Udupi
Known as the “Temple Town of South India, Udupi is a city that is located along the serene coastline of Karnataka. Udupi is famous for its centuries-old Sri Krishna Temple, its delectable Udupi cuisine, and its proximity to some of the most scenic beaches on the Arabian Sea. Its a perfect mix of culture, nature and coastal charm.
Geography and Overview
Udupi lies between the Arabian Sea on the west and the Western Ghats on the east, giving it a diverse landscape of sandy beaches, backwaters, and lush hills. The climate remains tropical and humid, with pleasant winters from November to February, making it the best time to visit.
The monsoon season (June–September) paints the region in shades of green, while summers (March–May) are warm but ideal for beach exploration.
Top Attractions in Udupi
Sri Krishna Temple—The spiritual heart of Udupi, this temple was founded by the saint Sri Madhvacharya in the 13th century. The unique darshan (viewing) of Lord Krishna through a silver-plated window known as the Kanakana Kindi makes it one of South India’s most revered pilgrimage sites.
Malpe Beach—Just 6 km from Udupi, Malpe Beach is a favorite for water sports, golden sunsets, and seafood shacks. It also serves as the gateway to St. Mary’s Island, a geological wonder known for its hexagonal basalt columns.
St. Mary’s Island—A short boat ride from Malpe takes you to these uninhabited islands where crystalline waters meet striking rock formations, making it a photographer’s paradise.
Kapu Beach—Famous for its historic lighthouse, Kapu Beach offers panoramic sea views and an ideal spot for quiet evening strolls.
Manipal—Located nearby, this educational town offers attractions like the Hasta Shilpa Heritage Village, Anatomy Museum, and End Point Park, overlooking the Swarna River.
Anantheshwara Temple—An ancient temple predating the Krishna Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, showcasing exquisite stone carvings and Dravidian architecture.
Kodi Bengre—Known as “Delta Beach,” this offbeat destination lies where the Suvarna River meets the Arabian Sea, offering a peaceful escape and a glimpse into local fishing life.
Things to Do in Udupi
Temple Tour: Visit the eight Ashta Mathas (monastic institutions) founded by Madhvacharya.
Beach Activities: Try jet skiing, parasailing, or banana boat rides at Malpe Beach.
Island Excursion: Take a ferry ride to St. Mary’s Island for exploration and photography.
Local Food Tasting: Savor authentic Udupi cuisine like dosa, idli, sambar, and podi chutneys at traditional eateries.
Cultural Immersion: Attend local festivals like Paryaya, held every two years, when temple leadership is ceremoniously transferred between Mathas.
Where to Stay
Udupi is a spiritual and cultural hub deeply rooted in Vaishnavite traditions. The temple kitchens of Udupi gave birth to the globally popular Udupi cuisine, known for its vegetarian delicacies prepared without onion or garlic. Some must-try dishes include masala dosa, mangalore buns, puliyogare, and kesari bath. The people of Udupi are known for their warm hospitality, devotion, and respect for tradition, making visitors feel truly welcome.
How to Reach Udupi?
BY ROAD
Udupi is well-connected by road via NH 66, approximately 400 km from Bangalore and 55 km from Mangalore.
BY TRAIN
Udupi Railway Station is on the Konkan Railway line, offering scenic journeys from Mumbai, Goa, and Kerala.
BY AIR
The nearest airport is Mangalore International Airport (60 km), which is well connected to major cities like Bangalore, Mumbai, and Chennai
Top Tourist Attractions in Udupi
Udupi, a charming coastal town in Karnataka, is renowned for its temples, pristine beaches, and cultural heritage. Famous as the birthplace of the Udupi Krishna Temple and the origin of the globally loved Udupi cuisine, the city offers a unique blend of spirituality, tradition, and natural beauty. From visiting the sacred Udupi Sri Krishna Matha to relaxing at Malpe Beach or exploring St. Mary’s Island, the top tourist attractions in Udupi promise enriching experiences for pilgrims, food enthusiasts, and travelers seeking serene coastal escapes.
Shri Krishna Temple
Shri Krishna Temple in Udupi is part of the cultural heritage of the region…. Read More
Sri Ananthashayana Temple
The Sri Ananthashayana Temple , also known as the Ananthashayana … Read More
Sri Venkata Ramana Temple
Sri Venkata Ramana Temple, known as Padu Tirupathi, is a revered … Read More
Must Vist Places around Udupi
The region surrounding Udupi is filled with scenic beaches, ancient temples, backwaters, and offbeat cultural spots, making it ideal for leisure trips and nature retreats. Nearby destinations like Kaup Beach, Kodi Bengre Backwaters, Karkala’s Gomateshwara Statue, and the historic Moodabidri Jain Temples showcase the region’s blend of spirituality, history, and coastal beauty. Whether exploring tranquil beaches, ancient monuments, or lush landscapes, the must-visit places around Udupi offer travelers a diverse and immersive experience in Karnataka’s coastal heartland.
