Pilgrimage
Udupi
A coastal temple town famous for its Krishna Matha shrine and for giving its name to the vegetarian cuisine served across India. Founded by the 13th-century philosopher Madhvacharya, Udupi’s Krishna Matha complex is unusual for the way pilgrims view the deity through a carved silver window rather than a direct doorway, and the eight surrounding mathas still rotate ceremonial temple management every two years.
Weather & Best Time to Visit
Overview
Founded by the 13th-century philosopher Madhvacharya, Udupi’s Krishna Matha complex is unusual for the way pilgrims view the deity through a carved silver window rather than a direct doorway, and the eight surrounding mathas still rotate ceremonial temple management every two years. Beyond the temple, Malpe Beach’s harbour and boat rides out to St. Mary’s Island’s hexagonal basalt columns, plus Kapu’s lighthouse and beach and the shrine at Kollur further north, extend Udupi into a full coastal circuit. Udupi sits at an elevation of 36 m and is typically explored in about 2 days. The most favourable months to visit are January, November, December, and February, when conditions are best suited for sightseeing. Nearby points of interest include Sri Krishna Matha, Kaup Beach and Lighthouse, and Chandramouleshwara Temple. Other notable highlights include morning puja at Sri Krishna Matha, malpe Beach's St. Mary's Island boat ride, and tasting goli baje at Woodlands Hotel. It falls within Karnataka and Karnataka, India.
Highlights
- Morning puja at Sri Krishna Matha
- Malpe Beach's St. Mary's Island boat ride
- Tasting goli baje at Woodlands Hotel
- Chandramouleshwara Temple's twin shrines
- Kaup Lighthouse views over Arabian Sea
- Bunt's Coffee's filter coffee and snacks
Places That Define Udupi
Discover the iconic attractions that make this destination unforgettable
Sri Krishna Matha (Udupi Krishna Temple)
The most famous temple in Udupi, dedicated to Lord Krishna, established by saint Madhvacharya in the 13th century. Visitors can view the deity through the nine-hole window (Navagraha Kitiki) and witness the daily offerings.
Malpe Beach
A clean, wide sandy beach about 5 km from Udupi town, popular for swimming, boating, and sunset views. It is also the departure point for ferries to St. Mary's Island and offers local seafood shacks nearby.
St. Mary's Island (Malpe Beach)
A group of four small islands off the coast of Malpe, known for unique columnar basaltic rock formations, a geological marvel. Accessible by ferry from Malpe Beach, it is a serene spot for nature walks and photography.
Getting There
Things To Do
Take a coracle ride on the backwaters of Malpe Beach
Head to Malpe Beach, about 5 km from Udupi town, and hire a traditional round coracle boat for a gentle ride along the calm backwaters where the rivers meet the Arabian Sea. You’ll spot local fishermen casting nets and, if lucky, dolphins in the distance.
1.5 hours
Walk the Mangrove Boardwalk at Kemmannu (Kodi Kanyana)
Drive 10 km north of Udupi to the coastal village of Kemmannu, where a 1.2 km wooden boardwalk winds through dense mangrove forests along the Suvarna River. Watch for kingfishers, mudskippers, and crabs while enjoying the shaded, tranquil trail.
1 hour
Explore the St. Mary’s Islands (Coconut Island) by ferry
Board a ferry from Malpe jetty to the St. Mary’s Islands, a group of four basalt rock formations dating back 88 million years, with unique hexagonal columnar joints. Walk along the rocky shore, see the small chapel, and enjoy a picnic with sea breeze.
3 hours (including ferry)
Visit the Manipal Museum of Anatomy and Pathology (MAHE)
Located 5 km from Udupi in the university town of Manipal, this museum houses over 1,000 preserved human organ specimens and rare anatomical models, offering a fascinating if slightly eerie insight into medical science. It’s a unique stop for curious travellers, but not for the faint-hearted.
1.5 hours
Visit Sri Krishna Matha and the Chandramouleshwara Temple
Participate in the morning darshan at the 13th-century Krishna Matha, where the deity is viewed through a nine-hole window (Navagraha Kitiki), and then walk next door to the ancient Chandramouleshwara Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple complex also houses the Madhva Sarovar, a sacred pond, and the eight mathas (monasteries) surrounding it.
2 hours
Sample authentic Udupi cuisine at a traditional vegetarian restaurant
Dine at a heritage-style eatery like Mitra Samaja or Woodlands Hotel, where you can taste the original crispy masala dosa, saagu, and the famous Udupi-style sambar with coconut chutney. Finish with a cup of strong filter coffee served in a steel tumbler.
1 hour
Top Attractions
Sri Krishna Matha (Udupi Krishna Temple)
The most famous temple in Udupi, dedicated to Lord Krishna, established by saint Madhvacharya in the 13th century. Visitors can view the deity through the nine-hole window (Navagraha Kitiki) and witness the daily offerings.
Malpe Beach
A clean, wide sandy beach about 5 km from Udupi town, popular for swimming, boating, and sunset views. It is also the departure point for ferries to St. Mary's Island and offers local seafood shacks nearby.
St. Mary's Island (Malpe Beach)
A group of four small islands off the coast of Malpe, known for unique columnar basaltic rock formations, a geological marvel. Accessible by ferry from Malpe Beach, it is a serene spot for nature walks and photography.
Travel Tips
Plan temple visits for early morning or late afternoon
The Krishna Temple and other Udupi temples get very crowded and hot by mid-morning. Go right after opening hours (around 5:30-6:00 AM) or after 4 PM to avoid long queues, harsh sun, and pushy crowds — easier on knees and patience.
Carry a small stool or walking stick for temple queues
Many temple halls have no seating while waiting, and floors can be slippery. A lightweight foldable stool or a walking stick with a rubber tip gives you a place to rest and better balance — a real boon for longer darshan waits.
Choose ground-floor rooms and request wheelchair access if needed
Many heritage-style hotels in Udupi have steep stairs and no lifts. When booking, explicitly ask for a ground-floor room, and if any in your group uses a wheelchair, confirm ramp access to the dining hall and temple complex before you arrive.
Use pre-booked auto-rickshaws or a private cab for the day
Udupi’s sights are spread out, and hailing autos on the street can be tiring for seniors. Book a single cab or auto for the full day through your hotel or a local operator — agree on a fixed price and route beforehand to avoid haggling and last-minute stress.
Keep a small bottle of ORS and light snacks handy
The coastal heat and spicy local food (like the famous Udupi sambar and ghee roast) can upset stomachs or cause dehydration. Carry oral rehydration sachets and simple biscuits or fruits — and always drink bottled water, even for tea at roadside stalls.
Frequently Asked Questions
It is advisable to drink only bottled or filtered water, as tap water may not be safe for sensitive stomachs. Stick to well-cooked hot foods, avoid raw salads, and carry oral rehydration salts and basic medicines for digestion. Also, use mosquito repellent in the evenings, as the coastal climate can attract mosquitoes, and keep a light jacket for air-conditioned buses or evenings.
Yes, the temple requires modest attire—men should wear shirts or kurtas and trousers, while women should wear sarees, salwar kameez, or long skirts. You must remove footwear before entering the inner sanctum, and photography is strictly prohibited inside the temple premises. Non-Hindus are allowed entry but must follow all customs, including not touching the idol.
Auto-rickshaws and local buses are common, but for comfort and flexibility, hiring a private cab for the day is recommended, especially for groups. Many hotels and tour operators offer senior-friendly packages with step-free access and slower pacing. For short distances within the town, walking is feasible, but carry a hat and water due to the tropical heat.
The ideal time is from October to February, when the weather is pleasant and dry, with temperatures ranging from 20 to 30 degrees Celsius. Avoid the monsoon months of June to September, as heavy rains can disrupt travel and outdoor sightseeing. This period also aligns with several local festivals, adding cultural vibrancy to your trip.
Udupi is famous for its pure vegetarian South Indian cuisine, so you will find no non-veg in traditional restaurants. Must-try dishes include masala dosa, neer dosa, and the iconic Udupi sambar with idli, along with sweet puddings like payasa. Visit a local "hotel" (a traditional eatery) like Woodlands or Mitra Samaj for an authentic, hygienic meal.
Suggested Itineraries
2 Days in Udupi
Day 1
Begin your journey in the heart of Udupi, soaking in the town’s sacred atmosphere. The morning is dedicated to the iconic Krishna Matha, followed by a relaxed exploration of the surrounding temple complex and local markets. The afternoon eases into the coastal charm with a visit to a nearby beach, and the evening ends with a traditional vegetarian feast.
- Visit Sri Krishna Matha temple early morning to witness the special pooja and the famous window (Navagraha Kitiki) through which the deity is worshipped.
- Walk around the temple complex, including the Rajangana (main hall) and the eight Mathas (monasteries), observing the ancient architecture and rituals.
- Stroll through the local bazaar near the temple for sandalwood carvings, silk saris, and fragrant incense, perfect for light souvenir shopping.
- Drive 5 km to Malpe Beach, where you can take a short boat ride to St. Mary’s Island (if weather permits) or simply walk the golden sands and watch the fishermen bring in their catch.
Day 2
This day expands your horizons beyond Udupi town, exploring the scenic coastline and a revered temple town nearby. You will visit the historic Ananthapadmanabha Lake Temple, then head to the bustling town of Manipal for a panoramic viewpoint. The day concludes with a hands-on experience of Udupi’s world-famous cuisine, including a cooking demonstration or a leisurely dinner at a local eatery.
- Drive 13 km north to Ananthapadmanabha Lake Temple, a unique Vishnu temple set in the middle of a lake, accessible by a short boat ride—a serene and photogenic start to the day.
- Continue to Manipal (5 km from Udupi), climb the Manipal End Point (also called the “hilltop”) for sweeping views of the Western Ghats and the Arabian Sea, and visit the Manipal Museum of Anatomy and Health Sciences if interested.
- Return to Udupi for a late afternoon visit to the Sri Chandramouleshwara Temple, a 14th-century Shiva temple with intricate woodwork, located right next to the Krishna Matha.
- In the evening, join a short cooking class or demonstration at a local home or restaurant to learn the secrets of Udupi sambar, rasam, and the famous “Udupi-style” dosa, followed by a hearty dinner featuring these dishes.
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