Discover The Best Places To Visit In Udupi, Karnataka: 12 Must-See Attractions

Udupi is a city in the Indian state of Karnataka. It is situated in the coastal region of Karnataka, about 60 kilometers north of Mangalore. The city is famous for its temples, beaches, and cuisine.

Udupi is known for its Sri Krishna Temple, which is dedicated to Lord Krishna and is one of the most important pilgrimage sites in South India. The temple was founded by the 13th-century saint Madhvacharya, who is also credited with founding the Dvaita philosophy of Hinduism. The temple is renowned for its intricate carvings and the daily offerings of delicious vegetarian food, known as 'prasadam', which are distributed to devotees.

Apart from the temple, Udupi is also known for its beautiful beaches, such as Malpe Beach and Kaup Beach, which are popular tourist destinations. These beaches offer breathtaking views of the Arabian Sea and are ideal for swimming and sunbathing.

The cuisine of Udupi is another major attraction of the city. It is renowned for its delicious vegetarian dishes, which are made using local ingredients such as coconut, tamarind, and jaggery. The most famous dish from Udupi is the 'Masala Dosa', a crispy rice and lentil crepe filled with a spicy potato mixture.

In addition to its cultural and culinary offerings, Udupi is also an important center of education, with several well-known colleges and universities located in the city. Overall, Udupi is a vibrant and diverse city that offers a unique blend of spirituality, culture, and natural beauty. Here are the top 12 places to visit in Udupi:

# Sri Krishna Temple

Sri Krishna Temple in Udupi is one of the most important and revered Hindu pilgrimage sites in South India. The temple is dedicated to Lord Krishna and is believed to have been established by the 13th-century saint Madhvacharya, who is considered to be the founder of the Dvaita philosophy of Hinduism.

The Sri Krishna Temple in Udupi is famous for its unique architecture and daily offerings of delicious vegetarian food, known as 'prasadam'. The temple complex is spread over a large area and consists of several buildings, including the main temple, a kitchen, and a dining hall.

The main temple is a beautifully carved wooden structure that is believed to have been built in the 16th century. The temple is surrounded by a high wall and has several entrances, each with a different name and significance.

Inside the temple, there is a small idol of Lord Krishna, which is believed to have been installed by Madhvacharya himself. The idol is made of black stone and is adorned with jewels and flowers. Devotees can offer prayers and seek blessings from the deity.

One of the unique features of the Sri Krishna Temple in Udupi is the daily offering of 'prasadam'. This is a tradition that has been followed for several centuries and involves the preparation of a special vegetarian meal, which is then offered to the deity and distributed to devotees.

The 'prasadam' at the Sri Krishna Temple in Udupi is known for its unique taste and is considered to be a must-try for visitors to the temple. The meal usually consists of rice, sambar, rasam, vegetable dishes, and a dessert.

# Malpe Beach

Malpe Beach is a popular tourist destination located in the coastal town of Malpe in Udupi district, Karnataka. It is situated about 6 kilometers west of Udupi and is known for its pristine white sand, clear blue waters, and picturesque surroundings.

Malpe Beach is one of the most beautiful beaches in South India and attracts a large number of visitors throughout the year. The beach is surrounded by coconut palms, and the sea is dotted with small fishing boats, giving it a tranquil and serene atmosphere.

Apart from its natural beauty, Malpe Beach also offers a range of activities for visitors to enjoy. Water sports such as jet skiing, banana boat rides, and parasailing are available for adventure seekers. Visitors can also take a leisurely boat ride to St. Mary's Island, a beautiful uninhabited island off the coast of Malpe.

There are also several restaurants and cafes along the beach that serve delicious local cuisine, including fresh seafood. The beach is especially popular during the annual Malpe Beach Utsav, a cultural festival that features live music, dance performances, and food stalls.

# St. Mary's Island

St. Mary's Island is a group of four small islands located off the coast of Malpe Beach in Udupi district, Karnataka. The islands are known for their unique geological formations and are a popular tourist destination in the region.

The islands are composed of basalt rock formations, which were formed over 60 million years ago as a result of volcanic activity. The rocks are columnar in shape and are believed to be similar to those found in the Giant's Causeway in Ireland.

One of the main attractions of St. Mary's Island is its beautiful beaches, which are surrounded by crystal clear waters and offer breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. The beaches are ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and relaxing.

Visitors can also take a guided tour of the islands, which includes a visit to the basalt rock formations and a walk through the lush vegetation that covers the islands. The islands are also home to a variety of bird species, including several species of migratory birds.

St. Mary's Island is accessible only by boat, and boat rides are available from Malpe Beach. The boat ride to the island takes about 20 minutes and offers beautiful views of the coast and the surrounding islands.

# Kaup Beach

Kaup Beach is a beautiful and serene beach located in Udupi district, Karnataka. It is situated about 12 kilometers south of Udupi and is a popular tourist destination in the region.

The beach is known for its pristine white sand, clear blue waters, and picturesque surroundings. It is surrounded by lush green palm trees, and the sea is dotted with fishing boats, giving it a peaceful and tranquil atmosphere.

Apart from its natural beauty, Kaup Beach also offers a range of activities for visitors to enjoy. The beach is popular for swimming and sunbathing, and visitors can also take a leisurely walk along the beach and enjoy the scenic beauty.

One of the main attractions of Kaup Beach is its lighthouse, which is located on a hill overlooking the beach. The lighthouse was built in 1901 and is about 100 feet tall. Visitors can climb to the top of the lighthouse and enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.

Kaup Beach is also home to several restaurants and cafes that serve delicious local cuisine, including fresh seafood. The beach is especially popular during the annual Kaup Beach Utsav, a cultural festival that features live music, dance performances, and food stalls.

# Manipal University

Manipal University is a private university located in the town of Manipal in Udupi district, Karnataka. The university was established in 1953 and has since grown into one of the leading higher education institutions in India.

Manipal University offers a wide range of undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral programs in various fields such as engineering, medicine, dentistry, pharmacy, business, law, and humanities. The university has a strong focus on research and innovation, and its faculty and students are involved in several research projects in various fields.

The university has a sprawling campus spread over 600 acres and is home to state-of-the-art facilities such as research labs, libraries, sports facilities, and student accommodation. The campus has a multicultural environment, with students from over 60 countries studying at the university.

Manipal University has several international collaborations with universities and research institutions in countries such as the United States, United Kingdom, Australia, and Japan. These collaborations provide students and faculty with opportunities to exchange knowledge and ideas and engage in joint research projects.

Apart from academics, the university also offers a wide range of extracurricular activities for students, including sports, cultural events, and social service activities. The university has a strong alumni network, with its graduates working in leading companies and institutions across the world.

# Anantheshwara Temple

Anantheshwara Temple is a famous Hindu temple located in the heart of Udupi town in Karnataka. The temple is dedicated to Lord Anantheshwara, an incarnation of Lord Shiva, and is one of the most visited temples in the region.

The temple is believed to have been built in the 8th century and has undergone several renovations over the years. The temple's architecture is a blend of the Hoysala and Vijayanagara styles and features intricate carvings and sculptures.

The main deity of the temple is Lord Anantheshwara, who is depicted in a standing position with a trident in one hand and a snake in the other. The temple also has separate shrines for other deities such as Lord Ganesha, Lord Subramanya, and Goddess Annapoorneshwari.

The temple is known for its annual car festival, which is held in the month of April or May. The festival is a grand celebration that attracts thousands of devotees from across the region. During the festival, the temple's chariot is decorated with flowers and is pulled by devotees through the streets of Udupi.

The temple also has a large pond known as the Anantheshwara Sarovara, which is considered to be sacred by the devotees. The pond is believed to have healing properties and is said to cure various ailments.

# Pajaka Kshetra

Pajaka Kshetra is the birthplace of Sri Madhwacharya, the 13th-century philosopher and theologian who is revered as the founder of the Dvaita school of Vedanta.

Pajaka Kshetra is situated about 20 kilometers from Udupi, and it is believed that Sri Madhwacharya was born here in the 13th century. The site is a cluster of several ancient temples and shrines, and it attracts thousands of devotees every year.

One of the main attractions of Pajaka Kshetra is the Annapoorneshwari Temple, which is dedicated to Goddess Annapoorneshwari, the deity of food and nourishment. The temple is believed to have been built in the 8th century and has undergone several renovations over the years. The temple's architecture is a blend of the Hoysala and Vijayanagara styles, and it features intricate carvings and sculptures.

Another popular attraction at Pajaka Kshetra is the Madhwacharya Birthplace Temple, which is dedicated to Sri Madhwacharya. The temple is built in the traditional Dravidian style and has a beautiful idol of Sri Madhwacharya.

Pajaka Kshetra is also known for its beautiful natural surroundings, with lush green hills and meadows surrounding the temple complex. Visitors can enjoy a peaceful walk around the temple complex and take in the scenic beauty of the area.

# Sri Indrani Panchadurga Parameshwari Temple

Sri Indrani Panchadurga Parameshwari Temple is a famous temple located in Udupi, Karnataka. The temple is dedicated to Goddess Durga, who is worshipped in the form of Panchadurga, which represents the five forms of the goddess - Shailaputri, Brahmacharini, Chandraghanta, Kushmanda, and Skandamata.

The temple is situated on the banks of the Swarna River and is surrounded by lush greenery, making it a peaceful and serene location. The architecture of the temple is a blend of traditional and modern styles, with a beautifully sculpted Gopuram (tower) at the entrance.

One of the main attractions of the Sri Indrani Panchadurga Parameshwari Temple is the annual Navaratri festival, which is celebrated with great enthusiasm and devotion. During this festival, the temple is decorated with lights and flowers, and special puja ceremonies are performed. The festival attracts thousands of devotees from all over the region.

Apart from the Navaratri festival, the temple also celebrates other festivals such as Dussehra, Diwali, and Ugadi. Devotees can also participate in daily puja ceremonies and seek the blessings of the goddess.

The Sri Indrani Panchadurga Parameshwari Temple is a significant pilgrimage site for devotees of Goddess Durga, and it is believed that worshipping here can bestow blessings of prosperity, success, and well-being. The temple is also a popular tourist destination, and visitors can enjoy the serene atmosphere and beautiful surroundings.

# Hasta Shilpa Heritage Village

Hasta Shilpa Heritage Village is a unique cultural museum and tourist attraction located in Manipal, Udupi district of Karnataka. It is a living museum that showcases the traditional lifestyle, architecture, and arts of the region.

The museum is set in a sprawling 30-acre campus and features several traditional houses, temples, and other structures that have been carefully preserved and restored to their original glory. The houses and structures are built using traditional materials and techniques, and they showcase the rich cultural heritage of the region.

The museum is a treasure trove of artifacts and antiques, with over 8,000 exhibits that include textiles, jewelry, pottery, metalwork, and other handicrafts. The museum also has a large collection of vintage cars, bikes, and other vehicles that are sure to delight automobile enthusiasts.

Visitors to the Hasta Shilpa Heritage Village can take guided tours of the museum and learn about the history, culture, and traditions of the region. The museum also hosts several workshops and events that allow visitors to participate in traditional crafts and activities.

One of the highlights of the museum is the Moolasthanam temple, which is a 300-year-old temple that has been relocated to the museum campus. The temple is an excellent example of traditional temple architecture and is a popular destination for spiritual seekers and history enthusiasts alike.

# Barkur

Barkur is situated on the banks of the Seetha River, which flows into the Arabian Sea. The town has a rich history and cultural heritage and is known for its ancient temples, churches, and other landmarks.

One of the main attractions of Barkur is the ancient Chaturmukha Basadi, which is a Jain temple that dates back to the 9th century. The temple is famous for its unique architecture and four-faced idol of Lord Shiva. The temple is a must-visit destination for history buffs and religious enthusiasts.

Another popular attraction in Barkur is the St. Peter's Church, which is a historic church that was built in the 16th century. The church is known for its beautiful architecture, intricate carvings, and stained-glass windows.

The town of Barkur is also known for its traditional handicrafts, such as pottery, weaving, and carpentry. Visitors can explore the town's markets and shops to buy locally made handicrafts and souvenirs.

Barkur is also a great destination for nature lovers, with its scenic surroundings and proximity to the Seetha River. Visitors can enjoy boating, fishing, and other water-based activities in the river.

# Udupi Aquarium

Udupi Aquarium is one of the largest and oldest aquariums in India and is known for its diverse collection of marine life.

The aquarium is home to a wide variety of fish and aquatic animals, including several species of sharks, stingrays, sea turtles, eels, and octopuses. Visitors can see these creatures up close in the aquarium's large viewing tanks, which are designed to provide a realistic and immersive experience.

One of the highlights of the Udupi Aquarium is its touch pool, which allows visitors to interact with some of the marine animals, such as starfish, crabs, and sea anemones. The aquarium also has a section dedicated to the unique marine life found in the Arabian Sea, including several species of colorful coral.

Visitors to the Udupi Aquarium can also learn about marine conservation and the importance of protecting the ocean's ecosystems. The aquarium hosts several educational programs and workshops that aim to promote awareness about marine conservation and sustainability.

# Kadiyali Mahishamardhini Temple

The Kadiyali Mahishamardhini Temple is a famous temple located in Udupi, Karnataka. The temple is dedicated to Goddess Durga in her fierce form of Mahishamardhini, which means "the slayer of the demon Mahishasura."

The temple is believed to be over a thousand years old and is an important pilgrimage site for devotees of Goddess Durga. It is located on the banks of the river Swarna, and the temple's beautiful location adds to the serene and peaceful atmosphere of the temple.

The Kadiyali Mahishamardhini Temple is known for its unique architecture, which blends traditional Dravidian and Kerala styles. The temple has a towering gopuram (temple tower) and features intricate carvings and sculptures that are a testament to the skill and craftsmanship of the artisans who built it.

The temple has several sanctums dedicated to various deities, including Lord Ganesha and Lord Subramanya. The main sanctum of the temple houses the idol of Goddess Mahishamardhini, which is believed to be a powerful representation of the divine mother who protects her devotees from all evils and hardships.

The Kadiyali Mahishamardhini Temple is a popular destination for devotees of Goddess Durga, who come here to seek her blessings and offer their prayers. The temple is also a popular spot for tourists who are interested in exploring the rich history, culture, and spirituality of the region.