Top places to visit

Top places to visit

Udupi is a coastal paradise known for its spiritual heritage, pristine beaches, lush greenery, and vibrant culture. Whether you're a devotee, beach lover, history buff, or adventure seeker, Udupi has something to offer for everyone.

1. Udupi Sri Krishna Temple & Mutt

✅ Why Visit? One of the most sacred temples in India, dedicated to Lord Krishna and established by Madhvacharya in the 13th century.
✅ Highlights:

• Unique Kanakana Kindi (window) to view Lord Krishna’s idol.
• Ashta Mathas (eight monasteries) that manage temple rituals.
• Paryaya Festival (held every two years) with grand celebrations.
  ✅ Best Time to Visit: Early morning or evening for a peaceful darshan.

 Location: Udupi City Center.

2. Malpe Beach & St. Mary’s Island

✅ Why Visit? A serene beach with golden sands, known for sunset views, water sports, and boat rides.
✅ Highlights:

• Boating to St. Mary’s Island, famous for unique hexagonal rock formations.
• Jet skiing, parasailing, and banana boat rides available.
• Less crowded compared to Goa beaches.
  ✅ Best Time to Visit: October – March (Pleasant weather).

 Location: 6 km from Udupi.

3. Kaup Beach & Lighthouse

✅ Why Visit? A peaceful and scenic beach, known for its historic lighthouse and beautiful sunset views.
✅ Highlights:

• Climb the lighthouse for a panoramic view of the Arabian Sea.
• Best spot for photography & evening walks.
• Great for couples and family outings.
  ✅ Best Time to Visit: Sunset (5:30 PM – 7:00 PM).

 Location: 12 km from Udupi.

4. Manipal – The University Town

✅ Why Visit? A cosmopolitan town known for Manipal University, cultural centers, and cafes.
✅ Highlights:

• Manipal End Point – A stunning viewpoint overlooking the Swarna River.
• Dr. TMA Pai Planetarium – A great experience for space enthusiasts.
• Science & Heritage Museums.
  ✅ Best Time to Visit: Anytime of the year.

 Location: 5 km from Udupi.

5. Maravanthe Beach – Drive Along the Arabian Sea

✅ Why Visit? One of the most scenic coastal highways in India, where the sea and river run parallel.
✅ Highlights:

• Uninterrupted views of the Arabian Sea on one side and Sowparnika River on the other.
• Perfect for a road trip & photography.
• Great stop for seafood lovers.
  ✅ Best Time to Visit: October – March.

 Location: 50 km from Udupi.

6. Annegudde Vinayaka Temple

✅ Why Visit? A famous Ganesha temple, believed to fulfill wishes of devotees.
✅ Highlights:

• One of the seven Mukti Kshetras (liberation sites) of Karnataka.
• Huge annual festival during Ganesh Chaturthi.
• Sacred water tank for ritual baths.
  ✅ Best Time to Visit: August – September (Ganesh Chaturthi).

 Location: 30 km from Udupi (Kundapura Road).

7. Kodi Beach & Delta Point

✅ Why Visit? A hidden beach where the river meets the sea, offering a peaceful escape.
✅ Highlights:

• Backwater boat rides & mangrove forests.
• Perfect for camping & private picnics.
• Less commercialized & clean beach.
  ✅ Best Time to Visit: Winter & early summer (October – March).

 Location: 35 km from Udupi.

8. Karkala Gomateshwara Statue

✅ Why Visit? A massive 42-ft monolithic statue of Bahubali, one of the tallest Jain statues in India.
✅ Highlights:

• Amazing hilltop views & historical significance.
• Best for history & Jain culture enthusiasts.
• Annual Mahamastakabhisheka (sacred anointment ceremony).
  ✅ Best Time to Visit: Early morning or evening (cooler climate).

 Location: 38 km from Udupi.

9. Anegundi & Barkur – Historical Ruins

✅ Why Visit? Ancient ruins of temples, forts, and Jain Basadis from the Vijayanagara era.
✅ Highlights:

• Explore 1000-year-old temples & inscriptions.
• Archaeological sites with old sculptures.
• Perfect for history & architecture lovers.
  ✅ Best Time to Visit: November – February.

 Location: 25 km from Udupi.

10. Varanga Jain Temple & Lake

✅ Why Visit? A beautiful Jain temple in the middle of a lake, accessible only by boat.
✅ Highlights:

• Scenic boat ride to the temple.
• Peaceful and spiritual atmosphere.
• Great for photography & meditation.
  ✅ Best Time to Visit: Post-monsoon (September – February).

 Location: 50 km from Udupi.

11. Someshwara Wildlife Sanctuary

✅ Why Visit? A dense forest reserve, home to elephants, tigers, and exotic birds.
✅ Highlights:

• Jeep safari & nature walks.
• Refreshing waterfalls inside the sanctuary.
• Perfect for wildlife lovers & adventure seekers.
  ✅ Best Time to Visit: October – March.

 Location: 45 km from Udupi.

12. Brahmavar – Land of Ancient Temples & Churches

✅ Why Visit? A spiritual town with historical temples & Portuguese-era churches.
✅ Highlights:

• Mahalingeshwara Temple (1200 years old).
• St. Mary's Syrian Church (built in 9th century).
• Famous for local festivals & cultural heritage.
  ✅ Best Time to Visit: Year-round.

 Location: 13 km from Udupi.

13. Manipal End Point – Sunset & Scenic Views

✅ Why Visit? A cliffside viewpoint, offering breathtaking views of the Swarna River & Western Ghats.
✅ Highlights:

• Ideal for evening walks & relaxation.
• Popular hangout spot for students & travelers.
• Best for sunrise & sunset photography.
  ✅ Best Time to Visit: Sunset (5:30 PM – 6:30 PM).

 Location: Manipal (5 km from Udupi).

Udupi offers a perfect blend of spirituality, coastal beauty, and historical landmarks. Whether you're visiting for temple pilgrimages, beach adventures, or historical explorations, Udupi promises an unforgettable travel experience!