Coastal Charm: Udupi's Culinary Delights And Holiday Havens

Famously known for its temples, delicious Udupi cuisine, pristine beaches and cultural heritage, Udupi is one of India's best-kept secrets and makes for a great vacation spot with your loved ones. It is located in Karnataka. Aside from its beautiful sights, Udupi offers plenty of activities, like visiting St. Mary's Island, trekking in the Agumbe rainforest, or enjoying the delicious Udupi cuisine. It is also known for its vibrant culture, with a wide array of festivals and temples that attract visitors from all over the world.

Things To Do

Sri Krishna Temple

The Udupi Sri Krishna Matha or Sri Krishna Temple is Udupi's major pilgrimage site and attracts thousands of tourists annually. The temple was built in the 13th century by Sri Madhvacharya, who is said to be the founder of the Dvaita School of Vedanta Philosophy. It is believed that the idol of Lord Krishna in this temple is that of a "Chaturbhuja Vigraha" (a four-armed form of Lord Krishna), which is said to be installed by Sri Madhvacharya himself. Devotees get to seek the darshan of Lord Krishna through the "Navagraha Kindi", a silver-plated window installed so that the devotees can seek the blessings of Lord Krishna.

Kapu Beach

Kapu Beach is one of Udupi's most picturesque, pristine beaches. Located around 13 km from Udupi, Kapu Beach is known for its clear, pristine waters and breathtaking sunset views. The calming and serene environment of the beach makes it a great spot to enjoy with your loved ones. There are several shacks located on the beach that offer delicious local as well as seafood dishes. Kapu Beach can be easily accessed by road. Since it is only 13 km from Udupi, one can easily reach the beach by bus or car/taxi.

St. Mary's Island

St. Mary's Island comprises small islands and is well-known for its scenic beaches and unique geological rock formations. To reach St. Mary's Island, you can take a boat from Malpe, located about 6 km from the island.

Where to Stay

The Paradise Isle Beach Resort is a favourite of many. It is affordable and located right next to a beach that provides an amazing ocean view from your room. Located in Malpe, the resort is a great place to stay and is only 6 km from Udupi and around 50 km from Mangalore airport. Therefore accessibility is not an issue. The White-Lotus Hotel, Udupi, is another excellent option. The hotel has a great ambience, amenities and facilities. Prices of standard rooms normally range from INR 3,800 plus taxes though the tariff is likely to be higher in the peak season time of December. The staff there are very cordial and help you with your needs.

Where to Eat

In Udupi, there are several eating joints that one shouldn't miss. Here are a few suggestions.

Diana Restaurant

The Diana restaurant, located in Udupi, is famous for its mouth-watering delicacies, such as masala dosa and ghee roast dosas, along with a wide range of Udupi delicacies.

Address: 8PJW+MF5, opp. Big Bazaar, Jodukatte, Ajjarkad, Udupi, Karnataka 576101

Phone: 0820 252 0505

Mitra Samaj Café

Mitra Samaj Cafe is an amazing place to have delicious finger foods ranging from burgers to sandwiches, and their coffee is a personal favourite, so if you decide to go to the Mitra Samaj Café, then do not forget to try out their delicious coffee.

Address: Sri Krishna Temple Complex, Thenkpete, Maruthi Veethika, Udupi, Karnataka 576101

Phone: 098801 99678

Where to Shop 

Ratha Beedi Market

The Ratha Beedi market is one of the most famous markets for shopping in Udupi. Located near the Udupi Sri Krishna Matha, the Ratha Beedi Market is a great place to buy idols of deities, flowers, incense sticks, local spices, handicrafts, etc. The best time to visit the market is during the evening as the weather is pleasant, and the sunset from the Ratha Beedi Market is spectacular. Also, try the delicious street food when visiting the Ratha Beedi Market.

Chittaranjan Circle

Chittaranjan Circle is another great place to shop. Selling excellent quality products at affordable rates, the Chittaranjan Circle is an amazing place for jewellery shopping and is said to have the best quality jewellery in Udupi.

Best Time To Visit

Between October and March

Getting There

By Air: The nearest airport to Udupi is the Mangalore International Airport, around 60 km from Udupi. From the airport, you can take a cab, rent a car, or take a bus to Udupi.

By Train: Udupi has its railway station and is very well-connected to the major cities of India. You can take a bus, an autorickshaw or a car from the railway station to reach your destination.

By Road: If travelling to Udupi by road, prepare yourself for the fantastic, picturesque and smooth drive you will have. Being very well-connected by national and state highways, your journey by road to Udupi will surely be a great one.