Udupi, also known as Odipu in Tulu, is a city in Karnataka, India. It is about 55 km north of Mangalore and 422 km west of Bangalore. The city is the administrative headquarters of Udupi district and is known for its rapid growth. Udupi is famous for the Krishna Temple and is often called the temple city. The city is a significant pilgrimage center, with its rich history dating back to the 13th century when the Vaishnavite saint Madhvacharya founded the Sri Krishna Temple.
Udupi has a vibrant culture rooted in temple traditions and festivals. Some of the unique cultural traditions include Bhuta Kola, Aati Kalenja, Karangolu, and Nagaradhane. The city is also known for its folk arts like Yakshagana. Residents celebrate festivals such as Makara Sankranti, Nagara Panchami, Krishna Janmashtami, Ganesh Chaturthi, Navaratri, and Deepavali. During Krishna Janmashtami, a traditional folk dance called Pili Yesa, meaning “Tiger Dance,” is performed on the streets.
Udupi is located 27 meters above sea level and has a coastal climate. Summers (March to May) can be hot, with temperatures reaching up to 38°C, while winters (December to February) are milder, with temperatures ranging from 20 to 32°C. The city boasts beautiful beaches like Kaup and Malpe, which are popular tourist spots. Udupi is renowned for its cuisine, which originated from the Krishna Matha. The cuisine is primarily vegetarian, but non-vegetarian dishes similar to Mangalorean cuisine are also popular. Famous dishes include Kori Roti, Chicken Sukka, and various fish curries.
Udupi offers a range of attractions, from the serene Hoode Beach with its clear waters and stunning sunsets to the historic St. Mary’s Island known for its unique rock formations. The Krishna Temple, a major pilgrimage site, showcases intricate worship rituals, while Delta Beach provides a picturesque spot where the Suvarna River meets the Arabian Sea. Manipal, famous for its educational institutions, and the Coin Museum with its impressive coin collection, are also worth exploring.
St. Mary’s Island, just off the coast of Udupi, Karnataka, is where Vasco De Gama first landed in India. This beautiful island, known for its white sand beaches and unique rock formations, is a hidden gem with stunning wildlife. Only 4 miles from the mainland in the Arabian Sea, it consists of four small islands: Coconut Island, North Island, South Island, and Daryabahadurgarh Island. The shores here are lined with fascinating crystalline rocks, formed when Madagascar separated from India. Watching the sunset from these rocks is a magical experience.
The Krishna Temple, also known as Udupi Sri Krishna Matha, is one of South India’s most famous pilgrimage sites. This temple is dedicated to Lord Krishna, whose idol is beautifully adorned with jewels and a golden chariot. What makes this temple special is the unique way of worshipping through a silver-plated window with nine holes called the Navagraha Kitiki. Surrounding the Krishna Temple is the ancient Udupi Anantheshwara Temple, which is around 1,000 years old.
Kodi Bengre Beach, also known as Delta Beach, is perfect for beach lovers. It’s called Delta Beach because it’s where the Suvarna River meets the Arabian Sea, forming a delta. This beach, surrounded by water on three sides, has a small port for fisheries and is known for its fresh seafood and toddy. Visitors can enjoy boat trips through nearby mangroves or relax with delicious seafood and a beautiful sunset. However, swimming is not advised due to dangerous sinking sands. The road to the beach is narrow and surrounded by water, so wear good footwear to navigate the rocky path.
Hoode Beach is a serene and secluded spot located in the village of Kodi Bengare in Udupi. With its calm ambience and gentle waves, it provides a perfect backdrop of coconut trees. The clear waters and pristine white sand make it an ideal place to relax, catch the stunning sunset, and enjoy the vibrant colors of the evening sky. Local vendors around the beach offer delicious Tulunadu cuisine and toddy, a local alcoholic beverage. Hoode Beach is also conveniently connected to Delta Beach and Bengre Beach, making it a great destination for spending an entire day by the water.
Udupi offers a variety of comfortable hotels for every budget. You can stay close to the famous Udupi Sri Krishna Matha temple, with options ranging from relaxed accommodations just minutes away, to more upscale hotels along the main highways. These hotels provide easy access to local attractions like the Museum of Anatomy and Pathology and Malpe Beach.
A 9-minute walk from Udupi Sri Krishna Matha temple, this relaxed hotel on a commercial street is 5 km from the Museum of Anatomy.
₹1,819
3 Star Hotel
This relaxed hotel in the Central Business District is a 6-minute walk from Udupi Sri Krishna Matha, a 13th-century Hindu temple.
₹2,582
3 Star Hotel
This understated hotel off National Highway 169A is a 12-minute walk from Udupi Sri Krishna Matha, an ancient Hindu temple complex.
₹4,030
3 Star Hotel
Along the NH 66 national highway, this casual hotel is 3 km from Sri Krishna Matha, a Hindu temple complex dating from the 8th century.
₹2,683
3 Star Hotel
For convenient access to the Udupi railway station, choose from a range of budget-friendly hotels. These hotels offer comfortable stays and are just a short walk or drive from the famous Udupi Sri Krishna Matha temple and popular beaches like Malpe and Padukare. Enjoy easy access to local shops, eateries, and major thoroughfares.
This functional hotel is a 4-minute walk from Udupi Sri Krishna Matha Hindu temple and 8 km from Malpe Beach.
₹1,493
2 Star Hotel
Along a major thoroughfare lined with shops and eateries, this low-key budget hotel is a 4-minute walk from Udupi Sri Krishna Matha.
₹1,743
3 Star Hotel
This informal hotel in an area with shops is 2 km from the 13th-century Udupi Sri Krishna Matha Hindu temple.
₹2,098
2 Star Hotel
This casual hotel has a colourful, partial-glass exterior. It’s 5 km from Udupi train station, an 8-minute walk.
₹1,174
3 Star Hotel
Udupi offers a variety of dining options, including pure-vegetarian restaurants that serve iconic South Indian dishes. Enjoy a range of cuisines from traditional Udupi fare to North Indian and Chinese, all at affordable prices. For a unique experience, dine where you can watch fresh tandoori dishes being prepared right before your eyes.
A pure-vegetarian restaurant, with a separate kitchen of its own, Udupi Rasoi serves some of the most iconic delicacies of South Indian cuisine.
₹200–400
Welcome to the higher taste, Udupi’s Gokula Krishna at the higher taste, along with culture and tradition. However the authentic , traditional , hygienic and tasty food is still distant to reach many.
₹200–400
Vegetarian and vegan South indian North indian Chinese Multi cuisine vegetarian.
₹200–400
Dining here is not only a treat to your taste sensors but also a different experience as you see the live tandoor blazing out fresh tandoori roti, naan and tikka at your service with that earthly aroma which is rare in this ever buzzing Udupi tourists.
₹200–400
To reach Udupi, you can fly to the nearest airport in Mangalore, about 60 km away, and take a taxi. Udupi is also accessible by train via the Konkan Railway, connecting to major cities like Mangalore, Bangalore, Mumbai, and Mysore. Additionally, express buses and a good road network make it easy to travel to Udupi from nearby cities and states.
Udupi’s railway station is part of the Konkan Railway network, with trains connecting to major cities like Mangalore, Bangalore, Mumbai, and Mysore.
The closest airport to Udupi is in Mangalore, located about 60 km away in Bajpe. Daily flights connect this airport to Mumbai and Bangalore.
Udupi is well-connected by road. Mangalore is just 60 km away, with express buses running frequently between the two cities. An overnight Volvo bus can take you from Bangalore to Udupi, covering 406 km.
Udupi has a reliable bus network that connects different parts of the city and nearby areas. Buses operate from the main bus stand and are run by both private companies and the state transportation service, making it easy to travel within the city and to suburban areas.
Starting at Only 3₹/KM
Navigating the vibrant city of udupi has never been easier. Whether you’re a resident, a student, or a tourist, TransRentals cab services provide the perfect solution for all your local transportation needs.
Starting at only 9₹/KM
Rickshaws are a popular and convenient option for short distances within Udupi. These three-wheelers are readily available throughout the city, offering a quick and affordable way to get around.
Auto-rikshaw is starting From 10-200 Rs.
Car and bike rentals can be found in Udupi, but it’s best to arrange these in person. For a wider range of options, including self-drive rentals, Mangalore is a better choice as it offers more services due to being a larger city. This option is ideal if you prefer exploring Udupi and its surroundings at your own pace.
Starting at only ₹1499.
The ideal time to visit Udupi is during the winter months, from October to March, when the weather is pleasant and mild, perfect for sightseeing and outdoor activities. During summer, temperatures can soar up to 40 degrees, making it quite uncomfortable, although evenings tend to be cooler.
Monsoon, from June to September, is another good time to visit Udupi. The rains transform the town into a lush green paradise, enhancing its natural beauty and making the surroundings fresh and vibrant. This season is perfect for enjoying the serene landscapes and the rejuvenated environment. Udupi is not just about natural beauty; it’s a cultural center of Karnataka, with numerous festivals and events celebrated with great enthusiasm. The winters, in particular, are filled with cultural festivities, making it an excellent time to experience the town’s rich traditions and vibrant art scene. Temples and mutts in Udupi are known for hosting regular cultural events, which attract visitors from all over. So, planning your visit during these months ensures you get to witness the best of Udupi’s cultural heritage.
The Distance of Udupi to Mumbai is (843.2 km) via NH 48.
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The Distance of Udupi to Delhi is (2,122.2 km) via NH 52.
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The Distance of Udupi To Bangalore is (442.7 km) via NH 275.
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The Distance of Udupi to Chennai is (755.0 km) via NH75.
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When planning your trip to Udupi, it’s advisable to book your accommodations and transportation in advance, especially during peak seasons, to avoid last-minute hassles. The city is known for its popular tourist spots and cultural events, so securing your bookings early ensures a smoother travel experience.Respect the cultural heritage of Udupi by maintaining decorum around temples and historical sites. Avoid any behavior that may disturb these sacred places, as it is considered a serious offense with legal consequences.
Udupi offers a delightful culinary experience with its traditional vegetarian cuisine. Ensure you choose clean and reputable eateries to enjoy local delicacies without risking your health. It’s best to avoid consuming raw or unhygienic food to prevent any stomach discomfort during your visit.For safety reasons, it’s advisable to explore Udupi in groups rather than venturing alone, especially in unfamiliar areas or late hours. This precaution helps ensure a secure and enjoyable exploration of the city’s vibrant culture and scenic attractions.Remember to purchase entry tickets for tourist attractions and historical sites in Udupi. Unauthorized entry may lead to penalties, so respect the rules and regulations to fully appreciate the rich heritage and beauty the city has to offer.
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