Places to Visit in Udupi: Complete 2026 Travel Guide
Discover the best places to visit in Udupi, iconic temples, and vibrant coastal culture in Karnataka's hidden gem.
By Explore Udupi Team · Last updated: 14 October 2026
Top Famous Beaches to Visit in Udupi
Malpe Beach
Golden-sand coastline near Sri Krishna Temple, famous for water sports and Sea Walkway.
Kapu Lighthouse Beach
Famous for its historic 100-year-old colonial lighthouse built on dramatic granite rocks.
Padubidri Blue Flag Beach
International Blue Flag certified eco-friendly beach featuring pristine lawns and calm waters.
St. Mary's Island
Geological wonder with unique 60-million-year-old hexagonal basalt rock formations.
Best Pilgrimage Temples to Visit in Udupi
Sri Krishna Matha Temple
Historic 13th-century shrine founded by Jagadguru Shri Madhvacharya, famous for Kanakana Kindi.
Anegudde Vinayaka Temple
Revered Ganesha pilgrimage centre in Kumbhashi, known as Mukti Sthala of Coastal Karnataka.
Kollur Mookambika Temple
Ancient Siddhi Kshetra nestled in the Western Ghats foothills, dedicated to Goddess Mookambika.
Varanga Kere Basadi
800-year-old Jain water temple located in the middle of a peaceful, picturesque lake.
Top Hanging Bridges and Waterfalls in Udupi
Kudlu Theertha Falls
Hidden jungle waterfall deep inside Agumbe rainforests, dropping into a natural pool.
Heroor Hanging Bridge
Scenic suspension bridge over Sita River offering breathtaking backwater views and photography.
Arbi Falls Manipal
Serene hidden seasonal waterfall located near Manipal, surrounded by lush green rocks.
Kemthoor Hanging Bridge
Rustic suspension wooden walkway spanning calm backwaters and green coconut plantations.
Must-Visit Tourist Places to visit in Udupi
Planning a visit to coastal Karnataka? Udupi offers a rich mix of pristine beaches, historic Dravidian architecture, and lush Western Ghats waterfalls. Here is a curated guide to the top-rated destinations to include in your itinerary.
1. Malpe Beach & St. Mary's Island
Located just 7 km from the city center, Malpe Beach is Udupi’s premier coastal destination, famous for water sports, beachside dining, and golden sands. From Malpe pier, daily ferries take visitors to St. Mary’s Island, known worldwide for its unique hexagonal basaltic rock formations.
2. Sri Krishna Matha & Car Street
Founded in the 13th century by the saint Jagadguru Shri Madhvacharya, the historic Sri Krishna Temple is the spiritual heart of Udupi. Pilgrims visit to view the idol through the revered Kanakana Kindi window and experience traditional temple hospitality along Car Street.
3. Kapu Beach & Historic Lighthouse
Renowned for its panoramic coastal views, Kapu (Kaup) Beach features a century-old active lighthouse built on a rugged monolithic rock. It is considered one of the best evening sunset spots in coastal Karnataka.
Udupi Beaches and Temples at a Glance
Quick comparison tables to help you choose where to spend your time. Distances are approximate road distances from Udupi, and timings can change, so please confirm locally before you travel.
Beaches compared
| Beach | From Udupi | Best for | Good to know |
|---|---|---|---|
| Malpe Beach | 7 km | Activities, boating, sea walk | Ferries to St. Mary's Island leave from the Malpe jetty |
| Delta Beach (Kodi Bengre) | 17 km | River-meets-sea views, backwaters | Kayaking and backwater boating are available |
| Kapu (Kaup) Beach | 17 km | Lighthouse views, sunset | Usually quieter than Malpe |
| Hoode Beach | 13 km | Quiet sunsets | Less crowded, close to Kemmannu Hanging Bridge |
| Padubidri Blue Flag Beach | 27 km | Clean, family-friendly beach | Blue Flag certified, entry rules apply |
| Kodi Beach (Kundapura) | 40 km | Sea walk | About 1 km sea walkway |
| Maravanthe Beach | 52 km | Scenic highway drive | Sea on one side of the road, river on the other |
Temples compared
| Temple | From Udupi | Known for | Good to know |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sri Krishna Matha | 0.5 km | Kanakana Kindi darshan, the Ashta Mathas | Modest traditional attire is expected |
| Anantheshwara and Chandramouleshwara | 0.5 km | Ancient Shiva temples near the Matha | Easy to combine with a Matha visit |
| Ambalpady Janardhana and Mahakali | 3 km | Janardhana shrine with a Mahakali shrine | Quiet, green surroundings |
| Anegudde Vinayaka Temple | 30 km | Ganesha pilgrimage at Kumbhashi | Often visited before starting a new journey |
| Varanga Jain Kere Basadi | 38 km | Jain temple in the middle of a lake | Allow about 2 hours |
| Kollur Mookambika Temple | 74 km | Shakti temple in the Western Ghats foothills | Plan a half day |
Top 33 Udupi Places to Visit
Explore interactive maps, distances, and location links from Udupi City Bus Stand.
✓ Approximate driving distances from Udupi City Bus Stand. Key beach and viewpoint distances checked on Google Maps, October 2026.
● Beaches: Malpe, Kapu, Padubidri, Mattu
● Temples: Sri Krishna Matha, Kollur, Anegudde
● Nature: St. Mary’s Island, Kudlu Theertha, Heroor Bridge
| Attraction Name | Category | Distance | Ideal Duration | Map Location |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 🏖️ Beaches & Coastal Spots (Nearest to Farthest) | ||||
| 1. Malpe Beach & Pier | Beach / Water Sports | 7 km✓ Maps | 2 – 3 Hours | 📍 Open Map |
| 2. Kodi Bengre (Delta Beach) | Backwaters & Beach | 17 km✓ Maps | 2 Hours | 📍 Open Map |
| 3. Mattu Beach | Secluded Beach / Sunset | 10 km | 1 – 2 Hours | 📍 Open Map |
| 4. Pithrody Udyavara Beach | Narrow Beach Strip | 11 km | 1 – 2 Hours | 📍 Open Map |
| 5. Hoode Beach | Surfing / Quiet Beach | 13 km✓ Maps | 1 – 2 Hours | 📍 Open Map |
| 6. Kapu (Kaup) Beach | Lighthouse / Sunset | 17 km✓ Maps | 2 Hours (Evening) | 📍 Open Map |
| 7. Padubidri Blue Flag Beach | Eco Beach / Sunset | 27 km✓ Maps | 2 Hours | 📍 Open Map |
| 8. Maravanthe Beach & Highway | Scenic Beach Drive | 52 km✓ Maps | 1 – 2 Hours | 📍 Open Map |
| 9. Baindur Someshwara Beach | Cliffside Beach | 68 km | 2 – 3 Hours | 📍 Open Map |
| 🛕 Temples & Sacred Pilgrimage (Nearest to Farthest) | ||||
| 10. Sri Krishna Matha | Pilgrimage / Culture | 0.5 km✓ Maps | 1 – 2 Hours | 📍 Open Map |
| 11. Ambalpady Mahakali Temple | Pilgrimage / Shrine | 3 km | 1 Hour | 📍 Open Map |
| 12. Pajaka Kshetra | Madhvacharya Birthplace | 12 km | 1 – 2 Hours | 📍 Open Map |
| 13. Saligrama Gurunarasimha Temple | Pilgrimage | 21 km | 1 Hour | 📍 Open Map |
| 14. Anegudde Sri Vinayaka Temple | Pilgrimage | 30 km | 1 Hour | 📍 Open Map |
| 15. Varanga Jain Lake Temple | Heritage Lake Basadi | 38 km | 2 Hours | 📍 Open Map |
| 16. Kollur Sri Mookambika Temple | Pilgrimage / Heritage | 74 km | Half Day | 📍 Open Map |
| 🌿 Waterfalls, Heritage, Bridges & Viewpoints | ||||
| 17. Hasta Shilpa Heritage Village | Open-Air Museum | 6 km | 2 – 3 Hours | 📍 Open Map |
| 18. Manipal Lake & Tree Park | Boating / Eco Park | 6 km | 1 – 2 Hours | 📍 Open Map |
| 19. St. Mary's Island | Geological Heritage | 6.5 km + Ferry | Half Day | 📍 Open Map |
| 20. Arbi Falls (Manipal) | Monsoon Waterfall | 7 km | 1 – 2 Hours | 📍 Open Map |
| 21. End Point Manipal | Viewpoint / Cliff Park | 7 km | 1 – 2 Hours | 📍 Open Map |
| 22. Kemthoor Hanging Bridge | Scenic Bridge / Village | 8 km | 1 Hour | 📍 Open Map |
| 23. Heroor Hanging Bridge | Scenic Bridge / River | 12 km | 1 Hour | 📍 Open Map |
| 24. Barkur Heritage Site | Ancient Capital | 16 km | 2 Hours | 📍 Open Map |
| 25. Jomlu Theertha Falls | Waterfall / Picnic | 35 km | 2 – 3 Hours | 📍 Open Map |
| 26. Karkala Gommateshwara Monolith | Heritage Monolith | 37 km | 2 Hours | 📍 Open Map |
| 27. Chaturmukha Basadi (Karkala) | Jain Architecture | 38 km | 1 – 2 Hours | 📍 Open Map |
| 28. Someshwara Wildlife Sanctuary | Rainforest Reserve | 40 km | Half Day | 📍 Open Map |
| 29. Kudlu Theertha Falls | Waterfall / Trekking | 42 km | Half Day | 📍 Open Map |
| 30. Belakal Theertha Falls | Trekking Waterfall | 60 km | Half Day | 📍 Open Map |
| 🌄 Day-Trip Extras (Farther Out) | ||||
| 31. Kodi Beach & Sea Walk (Kundapura) | Beach / Sea Walk | 40 km✓ Maps | 2 Hours | 📍 Open Map |
| 32. Agumbe Sunset Point | Hill Viewpoint / Sunset | 52 km✓ Maps | Half Day | 📍 Open Map |
| 33. Kodachadri Hills | Trekking / Viewpoint | 117 km✓ Maps | Full Day (Trek) | 📍 Open Map |
What to Eat in Udupi
The idea of the Udupi hotel started in this region, and the cuisine is simple, fresh and mostly vegetarian, built on rice, coconut and lentils. See our full Udupi food guide.
Traditional Udupi Meal
A banana-leaf meal of rice, sambar, rasam, vegetable dishes, pickles and chutneys, with mild flavours and little oil. Temple meals (Maha Prasada) are a local highlight.
Neer Dosa
Soft, thin rice dosas that are light and easy to digest, usually served with coconut chutney or curry. One of the most popular dishes in Udupi.
Goli Baje and Banana Buns
Classic tea-time snacks. Banana buns are soft and slightly sweet, and taste best with chutney or sambar.
Patrode
Colocasia leaves coated in a spiced batter and steamed, with a tangy, slightly spicy taste. Often made for special occasions.
Gadbad Ice Cream
A colourful layered dessert of ice cream, fruits, jelly and nuts, and a favourite after a day of sightseeing.
Coastal Seafood
For seafood lovers, Tulu Nadu specialities such as Anjal (kingfish) rava fry, Kori Rotti and prawn ghee roast are popular regional highlights.
Festivals and Events in Udupi
Udupi celebrates its temple and folk traditions with energy. Dates change every year, so check local announcements before planning around a festival. See our Udupi festivals guide.
Paryaya Festival
Held once every two years at the Sri Krishna Temple, when responsibility for temple rituals passes between the Ashta Mathas, with a grand procession that draws thousands of devotees.
Krishna Janmashtami (Vitla Pindi)
Celebrated in a lively way, with colourful decorations, music and the breaking of pots filled with curd. Locally the event is known as Vitla Pindi or Mosaru Kudike.
Yakshagana
A traditional coastal Karnataka art form combining dance, music and storytelling, usually performed at temple festivals and special occasions with bright costumes and stories from the epics.
Huli Vesha (Tiger Dance)
Performers paint their bodies like tigers and dance on the streets, usually during Navaratri. An energetic show that attracts large crowds.
Kambala (Buffalo Race)
A traditional race in water-filled fields in rural coastal Karnataka, where farmers race well-trained buffaloes. It reflects local agricultural culture and is both competitive and festive.
Essential Udupi Travel Information
Key facts and logistics to help you plan your visit seamlessly.
Best Time to Visit
Oct – Mar: Pleasant & ideal for beaches. Jul – Sept: Monsoons & lush waterfalls.
Nearest Airport
Mangaluru (IXE): 58 km away. Direct taxi and highway bus routes available.
Railway Station
Udupi (UD): Well-connected route on the Konkan Railway network.
Local Transport
Auto-rickshaws, local city buses, self-drive rentals, and bike rentals.
Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to plan your trip to Udupi, Manipal, and the Coastal Karnataka region.
1. What is the best time to visit Udupi?
The best time to visit Udupi is from October to March when the weather is pleasant, cool, and ideal for beach activities, temple visits, and sightseeing. If you want to experience lush greenery and surging waterfalls like Arbi and Kudlu Theertha, the monsoon season from July to September is also popular.
2. How many days are recommended for a Udupi trip?
A 2 to 3-day itinerary is ideal to explore Udupi’s main highlights. Day 1 can be dedicated to Sri Krishna Matha and Malpe Beach / St. Mary’s Island; Day 2 for Kapu Lighthouse, Mattu Beach, and Delta Beach; and Day 3 for day trips to Varanga Lake Temple, Kundapura beaches, or inland waterfalls.
3. What are the top must-visit tourist places in Udupi?
The top sights include the historic Sri Krishna Matha, Malpe Beach & Sea Walk, the basaltic rock formations at St. Mary’s Island, Kapu Lighthouse Beach, Kodi Bengre (Delta Beach), Padubidri Blue Flag Beach, and Hasta Shilpa Heritage Village in Manipal.
4. How do I reach St. Mary's Island from Udupi, and what are the ferry timings?
You can reach St. Mary’s Island by taking a tourist ferry or speed boat from Malpe Beach Jetty (6.5 km from Udupi city). Ferries usually run daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM (subject to weather and sea condition). Note that ferry operations are paused during heavy monsoons (June to September).
5. What is the dress code and rules for visiting Udupi Sri Krishna Temple?
Visitors are required to wear modest traditional attire. Men must remove their shirts and vests before entering the main sanctum sanctorum. Shorts, sleeveless tops, and western beachwear are prohibited inside temple premises. The temple is open daily from 5:00 AM to 9:30 PM.
6. How can I travel around Udupi? Are scooter and bike rentals available?
Udupi is well-connected by local private and KSRTC city buses, autorickshaws, and taxis. For independent travel, renting a scooter or motorcycle in Udupi or Manipal is the most popular, cost-effective option for riding along the coastal roads and beach strips.
7. Which are the best sunset beaches in Udupi?
The top sunset spots are Kapu Beach (climb the lighthouse for panoramic sunset views), Mattu Beach (famous for sunset drives and seasonal bioluminescence), Kodi Bengre Delta Beach (where the Swarna River meets the Arabian Sea), and Padubidri Blue Flag Beach.
8. What local food and dishes should I try in Udupi?
Udupi is world-renowned for its vegetarian cuisine. Must-try vegetarian items include Neer Dosa, Masala Dosa, Goli Baje, Kotte Kadubu, and traditional Maha Prasada / Temple Meals. For seafood lovers, Coastal Tulu Nadu specialties like Anjal (Kingfish) Rava Fry, Kori Rotti, and Prawn Ghee Roast are popular regional highlights.
9. Which waterfalls near Udupi are best for day trips?
Top waterfall destinations near Udupi include Arbi Falls in Manipal (7 km), Jomlu Theertha Falls (35 km), Kudlu Theertha Falls near Hebri (42 km), and Belakal Theertha Falls (60 km) in the foothills of the Western Ghats.
10. How far is Udupi from the nearest airport and railway station?
The nearest airport is Mangaluru International Airport (IXE), located approximately 58 km (1 hr 15 mins) away. Udupi has its own major railway station on the Konkan Railway network, Udupi Railway Station (UD), located just 4 km from the main Udupi Bus Stand.