Brahmavara
• Mahisha Mardini Temple
• Sri Kantheshwara Temple
• St. Lawrence Church
• Gomateshwara Karkala
• Chaturmukha Basadi
• Neminath Basadi
• Matada Basadi

1. Udupi Sri Krishna Matha

The Udupi Sri Krishna Matha is in many ways synonymous with Udupi. Though the history of Udupi goes back in time, beyond the Udupi Sri Krishna temple. its development as a city goes hand in hand with the establishment of the Udupi Sri Krishna Matha and the Ashta Mathas of Udupi by Madhavacharya in the 13th century. The temple is in many ways the epicenter of Udupi and the city has developed around it.

Legend has it that the Udupi Krishna Matha was established by Madhavacharya when he received the idol of Krishna in child form as a gift from a ship that had sailed all the way from Dwarka in Gujarat . The Udupi Krishna story is really fascinating and tells how the idol that had been buried in the forests of Rukmini Vana of Dwarka for centuries landed in Udupi.

The idol was installed and the famous Udupi Krishna Temple was born. The Udupi Krishna temple is one of the top places to visit in Udupi.

Distance From Udupi Krishna Temple : 0 Kilometers

2. Ananteshwar Temple

The Ananteshwar temple is an ancient temple in Udupi, dating back to the 8th century. It is situated very near to the Udupi Krishna temple. It is a custom to visit the Shree Ananteshwara temple before visiting the Udupi Krishna temple. The ancient temple was where Madhavacharya used to worship and preach the doctrines of Dvaita Vedanta. Lord Vishnu is worshipped here in the form of a Shiva Linga , which in itself is unique. The Shree Ananteshwara temple is one of the very important and sacred places to visit in Udupi .

Distance From Udupi Krishna Temple: 38 Meters

3 .  Chandramoulishwar Temple

Another important ancient temple that is believed to date back to around the same time as the Shree Ananteshwara temple, is the Shiva temple known as Chandramouleeshwara temple . According to legends the Moon God who was under a curse by his father-in-law Daksha Prajapati worshipped Lord Shiva here and was relieved of the curse by the grace of Shiva. The place where Shiva appeared before the Moon was hence considered sacred and is marked by the Shree Chandramouleeshwara temple.

It is a custom to first visit the Chandramouleeshwara temple followed by a visit to the Ananteshwara temple and finally the Udupi Krishna temple. This order of visiting the temples is followed by the pontiffs of Udupi Sri Krishna Matha during the Paryaya festival.

Distance From Udupi Krishna Temple: 9 Meters

4. Anegudde Vinayaka Temple

The Aanegudde Shree Vinayaka Temple is located in a village named Kumbhashi about 31 kilometers from Udupi. A temple dedicated to Ganesha stands atop a hill. The place is also referred to as Mukti Sthala and is very sacred to Ganesha devotees. A unique feature of the Anegudde Vinayaka temple is that the idol of Ganesha is in a standing position. Two hands of the deity are lifted in Varada Mudra or a gesture of granting boons. There are two other hands that point downwards, signaling salvation.

Distance From Udupi Krishna Temple: 31 Kilometers

5. Shree Durga Devi Temple

The Durga Devi temple is located in the village of Kunjari about 12 kilometers from Udupi Krishna temple. The temple stands on the top of the hill called Kujarigiri, or Durgabetta, or Vimanagiri. Legend has it that the idol of Durga in the temple was installed by Lord Parashurama himself. The place is considered to be very sacred because of this. it is also very near to Paajaka Kshetra, the place of Madhavacharya’s birth . The Shree Durga Devi temple is another of the holy places to visit in Udupi.

Distance From Udupi Krishna Temple: 12 Kilometers

6. Sri Brahmi Durga Parameshwari Temple

The Brahmi Durga Parameshwari temple is located in the village of Kamalashile in the Kundapura taluk of the Udupi district. It is a very ancient temple and is set amidst picturesque natural surroundings. Here the Goddess has worshipped in the form of a stone Linga. The name Kamalashile is derived from this Linga itself. The Linga is believed to be the convergence of the Goddesses Mahakali, Mahalakshmi, and Mahasaraswati.

Distance From Udupi Krishna Temple: 69 Kilometers

7. Shree Amruteshwari Temple

Shree Amruteshwari temple is dedicated to the divine mother known here as Amruteshwari. The temple is located in the coastal town of Kota in the Brahmavar taluk within the Udupi district. The temple has a beautiful idol of the Goddess. The temple is visited by devotees desirous of progeny who worship here. Ritualistic worship of the many self-manifested Shiva Lingas in the temple is said to ensure that the prayers of the devotees for progeny are granted. Kota happens to be the birthplace of the noted Kannada playwright and Jnanpith Award winner Shivarama Karanth.

Distance From Udupi Krishna Temple: 25 Kilometers

8. Sri Indrani Panchadurga Parameshwari Temple

Sri Indrani Panchadurga Parameshwari Temple is a beautiful and tranquil temple to Goddess Durga resting on the top of a small hill. It is believed to be one of only two temples that exist that are dedicated to Panchadurga. If you are looking for some quiet time, then the temple is a must-visit place in Udupi. It is one of the lesser-known temples in Udupi and hence lesser crowded too.

Distance From Udupi Krishna Temple: 4 Kilometers

9. Sri Mookambika Temple Kollur

The famous Mookambika Temple is located within the Udupi district, in the Kundapura Taluk. It is a temple where Adishakti resides in the form of a Linga. There is a beautiful image of the Goddess Mookambika Devi, a form of Durga, made of Pancha Loha. The deity holds the Shankha and Chakra in two of her hands while the other pair of hands are raised in a gesture of blessings. In front of the image of Mookambika Devi is the gold-lined Swayambu Linga.

It is believed that Shree Kshetra of Kollur is one of the seven abodes of salvation created by Lord Parashurama. The Mookambika temple and the Shree Kshetra are believed to have been set up by Adi Shankaracharya . The temple also has a Shankracharya Peetha towards the western side of the sanctum.

Distance From Udupi Krishna Temple: 75 Kilometers

10. Mahalinga Temple Brahmavara

The Mahalinga Temple is believed to date back to the 9th century. It is a Shiva temple located in Brahmavar within the Udupi district. Brahmavara is an ancient cultural center of the region and was known earlier as Ajapura. The temple is considered very sacred.

11. Mahisha Mardini temple

The Kadiyali Shri Mahishamardini temple in Udupi is believed to be as old as the temples of Ananteshwara and Chandramouleeshwara. The temple is believed to date back to the 7th or 8th centuries. A beautiful statue of the Goddess killing the demon Mahishaasura who has fallen at her feet can be seen in the sanctum of the temple. It is believed that the statue of the Goddess is made in the style that was prevalent during the rule of the Chalukyas in the region. The temple is believed to be a very important center of Shakti worship.

Distance From Udupi Krishna Temple: 1 Kilometer

12. Sri Kantheshwara Temple Kanthavara

The Sri Kantheshwara temple is located in the village of Kanthavara in the Karkala taluk of the Udupi district. It is an ancient Shiva temple and is considered to be very sacred and auspicious. The Shiva Linga which is the main deity of the temple is said to change colors thrice during the day. In addition to the Shiva Linga, there is an idol of Ardhanarishwara and Ganesha. Yakshagana artistes worship this Ganesha before starting their programs .

Distance From Udupi Krishna Temple: 44 Kilometers

13. St. Lawrence Church

A beautiful church with a divine facade greets visitors to the village of Attur, in Karkala Taluk of Udupi district. This is the St. Lawrence Church or the St. Lawrence Shrine Minor Basilica. It is a Roman Catholic church that was built in the year 1759. As beautiful as the facade are the interiors of the old church. The spacious church with stained glass windows has an ethereal aura about it. Within the premises of the church is located a pond which is said to work miracles and is named Miracle Pond.

The Basilica is known for its annual festival that is known as, “ Attur Jatre “. The occasion sees huge crowds from different religions and faiths thronging the Church. It is an event that is both religious as well as cultural. The St. Lawerence Minor Basilica is one of the most beautiful places to visit in the Udupi district. The St. Lawrence Minor Basilica rekindles memories of the churches of Goa .

Distance From Udupi Krishna Temple: 36 Kilometers

14. Gomateshwara, Karkala

The coastal region of Karnataka has harbored and cradled different religions and cultures across the span of history. If on the one hand Hinduism in the form of Sanatana Dharma flourished, the oldest religions of the world like Jainism also grew roots here. Karkala was a center of power during the Alupas and then the Santaras who were patrons of Jainism . The Karkala royal family rose to power and held sway over the region,

A 41.5 feet granite monolithic statue of Bahubali or Gomateshwara presides over Karkala with its towering presence. The statue is believed to have been consecrated in 1432 AD, by Veera Rasa Bhairarasa Wodeyar who was a feudatory ruler of the Vijayanagara Empire . The Karkala Gomateshwara has a height of 41.5 feet while the one at Shravanabelagola in Hassan district has a height of about 56 feet. The Gomateshwara statue of Karkala is one of the sights which makes Karkala one of the most fascinating places to visit in Udupi.

Distance From Udupi Krishna Temple: 42 Kilometers

15. Chaturmukha Basadi/Kere Basadi Varanga

The heritage sites and Jain temples are strewn across coastal Karnataka. They are testimony to the proliferation of Jainism in the region. Varanga is a small hamlet in the Hebri taluk of the Udupi district and is known for its Jain temples, they are collectively known as Varanga Jain temple and date back to over 1000 years in history.

One of the most beautiful and scenic of the Varanga Jain temples is the Chaturmukha Basadi also known as Kere Basadi or Lake temple of Varanga . The temple is dedicated to Padmavati who is the Yakshini of the Jain Tirthankara. Parshvanatha . The idols of Neminatha, Shantinatha, and Anantnatha are also found in the Kere Basadi of Varanga. The four Tirthankaras are facing the four cardinal directions. The Kere Basadi stands in the middle of a lake and can be reached only by boat. A visit to the Kere Basadi in an experience in tranquility. It is truly one of the most beautiful offbeat places to visit in Udupi.

Distance From Udupi Krishna Temple: 40 Kilometers

16. Neminath Basadi/Hire Basadi Varanga

The Neminatha Basadi is an ancient Jain temple that is dedicated to Bhagawan Neminatha who is the 22nd Tirthankara of Jainism. The Neminatha Basadi is also known as Hire Basadi and is located near the Kere Basadi not far from the banks of the lake. The temple is dated to the 8th or 9th century and has many ancient inscriptions which throw light on the history of the Jain temple as well as the emergence of Jainism in the region.

17. Matada Basadi Varanga

The third of the Basadis of the Varanga Jain temple is the Matada Basadi or Chandranatha Basadi . The Jain temple is dedicated to Bhagawan Chandraprabha who is the 8th Jain Tirthankara. The office of the trust that administers and runs the Jain temples of Varanga is located here. The temples are managed by the Hombuja Jain Math which is headed by the pontiff of the Math, Dr, Shri. Deevendrakeerthi Bhattaraka Swamiji.

18. Pajaka, Birth Place of Madhavacharya

The land of Udupi is blessed that many great and noble souls have walked on it. One such learned and noble soul was Madhavacharya, who is considered as an avatar of Hanuman and Bheema. Madhavacharya was instrumental in setting up the Udupi Sri Krishna Matha and propounding the doctrines of the Dvaita philosophy . The great Madhavacharya was born in Pajaka, a village in the Udupi district .

The ancestral home and also the birthplace of Madhavacharya in Paajaka is a revered place of pilgrimage for many. The place has a banyan tree that is believed to have been planted by Madhavacharya, himself. There are many places related to Madhavacharya and his miracles in and around Pajaka. There is a temple dedicated to Madhavacharya at the place where he is supposed to have been born. One of the most sacred places to visit in Udupi is Pajaka, the birthplace of Madhavacharya.

Distance From Udupi Krishna Temple: 13 Kilometers

Udupi Beaches | Best Beach In Udupi | Famous Beach In Udupi | Best Places To Visit Near Udupi

Udupi is located on the coast of the Arabian Sea boasts of many beautiful and serene beaches . Some of these beaches are well-known Udupi tourist places while there are many beaches that are lesser-known and are well-kept secrets. waiting to be explored.

• St. Mary’s Island
• Malpe Beach
• Delta Beach
• Ottinene Beach
• Pithrody Udyavar Beach
• Mattu Beach
• Padubidri Beach
• Maravanthe Beach

19. Saint Mary Island Udupi

Saint Mary’s Island located off the coast of Malpe near Udupi is a lovely and dreamy looking island. It has some pristine beaches and the island promises a secluded and tranquil experience in the midst of nature. The island is known for its columnar basalt rock formations which are said to be more than 80 billion years. The island is reached by a ferry from Malpe beach. St Mary Island In Udupi is one of the most serene places to visit in Udupi. This island near Udupi promises a unique experience that cannot be had anywhere else in Karnataka, making it the best place to visit in Udupi.

20. Malpe Beach

Malpe beach is the nearest beach to the town of Udupi. It is a nice beach that also offers water sports facilities for those looking to yield to the adrenaline rush. Water sports at Malpe beach include Parasailing, Jet Skiing, Banana Boat riding, etc. The long stretch of golden sands fringed with swaying palm trees makes Malpe beach a favorite haunt for couples and families alike. Malpe beach is indeed one of the best Udupi tourist attractions, and a great place to indulge in adventure sports .

Distance From Udupi Krishna Temple: 8 Kilometers

21. Kapu/Kaup Beach

A gorgeous beach with few footfalls is the Kapu or Kaup beach . White sands washed by the turquoise waters of the Arabian sea and hardly any crowds make this beach an enchanting one. Stray boulders lying in the sand add drama to the landscape, while an almost 100-year-old lighthouse dominates the skyline. Spectacular and panoramic views of the beach and the sea await at the top of the lighthouse . For those interested in Scuba diving , this can be done off the Kapu beach, and there is an adventure company with an office near the beach which curates the experience.

Distance From Udupi Krishna Temple: 16 Kilometers

22. Kodi Bengre Beach | Bengre Beach | Delta Beach

A delightful and pleasant surprise awaits visitors to the sleepy village of Kodi Bengre. This is the beautiful and virginal beach that is known by many names. Delta Beach to some and Bengre Beach or Kodi Bengre beach for others. The place is where the Suvarna river keeps its rendezvous with the Arabian Sea and merges with it. The beach is one of Udupi’s well-kept secrets and one of the best places to visit near Udupi.

Distance From Udupi Krishna Temple: 18 Kilometers

23. Baindur Beach/Ottinene Beach

Baindur or Byndoor is a lovely seaside getaway not far from Udupi. Apart from lovely virgin beaches that offer complete seclusion, Baindur is only 28 kilometers from the famous Mookambika temple of Kollur. There are many beaches near Baindur including the Ottinene beach or Byndoor beach.

One can spend hours watching the waves of the Arabian sea caressing the white sands, or take a walk on the beach, or indulge in water sports. There are some resorts that provide direct access to the beach including the beautiful Sai Vishram Beach Resort . One can watch the fisherfolk go about their work in the mornings or head up to a higher elevation to catch a sunrise. It makes for a lovely weekend getaway from Udupi and is one of the most beautiful places to visit near Udupi.

Distance From Udupi Krishna Temple: 74 Kilometers

24. Pithrody Udyavar beach

Another lesser-known gem very near Udupi is Pithrody Udyavar Beach . This beach nestles near the village of Pithrody and is untouched by commercial trappings. If you want to lose yourself in the symphony of sea, sand, and surf, without a single wrong note, then the Pithrody Udyava beach is sure to be like music to your ears.

25. Mattu Beach

If you are chasing a dream, then you must head to Mattu Beach . A place that is sure to fuel your imagination with its pristine beauty. A place that is near to the city and yet seems far away from the madding crowds. The beach runs parallel to the road and is fringed with graceful palm trees wilting in the breeze. A great place to be hypnotized by the setting sun and if you are lucky and stay back after sunset, chances are you may be treated to a visual delight. An experience of watching the phenomenon of bio-luminescence.

26. Padubidri Beach

Padubidri Beach is one of the 2 Blue Flag certified beaches in Karnataka. Of a total of 8 blue flag-certified beaches in India , two are in the state of Karnataka. Padubidri beach along with the Kasarkod beach are the two blue flag-certified beaches in Karnataka.

If you are looking for an exciting fusion of adventure and serenity, then this beach is just for you. Long stretches of virgin sand, turquoise waves lapping at your feet, and water sports is what the Padubidri beach offers. The beach also adheres to high standards of safety and cleanliness, which of course is a prerequisite to be blue flag certified

Distance From Udupi Krishna Temple: 28 Kilometers

27. Maravanthe Beach

The Maravanthe beach is located in the Byndoor Taluk of Udupi district and is one of the well-known beaches of the region. The beach embellishes one side of Maravanthe village while the Suparnika river meanders by on the other. The beauty of the river and the sea together is a unique visual experience. The river almost touches the sea at Maravanthe and then takes a dramatic U-turn to flow for another ten kilometers before finally merging with the Arabian Sea. The beautiful Maravanthe beach beckons travelers with its raw and untouched beauty, making it one of the best places to visit in Udupi.

Distance From Udupi Krishna Temple: 50 Kilometers

Museums In Udupi

Museums anywhere in the world are windows to the history , heritage , arts, and architecture, as well as the culture of a place. Udupi too has its share of diverse and fascinating museums that reveal interesting insights into its history, heritage, and culture:

• Hasta Shilpa Heritage Village Museum
• Manipal Museum of Anatomy and Pathology
• Dr. Shivram Karanth Theme Park Kota
• Corporation Bank Coin Museum
• Culinary Arts Museum Manipal

28. Hastashilpa Heritage Village Museum

One of the unique places to visit in Udupi is without a doubt, the Hastashilpa Heritage Village Museum that is located in Manipal. The museum is a wonderful curation of heritage structures that have been painstakingly collected over the years and assembled into 26 heritage structures. If you want to walk into the lost chapters of the history of the region, a visit to this wonderful museum is a must.

The museum is the brainchild of a man who was professionally a banker but was passionate about the vanishing art and architecture of coastal Karnataka. The man was Vijaynath Shenoy, and the Hastashilpa Heritage Village Museum stands as a silent and magnificent ode to his dream.

Distance From Udupi Krishna Temple: 5 Kilometers

29.Manipal Museum of Anatomy & Pathology

Manipal Museum of Anatomy & Pathology is a unique museum that is part of the Kasturba Gandhi Medical College of Manipal. The museum attracts not only visitors and students from the medical fraternity, but also lay tourists. It is said to be the largest museum of its kind in the world. The museum houses more than 3,000 specimens . The anatomy section displays parts of the human body from head to toe along with skeletons of different animals. The Pathology section displays diseased body parts and organs and also has a section dedicated to lifestyle-related diseases.

30. Dr. Shivram Karanth Theme Park Kota

Dr. Shivram Karanth Theme Park Kota is a unique theme Park that keeps alive the memory of this legend of Karnataka. Dr. Shivaram Karanth was a renowned playwright and Jnanpith Award winner from Karnataka . He was born in the village of Kota. His ancestral home no longer exists but the Dr. Shivaram Karanth Theme Park keeps his memories alive.

The Theme Park consists of a beautifully landscaped garden with different sculptures and also statues of Dr. Karanth. Some of the sculptures depict iconic characters from his novels. There is a life-size sculpture of Choma from the classic Kannada movie, “ Chomana Dudi “, which was based on his work. Then again you can find, “Ajji of Mookajjiya Kanasugalu, an epic novel that brought the great playwright, the coveted Jnanpith Award. A library and art gallery are part of the theme park and various literary events are organized here from time to time.

Distance From Udupi Krishna Temple: 24 Kilometers

31. Corporation Bank Heritage Museum (Coin Museum)

A unique museum to visit in Udupi is the Corporation Bank Heritage Museum also known as Coin Museum . The museum is housed in the house of the founder of Corporation Bank, Mr. Haji Abdullah Saheb. The museum is a “Financial Temple”, of sorts in the temple town of Udupi. The museum documents the history of the bank from its inception in 1906. It has a collection of coins from across the world and is one of the fascinating places to visit in Udupi for numismatists and those interested in the history and growth of banking in India.

32. Culinary Arts Museum Manipal

The Culinary Arts Museum is housed within the campus of the Welcomgroup Graduate School of Hotel Administration. It is a unique museum that showcases a collection of culinary artifacts from across the world. The museum is the brainchild of celebrity chef Vikas Khanna.

The museum is spread over an area of 25,000 square feet. It showcases various kitchen utensils and other artifacts related to cooking from different regions of India. A 100-year-old Ladle that was used in temples, bowls that date back to the Harappan age, a variety of tea strainers, Samovars, and much more are part of an intriguing collection

Distance From Udupi Krishna Temple: 5 Kilometer

Heritage & Monuments

The rich and varied heritage of India is nothing less than a revelation. Karnataka too has a rich and diverse heritage that expresses itself in all its color in the culture and heritage of the coastal region.

• Daria Bahadurgad Fort
• Kathale Basadi Barkur
• Chowlikere Ganapathy Temple
• Hattiangadi
• Suralu Palace

33. Daria Bahadurgad Fort

Not far from Malpe Beach near Udupi is a small island known as Daria Bahadurgad Island . On this small island stands a fort which is believed to have been constructed by Basvappa Naik many years ago. Apart from the fort the island also has an old tile factory. The Daria Bahadurgad Fort can be reached by boat from Malpe beach.

Distance From Udupi Krishna Temple: 7 Kilometer

34. Kathale Basadi, Barkur

Another gem of the past in Barkur is the Kathale Basadi . Originally a Jain temple with an idol of Lord Mahavira , the temple later had idols of Hindu Gods like Vishnu and Shiva. A testimony to the seamless integration of different faiths and dynasties with the passage of time. The Kathale Basadi is dated to a period between the 8th and 12th centuries by archaeologists. The temple is believed to have been built by the rulers of the Alupa dynasty.

Barkur also has the remains of an ancient fort that is believed to have been built by Harihara I, the founder of the Vijayanagara Empire. The fort though is hardly visible now and only some parts of the wall exist surrounding a vast open plot of land.

Distance From Udupi Krishna Temple: 20 Kilometers

35. Chowlikere Ganapathy Temple, Barkur

Barkur was the ancient capital of the Alupa dynasty that ruled the region around the coast of Karnataka between the 2nd century CE and 15th century CE. The place has a rich legacy of heritage from the various chapters of the history of the region. One of these is the Chowlikere Ganapathy temple which is believed to be more than 900 years old .

36. Hattiangadi

Hattiangadi is a village that is situated in the Kundapura Taluk of the Udupi district. It is famous for the 8th century dedicated to the Hindu God Ganesha. The temple is the famous Siddhi Vinayaka Temple. The small village was once the capital of the Alupa dynasty. One can find many ancient Hindu temples and Jain Basadis in and around the village of Hattiangadi.

Distance From Udupi Krishna Temple: 43 Kilometers

37. Suralu Palace

A 600-year-old mud palace dating back to the Jain dynasty Tolarhar is a heritage site in the village of Suralu. The Suralu Palace is a beautiful structure made of mud and wood and has been restored partially. The Suralu palace is one of the fascinating places to visit in Udupi, especially for those with a keen interest in ancient history and architecture.

Distance From Udupi Krishna Temple: 26 Kilometers

Nature & Wildlife

Karnataka, true to its tagline of, “one state, many worlds,” is a state with diverse attractions. This is also true of the Udupi district. While on the one hand, the temples and beaches of Udupi spin an irresistible web of beauty and serenity, nature and wildlife in Udupi and the vicinity too does not fail to enthrall visitors to the region.

• Kudlu Theertha Falls
• Jomlu Theertha
• Someshwara Wildlife Sanctuary
• Mookambika Wildlife Sanctuary

38. Kudlu Theertha Falls

The enchanting Koodlu Theertha waterfalls mesmerize you when you reach it after a trek into the deep forest in which it lies. The water cascades in spectacular fashion from a height of about 300 feet and forms a pond at the point of its fall. The place is tranquility personified and visitors get to connect directly with nature.

Distance From Udupi Krishna Temple: 53 Kilometers

40. Jomlu Teertha

Jomlu Theertha Falls is a beautiful waterfall created by the Sita river is located within the Someshwara Wildlife Sanctuary near the village of Belve. It is a small waterfall as compared to the Koodlu Theertha falls, but beautiful nonetheless. This is the second waterfall created by the Sita river, the other being the bigger and more spectacular Koodlu Theertha falls. This is a nice place and makes for a great outing, It is a favorite of locals as well as tourists to Udupi.

Distance From Udupi Krishna Temple: 37 Kilometers

41. Someshwara Wildlife Sanctuary

The Someshwara Wildlife Sanctuary spans the districts of Udupi and Shivamogga and nestles on the Western Ghats. The sanctuary gets its name from a temple that is located within the sanctuary. Wildlife including Bengal Tigers, Leopards, Elephants, Jackals , etc., can be found in the wildlife sanctuary. Birds including the Great Indian Hornbill, Malabar Trogon, Malabar Grey Hornbill , etc., can be found in the sanctuary. Other famous places near the Someshwara Wildlife Sanctuary include the Agumbe Sunset Point and many waterfalls.

Distance From Udupi Krishna Temple: 47 Kilometers

42. Mookambika Wildlife Sanctuary

The Mookambika Wildlife Sanctuary stretches across an area of 274 square kilometers in the Udupi district. The sanctuary stretches across the Western Ghats and has in its fold the famous Kollur Mookambika temple as well as the Kodachadri Hills. The sanctuary is home to varied flora and fauna. It is a mix of evergreen forests, semi-evergreen forests, deciduous forests, and grasslands.

The wildlife in the sanctuary includes Tigers, Leopards, Sloth Bears, and other animals. There are many beautiful waterfalls within the sanctuary created by the rivers Chakra and Souparnika that flow through the sanctuary. The Mookambika Wildlife Sanctuary is one of the best places to visit in Udupi for nature and wildlife enthusiasts .

Distance From Udupi Krishna Temple: 81 Kilometers

How to Get To Udupi | Reaching Udupi

Udupi City Location Map

Mangalore to udupi route map – directions, bangalore to udupi route map – directions, hubli to udupi route map – directions.

• Udupi is located in the southern Indian state of Karnataka and is a city as well as district by the same name
• Udupi is about 60 kilometers from Mangalore or Mangaluru
• Bangalore To Udupi distance is about 405 kilometers
• Hubli To Udupi distance is about 304 kilometers

There is no airport in Udupi, the nearest airport to Udupi is the Mangalore International Airport in Mangalore which is around 59 kilometers away. One can fly to Mangalore and hire a cab to drive down to Udupi.

Udupi is on the Konkan Railway Line which connects the states of Maharashtra, Goa , and Karnataka. There are trains from Mumbai to Udupi and vice-versa, trains from places like Pune, Chandigarh , Nizamuddin, and places in Kerala pass through Udupi.

Udupi is well connected by road to all parts of India.

If you are thinking of a trip to Udupi. you can book your flights right here! You can book a cheap flight right here through  TripAdvisor  or  Agoda  or  CheapAir  or  Cleartrip  or  Makemytrip  or  Priceline  and come to Udupi. If you are thinking of a road trip to Udupi or anywhere in India check out the  rental car  and  bus  options.

Udupi Culture And Festivals

Udupi is a land with kaleidoscopic colors. While the beauty of nature enthralls and the meditative beauty of temples calms the mind, the culture of Udupi puts a spring your step and makes your heart sing with joy. Here are some of the vibrant Udupi festivals and dance forms that light up the landscape of Udupi.

Yakshagana is a vibrant and colorful dance form that combines the finesse of Ballet with the theatrics of drama to stunning effect. It is a traditional folk theatre form that evolved from classical music and theatre forms. Yakshagana has deep roots in the coastal belt of Karnataka including Udupi. The colorful costumes combined with pulsating music render this unique theatre form with a unique rhythmic vibrancy. The Yakshagana performances are based on incidents from Indian mythology and enact episodes from the Ramayana and other epics. A visit to Udupi would remain incomplete without witnessing a Yakshagana performance.

Kambala is a traditional Buffalo race that is organized as an annual event in the coastal belt of Karnataka. These races take place on slushy and muddy tracks in the rural hinterland of the region. Kambala is held during different religious festivals. It is generally organized between the months of November to March.

Vitla Pindi/Mosaru Kudike

An exciting and interesting part of the Krishna Janmashtami celebrations in Udupi is the Vitla Pindi or Mosaru Kudike . This is similar to the Dahi Handi which one can witness during Krishna Janmashtami in the northern parts of India, specifically places like Mathura, Mumbai , and other cities. An earthen pot filled with curds or milk or other milk products is hung high above the street. A human pyramid is formed to reach the pot and break it. The occasion is marked by a colorful procession and a traditional rath yatra.

Huli Vesha or tiger dance is performed by youth dressed up in tiger costumes or with masks and face painting. Huli Vesha is more specific to coastal Karnataka and can be seen in Udupi, Mangalore , Karkala. and other places. Huli Vesha is generally a part of the celebration of festivals like Navratri and Dassara . It can be seen in Udupi during various festivities of the Udupi Krishna temple and other temples.

Paryaya Festival

Udupi being the home of the Udupi Sri Krishna Matha and other important temples celebrates all of the Hindu festivals in a grand manner. Of the many festivals, one of the most important festivals is the Paryaya festival. Paryaya festival is celebrated once every two years . It is a religious festival that sees the transition of the rights of administration of the Udupi Sri Krishna Matha from the Swamiji of one of the Ashta Matha to the other. The festival also sees a carnival-like celebration in Udupi marked by colorful pageants and processions with music and dance.

Where To Eat In Udupi | Best Places To Eat In Udupi | Udupi Restaurants | Udupi Must-Eat Dishes | What To Eat in Udupi

Udupi is also a place where one can embark on an epicurean voyage and experience different flavors and aromas. Udupi is known for its rich vegetarian cuisine that is connected to the vegetarian cooking of the Udupi Sri Krishna Matha. Udupi is also home to the coastal cuisine – Coastal Karnataka Cuisine  of the region which primarily consists of the harvest from the sea.

Udupi Famous Food | Udupi Special Food

Amongst the many things to do in Udupi, tasting some of its famous food is an experience that one must-have. Here is a list of some of the famous dishes to try out when in Udupi.

Patrode is a tasty snack made using Colocasia leaves. Interestingly a similar snack is made in Gujarat and is called Patra.

The Banana Bun is a light and tasty snack perfect for breakfast or to munch at any time.

Mundakki Upkari

A spicy Kannada equivalent of the Bhel or Churmuri. Mundakki Upkari is a mix of puffed rice with different spices and chopped onions, tomatoes, raw mangoes, etc. Do pick up your share of Mundakki Upkari at a stall by the beach or at one of the stalls that come up during the festivals or Yakshagana performances.

A very light version of the ubiquitous Dosa, the Neer Dose is a common snack in breakfast as well as lunch and dinner on the coastal belt of Karnataka.

Masala Dosa

Did you know that Udupi is considered to be the birthplace of the famous Masala Dosa? So why not bite into one when you are in Udupi?

Gadbad Ice Cream

When you are in Udupi or for that matter in Mangalore you must not forget to feat on Gadbad Icecream, which is a product of the region

Where To Eat In Udupi

Udupi offers a wide spectrum of choices when it comes to food. You have a wide variety of cuisines to choose from depending on your preferences. Here are some options for eating in Udupi.

• A unique experience awaits you at the Udupi Sri Krishna Matha if you want to savor the divine prasadam , lunch and dinner is served free at the dining halls of the temple where pure vegetarian food is served
• Mitra Samaj near the Udupi Krishna temple is one of the oldest restaurants in Udupi and serves authentic vegetarian Udupi fare
• If you are looking to feast on the authentic coastal cuisine of Tulunadu then head to the Tamboolam Restaurant in Udupi

Shopping In Udupi | Best Markets And Places To Shop In Udupi | Udupi Shopping

Shopping is an essential part of travel for some while for others it assumes proportions of a passion. Whatever be the case, Udupi offers many avenues for tourists to shop. Let us look at the top 3 places to shop in Udupi and what to buy in Udupi.

Car Street or Ratha Beedi

The roads around the main temple in Udupi have a slew of shops selling different and colorful wares. This is atypical of temple towns in India where one can find a concentration of shops near the main temple. The Ratha Beedi or Car street of Udupi is a popular spot for shopping in Udupi among the locals as well as the tourists. Many temporary stalls jostle with the permanent shops during festivals.

One can buy anything from souvenirs like wall hangings and statues of Krishna and other showpieces to an assorted range of pickles, papads and chips, spices, and readymade masala powder for the preparation of Rasam and Sambhar here. Sarees, handicrafts, and handlooms also vie with each other to grab the eyes of visitors.

City Centre Mall Udupi

The ancient city of Udupi is not left behind when it comes to contemporary shopping. For all those who cannot do without the luxury of shopping in a swanky mall, Udupi has the City Centre Mall to cater to your shopping whims. So head to the City Center Mall for some relaxed contemporary shopping in Udupi.

Chittaranjan Circle

If you are shopping in Udupi for Jewelry, then the best bet is to head to Chittaranjan Circle. Here you will find many reliable and trusted Jewelry shops. The shops include the likes of Abharan and Bheema Jewelers among others.

Where To Stay In Udupi India | Hotels In Udupi | Best Hotel In Udupi

Udupi is one of the prime tourist destinations of Karnataka. So whether you are in Udupi to visit the Udupi Krishna temple or you are visiting places near Udupi, there are many hotels at Udupi to suit your budget and preference. If you are in Udupi to have a relaxing time, you can stay at one of the Udupi beach resorts.

Check out our listing of the best beach resorts in Udupi here

Whatever it be, you can book your accommodation in Udupi right here, including hotels located close to the temple.

hotel near Udupi Sri Krishna Matha  through  TripAdvisor  or  Cleartrip  or  Agoda  or  Makemytrip  or  Priceline  conveniently right here!

Best Time To Visit Udupi | Udupi Weather

Udupi is a place that draws tourists throughout the year. But if you are looking at the best time to visit Udupi, then avoid the summer months, when Udupi weather is really hot. The rainy season too is not the right time to visit Udupi. The best season to visit Udupi is during the winter months when Udupi weather is at its best and the Udupi temperature too is pleasant and comfortable.

Public Transportation in Udupi – For Traveling within Udupi | Moving In and Around Udupi

Udupi has one of the best public transport systems. One can hire a local taxi service, an autorickshaw, or rent a bike to move in and around Udupi. There are plenty of public and private bus services too.

Languages Spoken in Udupi

The most popular language spoken in Udupi is Tulu. Apart from Tulu, other languages spoken in Udupi is Kundapur Kannada, Konkani, Byari also known as Beary. People also understand and can communicate in Hindi. Owing to tourism in Udupi, the locals of Udupi can also communicate in Hindi and English languages too.

Currency Used in Udupi

Udupi is situated in Karnataka in India. Indian Rupee is the accepted currency for all transactions. Foreign currency can be easily exchanged. Also, there are plenty of ATMs to withdraw cash.

Udupi FAQ | All You Need To Know Before Visiting Udupi District

Is Udupi worth visiting?

Yes, Udupi is a treasure trove of experiences, waiting to be discovered.

How many days are enough for Udupi?

Udupi has many places to see, if it is only the Krishna temple a day is enough, otherwise, a week may not be enough.

What is the best time to visit Udupi?

The best time to visit Udupi is in the winter months. Summers tend to be hot and humid and traveling would not be so comfortable.

What is the budget required to visit Udupi?

Udupi can be visited on a shoe-string budget as well as a luxury budget depending on ones’ choice and preference.

What are some of the must-visit places & things to do while visiting Udupi?

The must-visit places in Udupi include the Udupi Krishna temple, St. Mary’s Island. Varanga Jain temples etc. The top things to do in Udupi include watching a Yakshagana performance, shopping, and tasting local food.

What can I buy in Udupi?

One can buy Krishna statues, handicrafts, silk sarees, Masala powder, pickles, and jackfruit chips, etc., from Udupi.

What is famous in Udupi for shopping?

Handicrafts, utensils, and silk sarees.

What is the popular dish of Udupi cuisine?

Some popular dishes of Udupi cuisine include Masala Dosa, Neer Dose, Patrode, and Mundakki Upkari.

Are jeans allowed in the Udupi temple?

Yes, they are allowed.

How far is Murudeshwar from Udupi?

Murudeshwar is about 104 kilometers from Udupi.

Why is Udupi famous for food?

Udupi food has its origins in the Ashta Mathas, the food is sattvic and pure vegetarian. Udupi cuisine has carved a place for itself across India.

What is the Speciality of Udupi?

Udupi is synonymous with the famous Krishna temple.

Why is Udupi famous?

Udupi is famous for the Udupi Sri Krishna Matha.

Why did Krishna come to Udupi?

Krishna never came to Udupi. The idol of the child form of Krishna came to Udupi in a ship and was installed by Madhavacharya and a temple built around it. This became the famous Udupi Krishna temple.

Which are the waterfalls near Udupi?

Some of the waterfalls near Udupi are the Kudlu Theertha and the Jomlu Theertha falls.

Which are the places to visit in Udupi in 1 day?

There are many places to visit near Udupi, there are temples and beaches, a one-day Udupi itinerary can be planned based on individual preferences. Places that can be covered are Malpe beach, S. Mary’s Island, and the Udupi Krishna temple.

How far is Mangalore from Udupi?

Mangalore is about 60 kilometers from Udupi.

What is the best time to visit Mangalore?

Winter is the best time to visit Mangalore and Udupi.

Which are the best weekend getaways from Udupi?

There are many good weekend getaways from Udupi and include Byndoor, Murudeshwar, Kollur, Kudremukh, Agumbe, etc…

We do hope that the comprehensive information that we have provided about Udupi and the places to visit in Udupi serves as a Udupi travel guide. We appreciate your inputs to help us further improve the quality of our posts. W hope you liked our Udupi blog post. Please do subscribe to our blog for instant updates when new posts are published. Follow us on our social media handles.

You may want to check out our other posts related to Udupi and coastal Karnataka: Udupi Shri Krishna Matha Varanga Jain Temple Best Beach Resorts in Udupi Exploring Coastal Karnataka Cuisine Kasarkod Blue Flag Certified Beach Women Bloggers Travel Program to Coastal Karnataka St. Mary’s Island

Do check out our article, Udupi Unplugged, that appeared in the Hindu Businessline .

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18 thoughts on “42 amazing places to visit in udupi – udupi travel guide”.

What an amazing places to visit in Udupi. There are so many beautiful places to visit in Udupi. Thanks for sharing this whole guide.

How nicely you have explained each and every detail..perfect to plan a holiday without any problems..the beaches are so clean. I will plan a trip as soon as the things get normal. Thank you and keep safe.

Udupi has so many places to see from beaches to heritage to amazing food. Will definitely plan a visit to this extraordinary destination.

Udupi has so much to offer. So many temples and beaches. I really want to visit this place.

Thanks for writing about Udipi honestly till now I only know Udipi in association with south Indian delicious food. But this town looks so pretty with temples and beaches. I am yearning to go there soon.

This is absolutely amazing! What an exhaustive and detailed article .. I didn’t know that there is so much to see, do and experience in udupi… Wow!!

I have been to UDUPI several times but this felt like I have done another tour and a new one at that because I haven’t visited many places you have mentioned. Will visit them next time

I want to visit Udipi someday and your post is giving me some major travel inspiration. I love the ancient temple architecture and would love to see the intricate details in person.

Whoa, 42 places! For a traceller like me who visits 3-4 places in a day will take around 12 days to finish the list. Anyways thank you for sharing these.

Reading regularly about Udupi on your blog has made me fall in love with Karnataka! Definitely the first destination now.

What a brilliant writeup about Udupi especially the mid water jain temple and other famous krishna temple. I loved the food here and the faq section . Really a great reading experience 👏

Wow what a cool list!! I have stayed in Karnataka for so many years but had never got a chance to visit Udupi. With so many things to see, this is a must visit place for sure.

Overall a must visit place while at udupi. Many beaches are near udupi to enjoy a lot there.

Wow, Udipi is a magnificent place. We had been to few temples and Malpe beach on the way to Mookambika. But, I am saving your post in my bookmark as we are soon planning to travel South when things get back to normal.

You have shared every minute details. Very helpful. I am saving the post for future reference.

The place has some amazing temples. With so many places to visit this place is a must visit.

Wow. I never knew Udupi has so many beautiful beaches waterfalls and heritage sites and temples. This place is a beauty in itself. Would love to go there once.

I am in love with this guide. So amazing. I have not seen so many places in Udupi. I have been there only once and saw only the main temple with a few beaches. I will definitely go back to Udupi and see some if not all of these places.

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36 Top Tourist Places to Visit in Udupi

• Udupi Overview
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Udupi Sri Krishna Temple

#1 of 36 Places to Visit in Udupi

At a distance of 3 km from Udupi Railway Station, Sri Krishna Temple is a Hindu temple situated in Udupi, Karnataka. It is one of the famous pilgrimage centers in India , and among the must include places in Udupi Tour Packages . The Krishna Temple was founded by the Vaishnavite saint Shri Madhvacharya in the 13th century CE. Among the most famous places to visit in Udupi , the Krishna Temple or the Udupi Sri Krishna Matha is one of the most auspicious temples dedicated to Lord Krishna. The unique feature of this temple is that the Lord is worshipped only through a window with nine holes called the Navagraha Kindi. The daily sevas and administration of the Mutt are managed by the Ashta Mathas. During the Paryaya festival, held every two years, the temple management is handed over to the next Matha. This .....

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St. Mary's Island

#2 of 36 Places to Visit in Udupi

At a distance of 15 km from Udupi Railway Station, 65 km from Mangalore & 100 km from Murudeshwar , St. Mary's Island is a group of small beautiful islands situated to the north of Malpe Beach near Udupi. It is one of the best places to visit as part of Udupi Packages . A quaint island just off the coast of Udupi, St. Mary's Island is an island of white sand beaches, rock monoliths, and great wildlife making it one of the best places to visit in Udupi . It is said that Vasco da Gama first reached this Island before reaching the Kappad Beach (near Calicut) while finding a sea route to India. This island is a group of four individual islands namely Coconut Island, North Island, South Island, and Daryabahadurgarh Island. The island has two beautiful beaches and crystallized basalt rock formations which .....

Anegudde Vinayaka Temple

#3 of 36 Places to Visit in Udupi

At a distance of 25 km from Udupi, 86 km from Mangalore & 70 km from Murudeswar, Anegudde Vinayaka Temple is a Hindu temple located in Kumbhashi between Udupi & Karwar. It is one of the famous places of pilgrimage in the region, and among the popular places to visit as part of Udupi Tour . Anegudde Vinayaka Temple is dedicated to Lord Ganesha. Anegudde is rewarded one of the seven 'Mukti Sthalas' of Karnataka or Parashurama kshetras, which are believed to be created by sage Parashurama. Anegudde is the combination of two words - 'Aane' meaning 'Elephant' and 'Gudde', which stands for 'hillock' as it is the abode of the elephant-headed god, Lord Vinayaka. Anegudde is also popularly called Kumbashi. The name Kumbhashi is said to be derived from the demon Kumbhasura. According to the mythology, when drought hit this area, Sage Agasthya performed penance to appease the Rain, God. During the penance, demon Kumbhasura started troubling .....

Malpe Beach

#4 of 36 Places to Visit in Udupi

At a distance of 10 km from Udupi Railway Station, Malpe Beach is a pristine beach situated along the shores of the Arabian Sea at Malpe village near Udupi. Spread between Swarna Nandi River and Malpe Port is one of the finest beaches in Karnataka , and among the top places to visit as part of Udupi Tour Packages . Malpe Beach is situated at the mouth of the Udyavara River, a small river that is commonly referred to as the Malpe River by the locals. Characterized by silver-white sands, and rocky islands, Malpe Beach is still quite secluded and not visited by a lot of tourists. It is one of the popular Udupi tourist places for those who want to spend some time alone at the beach. The vast coastline of Malpe has four rocky islands. The northern-most island is the Daria-Bahadurgad, the middle one is the Daria-Gadara-Kallu, .....

#5 of 36 Places to Visit in Udupi

At a distance of 16 km from Udupi, Kaup Beach is a beautiful beach situated close to NH17 between Udupi & Mangalore. It is one of the must include places in Udupi Tour Packages , and among the best beaches near Bangalore . Kaup Beach is one of the famous beaches in Karnataka where tourists enjoy the beauty of the environment, the long stretches of golden sands, and the cool sea breeze. The beach is covered by palm groves. There is a lighthouse here, constructed in 1901, which is open every day for an hour from 5.30 AM. The delightful view of the entire seashore and the beach from the lighthouse is every photographer's dream. Besides the lighthouse, Kaup also has ruins of Jain Basadis that line across the stretch of sand, and these are definitely worth a visit. Kaup is also known for the temple of Goddess Mariamman. There .....

#6 of 36 Places to Visit in Udupi

At a distance of 26 km from Sringeri, 31 km from Thirthahalli, 55 km from Udupi, 62 km from Kundapura, 77 km from Kudremukh, 94 km from Shimoga, 112 km from Mangalore, 342 km from Bangalore, Agumbe is a small hill town located in the Shimoga district of Karnataka, India. Nestled in the thickly forested Malnadu region of the Western Ghats, it is one of the most mesmerizing offbeat hill stations in Karnataka , and among the most famous places to visit near Mangalore . Situated at an altitude of over 2100 feet, the scenic village of Agumbe lies in the Western Ghats belt with some of the last remaining lowland rainforests. The place is nicknamed 'The Cherrapunji of the South' as it receives the heaviest rainfall in the southern part which makes it a perfect home to some of the scenic waterfalls, dense forests, and rivers. It is also called Hasiru Honnu means green gold ..... Distance (From Udupi): 55 Kms Trip Duration (From Udupi - Including Travel): Full Day .....

Jogi Gundi Falls, Near Agumbe

#7 of 36 Places to Visit in Udupi

At a distance of 4 km from Agumbe Bus Station, Jogi Gundi Falls is a stunning waterfall situated close to the road between Agumbe & Barkana Falls. Located inside Agumbe's rainforest, it is one of the best waterfalls in Karnataka , and among the must-visit places as part of the Agumbe tour packages . Jogi Gundi Falls is cascading down from a height of about 20 feet into a huge pool. The waterfall got its name from the saint Jogi who used to meditate at this place. The unique feature of this waterfall is the point of origin. Unlike traditional waterfalls, the Jogi Gundi fall originates from a cave and running through a hill. The water from this stream merges into Malapahaari River, a tributary of the Tungabhadra. The surroundings of the falls capture the great natural beauty and it's an ideal place to spend a couple of hours. It is possible to get into the falls and swim in the pond. ..... Distance (From Udupi): 60 Kms Trip Duration (From Udupi - Including Travel): 4 Hours/Half Day .....

Kudlu Theertha Waterfalls, Near Agumbe

#8 of 36 Places to Visit in Udupi

At a distance of 20 km from Hebri, 30 km from Agumbe, and 47 km from Udupi, Kudlu Teertha Falls is a picturesque waterfall located deep in the jungles of the Western Ghats near Hebri. Also known as Sita Falls, it is one of the most beautiful and most pristine falls in Karnataka and among the best places to visit near Agumbe as part of Udupi tour packages . Located on Udupi-Agumbe Road, Kudlu Theertha is the first waterfall on the River Sita. It is a spectacular waterfall that drops from a height of about 300 feet into a pond. Legend has it that thousands of years ago sages used to meditate near the place where the pond exists today. As such, the local people consider the water of the pond to be very holy. The pond where the water drops from the mountain is not very deep. Visitors can walk to a point where they can stand beneath the falling water and enjoy a refreshing bath. However, visitors need to exercise caution while putting ..... Distance (From Udupi): 47 Kms Trip Duration (From Udupi - Including Travel): 4 Hours/Half Day .....

Barkana Falls, Near Agumbe

#9 of 36 Places to Visit in Udupi

At a distance of 7 km from Agumbe Bus Station, 22 km from Hebri, and 52 km from Udupi, Barkana Falls is a beautiful waterfall located in the Balehalli forest area near Agumbe village in Shimoga district of Karnataka. It is one of the popular waterfalls in Karnataka and among the prime places to visit in Agumbe. Cascading down from a height of about 800 feet, Barkana Falls is the 10th tallest waterfall in India. This magnificent waterfall situated in the dense forest of the Western Ghats is formed by River Sita. This waterfall is the source of one of the important hydroelectric projects in Karnataka. The name Barkana comes from the word Barka which means 'Mouse Deer' that is found in the region. Barkana Falls presents one of the most fascinating sights of natural wonders in Karnataka. The Barkana View Point, located near the waterfall, is an ideal spot to enjoy the mesmerizing view of the Western Ghats and the hill slopes of the region. The waterfall becomes even more charming ..... Distance (From Udupi): 52 Kms Trip Duration (From Udupi - Including Travel): 4 Hours/Half Day .....

Onake Abbi Falls, Near Agumbe

#10 of 36 Places to Visit in Udupi

At a distance of 8 km from Agumbe Bus Station and 50 km from Udupi, Onake Abbi Falls is a beautiful waterfall located near Agumbe. It is one of the stunning waterfalls in Karnataka and among the top Agumbe Tourist Places. Onake Abbi is one of the many waterfalls that Nature has bestowed on this place. The waterfall derives its name from the word 'Onake', that refers to a long pole that is used to grind species in the local Kannada language. There is only one branch in the falls and it is like 'onake', hence the name. The fall is cascading down from a height of around 500 feet and is one of the tallest waterfalls that can be seen on the Western Ghats belt. The summit of the trek offers a breathtaking view of the entire waterfall and the surrounding dense jungle. It can only be reached through trekking of 5 to 6 km from Agumbe. The evergreen forest on the way is breath-taking and animals like Sambhar, mouse deer, and civet cat can be spotted sometimes. There are two routes that ..... Distance (From Udupi): 50 Kms Trip Duration (From Udupi - Including Travel): 3-4 Hours .....

Jomlu Theertha Falls, Near Agumbe

#11 of 36 Places to Visit in Udupi

At a distance of 32 km from Agumbe and 35 km from Udupi, Jomlu Theertha Falls is a mesmerizing waterfall situated at Handikallu village near Agumbe. It is one of the breathtaking waterfalls in Karnataka and among the best places to visit in Agumbe as part of the Agumbe Tour. Located in the Someshwara Wildlife Sanctuary, Jomlu Theertha is small waterfall cascades down a rocky terrain from a height of 20 feet in the middle of the dense natural reserve. It is the second waterfall created by the River Sita, the first one being the Koodlu Theertha Falls. The gushing sound of the waterfall, the chirping of birds, and the calm atmosphere add to the charm of the falls. The place is perfect for weekend getaways with family and friends. The beautiful waterfall is ideal for taking a bath in its refreshing water. However, caution must be exercised by visitors during the monsoon season as the currents are very strong here. In fact, it is better not to enter the water during the rainy season ..... Distance (From Udupi): 35 Kms Trip Duration (From Udupi - Including Travel): 1-2 Hours .....

Kunchikal Falls, Near Agumbe

#12 of 36 Places to Visit in Udupi

At a distance of 52 km from Agumbe, and 77 km from Udupi, Kunchikal Falls is a stunning waterfall located at Nidagodu village near Masthikatte in Shimoga district of Karnataka. Situated on the Shimoga-Udupi border, it is one of the beautiful waterfalls in Agumbe. Formed by Varahi River, Kunchikal Falls cascades down from a height of about 455 m. The Kunchikal waterfall is 116th highest waterfall in the world and the highest waterfall in India. The River Varahi flows down from a greater altitude in a cascading manner over these rocky structures close to the Hulikal Ghati Temple. It is the main source of one of Karnataka's hydroelectric projects. Its evergreen natural beauty and vitalizing airs mesmerize visitors and attract tourists in large numbers every year. Situated amidst the dense lusty woods, the waterfalls are also a popular trekking spot. After construction of Mani Dam near Masthikatte and underground power generation station near Hulikal, the water flow to this falls ..... Distance (From Udupi): 77 Kms Trip Duration (From Udupi - Including Travel): 4-6 Hours .....

Vadabhandeshwara Temple - Malpe

#13 of 36 Places to Visit in Udupi

At a distance of 10 Kms from Udupi Railway Station, Vadabhandeshwara Temple dedicated to Balarama, the brother of Sri Krishna is situated near Malpe Beach. This temple is believed to have been built by Madhvacharya who built the famous Udupi Sri Krishna Temple. The sea shore near Vadabhandeshwara Temple is said to be the place where Madhavacharya had a vision of Lord Krishna is a sacred spot and a shrine for Lord Subramanya is built here. Evening is the best time to visit this temple, which allows you to also visit the near by beach and watch the beautiful sunset. Mahalaya Amavasya is a special day here when thousands of pilgrims visit this temple and take bath in the sea. Malpe can be reached by bus from Udupi. Timings: 6 AM - 8 PM

#14 of 36 Places to Visit in Udupi

At a distance of 14 Kms from Udupi Railway Station, Bramhavar is an ancient religious destination located on NH17 towards Karwar. Brahmavar literally means 'a settlement of brahmins' is also an ancient cultural center. Major points of attraction in Bramhavar include Mahalinga Temple built in 9th century, Gopinatha Temple which is a fine example of Hoysala architecture, and the Janardhana Shrine located in the agrahara.

#15 of 36 Places to Visit in Udupi

At a distance of 19 Kms from Udupi Railway Station, Barkur was the ancient capital of the Tulu kingdom, known as Barakanur. The majestic Seeta River flows through Barkur and joins the Arabian Sea. Barkur used to have 365 temples and ruins of few can be seen even today. The town was a flourishing port in the 15th and 16th centuries. The town's main attractions are the temples with typical tiled roofs. The Panchalingeshwara Temple situated at the southern end of the town is the famous among the temples here. Barkur was also a Jain settlement in the ancient days. The ancient fort and mud palace at the entrance of the town are in a ruined state and can be visited.

Chathurmukha Basadi - Karkala

#16 of 36 Places to Visit in Udupi

At a distance of 37 Kms from Udupi & 50 Kms from Mangalore, Chaturmukha Basadi is a Jain temple, situated on a rocky hill near Karkala. The primary deity of the temple is Chandranatha. This temple got its name due to the four doorways in four directions lead to the Garbhagriha. It is entirely built of stone and stands on a raised stone platform. The flat roof is constructed with large granite slabs and the temple has a total of 108 pillars. This temple was committed by Vir Pandya Deva, the King of Bairarava family in 1432 and completed in 1586. This is the most celebrated temple in Karkala and is referred to in the inscriptions as Tribhuvana Tilaka Jina Chaityalaya and Ratnaraya Dhama. Photography is prohibited inside without prior permission.

Gomatheshwara Statue - Karkala

#17 of 36 Places to Visit in Udupi

At a distance of 37 Kms from Udupi & 50 Kms from Mangalore, Gomatheshwara Statue (Lord Bahubali) is located on a rocky hillock called Bahubali Betta in Karkala. It is situated near Chaturmukha Basadi (about 1 Km). This single stone 42-foot statue of Gomateshwara is the second tallest in Karnataka, after Shravanabelagola .Veera Pandya Deva, the King of Bairarava family built this monolithic statue in his honor and also installed the Brahmadeva Pillar in front of the statue in 1436. The Maha Masthakaabhisheka festival, sacred bathing of the statue with saffron paste, milk and water, held in every 12 years. During this period thousands of Jain devotees visit this place to carry out the Mahamastakabhisheka.

Neminath Basadi - Karkala

#18 of 36 Places to Visit in Udupi

At a distance of 37 Kms from Udupi & 50 Kms from Mangalore, Neminath Basadi is a Jain temple constructed in 1329. It is located very close to Bahubali Betta / Gomatheshwara Statue (about 0.5 Km). The presiding deity of this temple is Mulnayak Bhagvan Neminath. There is a 54 feet Manasthambha, carved out of single rock, which is installed in front of the Basadi. The complex also houses Lord Mahavir, Chandranath Swamy, Adinath Swamy, Ananthanath and Padmavathi basadis, and the Bhujabali Brahmacharya Ashram. Chaturmukha Basadi (1 Km), Gomatheshwara Statue (0.5 Kms) and Ramasamudra Lake (1 Km) are nearby attractions.

Sri Venkata Ramana Temple - Karkala

#19 of 36 Places to Visit in Udupi

At a distance of 37 Kms from Udupi & 50 Kms from Mangalore, Sri Venkata Ramana Temple located in Karkala is popularly known as Padu Tirupathi, which means Tirupathi of West. This temple is more than 550 years old and houses the ancient idol of Lord Srinivasa of Tirupathi. According to legend, a family of Gowda Saraswat Brahmins brought Lord Venkat Ramana's statue from Goa, settled in Karkala and built a temple. When the rulers of Mangalore attacked the temple, the temple was destroyed and idol was lost. It is said that the devotees had a dream directing them to go back to their place where they were directed to receive an idol of Lord Srinivasa from a saint. Their dreams come true when a Brahmin stranger gave them an idol of Srinivasa which he brought from Tirupati. The Lord is name Tirupati Chappara Srinivasa and all the poojas here are performed as in Tirupati. The Laksha Deepothsava festival, Annual Chariot festival and Chakrotsava are the major festivals of this .....

Ananthashayana Temple - Karkala

#20 of 36 Places to Visit in Udupi

At a distance of 37 Kms from Udupi & 50 Kms from Mangalore, Sri Ananthashayana Temple is an ancient temple located in Karkala. This temple is dedicated to Lord Ananthapadmanabha (another form of Lord Vishnu). This temple is situated near Sri Venkata Ramana Temple (about 1 Km) & Chaturmukha Basadi (about 1 Km). This temple was originally a Jain Basadi in 15th century. During that time, Sringeri Jagadguru Sri Narasimha Bharathi Swamiji came to Karkala and the Jain King gave him a warm welcome. But Swamiji said he will stay only if there is a temple with Lord installed in it. The king gave the Jain Basadi to His Holiness Sringeri Swamiji and installed a stone sculptured of Lord Vishnu. The magnificent idol of Lord Vishnu is carved out of a single black stone with Lord Brahma coming out of Vishnu's navel, and Sridevi and Bhudevi at his feet. This temple is under the protection of Archaeological Survey of India.

St. Lawrence Church - Attur

#21 of 36 Places to Visit in Udupi

At a distance of 34 Kms from Udupi & 52 Kms from Mangalore, St. Lawrence Church is located in Attur, which is about 8 kms from Karkala. The church built in 1845 is very popular in this region. Attur Church situated in the outskirts of Karkala town. Placed amidst placid greenery, the Attur parish has a rich history with its origin tracing back to 1759. Moreover it is known for its miraculous history.the church is a place of worship and belief for all, irrespective of caste and creed. People from all walks of the society come here to offer their prayers to St Lawrence. The Attur Festival celebrated in January is major festival of the church which attracts several thousand devotees. Mass Timings : Daily Mass at 6.30 AM,Saturday 4.30 PM, Sunday 7.30 & 10.30 AM

Kere Basadi - Varanga

#22 of 36 Places to Visit in Udupi

At a distance of 34 Kms from Udupi, 72 Kms from Mangalore & 22 Kms from Karkala, Kere Basadi located in Varanga is a beautiful Jain Temple located in middle of a lake. The temple is located in beautiful surroundings. The temple has four idols in four directions facing North, South, East and West. The idols of 4 Tirthankaras are Bhagwan Parsvanatha, Bhagwan Neminath, Bhagwan Ananthanath & Bhagavan Shantinath. The Kalla Basadi located on the way to Kere Basadi is an ancient stone monument and a worth visiting place.

Ambutheertha

#23 of 36 Places to Visit in Udupi

At a distance of 87 Kms from Udupi, 25 kms from Sringeri, 17 Kms from Tirthahalli, 73 Kms from Sagar & 76 Kms from Shimoga, Ambutheertha is the birthplace of River Sharavathi. It is situated on Tirthahalli - Hosanagara road. The famous Jog falls is formed on Sharavathi River. This place is located in thick forest and it's a scenic place. Ambutheertha is also considered a sacred place by the locals who say it was here that Lord Rama pierced the earth with his Ambu (arrow) for water, hence named as Ambutheertha. There is a small Shiva Temple built above the source of Sharavathi River.

Achakanya Falls

#24 of 36 Places to Visit in Udupi

At a distance of 89 Kms from Udupi, 16 Kms from Tirthahalli, 72 Kms from Sagar & 75 Kms from Shimoga, Achakanya Falls is located near Aralsuruli at a distance of 4 Kms from Ambutheertha. This fall is formed by the Sharavathi River. This is relatively small waterfall where water drops from a height of about 20 feet in 2 steps. The surroundings of the falls offer spectacular natural beauty.

Venkataramana Temple - Mulki, Near Mangalore

#25 of 36 Places to Visit in Udupi

At a distance of 29 Kms from Mangalore & 29 Kms from Udupi, Sri Venkata Ramana Temple located in Mulki is a 12th century temple dedicated to Sri Venkateswara (another form of Lord Vishnu). Mulki is situated on the banks of River Shambavi on NH 17 between Mangalore & Udupi. Sri Venkataramana, Bindu Madhava, Lord Vittala and Ugra Narasimha are worshipped in this temple. The history of the place indicates that Sri Vijayendra Yathi of Kashi Mutt installed the image of Ugra Narasimha belonging to Vijayanagar here in 1565. Mulki was earlier known as Mulikapur, once ruled by Samantha kings. Now one can see the palace and the old ruins of the fort of Samantha Kings. The Bappanadu Durga Parameshwari Temple and the temples of Somanath and Narayana are the other shrines of the Mulki. A buffalo race called Arasu Kambala is held here annually. Annual Car Festival is celebrated in December on Pratistha Poornima, the installation day of Lord Narasimha. Timings: 6:30 AM to 1 PM & 6 ..... Distance (From Udupi): 29 Kms Trip Duration (From Udupi - Including Travel): 2 Hours .....

Bappanadu Durga Parameshwari Temple - Mulki, Near Mangalore

#26 of 36 Places to Visit in Udupi

At a distance of 28 Kms from Mangalore & 30 Kms from Udupi, Bappanadu Durga Parameshwari Temple is located on the banks of River Shambavi in Bappanadu village near Mulki. The main deity of this temple is Goddess Durga, worshipped in the form of Linga. This temple is one of the important temples of Shakti in Dakshina Kannada. This temple was constructed in the 14th century. There is a large drum in the temple famously known as Bappanadu Dolu. Annual festival is celebrated in the month of April. Timings: 6 AM to 9:30 PM Distance (From Udupi): 30 Kms Trip Duration (From Sri Venkata Ramana Temple - Mulki - Including Travel): 30 Mins .....

Maravanthe Beach, Near Murudeshwar

#27 of 36 Places to Visit in Udupi

At a distance of 48 Kms from Murudeshwar & 52 Kms from Udupi , Maravanthe is the place separated by Arabian Sea on one side and Souparnika River on the other. The Maravanthe Beach is a beautiful sight on the NH17 towards Udupi. With a mountainous backdrop of Kodachadri Hills this is a picturesque virgin beach not unspoiled by tourists. The beach is also well lit up at night and the street lights reflect in the waters, making an attractive display. The water at Maravanthe beach is safe for swimming. Distance (From Udupi): 52 Kms Trip Duration (From Udupi - Including Travel): 3-4 Hours .....

Moodabidri, Near Mangalore

#28 of 36 Places to Visit in Udupi

At a distance of 33 Kms from Mangalore, 50 Kms from Udupi & 17 kms from Karkala, Moodabidri, popularly known as Jain Kashi, is one of the major centers of Jainism in South India. It's located between Mangalore & Karkala. Moodabidri has 18 Jain basadis, the most famous being the 1000 Pillared Temple dedicated to Chandranatha. The temple is also known as Savirakambha Basadi & Hosa Basadi. The uniqueness of this temple is that no two pillars are identical. This temple was built in 1430 AD under the ruler Devaraja Wodeyar of Nagamangala. The temple has a valuable collection of metal, jewel carved images of Jain tirthankars. The 2 meter high panchaloha image of Chandranatha is a special attraction. A 15 meter tall single stone pillar called Manastambha stands in front of the Basadi. The 17th century Chowta Palace is also worth visiting for its beautifully carved wooden pillars & ceilings. Distance (From Udupi): 55 Kms Trip Duration (From Udupi - Including Travel): 3-4 Hours .....

#29 of 36 Places to Visit in Udupi

At a distance of 132 km from Coorg, 251 km from Mysore, 275 km from Karwar, 345 km from Bangalore, 372 km from Goa, 413 km from Coimbatore, 420 km from Kochi, and 682 km from Chennai, Mangalore (or Mangaluru) is an important port city on the west coast and the headquarters of Dakshina Kannada district of Karnataka. Located at the confluence of Nethravathi and Gurupura Rivers, it is one of the popular tourist places in Karnataka , and among the stunning places to visit near Bangalore . Lying between the Arabian Sea and the Western Ghats, Mangalore is one of the major ports of India. The city derives its name from the deity of Mangaladevi Temple, among the must include places in Mangalore tour packages . The sultans of Mangalore built the city as a strategic shipbuilding base. Today, the city is one of the major ports involved ..... Distance (From Udupi): 60 Kms Trip Duration (From Udupi - Including Travel): 2-3 Days .....

Baindur / Byndoor, Near Murudeshwar

#30 of 36 Places to Visit in Udupi

At a distance of 30 Kms from Murudeshwar & 70 Kms from Udupi, Baindur (also spelled as Byndoor) is a small historical town situated on NH17 between Murudeswar & Udupi. Baindur is famous for many temples - Sri Seneshwara Temple, Sri Mahakali Temple and Sri Sita Ramachandra Temple, Sri Someshwara Temple situated on the beach. Baindur is also having a beautiful beach. Sri Seneshwara Temple is the most beautiful with extensive carvings built in Hoysala's style. Sri Mahakali Temple is at least 300 years old and recently renovated. Sri Someshwara Temple situated on the beach offers wonderful views of the serene surroundings. Baindur Beach is a good place for swimming and it offers boating facilities. There is a beach resort called Sai Vishram Beach Resort which offers a wide range of water sports. Distance (From Udupi): 70 Kms Trip Duration (From Udupi - Including Travel): 4 Hours/Half Day .....

Kollur Mookambika Temple, Near Murudeshwar

#31 of 36 Places to Visit in Udupi

At a distance of 60 km from Murudeshwar, 73 km from Udupi, 90 km from Jog Falls and 133 km from Mangalore, Sri Mookambika Devi Temple is a Hindu temple situated at Kollur in Udupi district of Karnataka. The temple is located in the valley of Kodachadri Mountain Peak on the banks of Souparnika River. Kollur is regarded as one of the Seven Mukti Stalas created by Parashurama and the other places are Udupi, Subrahmanya, Kumbasi, Kodeshwara, Sankaranarayana and Gokarna . It is a famous site of pilgrimage in Karnataka and one of the top places to visit near Murudeshwar . This temple is dedicated to Goddess Parvathi. According to Legend, Goddess Parvathi killed a demon called Kamsasuran who lived here and attempted to become powerful through his penance. Devi along with the help of Veerabadra, ..... Distance (From Udupi): 73 Kms Trip Duration (From Udupi - Including Travel): Half Day to Full Day .....

Arisina Gundi Falls, Near Murudeshwar

#32 of 36 Places to Visit in Udupi

At a distance of 67 Kms from Murudeshwar, 83 kms from Udupi & 10 Kms from Kollur Temple, Arisina Gundi Falls (also called as Arasina Makki Falls) is a famous waterfall located in thick forest inside the Mookambika Wildlife Sanctuary. It is also an ideal place for trekking. This falls are deep inside the forests close to Kodachadri hills and demands 1-2 Kms trek from the nearest approach road. The road can be reached by hiring Jeep from Kollur Temple. The trekking starts after 8 Kms drive through thick forest. There are signs showing way to the waterfalls on trek route. Entry permission can be obtained at the check post while entering into the forest. The falls is huge and water drop into a big pool. Swimming in the pool below the falls is very dangerous due to the sharp rocks. However, there are smaller streams near the falls where swimming is possible. You can also trek all the way from Kollur Temple. However, it's highly recommended to hire a guide. Oct - Dec is best ..... Distance (From Udupi): 83 Kms Trip Duration (From Kollur Mookambika Temple - Including Travel): 2-3 Hours .....

Murudeshwar

#33 of 36 Places to Visit in Udupi

At a distance of 76 km from Gokarna, 113 km from Karwar, 162 km from Mangalore, 188 km from Shimoga, 214 km from Panjim, 219 km from Hubli, & 497 km from Bangalore, Murudeshwar is a well-known pilgrimage town located in the Uttara Kannada district of Karnataka. Situated between Honnavar and Bhatkal, it is one of the most must include places in Karnataka Tour Packages , and among the places to visit near Mangalore . The Murudeshwar town was earlier known as 'Mrideshwara'. It was later renamed as Murudeshwar after the construction of the Murudeshwar temple, one of the famous places of pilgrimage in India , and among the must-include places in Murudeshwar tour packages . According to the legend, Ravana brought the Atma Lingam from Mount Kailash. Lord Ganesha using ..... Distance (From Udupi): 100 Kms Trip Duration (From Udupi - Including Travel): 2-3 Days .....

Narasimha Parvatha Trek, Near Sringeri

#34 of 36 Places to Visit in Udupi

At a distance of 18 Km from Sringeri, 20 Km from Agumbe & 65 Km from Udupi , Narasimha Parvatha is an excellent destination for trekking in Karnataka for a two day trip. It is situated at an altitude of 3780 feet. This is one of the popular moderate to difficult treks in Karnataka with overnight camping on the peak. Most common trekking route starts from Malandur (6 Km from Agumbe) and ends at Kigga (10 Km from Sringeri ) with overnight stay on Narasimha Parvatha. Malandur can be reached by private vehicle from Agumbe (walking takes 1.5 hrs). From Malandur, the trek distance to the peak is about 14 Km via Barkana Falls (6-7 Hrs trek). Camping is allowed on the peak. Kigga is about 8 Km from Narasimha Parvatha and takes about 3-4 Hrs (Sirimane Falls can be visited during this trek with 1-2 Hrs extra effort). Water filling can be done at Barkana Falls and there is also a small pond on the ..... Distance (From Udupi): 65 Kms Trip Duration (From Agumbe/Sringeri - Including Travel): 2 Full Days .....

#35 of 36 Places to Visit in Udupi

At a distance of 79 km from Udupi, 88 km from Chikmagalur, 99 km from Shimoga, 104 km from Mangalore, 256 km from Mysore, and 318 km from Bangalore, Sringeri is a renowned pilgrimage center located in the Chikmagalur district of Karnataka. It is one of the important pilgrimage centers in South India, and among the most famous places to visit near Mangalore . Sringeri is well known for Sharada Peetham, among the must visit places as part of the Sringeri Tour Packages . Sringeri Sharada Peetham is the first and foremost of the 4 Peethams established by the renowned 8th-century saint Sri Adi Shankaracharya. Sringeri is situated at an altitude of 2789 ft on the banks of River Tunga bounded by the Western Ghats. The name Sringeri is derived from Rishyashringa-Giri, a nearby hill that is named after Sage Rishyashringa. Tipu Sultan provided financial aid to Sringeri for ..... Distance (From Udupi): 70 Kms Trip Duration (From Udupi - Including Travel): 1-2 Days .....

Kavaledurga Fort

#36 of 36 Places to Visit in Udupi

At a distance of 75 Kms from Shimoga, 81 Kms from Udupi, 31 Kms from Hosanagara & 16 kms from Thirthahalli, Kavaledurga Fort is an ancient Fort situated on top of a hill at an altitude of 5000+ feet. This fort is also known as Bhuvanagiri The initial fort at Kavaledurga was constructed in 9th century. The king of Belagutti, Cheluvarangappa strengthened this fort in 14th century. Venkatappa Nayaka, a Keladi king, acquired this fort and constructed seven battlements to protect this fort in the 16th century. Hyder Ali conquered this fort in the 18th century and later the fort came under the rule of Tipu Sultan. Now only the ruins of the fort are survived. This ancient hill fort gives a panoramic view of the Western Ghats and the islands formed by the Varahi backwaters. Best time to visit would be December through April. Little trekking is required to reach this place from the road.

Most Asked Questions on Udupi

Winter from October to February is the best time to visit Udupi . December is also the busiest season and hotels are usually very expensive in this season. Summer would be quite hot and humid but the evenings are pleasant with cool breeze.

Udupi usually requires complete 2 days to visit the most important attractions. Several tourists usually prefer visiting Udupi along with Mangalore which requires an additional day. There are several wonderful places near Udupi like Murudeshwar, Gokarna & Mangalore that can be visited with additional day for each place.

Budget of Udupi trip depends on the trip duration and category of hotel you choose for your stay along with the kind of vehicle you prefer. Udupi tour packages offered by Trawell.in start from as low as INR 7500 per person for a 2D/1N trip and from INR 11750 per person for 3D/2N vacation.

Ensure to cover most important places to visit in Udupi like Udupi Sri Krishna Temple, St. Mary's Island, Anegudde Vinayaka Temple, Malpe Beach, Kaup Beach and Gomatheshwara Statue. Mahabalipuram which is around 55 km from Udupi and can be visited along with Udupi.

There are several beach side resorts in Udupi near Malpe Beach. Trawell.in can customize the package and include stay in a beach resort of your choice.

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Tour Package to Udupi

A much understated small coastal town, also a district, carved out of Dakshina Kannada district is one of the most happening towns for adventure seekers, devotees, art & craft lovers, beach lovers, and everyone else who has a keen interest in heritage and history. A culturally rich district has something or the other to offer to each category of traveller and adventure seekers. Udupi also relates to the Udupi style of restaurants serving amazing south Indian fast food at affordable prices. They specialize in great cuisine originating from this laid-back coastal town in Karnataka. Any tour package depends upon the traveller as to how much they want to immerse into the city’s offerings. However, anything between 3 to 5 days is good to explore Udupi in leisure. A quick 3 days itinerary that can be followed to cover most of the attractions of Udupi.

A combination of heritage, pilgrimage, and a beach can be the best way to unwind and immerse in the history and culture of Udupi.

Hasta Shilpa Kala Heritage Museum

A heritage village consisting of ancient Guthu Mane, palaces, and ancestral homes from the Tulunadu region. These structures are restored in one place by Mr. Vijaynath Shenoy and are open for tourists, researchers, and students as a museum. The breathtaking abodes from the ancestral past are restored here to give you a glimpse of the history and the heritage of the state. It takes about 2 hours to cover the heritage village.

Pro Tip: Wear comfortable slip-on footwear as there is a lot of walking and shoes are not allowed inside the houses.

Check here to Know More information on Hasta Shilpa Kala Heritage Village

Shri Krishna Mutt/Matha 

Shri Krishna Mutt/Matha

It is just 6 km away from the hasta Shilpa Kala Heritage museum towards the city center located the famous temple/ ashram dedicated to Lord Krishna. Tourists and pilgrims flock from all over the country to offer prayers. It is believed the idol of lord Krishna as a Bala Krishna (child Krishna) is the most beautiful idol. The procession of the chariots is gold and silver and the Kanakadasa Kidaki ( window) are the highlights of the temple.

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Malpe Beach 

Malpe Beach

After the temple and heritage site visits proceed towards Malpe beach for a beachside walk. Just 7.5 km away from Sri Krishna Matha is Malpe Beach. The all-new walkway, beach gardens, beautiful artistic structures, food joints, play area for kids and much more can be expected at Malpe beach. The place is well maintained for tourists and locals with a calming and beautiful beach sidewalk. The highlight is the sunset sighting at the beach.

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The beach town deserves a full day to soak up the essence of the beach town of Karnataka. The day can be started from St. Mary’s Island then proceed towards Delta Beach and end the day with majestic sunset at Kapu Beach or vice-versa.

St. Mary Island

It can be reached by boat available at Malpe beach for an array of adventure activities and the photogenic sea rocks formations. If you have enough time in hand half a day can be easily spent on the island. Take a boat from Malpe beach and reach St. Mary’s Island in less than half an hour. The water sports activities like banana rides, jet skiing, parasailing, and much more. The island has some of the best eating joints where one can relish coastal food, especially the Tulu-style fish fry. Even if you do not indulge in adventure activities, a walk on the rocks is soothing.

Kapu Beach 

Kapu Lighthouse

It is just 25 km away from Malpe Beach is Kapu beach. A drive to Kapu takes about an hour excluding the time taken by ferry from the island to Malpe beach. Kapu beach is one of the most pristine and serene beaches in Udupi. Famous for the 27 feet tall lighthouse on the rocks built in 1901, Kapu beach has amazing sunsets.

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A day can be dedicated to a trip to Kundapura. A combination of adventure, a beach, and a temple, this day can be spent meaningfully.

Kodi beach and Delta Point are one of the best places in Udupi to indulge in some serenity of backwaters, kayaking, pamper yourself in a houseboat, boat ride to mangrove forests, and get some lessons/demo on surfing and get inspired. Plan your tour to witness the glory of thousands of migratory seagulls in the middle of the backwaters or observe the movement of jelly fishes in the water.

Maravanthe Beach

One of the most beautiful beaches of Udupi. Experience a unique boat ride watching the glorious sunset from the River Saupernika. The highlight of Maravanthe beach is the unique drive at the national highway 66 that passes through the Arabian sea on one side and river Saupernika on the other. A calm and quaint beach is to spend time at the shore watching waves and the glorious sunset. Maravanthe beach is also famous for water sports.

Mookambika Temple

One of the most pious temples in India is the Mookambika Temple in Kolluru, Udupi. The impactful story of Goddess Parvati alias Mookambika and Adi Shankarayacharya and the Swambhu Shivalinga will leave you spellbound. People especially from Kerala visit the Mookambika temple in thousands every day to pay homage to the goddess as Shakti peetha. Mookambika Temple is 36 km and an hour’s drive away from Maravanthe Beach and can be reached easily by road.

Yakshagana Artists

The culturally rich district is also famous for its art forms concerning music and dance. One cannot afford to miss the traditional music and dance performances named Yakshagana performed primarily by men. Even the female characters are performed brilliantly by men. The live music and dance performances with astonishing expressions by artists are something you can watch without blinking. Yakshagana is performed in Kannada or Tulu languages, however, it is not difficult to understand the concept and the stories performed because of the intense expressions by artists. Other traditional performances include Huli Vesha, Kambala, Theyyam, Bhoota Kola Aaradhane, and Naga Mandala. These are essentially religious rituals performed during festivals. Kambala is one of the most thrilling and breathtaking events in the region. Ensure that you plan your visit during these festivals to grab a glimpse of these amazing and enthralling performances.

What to eat

Being a coastal town, seafood is one of the best cuisines available in Udupi. The roasted fish, prawns, and even other non-vegetarian dishes prepared with special coastal and traditional recipes are the highlight of Udupi. The Rava fry Pomfret is something one should try. However, this doesn’t make vegetarian dishes less popular. Golibajji and Mangaluru Buns are the vegetarian specialties of Udupi. The satvik food offered after the prayers at Srikrishna Temple as prasadam is something everyone must have it. Mangaluru Buns are deep-fried sweet and salty puris kind of a delicacy flavoured with bananas served hot with coconut chutney and bhaaji. A little different from the regular Dosa, Neer Dose served with chutney and veg/non-veg gravy is a mouth-watering dish served in the region.

How to reach

Udupi is well connected with major cities in India, especially with the western coast of India. Udupi has good connectivity with major towns in Karnataka like Bangalore and Mangalore and also is well connected to Mumbai, Goa, and Kochi. By Air The closest International and domestic airport to Udupi is Mangalore, about 59 km, and takes about an hour and a half to reach Udupi by road. One can take prepaid taxis from the airport itself. Mangalore International Airport is well most of the cities in India and a couple of Middle-eastern destinations as well. By Rail Udupi is a major railway station on the Konkan railway route and has good connectivity with cities like Mumbai, Bangalore, and Mangalore. There is also Rajdhani Express starting from New Delhi to Udupi. One can also enjoy the scenic train journey by Vistadome coaches from Bangalore to Mangalore. By Road A scenic and spectacular Ghat section route takes you to Udupi. A road journey from various parts of Karnataka, Mumbai, and Kerala leads to Udupi. The state-run KSRTC Volvo and other buses are a great choice to reach Udupi by road.

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Tourist Places in Udupi

Malpe beach, Kodi beach, Kaup beach, Sri Krishna Temple, Pajaka, Daria Bahadurgad fort, St. Mary's Island, Kallianpur, Karkala, Barkur, St. Lawrence Church, Chaturmukha Basadi, Achakanya Falls, Anegudde Vinayaka Temple and many more. With several mesmerizing places to visit in Udupi, this town in the state of Karnataka, is truly a goldmine of the south. Karnataka in itself is a is an epitome of true beauty and Udupi enhances it with  pristine beaches, to ancient temples, and the lush greenery of the Western Ghats. From old age traditions, the thickest of forests, rich wildlife, to art or natural goodness, Udupi is home to each of them. Also known as a temple city, the tourist places in Udupi truly make every traveler’s dream come true- be it a nature lover, a history enthusiast or a religious tourist. What started from an ancient old town, is now one of India’s fastest growing cities, with Manipal giving it enough modern day presence due to its colleges and cosmopolitan culture. Every one can find something in Udupi to satiate their travel needs- be it the intricately detailed architecture of the historic buildings, or a luxurious resort holiday by the beach, makingcw Udupi indeed is a traveller's paradise. 

Some of the best places to visit in Udupi:

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Sri Krishna Temple

Built in the 13th century, the Sri Krishna Temple, also known as the Sri Krishna Matha, is a Vaishnavite temple founded by Saint Jagadguru Sri Madhvacharya. This temple is known for a special feature, that is, that the deity is worshipped through a silver plated window with nine holes, known as the Navagraha kindi. The daily services to god are performed by the Ashta Mathas and people from all over the country flock to this temple to pay respect. Known throughout the world for its customs, rituals and its teachings in Dvaita philosophy, this temple also attracts curious foreigners willing to learn about this culture. Location : Temple Car St, Sri Krishna Temple Complex, Thenkpete, Maruthi Veethika, Udupi, Karnataka 576101 Timings : 4 am to 9 pm Entry fee : No entry fee Distance from Udupi Bus Stand : The temple is situated within the Udupi town and is about 4.5 kilometers away from the bus stand.

St. Mary's Island

St. Mary’s Island is the most famous amongst the four rocky islands of Malpe Beach. Also known as Coconut Island, St. Mary’s is known for its rare crystallized basalt rock formations, formed millions of years ago due to volcanic activities. These rock formations give the island its very unique landscape, making it a haven for nature and geology lovers alike. This geological goldmine is also home to one of the 26 geological museums of India and is still an unexplored part of the country that holds massive tourism potential. Location:  Malpe, Karnataka 576118 Timings : Ferries from Malpe Beach depart to St. Mary’s from 9:30 am to 5:30 am. The island is inaccessible during the monsoon months from June to September. Entry fee : No entry fee Distance from Udupi Bus Stand : The Island is located about 14.5 kilometers away from the Udupi Bus Stand.

Malpe Beach

One of the most famous tourist places in Udupi, Malpe Beach is a natural port, traditionally known for its settlement of the Mogaveera fishermen community here. Now a famous tourist hotspot, Malpe Beach is the first Indian beach which provides free Wi-Fi all day long.

There are also a number of watersport activities at the beach including Jet Ski and parasailing among others. The massive shoreline of this beautiful beach is also home to four exquisite rocky islands, of which the most famous and frequently visited is the St. Mary’s Island. Location : Malpe, Udupi Karnataka, 576108 Timings : Open 24 hours Entry fee : No entry fee Distance from Udupi Bus Stand : Malpe Beach is located about 10 kilometers from the Udupi Bus Stand.

Best of North Goa

Located close to the Kundapur Town, the Kodi Beach is also known as the Delta Beach. ‘Kodi’ in the Kannada language translates to ‘shore’ and is especially famous since it is surrounded by water on three sides, making it one of the most perfect places to visit in Udupi . Also famous for being the meeting point of the River Suvarna with the Arabian Sea, Kodi Beach is a popular weekend destination for the students of Manipal, and is famous for its seafood. Location : Maravanthe Timings : Open 24 hours Entry fee : No entry fee Distance from Udupi Bus Stand : Kodi Beach is located about 36 kilometers from the Udupi Bus Stand.

A town in the district of Udupi, lying between Mangalore and Udupi town, Kapu, or Kaup Beach is one of the best places to visit in Udupi due to its pristine water breaking against the sandy shoreline dotted with palm trees.This beach is also home to an age old lighthouse built in 1901, and is open for visitors during sunrise from 5:30 am to 6:30 am. One can spend hours taking in the panoramic view of the sun slowly rising against the backdrop of the vast ocean, as it is absolutely breathtaking. The waters of Kaup Beach are rougher than the gentle Malpe Beach but are stunning nonetheless. Location :  Padu, Karnataka 574106 Timings : 5:30 am to 6:30 am for lighthouse. Beach is open 24 hours. Entry fee : INR 10 for lighthouse, entry free for beach. Distance from Udupi Bus Stand : Kaup Beach is located 22 kilometers from the Udupi Bus Stand.

Pajaka is a small village in Udupi district, and is most famous for being the birthplace of the Dvaita philosopher and founder of Shri Krishna Matha Temple, Sri Madhvacharya. Among the many interesting places to see in Pajaka, the most famous is the home of Sri Madhava which also includes several archaeological pieces of evidence of his life. The village is also home to a big old banyan tree which was supposedly planted by him. Another great spot to visit is the Kunjarugiri Durga Temple located atop a hill. This temple gives stunning views of Udupi district and is also a beautiful sunset spot. Location :  Padu Belle, Karnataka 574115 Timings : Open 24 hours Entry fee :  No entry fee Distance from Udupi Bus Stand : This village is about 18 kilometers from the Udupi Bus Stand.

Best of Dandeli

Daria Bahadurgad fort

Built by Basavappa Naik of Bidanur, Daria Bahadurgad fort is located on one of the four rocky islands of Malpe Beach. Just about 2 kilometers away from Malpe, this astounding island is also home to Mangalorean Tile factories near the fort as well, which can make for an informative day trip to understand the making of these tiles. Now mostly in ruins, the view from the fort is mesmerizing, to say the least, and the best time to visit it during sunset when the entire horizon turns different shades of pink. Location :  Laccadive Sea Timings : Open 24 hours Entry fee : No entry fee Distance from Udupi Bus Stand : The fort is situated about 10 kilometers from the Udupi Bus Stand.

Mattu Beach

Mattu Beach is a quaint, secluded tropical paradise that doesn’t see as many visitors. With the Kaup Beach on one side, Mattu Beach also boasts of having water on two of its sides. Hands down one of the quietest places in the state, Mattu Beach is also known for its bioluminescence at night. The water glows and radiates a blow light in the dark which is caused by the bloom of a microorganism called Noctiluca that gives off this bioluminescence when disturbed. With hardly a soul nearby, this makes for a perfect spot to sit in the dark with the Milky Way arching overhead, and the sea sparkle glowing at your feet! Location : Udupi District Karnataka 574118 Timings : Open 24 hours Entry fee : No entry fee Distance from Udupi Bus Stand : Mattu Beach is about 16 kilometers away from the Udupi Bus Stand.

Kallianpur is a hamlet in the Tonse East village of Karnataka in Udupi District. This small settlement is developed with all modern day facilities like schools, hospitals, transport, colleges etc. Situated on the south bank of the Suvarna River, Kallianpur is probably the place that was mentioned by Cosmos Indicopleustes, a Greek merchant, and is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Udupi . This hamlet also has the ruins of a fort from the Vijayanagara era, and is also home to two churches and about six temples, dedicated to different gods. Location : Udupi Timings : Open 24 hours Entry fee : No entry fee Distance from Udupi Bus Stand : This hamlet is located about 5.5 kilometers from the Udupi Bus Stand.

Best of Pondicherry

Once called Pandaya Nagri during the period of Jain rule, Karkala is a major stop for religious tourism due to its strategic location on the way to other pilgrimage sites. Located at the bottom of the Western Ghats, Karkala is covered with greenery throughout the year. Karkala is majorly a Jain town and boasts of a 41.5 feet tall statue of Gomateshwara or Lord Bahubali. Every 12 years, a massive ritual is organized, called the Mahamastakabhisheka, where thousands of Jain devotees bathe the Bahubali statues in saffron, milk, honey, sandalwood, turmeric and vermilion. Apart from being a pilgrimage town, Karkala also has a large number of lakes where one can see the sunset and spend some time in peace and quiet. Location : Udupi District Karnataka Timings : Open 24 hours Entry fee : No entry fee Distance from Udupi Bus Stand: Karkala is located about 38 kilometres away from the Udupi Bus Stand.

Also known as the village of temples, Barkur is a cluster of three villages, namely Kachoor, Hosala and Hanehali. Located on the banks of River Seetha, Barkur once used to be the capital of the ancient Alupa Kingdom. The temples of Barkur is distinctive and have special characteristics setting them apart from other temples. Though they are built with sloping terracotta roofs liked the temples in Kerala, they are different because they do not have the gopurams. There are over eleven temples in this small area, each with its own significance. There is also a Barkur Fort housing remnants from the life of the kingdom. Location : Udupi Karnataka 576210 Timings : Open 24 hours Entry fee : No entry fee Distance from Udupi Bus Stand : Barkur and Udupi Bus Stand are located 15.7 kilometers from each other.

St. Lawrence Church

Overseeing a school and an orphanage, the St. Lawrence Shrine or Attur Church is a Roman Catholic Church and is said to be the place of many miracles. According to historians, Tippu Sultan captivated the Christians of this region and imprisoned them. After being free, the villagers set up this church with the help of a Goan priest. This church is known to have the powers to intercede with God and the Annual Attur Jatle Festival is a huge celebratory day for Christians all over India. Location :  Attur P.O. Karkala, Udupi District, Karkala, Karnataka 576117 Timings : Open 24 hours Entry fee : No entry fee Distance from Udupi Bus Stand : The shrine is located about 18 kilometers from Udupi Bus Stand.

Best of Gokarna

Chaturmukha Basadi

The Chaturmukha Basadi is an ancient symmetrical Jain temple located in the town of Karkala. Built by Immadi Bhairarasa Vodeya on a small rocky hill from the Santara dynasty in the 16th century, this massive temple is called ‘chaturmukh’ due to its four symmetrical faces. Completely carved out of granite, this temple is also known as Tribhuvana Tilaka Jina Chaityalaya. The Basadi also has magnificent images of Mallinath, Tirthankara Aranath, and Munisuvratnath, and faces the massive Bahubali statue in the town. This exquisite site took 30 years to complete and now boasts of having a total of 108 elegantly designed pillars in its complex. Location :  Fisheries Office-Dhana Shala Rd, Karkala, Karnataka 574104 Timings : 8 am to 6 pm Entry fee : No e ntry fee Distance from Udupi Bus Stand : The temple is about 38 kilometers from Udupi Bus Stand.

Achakanya Falls

Anegudde Vinayaka Temple

Anegudde is a little hamlet situated in Udupi district, Karnataka. Anegudde means "elephant slope" in the Kannada language. The spot is popular for the temple of Lord Vinayaka on the hill top, which is also one of the top places to visit in Udupi due to its rich history. The town additionally has another name called Kumbhasi. Anegudde's well known Siddhi Vinayaka shrine has a history gone back to hundreds of years. According to mythology, the demon Khumbasura tried to stop a ritual being performed by Sage Agastya for the wellbeing of the people. Bheem, one of the five Pandava brothers, killed the demon with a sword given by Lord Vinayaka, and so overtime, people started worshipping Lord Vinayaka here. Location :  Vokwadi Road, Kumbashi, Karnataka 576257 Timings : 5:30 am to 8:30 pm Entry fee : No entry fee Distance from Udupi Bus Stand : The temple is at a distance of about 24 kilometers from Udupi Bus Stand. Explore:  Places To Visit In Seville

Best of Shimoga

Mookambika Temple

The Mookambika Temple is a Hindu shrine committed to the mother Goddess known as Mookambika Devi. Sitting majestically in the lower regions of Kudajadri slopes, on the southern bank of Souparnika River, this ancient yet beautiful temple also finds a spot in the 108 Durga Temples in ancient Kerala. The original shrine where Adi Shankaracharya meditated and Devi showed up before him is situated at the Kodachadri Peak at an elevation of 1,343 meters. This mighty peak is also noticeable as an imposing figure from the Mookambika Devi Temple in Kollur, adding to its mesmerising charm. Location :  Kollur, Karnataka 576220 Timings : Open 24 hours Entry fee : No entry fee Distance from Udupi Bus Stand : The distance between the temple and Udupi Bus Stand is 70.5 kilometers. Also Checkout & Book:  Picasso Museum Tickets

Kudlu theertha falls

Kudlu Theertha Falls is a beautiful cascade situated in profound wildernesses of Western Ghats, close to Hebri. Otherwise called Sita Falls, this spot also makes for a great trekking destination. The water at these falls drop from a stature of 150 feet into a major pool. This is a lovely waterfall and it is safe to swim in the pool underneath the falls, making it one of the best tourist places in Udupi . One can hike near the base of the falls when the water is not too rough.Manga Teertha is another cascade above Kudlu Theertha, but without immediate access to its base. Location :  Nadpalu, Karnataka 576112 Timings : 9 am to 4 pm Entry fee : INR 50 per person. Camera charged are INR 200 overhead. Distance from Udupi Bus Stand : These falls are at a distance of 57.7 kilometers from Udupi Bus Stand. Explore:  Islands Near Phuket

Padubidri Beach

Padubidri beach is located about one kilometer from the National Highway. This is one of the region’s most pristine beaches and ideal to spend time quietly and peacefully. As the sun starts setting, the nearby lighthouses of Suratkal and Kapu start showing light. During some time of the year, the sun set and moonrise are visible simultaneously in opposite direction. In the non-monsoon months, one can go swimming in the ocean since the sea is calm. The farthest corner of Padubidri Beach is famously called Padubidri endpoint and is the place where the river meets the sea. Location : Udupi District, Karnataka 574111 Timings : Open 24 hours Entry fee : No entry fee Distance from Udupi Bus Stand : This beach is located about 31.5 kilometers from the Udupi Bus Stand. You Can Checkout Great Discounts On  Gold Coast Cruises

Best of Mangalore

City Centre Shopping

City Centre Udupi is a landmark shopping and lifestyle destination. With several showrooms, restaurant and service outlets, this shopping mall is located on Mosque Road, at the heart of the city. Initially built to cater to the crowds of Udupi-Manipal, this is now also a popular tourist attraction, and one of the best places to visit in Udupi. Location :  Near District Bus Terminus Opp Jamia Masjid, Maruthi Veethika, Udupi, Karnataka 576101 Entry fee : Entry free Distance from Udupi Bus Stand : The shopping mall is located about 3.7 kilometers from Udupi Bus Stand. Click Here to Book Now:  Wet World Water Park Shah Alam Tickets

Museum of Anatomy & Pathology

The Museum of Anatomy and Pathology or MAP in Manipal is a well-known tourist destination. The gallery highlights human and animal specimens and is viewed as the biggest of its sort in Asia. There are around 3000 samples of organs and different pieces of human and animal anatomy including the skulls of an elephant and a whale and a long skeleton of a King Cobra. This museum is also home to protected skeletons of different animals, making it one of the most popular places to visit in Udupi. Location :  Manipal Dr, Madhav Nagar, Manipal, Karnataka 576104 Timings : 8 am to 6 pm Entry fee : INR 10 for adults and INR 5 for children Distance from Udupi Bus Stand : The museum is located about 5.3 kilometers from the Udupi Bus Stand

Uppinakudru Island

Uppinakudru Island is a small village known for its salt and seafood. ‘Uppi Nakudru’ literally translates to Island of Salt in the Kannada language. While the population of this island largely depends on agriculture, Uppinakudru is also known for its Yakshagana puppetry. With wooden puppets about 18 inches high, this puppet show is a major show in the village. The puppeteer is known as the ‘Sutradhara’ and each puppet wears extensive makeup. Almost all of the storylines of each show are derived from the Epics. Apart from being known for the puppet shows, this island also has a number of temples for different gods and is one of the very famous tourist places in Udupi. Location :  Uppina Kudru, Karnataka 576230 Timings : Open 24 hour Entry fee : No entry fee Distance from Udupi Bus Stand : This salt island is at a distance of about 40.7 kilometers from Udupi Bus Stand.

Best of Karwar

Coin Museum Corp Bank

Coin Museum Corp Bank, otherwise called Corporation Bank Heritage Museum has a broad accumulation of coins from various dynasties in India going back to 400 BC. Visitors can also get a broad understanding about the historical backdrop of banking in India since 1906. The home of the founder of the Corporation Bank was redesigned to set up the heritage museum as a "Financial Temple". The gallery houses around 1400 coins with a present market estimation of more than 4 million rupees, making it one of the favourite tourist places in Udupi . Location :  Corporation Bank Road, Thenkpete, Maruthi Veethika, Udupi, Karnataka 576101 Timings : 10 am to 5 pm. (Closed on Sundays) Entry fee : No entry fee Distance from Udupi Bus Stand : The museum is just 4.5 kilometers from the Udupi Bus Stand

Jomlu Teerth

Located near the Belve village, Jomlu Teerth is a cluster of small cascading waterfalls formed on Seetha River. With several safe swimming spots located around the falls, this makes for the perfect spot for a family picnic or a friends gathering. Brimming with natural beauty and lush greenery all around, these waterfalls have the power to rejuvenate and refresh a tired and stressed mind. Location : Belve Timings : Open 24 hours Entry fee:  No entry fee Distance from Udupi Bus Stand : These falls are at a distance of about 35.5 kilometers from Udupi Bus Stand.

Anantheshwara

Located right beside the famous Shri Krishna Matha Temple, the Anantheshwara Temple is one of the oldest ones in the Tulu Nadu region. Built in the 8th century during the reign of the Alupas, this historic Hindu temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. The Anantheshwara Temple is also associated with Madhavacharya, the Dvaita philosopher, and is a perfect spot for peace seekers. One can visit the temple and sit here for meditation during the early hours. Location : Sri Krishna Temple Complex, Thenkpete, Maruthi Veethika Udupi, Karnataka 576101 Timings : 6 am to 12:30 pm, and 6:30 pm to 8 pm. Entry fee : Free entry Distance from Udupi Bus Stand : This temple is located about 5 kilometers from the Udupi Bus Stand.

Manipal is a locality in the city of Udupi, mostly known as campus town because of the presence of the Manipal Academy of Higher Education. Attracting thousands of students and faculties from over 60 countries, Manipal is one of the most cosmopolitan areas in the region. Situated atop a plateau, Manipal offers picturesque vistas of the Arabian Sea on one side and the Western Ghats on the other. Some of the most popular and breathtaking places to visit in Udupi are found near Manipal include Manipal Lake and Kalasa Fort. Location : Udupi Timings: Open 24 hours Entry fee : No entry fee Distance from Udupi Bus Stand : The distance between Manipal and Udupi Bus Stand is about 4.5 kilometers.

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World Tourism Day 2024: You Can Experience Bioluminescence At These 5 Places In India

By: Amisha Shirgave | September 27, 2024

Bioluminescence is the natural phenomenon where living organisms emit light due to chemical reactions in their bodies

All images from Canva

It is a breathtaking sight to watch and can turn into a once in a lifetime experience. Here are 5 places in India you can witness this phenomenon

Known for its scenic beauty, Betalbatim Beach often sees bioluminescence. September to November are the best months to witness this

Located near Udupi, Malpe Beach is another location where visitors have witnessed the shimmering effect of bioluminescence during calm nights. August to October is the best time to visit here

The beaches of Bangaram Island are one of the best places to witness bioluminescence in India. The glowing blue waves here create a magical experience. October to March is the best time to visit here

Malvan beach in the Sindhudurg district is known for its bioluminescent waters and beautiful sunsets. Visitors can take a boat ride at night to see the sea light up with a blue-green glow.Post monsoons is the best time to visit here

Thiruvanmiyur Beach in Tamil Nadu, Chennai has seen occurrences of bioluminescent plankton, creating a surreal glowing effect during certain seasons

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