Things to Do in Udupi

Begin your Udupi journey at the heart of the town, the Sri Krishna Matha, founded in the 13th century by Madhvacharya. The temple's main sanctum houses a beautiful idol of Lord Krishna, which devotees view through the famous Kanakana Kindi, a silver-plated window with nine holes, a unique feature that replaces a conventional entrance. The story goes that the window was created to allow the devotee Kanaka Dasa, who was not permitted inside, to have darshan. The atmosphere is charged with devotion, especially during the morning and evening rituals. As you stand before the window, you'll hear the rhythmic chanting of Vedic hymns and the clang of bells. The temple complex also includes the Rajangana, a large hall where the Paryaya festival takes place every two years. Dress modestly and be prepared for queues, especially on weekends. Photography is not allowed inside the sanctum. The temple is open from early morning (around 5:00 AM) to 9:00 PM with breaks; the main darshan times are during the pujas. Entry is free, but you may choose to offer a donation (typically ₹50–₹100) for special prasadam or faster darshan.

Every two years, Udupi hosts the grand Paryaya festival, a unique event where the administration of the Sri Krishna Matha is transferred from one of the eight ashta mathas to the next. This elaborate ceremony marks the beginning of a two-year tenure for the incoming Swamiji. The festival is a spectacular display of devotion, with a colourful procession of the new Swamiji riding on a decorated elephant from his matha to the temple, accompanied by traditional music, dance, and thousands of devotees. The streets are adorned with rangoli, flower decorations, and banners. The event takes place in January, usually on the day of Makara Sankranti or the preceding day. If you happen to be in Udupi during this time, it's an unforgettable cultural experience. Even if you miss the main day, you can visit the eight mathas around the temple, each with its own history and architecture. The mathas are open to visitors, and you can observe the daily worship and the monks' routines. The festival itself is free to attend, but accommodation in Udupi is heavily booked, so plan months in advance.

Udupi is the birthplace of the vegetarian cuisine that has become synonymous with South Indian food across the world. The town is dotted with restaurants that serve the iconic masala dosa, idli, vada, and sambar, but the true experience lies in the traditional 'Udupi hotels' that follow age-old recipes. Visit the iconic Mitra Samaja, a century-old institution known for its crispy ghee roast dosa and spicy sambar. Or try the famous Woodlands, where the filter coffee is as legendary as the food. The meals are served on banana leaves, and the thali includes a variety of curries, rasam, and payasam. Don't miss the special 'Mysore masala dosa' or the 'pudi' idli. The cost is remarkably affordable: a full meal costs around ₹100–₹200 per person. For a more elaborate experience, head to the Udupi Sri Krishna Matha's own dining hall, which serves free prasadam to all visitors during certain hours. The flavours are distinct—coconut oil, curry leaves, and a hint of jaggery—and the experience of eating amidst the temple's spiritual ambience is unique. Remember to eat with your right hand, as is customary.

Just 5 kilometres from Udupi town, Malpe Beach is a long stretch of golden sand that meets the Arabian Sea. The beach is lively yet relaxing, with locals playing cricket, families picnicking, and vendors selling roasted corn and coconut water. The working fishing harbour at the northern end is a hive of activity, especially in the early morning when boats return with their catch. You can watch the fishermen mend their nets, see the colourful boats, and even buy fresh fish (if you have a place to cook). The beach is also the departure point for boats to St. Mary's Island, and you can book your ticket at the jetty. For a small fee (around ₹20), you can take a dip in the sea, but be cautious of strong currents. There are basic changing rooms and a few shacks offering snacks. The sunset here is spectacular, with the sky turning shades of orange and pink. If you want a quieter experience, walk towards the southern end of the beach, away from the harbour. The beach is well-maintained and clean, with police patrols ensuring safety. Entry is free.

A short 20-minute boat ride from Malpe Beach takes you to St. Mary's Island, a geological marvel famous for its hexagonal basalt rock columns that look like a giant's causeway. These unique formations are the result of ancient volcanic activity and are among only a few such sites in the world. Legend has it that Vasco da Gama landed here in 1498 and erected a cross, which is why the island is named after the Virgin Mary. The boat ride itself is an adventure, with the sea breeze in your hair and the sight of dolphins occasionally playing in the waves. Once on the island, you can walk along the rocky shoreline, explore the columns, and relax on the small beach. The water is crystal clear, making it a great spot for a swim, but there are no lifeguards, so exercise caution. The island has basic facilities like a small canteen and toilets. Boat tickets cost ₹200–₹300 per person round trip, and the last boat usually returns by 5 PM. The island is best visited from October to March when the sea is calm. Carry water and sunscreen, as there is limited shade.

Adjacent to Udupi, Manipal is a bustling university town that offers a stark contrast to the temple town's traditional vibe. Founded in 1953 by T. M. A. Pai, Manipal is home to several educational institutions, including the renowned Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE). The town is perched on a plateau, offering panoramic views of the surrounding countryside and the Arabian Sea in the distance. Stroll through the campus, which is beautifully landscaped with lush gardens and modern architecture. Visit the Manipal Museum of Anatomy and Pathology, which is surprisingly fascinating (entry is free, but donations are accepted). The End Point, a popular viewpoint at the edge of the plateau, is a favourite spot for watching the sunset. Manipal also has a vibrant cafe culture, with numerous coffee shops and eateries catering to the student population. Try the local 'Manipal dosa' at a popular joint like the 'Koti's' or 'Gudbud' ice cream at Ideal Cafe. The town is safe and walkable, but you can also hire an auto-rickshaw for short trips.

Located within the Sri Krishna Matha complex, these two older temples are dedicated to Lord Shiva and are believed to predate the Krishna temple. The Anantheshwara Temple is known for its unique architecture, with a sanctum that is partially underground. The Chandramouleshwara Temple, adjacent to it, has a stunning silver idol of the moon-crested god. These temples are often overlooked by tourists, but they offer a peaceful retreat from the crowds. The rituals here are performed in a traditional manner, and you can observe the priests conducting abhishekam (ritual bathing of the deity) with milk, honey, and sandalwood paste. The inner walls are adorned with intricate carvings and murals depicting scenes from Hindu mythology. The atmosphere is ancient and serene, with the smell of incense and the sound of chanting filling the air. Entry is free, but you may offer a small donation if you wish. These temples are open from 5 AM to 12 PM and 5 PM to 9 PM. A visit here provides a deeper understanding of Udupi's religious history, as these temples were centres of worship long before Madhvacharya arrived.

Located about 12 kilometres south of Udupi, Kaup Beach is a quieter alternative to Malpe. The beach is known for its historic lighthouse, which stands tall on a rocky promontory. You can climb the lighthouse (entry fee ₹20) for a breathtaking panoramic view of the coastline and the Western Ghats in the distance. The climb is steep but worth it. Below, the beach stretches for miles, with gentle waves lapping the shore. The area is less commercialised than Malpe, offering a more authentic coastal experience. You'll see local fishermen bringing in their catch, and you can often spot women collecting mussels from the rocks. The sunset here is a spectacle, with the sky turning fiery orange and the lighthouse silhouette against it. There are a few small shacks selling snacks and tender coconut water. The beach is clean and safe for swimming in designated areas. If you're lucky, you might see dolphins playing in the surf. The best time to visit is late afternoon, so you can enjoy the changing colours of the sky. The lighthouse is open until 6 PM, so plan your climb accordingly.