Udupi is a charming town in the state of Karnataka that is well known as the city of temples due to the large number of religious tourists who visit there. The term “vegetarian food” has come to be associated with “Udupi cuisine” all over the world in recent years.
Even while Udupi is most well-known for its status as a pilgrimage destination, the city is home to a number of other places that are well worth seeing. There are a lot of nearby places in Udupi that are worth visiting.
How to reach Udupi?
By air: One of the airports closest to the city is Mangalore airport, which is located around 50–60 kilometres away.
By train: This city has an extensive train network, which will make your travel more convenient and pleasant than ever before. The primary railway that links the city to a wide variety of other cities, as well as states, is the Konkan Railway network.
By road: It is possible to travel into the city by bus, taxi, or cab. The main cities are connected by roads, and you may go between them using any number of different kinds of premium buses or passenger buses.
Amazing places to visit in Udupi
Udupi is located on the western coast of India, and as a result, it is home to a number of tranquil coastlines, islands, and other delights. Keep reading to learn more about the most popular places in udupi to visit for tourists.
St. Mary’s Island
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St. Mary’s Island in Karnataka is a place of breathtaking natural beauty as well as tremendous geological significance; it was here that Vasco da Gama first set foot on Indian soil. St. Mary’s Island is a tiny island located just off the shore of Udupi. It is an island that has white sand beaches, granite monoliths, and amazing fauna, making it a captivating spot to be in.
St. Mary’s Island is a natural wonder that is nestled in the Arabian Sea about 4 miles off the shore of Karnataka. It has some of the most stunning beaches in the whole nation and is one of the best udupi places to visit. There are four islands in the cluster: Darya Bahadurgarh Island, North Island, Coconut Island, and South Island.
Crystalline rocks that were formed when Madagascar Island became geographically distinct from India may be found along certain stretches of coastline on the island. The picturesque location is beautiful, but its real greatness as a tourist destination has not yet been fully uncovered. Among the most enticing things to do on the island is to stand on the crystal clear rocks and watch the sun go down.
The closest airport is located in Mangalore, which is 58 kilometres away from Malpe, which is where boats to St. Mary’s Island board passengers. From the airport, one may take a taxi or a bus to Malpe in a matter of minutes. Udupi, which is located only 4 kilometres away from Malpe, is where you will find the closest rail head. Finding a taxi or an autorickshaw to take you to Malpe is not difficult at all.
Malpe Beach
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The Malpe beach in India is considered to be one of the most beautiful beaches in the country that has not yet been discovered by tourists. If you are visiting places in Udupi, then this should be on your list. In the Indian state of Karnataka, it is situated 66 kilometres away from Mangalore and 6 kilometres away from Udupi. Malpe Beach is perfect for a short escape owing to its immaculate white beach, nice weather, delicious food dwellings, as well as its sea walk. The authorities have just installed free WiFi connections that are accessible round-the-clock at the beach, making this the most recent improvement made by the government.
This hidden treasure of Karnataka includes four rocky islands on its extensive coastline. Daria-Bahadurgad is the northernmost island, followed by Daria-Gadara-Kallu and Kari-Illada-Kallu, which are all in the Bay of Bengal. Most folks come to see St. Mary’s Island, the largest and most renowned of the four rocky islands. There is a little river called the Udyavara River that runs near this beach, and the locals call it the Malpe River because of its proximity to the beach.
Malpe Beach may be reached quickly and effortlessly by any kind of transportation. From Udupi, one may take a private bus that travels directly to Malpe Beach, passing through Malpe Town on the way. The beachfront is just a two-kilometre drive from the centre of town and may be accessed by automobiles for a fare of around twenty Indian Rupees.
Krishna Temple
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The Krishna Temple, also known as the Udupi Sri Krishna Matha, is revered as one of the holiest places to worship Lord Krishna and is widely regarded as among the most well-known religious destinations in all of South India. The statue of Krishna is decked with diamonds, and his chariot is made of gold. The manner in which devotion is performed in the temple is what sets it apart from other places.
The Navagraha Kitiki is a silver-plated frame with nine perforations through which all of the ceremonies and rituals are performed. The Shree Krishna Matha is surrounded by the Udupi Anantheshwara Temple. This temple has a 1,000-year history.
The Krishna Temple draws thousands of worshippers each year, and daily prayers start at 4:00 AM. Several celebrations include Krishnashtami, Hanuman Jayanti, Ram Navami, Deepavali, Saptotsava or rather the Seven Utsavas (in January), and the Paryaya celebration.
The airport and train station that is located in the closest proximity to Udupi are both located in Mangalore. Udupi may be reached from Mangalore and Bangalore by a bus service that runs frequently. In addition, the Krishna temple is located within a short distance of the central business district of Udupi.
Kapu Beach
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Kapu beach is yet another beach that has retained its natural beauty and has remained largely undeveloped despite its proximity to the city of Mangalore and the township of Udupi. If you search for “places to visit udupi”, then this beach comes up. This location is home to a lighthouse that was built in 1901 and is accessible to visitors every day, beginning at 5:30 AM for a period of one hour. The area surrounding the beach is filled with stunning Airbnbs, any one of which would make for an ideal setting for a peaceful weekend. From the very top of the lighthouse, one is treated to a breathtaking panorama of the surrounding water.
The Mangalore Airport which is located in proximity to this location serves as a gateway to Kapu beach. You will need to travel by road from this point forward. In addition, the Udupi and Mangalore train stations are the closest ones to the town. Simply drive approximately 25 kilometres in the other direction from Udupi to get to Kapu.
Kodi Beach
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Vacationers will find Kodi Bengre Beach to be an ideal destination since it is encircled by water on all three of its sides. As a result of the Suvarna River’s discharge into the Arabian Sea, the area creates a delta. Because of this, the beach has been given the name Delta Beach, and it is also known as a “sangama” point.
It is well known for its toddy and its seafood that has been freshly cooked, and it has a little port where fisheries are carried out. Tourists can take boat tours into the neighbouring mangroves, or they can just spend an afternoon of delicious seafood accompanied by a breathtaking sunset. Both of these activities are available to tourists.
The ocean waters at this beach are not safe for swimming since the sand is sinking, and engaging in this activity might result in significant dangers to one’s health and safety. The path that goes to the beach is a winding one that is just a few feet wide and is hemmed in on both sides by water. To reach the beach, you will need to rappel down a few rocks, so make sure you wear footwear that is adequate for this activity.
The Udupi Railway Station, which is located in Indrali, is the nearest train station. The remaining 17 kilometres to Kodi beach may be travelled by road. If you do not have a personal car, there are various buses that serve the route.
Jomlu Teerth
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The mesmerising River Sita is responsible for creating the breathtaking waterfall known as Jomlu Teerth, which can be seen inside the Someshwara Wildlife Sanctuary. In the midst of the thickly forested nature reserve is where you’ll find the waterfall that tumbles down the rocky landscape from an elevation of twenty feet. Everyone who hears the melody produced by the rushing aquatic environment and the birds chirping their hearts out will undoubtedly get enchanted by it.
Buses operated by the KSRTC go between Bangalore and both Udupi and Hebri. Udupi Station is the most convenient train stop, and you can easily reach Hebri by taking a local bus from there. You have the option of walking four kilometres from Hebri or taking a car or bus.
Manipal
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The Manipal University is the most well-known landmark in this town. However, it is also home to a number of other academic institutions that were established by Dr T. M. A. Pai. It is situated in the Malabar coastal region, and the Arabian Sea is just 8 kilometres away from its immediate vicinity. In addition to being home to the campus of Manipal University, this location is also the regional IT centre as well as the worldwide headquarters of Syndicate bank.
Before 1950, Manipal was a peaceful seaside town that had not yet achieved widespread prominence. It used to be a subdivision of the panchayat for the settlement of Shivalli. All of that, nevertheless, changed when Dr Tonse Madhava Anantha Pai decided to establish a school in this town in order to educate medical professionals. This formerly tranquil town began garnering notice in 1953 when India’s first private healthcare institution, Kasturba Medical College, was established in Manipal. Within several years, it became the most well-known destination in the state of Karnataka.
The Mangalore International Airport is the closest one, and it can be reached by car in little more than ninety minutes. The city of Manipal has excellent connections to the urban centres in Karnataka, Kerala, and other Indian states. Frequent bus service connects the cities of Mangalore and Manipal. Additionally, direct bus routes connect Goa, Hyderabad, Mumbai, and a number of other significant cities. from the city of Bangalore
Kudlu Falls
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Kudlu Falls, which are often referred to as Sita Falls, are well-known for their breathtaking natural beauty. The Western Ghats are home to the waterfall that drops from an altitude of 150 feet and is located in the middle of a lush cover of greenery on the mountainous landscape. In order to get to the beautiful waterfall, you’ll need to do some hiking through the forest area. Because of this, hikers and others who just like nature go to see the site.
To get to Kudlu Falls, visitors must first make their way to Hebri, which is located around 30 kilometres away from Udupi and is accessible by bus. You may rent a private car in Hebri and take it to the Sita River, which is the location of the road point that is closest to the waterfalls. To get to the waterfalls, you will need to hike through the bush for four kilometres after crossing the river. The difficulty of the hike is average, and it is not recommended that families go there.
Chandramouleshwara Temple
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This temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva, and all worshippers are required to pay their respects here before proceeding to the Krishna Temple, which is situated just next door. This temple has a history that goes back more than 900 years; in fact, it is more ancient than the nearby Krishna Mutt. The inside is reported to be quite quiet and serene.
The Chandramouleshwara Temple may be found next to the Unkal circle and the Unkal Lake in Hubli, Karnataka, India. It is situated on the ancient Pune – Bangalore route (NH4). To get to the Chandramouleshwara Temple in Unkal there are a large number of public and private transportation options available. The KSRTC Buses are readily accessible, and they provide a reliable connection to all of the major cities.
Mookambika Temple
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It is said that Aadiprakarshakti, the deity to whom the Mookambika Temple is devoted, embodies the powers of not one but three different goddesses: Goddess Saraswati, Goddess Mahakali, and Maha Lakshmi. Within the sanctum sanctorum is located a Linga which is known as the Udbhavlinga. This Linga symbolises both Purusha and Shakti.
Bijoor (BIJR) is the closest railway station, located 20 kilometres from Kollur, with Kundapura station located 40 kilometres from Kollur. Taxis are readily available at the station for the trip to Mookambika Temple. It takes three hours to get there via bus from Mangalore. From Shimoga, Sagara, and other nearby locations, direct buses may take you there quickly and easily.
Anantheshwar Temple
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It is thought that the Anantheshwar Temple, which dates back to the 8th century and is held in high regard to Lord Shiva, is the oldest temple in the surrounding area. In addition, the compound is home to temples dedicated to Chandramouleshwara and Krishna. Stone was used in the construction of the main shrine, and a silver entrance frame was only recently put in. Madhavacharya, a prominent figure in Hindu philosophy, is said to have tutored and instructed his students inside this temple.
Udupi is easily accessible by bus from several southern cities. You may rent a bus through KSRTC or a private company depending on your budget. Several different private firms provide reliable and comfortable city bus services to Anantheshwar Temple in Udupi. The central bus station serves as the terminal for most routes. There are bus stations spread out all throughout the town.
Coin Museum Corp Bank
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Coin Museum Corp Bank, popularly recognized as the Corporation Bank Heritage Museum, has an excellent array of coins going all the way back to 400 BC. These coins belonged to a variety of dynasties. Additionally, one may get vast information regarding Indian banks beginning in 1906. The original home of the Corporation Bank’s founding father was renovated into the historical museum, which now calls itself a “Financial Temple.” There are around 1400 coins in the museum’s collection, and their combined worth exceeds 4 million rupees at the present time.
The museum is conveniently adjacent to Mangalore Airport. You may use a bus or a cab from the airport. The museum is accessible through a large number of buses. You may also take a cab here if the bus doesn’t suit your schedule. The Udupi train station is conveniently close by. One may use the bus or a cab from the train station to the museum. The museum is open every day of the year.
Sea Walk Malpe
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The Sea Walk, which can be found in close proximity to Malpe Harbour and located at a distance of 1 km from the main beach, is recognised as one of the most well-liked destinations for vacationers in this part of the world. Along one side of the 450-metre boardwalk, visitors get a glimpse of the great extent of the Arabian Sea, while on the other side, they can see the hinterlands of the Swarna River.
Kemmannu Hanging Bridge
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The Kemmannu Hanging Bridge is a lesser-known tourist destination in Udupi that can be found 7.5 kilometres away from Delta Beach. Its initial purpose was to bridge the gap between the two sides of the Swarna River; nevertheless, it has since been converted into a venue for a variety of outdoor activities.
Kayaking and rafting down rivers are two high-adrenaline activities that may be experienced by thrill-seekers at prices that won’t break the bank. Visitors may get stunning scenery of the overpass and its picturesque setting, which consists of coconut palms and wilderness, by boat down the river. The hike up to the bridge in this picturesque environment will give you an opportunity to get in touch with nature and appreciate the splendour of the lush vegetation that surrounds you.
FAQs
Where are some of Udupi's most well-known retail destinations?
Udupi is unquestionably a shopper's paradise, particularly for those individuals who have a passion for jewels and textiles. You may go shopping for accessories as well as drapes made of silk in the Kanjeevaram, Dharmavaram, and Banarasi styles. The Ratha Beedi Marketplace and the Abharan are two of the numerous places where one may indulge in the therapeutic effects of shopping.
How do I plan a trip to Udupi?
To have fun to your heart's content, you need not leave this seaside town, since there are seemingly endless options for doing so. Beginning your journey in Kapu village, where you may unwind on kapu beach, is a great idea. The next stop should be Malpe beach, where you may relax and take part in a number of water-based activities. Spend at least a few hours taking in the tranquil atmosphere. In addition, St. Mary's Island would be a wonderful spot to relax in the company of nature. Visiting an animal sanctuary is a great way to spice up your vacation with a little excitement.
What is the most well-known dish that is associated with Udupi cuisine?
Masala Dosa is widely considered to be one of the city's most iconic meals. In addition to this, regional specialities such as Bisi Bele Bhath, Rasam, Paal Payasam, Gorikai Upakari, Murukku, etc. are cherished by both natives and visitors.
When would you say is the perfect time to go to Udupi?
It is recommended that you schedule your visit to take place during the winter months, which are December through February, in order to get the most out of this charming city. Temperatures during these months range from 10 degrees Celsius to 32 degrees Celsius, and you will most certainly take advantage of the advantages offered by the pleasant weather.
How many days of vacation time do you recommend spending in Udupi?
It is advised that you plan a vacation that is at least two or three days long if you consider yourself an adventurer and want to ensure that you don't miss any extra activities or notable tourist attractions. This would allow you to see all of the famous places, and you would still have plenty of time to relax and refuel your energy reserves.
Is it risky to go to Malpe Beach?
Indeed, Malpe Beach is widely regarded as one of the most secure beaches in Karnataka, and as a result, it draws a large number of tourists each and every day.
