Travel Guide: Udupi 

Located in Karnataka’s coastal region, Udupi is renowned for its spiritual significance, pristine beaches, and distinctive cuisine. Often referred to as the Temple City, it is home to the famous Krishna Temple and lends its name to the popular Udupi cuisine. Also known as Parashurama Kshetra and Rajatha Peetha pura, Udupi blends sacred traditions with small-town charm. Conveniently connected to other major Indian cities by FlixBus, Udupi is a welcoming destination for both pilgrims and leisure travellers. 

Getting Around Udupi 

Navigating Udupi is simple and convenient, and you can choose among different options:

• Buses: Various private companies operate reliable city bus services, connecting key areas and neighbourhoods. 
• Cabs: Available for hire, though they must usually be booked in advance rather than hailed from the street. 
• Auto-rickshaws: Found throughout the city and ideal for short, affordable trips. 

What to See and Do in and Around Udupi 

Beaches 

• Malpe Beach (6 km): A serene, golden stretch perfect for relaxation, water sports, and visiting nearby St. Mary’s Island. 
• Kapu Beach (12 km): Home to a 130 ft lighthouse and stunning sea views, surrounded by lush greenery. 
• Padubidri Beach (24 km): A Blue Flag certified beach with palm-lined shores and water activities. 
• Udyavar (13 km) and Kodi (38 km) Beaches: Lesser-known spots offering quiet relaxation and beautiful sunsets. 
• Maravanthe Beach (54 km): Uniquely bordered by the sea on one side and Sauparnika River on the other — a picture-perfect spot for photos and water sports. 
• St. Mary’s Island (10 km from Malpe): Famous for its unique rock formations and tranquil beaches, reached by boat from Malpe. 

Temples and Religious Sites 

• Udupi Sri Krishna Temple: A major pilgrimage site where Lord Krishna is worshipped as Balakrishna. Don’t miss Kanakana Kindi — a window with a fascinating legend. 
• Anantheshwara and Chandramouleshwara Temples: Ancient temples steeped in history. 
• Chaturmukha Basadi in Karkala: A 16th-century Jain temple with impressive architecture. 
• Karkala Gomateshwara: A towering monolith statue dating back to 1432. 
• Mount Rosary Church and St Lawrence Church: Important places of worship showcasing Udupi’s religious diversity. 
• Other notable temples: Kapu’s Mariamma temples, Ambalpadi Temple, and Mahisha Mardini Temple, among others. 

Culture and Heritage 

• Hastha Shilpa Heritage Village: An open-air museum showcasing traditional homes and artefacts of coastal Karnataka. 
• Makkekattu Dolls Village: See giant, colourful dolls representing local folklore and traditions. 
• Manipal Museum of Anatomy & Pathology: A fascinating collection of over 3,000 specimens in nearby Manipal. 
• Dr. Kota Shivaram Karanth Theme Park: Celebrating the works and life of this legendary writer with statues, gardens, and exhibitions.