Udupi, a coastal paradise in Karnataka, is known for its tranquil beaches, historic temples, and vibrant culture. Our family of six set out to explore Udupi on a three-day trip, filled with fun, adventure, and a deep dive into the local heritage. Here’s a detailed itinerary of our unforgettable journey through Udupi’s top attractions.
Day 1: Sun, Sand, and Spirituality
We kicked off our adventure with a visit to Kaapu Beach, located around 10 kilometers from Udupi. This quiet beach is perfect for a relaxing morning. The standout feature here is the Kaapu Lighthouse, which stands proudly on a small hill, offering stunning panoramic views of the Arabian Sea. We climbed the lighthouse to capture some family photos.
Then we headed to Malpe Beach (5 kilometers from Udupi). This lively beach is well-known for its clean, soft sands and calm waters, making it a family-friendly spot. The highlight of the day was a boat ride to St. Mary’s Island, just off the coast of Malpe. The island, with its striking hexagonal basalt rock formations, is perfect for a family picnic. We enjoyed the cool waters and spent time soaking up the sun on the beach. Evening we visited the nearby Marvanthe Beach, a stunning coastal destination known for its unique setting where the Arabian Sea meets the Souparnika River. The coastal highway runs parallel to the beach, offering travelers breathtaking views of both the sea and the river. It’s a peaceful and serene spot, perfect for unwinding and soaking in the natural beauty of Karnataka’s coastline.
On our way back to the hotel, we visited the Sri Krishna Temple, the heart of Udupi’s spiritual life. This 13th-century temple is famous for its unique ‘Kanakana Kindi’ — a small window through which devotees can view the deity of Lord Krishna. The temple’s peaceful ambiance and stunning architecture left us in awe, making it a great way to wrap up our first day. The day was tiring but totally worth it.
Day 2: Adventure and Culture
Day two was all about outdoor activities and cultural immersion. We began with Mattu-Saligrama Kayaking, located about 25 kilometers from Udupi. The calm river, surrounded by lush forests and scenic landscapes, created an ideal kayaking environment. Our family, with members ranging in age, enjoyed paddling together, making it an exciting start to the day.
Next, we visited the Floating Bridge at Malpe. This unique bridge connects Malpe Beach to the nearby island, offering fantastic views of the ocean. The design of the bridge allows boats to pass freely underneath, a truly remarkable engineering feat. We walked across, soaking in the breeze and the vibrant coastal views. It was a great experience for the entire family.
In the afternoon, we explored the Prasanna Ajyena Temple, located a short distance outside Udupi. This hidden gem is dedicated to Lord Ayyappa and is surrounded by lush greenery, providing a peaceful, less crowded alternative to the more popular temples in the region. The calm atmosphere was a perfect escape for a reflective moment before heading back.
Day 3: Udupi’s Cuisine and Departure
On our final day, we dedicated some time to experiencing Udupi’s legendary cuisine. No trip is complete without trying the local cuisine of the place. Udupi is famed for its vegetarian fare, which is both delicious and unique. We started with a classic breakfast of Udupi masala dosa, crispy on the outside and filled with a spicy potato mixture, served with coconut chutney and sambar. We also tried Neer Dosa, a delicate, soft rice pancake, and Rava Idli, a light and fluffy steamed dish. The food was as amazing as the place itself.
Before we departed, we made one last stop at Udupi Sri Krishna Matha, the main temple complex of Udupi. The temple’s serene environment and its ornate architecture are a testament to the rich history of the region. Around the temple, we found local vendors selling religious trinkets and souvenirs, making it the perfect place to pick up mementos from our trip.
Concluding Thoughts
From the tranquil beaches of Kaapu to the peaceful waters of Mattu-Saligrama, and from the majestic temples to the flavorful local cuisine, Udupi offered an unforgettable experience for our family. It’s a destination that offers something for everyone, making it the ideal place for a family vacation full of adventure, culture, and relaxation.
