3 Days in Udupi for a Slow-Paced Getaway

Udupi is the perfect place to unwind with its laid-back vibe, beautiful beaches, and delicious vegetarian food. I love coming here when I need a break from the city—the temple town charm mixed with coastal breezes makes it feel like time slows down. This itinerary keeps things easy so you can enjoy the best of Udupi without rushing.

Karnataka, karnataka
3 Days
Relaxed
Custom Trip

Trip Highlights

Watching sunset at Malpe Beach with fresh coconut water
Trying the famous Udupi-style masala dosa at a local eatery
Exploring the peaceful backwaters of Swarna River by boat
Soaking in the spiritual calm of Sri Krishna Temple

Best Time to Visit

OctoberNovemberDecemberJanuary

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Day 1

Day 1 in Udupi

Start your Udupi trip with its most iconic spots, from the famous Krishna Temple to the serene Malpe Beach, and dive into the local flavors with authentic Udupi cuisine.

Activities

Visit Sri Krishna Temple

Begin your day at the heart of Udupi—the Sri Krishna Temple. This 13th-century temple is not just a spiritual hub but also the soul of Udupi’s culture. The temple’s unique ‘Kanakana Kindi’ (a small window) is a must-see, where devotees believe Lord Krishna once peeked through. The morning rituals and chants create a peaceful atmosphere.

Car Street, Udupi5:00 AM - 8:30 PM (best visited early morning or late evening for aarti)Free (donations welcome)
Tips:
  • Dress modestly—shoulders and knees covered
  • Try the temple’s prasadam (offering), especially the sweet pongal
Stroll at Malpe Beach
Stroll at Malpe Beach

Head to Malpe Beach, a short drive from Udupi, for some relaxation by the Arabian Sea. The golden sands and gentle waves make it perfect for a lazy morning or sunset walk. Don’t miss the St. Mary’s Island boat ride (if time permits), known for its unique basalt rock formations.

Malpe Beach, 6 km from UdupiMorning or late afternoon to avoid the midday heatFree (boat ride to St. Mary’s Island costs around INR 300 per person)
Tips:
  • Carry water and sunscreen—shade is limited
  • Try fresh coconut water from beachside vendors
Lunch at Mitra Samaj

No visit to Udupi is complete without its legendary vegetarian cuisine. Mitra Samaj, a no-frills local favorite, serves the best masala dosa, neer dosa, and goli baje (fried dumplings) in town. The banana leaf meals here are a wholesome experience.

Near Car Street, Udupi12:00 PM - 3:30 PM (lunch hours)INR 100-300 per person
Tips:
  • Arrive early—it gets crowded during lunch
  • Ask for their special ‘rasayana’ (sweet banana dessert)

Must Try Foods

Masala Dosa
Goli Baje
Kori Rotti (chicken curry with crispy rice wafers)
Mangalorean Fish Curry

Transportation

Nearest Railway Station
Udupi Railway Station (1 km from city center, 5-10 mins by auto)
Nearest Bus Stop
Udupi City Bus Stand (frequent buses to Malpe and nearby areas)
Metro Station
Not available
Cab Availability
Autos and cabs easily available; Ola/Uber operate in the city

No destinations found for this itinerary

Day 2

Day 2 in Udupi

A mix of serene beaches, historic sites, and delicious local food to keep the day relaxed yet engaging.

Activities

Sunrise at Kapu Beach

Start your day early with a peaceful sunrise at Kapu Beach, known for its lighthouse and calm waves. Climb up the lighthouse for a stunning view of the coastline. The beach is less crowded, making it perfect for a quiet morning walk.

Kapu Beach, near Kaup town, about 15 km from Udupi6:00 AM - 8:00 AM (best time for sunrise)Free (Lighthouse entry: ₹10 per person)
Tips:
  • Carry water and wear comfortable shoes for the lighthouse climb.
  • Try the fresh coconut water from local vendors near the beach.
Explore the Ancient Anantheshwara Temple

Head back to Udupi to visit the Anantheshwara Temple, one of the oldest in the region, dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple's architecture and serene atmosphere make it a great spot for some quiet reflection.

Anantheshwara Temple, Car Street, Udupi9:00 AM - 11:00 AM (avoid midday crowds)Free
Tips:
  • Dress modestly as it's a religious site.
  • Check out the small shops nearby for local souvenirs.
Lunch at Diana Restaurant

A local favorite for authentic Udupi-style vegetarian meals. Their thali is a must-try, with a variety of dishes that change daily. The place is simple but packed with flavor.

Diana Restaurant, near City Bus Stand, Udupi12:30 PM - 2:00 PM (peak lunch hours, so go slightly early)₹150-₹300 per person
Tips:
  • Try their special rasam and crispy dosas.
  • Cash is preferred as they might not accept cards.

Must Try Foods

Udupi-style thali
Neer dosa with coconut chutney
Mangalorean buns (sweet banana bread)

Transportation

Nearest Railway Station
Udupi Railway Station (2 km from city center, auto-rickshaws available)
Nearest Bus Stop
Udupi City Bus Stand (frequent buses to Kapu and nearby areas)
Metro Station
Not available
Cab Availability
Easy to find autos and cabs; Ola/Uber works but local autos are more reliable for short distances.

Day 3

Day 3 in Udupi

A relaxed day exploring hidden gems and local flavors in Udupi, focusing on lesser-known spots and cultural experiences.

Activities

Morning at Hasta Shilpa Heritage Village

Start your day at this charming open-air museum showcasing traditional Tuluva architecture and artifacts. Wander through reconstructed heritage homes, each telling a story of Karnataka's coastal culture. The peaceful setting under coconut palms makes it perfect for a slow morning.

Hasta Shilpa Heritage Village, Manipal9:30 AM - 11:00 AM (opens at 9:30 AM)₹50-100 per person
Tips:
  • Don't miss the antique wooden chariot display
  • Photography is allowed but avoid flash inside heritage homes
Lunch at Woodlands Hotel

A Udupi institution since 1954, this no-frills spot serves some of the most authentic vegetarian thalis in town. Their signature banana leaf meals feature over a dozen seasonal dishes, with unlimited servings of their famous rasam and crunchy papadums.

Woodlands Hotel, Car Street12:30 PM - 1:30 PM (peak lunch hours)₹150-250 per person
Tips:
  • Try their special jackfruit dosa if available
  • Cash-only establishment
Afternoon at Bappanadu Durga Temple

Visit this serene 800-year-old temple dedicated to Goddess Durga, located where the Shambhavi River meets the sea. The unique architecture blends Kerala and Karnataka styles. Time your visit to witness the evening puja (around 4 PM) when the temple comes alive with chanting and lamp offerings.

Bappanadu, Mulki (25 min from Udupi)3:00 PM - 4:30 PMFree (donations welcome)
Tips:
  • Dress modestly (shoulders and knees covered)
  • Visit the nearby riverbank for quiet moments

Must Try Foods

Kori Rotti (crispy rice wafers with chicken curry)
Goli Baje (sweet-sour fried dumplings)
Kudpulu (steamed rice balls with coconut chutney)

Transportation

Nearest Railway Station
Udupi Railway Station (2 km from city center, auto-rickshaws available)
Nearest Bus Stop
Udupi City Bus Stand (frequent buses to Mulki every 30 mins)
Metro Station
Not available
Cab Availability
Ola/Uber available but auto-rickshaws more common for short distances

Travel Tips

Carry cash—many small eateries and local shops don't accept cards
Dress modestly when visiting temples (shoulders and knees covered)
Bargain politely at Malpe Beach if buying souvenirs from stalls
Try the local 'goli baje' (fried dumplings) with chutney in the evening

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