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.

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
• Pajaka

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.

Distance From Udupi Krishna Temple: 12 Kilometers

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.

Distance From Udupi Krishna Temple: 40 Kilometers

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.

Distance From Udupi Krishna Temple: 40 Kilometers

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
• Kaup 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.

Distance From Udupi Krishna Temple: 12 Kilometers

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.

Distance From Udupi Krishna Temple: 12 Kilometers

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.

Distance From Udupi Krishna Temple: 13 Kilometers

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.

Distance From Udupi Krishna Temple: 4 Kilometers

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.

Distance From Udupi Krishna Temple: 1 Kilometer

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.

Distance From Udupi Krishna Temple: 20 Kilometers

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

By Air

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.

By Rail

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.

By Road

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

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

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

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

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

Banana Bun

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.

Neer Dose

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!

Click to book the best hotels and best resorts in Udupi or in Mangalore

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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