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3 Days in Udupi for a Tasty Food Trip
Udupi is a food lover's paradise, famous for its vegetarian cuisine and unique flavors. I've spent many mornings eating ghee-laden dosas at local joints and evenings sipping filter coffee by the beach. This itinerary covers the best eats in town, from temple meals to street food gems.
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Day 1
Day 1 in Udupi
Start your Udupi adventure with its iconic temple, a stroll through the vibrant market, and a deep dive into the city's legendary vegetarian cuisine.
Activities
Visit Sri Krishna Temple
Begin your day at the heart of Udupi's spiritual life—the 13th-century Sri Krishna Temple. The temple's unique 'Kanakana Kindi' (a small window) where Lord Krishna is said to have blessed his devotee Kanakadasa is a must-see. The morning rituals and the temple's serene atmosphere set the perfect tone for the day.
- Dress modestly—shoulders and knees covered
- Try the temple's prasadam (offering) like the delicious sweet pongal
Explore Udupi Market
Just a short walk from the temple, Udupi's bustling market is a sensory delight. Wander through stalls piled high with fresh produce, spices, and local crafts. Don’t miss the flower vendors near the temple—their vibrant marigold garlands are a Udupi staple.
- Bargain politely for non-food items
- Look for local jackfruit chips—they’re a crispy, sweet-savory snack
Lunch at Mitra Samaj
No visit to Udupi is complete without a meal at one of its iconic vegetarian restaurants. Mitra Samaj, a no-frills local favorite since 1937, serves the best of Udupi’s famed cuisine. Their masala dosa—crispy, golden, and served with coconut chutney—is legendary.
- Try the 'goli baje' (fried dumplings) as a starter
- Ask for 'filter coffee'—it’s served in a traditional steel tumbler
Must Try Foods
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Day 2
Day 2 in Udupi
Dive deeper into Udupi's culture with a mix of iconic spots and local flavors, from serene beaches to legendary eateries.
Activities
Stroll at Malpe Beach
Start your morning with the calming waves of Malpe Beach, about 6 km from Udupi. Walk along the golden sands, watch fishermen haul in their catch, or just relax under the shade of palm trees. Don’t miss the St. Mary’s Island boat ride (seasonal) for its unique basalt rock formations.
- Carry cash for boat rides and snacks
- Wear comfortable sandals—the sand gets hot by late morning
Breakfast at Diana Hotel
Head back to Udupi town for a legendary breakfast at Diana Hotel, a no-frills spot famous for its crispy ghee dosas and fluffy idlis. Their strong filter coffee is the perfect pick-me-up.
- Try their 'special ghee dosa'—it’s a local favorite
- Arrive before noon; they often run out of dishes by lunch
Explore Manipal’s Local Vibe
Take a short ride to Manipal (15 minutes from Udupi) to soak in its youthful energy. Visit the quirky Dr. TMA Pai Planetarium for a short show or browse books at the iconic Syndicate Circle. End with a stop at Manna Café for their banana-leaf thali.
- Check planetarium timings—shows are usually hourly
- Manna Café gets crowded; go slightly early or late for lunch
Must Try Foods
Transportation
Day 3
Day 3 in Udupi
A relaxed day exploring hidden gems and local flavors, from serene lakes to lesser-known eateries serving Udupi’s best.
Activities
Morning at Bappanadu Durga Temple
Start your day with a peaceful visit to Bappanadu Durga Temple, a lesser-known but deeply spiritual spot about 20 minutes from Udupi. The temple’s tranquil setting by the river and its unique architecture make it a refreshing change from the usual tourist spots. The early morning rituals here are serene and less crowded.
- Dress modestly as it’s a religious site
- Try the prasadam (offering) if available—it’s simple but delicious
Breakfast at Sri Durga Shriram Bhuvan
Head back to Udupi town for breakfast at Sri Durga Shriram Bhuvan, a no-frills local favorite known for its soft, fluffy idlis and crisp dosas. The coconut chutney here is a standout, and the filter coffee is strong and aromatic. It’s a spot where locals gather, so expect a lively atmosphere.
- Try the ‘ghee roast’ dosa—it’s their specialty
- Cash only, so keep small bills handy
Relax at Kaup Beach and Lighthouse
Spend your late morning at Kaup Beach, a quieter alternative to Malpe. The highlight here is the 100-year-old lighthouse, which offers panoramic views of the coastline. Climb to the top for a breezy, scenic break. The beach itself is less commercialized, perfect for a lazy stroll or just sitting with a coconut in hand.
- Wear comfortable shoes for the lighthouse climb
- Avoid swimming—the currents can be strong