Udupi Weekend Escape: Beaches, Temples & Seafood from Bangalore

Udupi’s story goes beyond temple bells and tales of saints. While deeply spiritual, Udupi’s history is also a tale of trade, maritime life, and cultural continuity on India’s southwest coast.

The town rose to religious prominence in the 13th century, when the great philosopher Sri Madhvacharya, founder of the Dvaita school of Vedanta, established the Sri Krishna Matha here. According to legend, he found the idol of Lord Krishna washed ashore at Malpe, encased in a ball of clay from Dwaraka. It was he who installed the deity and established a system of eight mathas (ashta mathas) to manage the temple's rituals, a system that still functions today under a rotational leadership called Paryaya.

But Udupi’s importance wasn’t only spiritual. Long before Madhvacharya, this region was part of the Alupa dynasty, which ruled over coastal Karnataka from around the 5th to the 14th century. They were vassals to larger empires like the Chalukyas and Hoysalas, yet retained significant autonomy in the region. Udupi thrived as a port-adjacent settlement, with the Malpe port serving as a key node in the Indian Ocean trade network. Traders from Arabia, Persia, and Southeast Asia exchanged spices, textiles, and coastal goods, giving the region a steady economic heartbeat.

During the Vijayanagara Empire (14th–17th centuries), Udupi and its temples received royal patronage. The empire’s emphasis on temple-building and Sanskrit education deepened Udupi’s role as a centre for religious scholarship and Sanskrit learning. The area also saw the development of Yakshagana, a dance-drama tradition that still thrives as a cultural mainstay of Udupi and its surroundings.

Later, the region came under the control of Tipu Sultan, and then the British East India Company, who appreciated Udupi’s strategic coastal location but left its religious institutions mostly undisturbed. The 19th and early 20th centuries saw Udupi emerge as a centre of reformist Hindu movements, literary output in Kannada and Sanskrit, and a stronghold of vegetarian temple cuisine, which later evolved into the now-famous Udupi cuisine.

October to March (Best Season):
This season is when Udupi truly shines. With temperatures ranging from 20°C to 32°C, the weather is pleasant, the skies are clear, and the sea breeze fills you with a pleasant feeling. Whether you're soaking in the sunrise at Malpe Beach, attending the rhythmic rituals at Sri Krishna Temple, or hopping on a ferry to St. Mary’s Island, these months offer the perfect balance of sunshine and serenity.

It’s also the ideal time for festivals like Makara Sankranti (January) and Paryaya Festival (held every alternate year in January), when the town turns vibrant with processions, bhajans, and community feasts.

June to September (Monsoon Magic):
Monsoon breathes a new life into Udupi, but heavy rains can also disrupt travel plans and beach visits. Still, if you’re someone who enjoys slow travel, filter coffee during drizzles, and watching waves crash on empty shores, monsoon in Udupi is pure romance. Purely recommended for nature lovers, offbeat travellers, and culture enthusiasts.

April to May (Hot and Humid):
Summer in Udupi can be intense, with temperatures often rising above 35°C, high humidity, and the sea losing its usual calm. Unless you're attending a specific temple festival or passing through, this might not be the most comfortable time for sightseeing.

By Train
Udupi is a major stop on the Konkan Railway, offering stunning views of the Western Ghats, lush green tunnels, and coastal bridges en route. Udupi Railway Station (UD) is just 3 km from the city center. Daily trains connect Udupi to Mangalore, Goa, Mumbai, Bengaluru, Kochi, and Pune.

By Air
The nearest airport is Mangalore International Airport (IXE), located around 60 km (1.5 hours) from Udupi. It is well-connected to major Indian cities like Bengaluru, Chennai, Mumbai, Hyderabad, and Delhi. You’ll find international flights from cities like Dubai, Doha, and Abu Dhabi as well.

By Road
Udupi is easily accessible via NH66 (formerly NH17), which connects the town to Goa in the north and Mangalore in the south. State-run KSRTC and private buses run frequently from Mangalore (1.5 hrs), Bangalore (8–9 hrs), Goa (7 hrs), and even Mumbai (14–16 hrs). Volvo and sleeper bus options are available for overnight journeys. If you don’t have any plans, you can join Tripper Trails for the next trip and we will take care of everything from food to stays.

Sri Krishna Temple
Udupi's iconic temple, Sri Krishna Matha, was founded in the 13th century by the philosopher-saint Madhvacharya. This is one of the most significant places to visit in Udupi and among the prime tourist attractions in Udupi. The temple is known for its unique darshan through a silver-plated window called the Kanakana Kindi. It's not just a spiritual space; the architecture, rituals, and the energy here make it a must-visit for culture lovers. It is open from 4:30 AM to 9:30 PM, and entry is free.

The Temple Streets
The traditional shops sell incense, souvenirs, and snacks. The narrow lanes are bustling with activity and offer a glimpse into the town's vibrant spiritual life and heritage. One of Udupi's oldest and most beloved eateries, Mitra Samaj, is famous for its authentic Udupi vegetarian meals. Their thali includes rice, sambar, rasam, dry vegetable curry, chutney, pickle, papad, and a sweet dish — all served on a banana leaf. Service is quick, the food is homely, and the prices are very budget-friendly. The average cost for one person ranges from ₹150 to ₹200.

Anantheshwara Temple
Located right next to the Krishna Matha, this ancient Shiva temple predates the Krishna temple and features striking Kerala-style architecture. It's quieter, less touristy, and packed with stories from local legends. A great spiritual pit stop and one of the important places to see in Udupi before or after visiting Sri Krishna Matha. Open from 6:00 AM to 8:30 PM, and entry is free.

The Hasta Shilpa Heritage Village Museum
Just a 15-minute drive from Udupi town, this open-air museum is a beautifully curated collection of restored heritage homes, art, and architecture from across Karnataka. Think vintage vibes, detailed woodwork, and culture that doesn't bore you to tears. This is one of the unique places of interest in Udupi that showcases regional heritage. Open from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM (closed on Mondays), with entry of ₹200–₹300 via guided tours only (booking required).

Pajaka Kshetra
The birthplace of Sri Madhvacharya (founder of the Dvaita philosophy), Pajaka Kshetra is a small village about 13 km from Udupi. It includes a heritage home, a sacred pond, and footprint impressions of the saint. Quiet, rural, and surprisingly scenic — especially if you're into philosophy or serene detours. This is among the notable places to see in and around Udupi for those interested in spiritual heritage. Open from 6:00 AM to 7:00 PM, and entry is free.

Let's talk about why this trip is going to be a problem for your future food expectations.
Udupi's food isn't just "good"; it's annoyingly flawless. We're talking about centuries of culinary mastery served on a banana leaf, making your average dosa look like it needs therapy.
First off, the Udupi sambar and rasam? It's like the versions in Bangalore tried their best but just didn't get invited to the final draft. The coconut chutneys are fresh, flavourful, and made with ingredients you can identify. Try the Goli Baje (Mangalore bajji), which is crispy, fluffy, and addictive in the best way.
For seafood lovers, Malpe offers fresh catches prepared in traditional coastal style. The fish curry here is aromatic and spicy, and pairs perfectly with neer dosa or rice. Local beach shacks serve simple but incredible preparations – grilled fish, prawn fry, and crab curry that taste better because you're eating them with sand between your toes and an ocean breeze in your hair.
And when your sweet tooth strikes, the locals deliver. Mysore pak, chiroti, and holige are made fresh every day by people who understand that dessert isn't a course — it's a lifestyle. One bite and you'll consider cancelling your return ticket.

• Mitra Samaj
  Located near Sri Krishna Temple, Car Street. One of the oldest eateries in Udupi (since 1949), this humble, crowded place is known for its goli bajje, masala dosa, and filter coffee. It’s the kind of spot where conversations are minimal, but the taste speaks volumes.
• Hotel Diana
  Craving dessert? Try the famous Gadbad, a tall glass layered with jelly, fruits, dry fruits, and ice cream. Diana is a Udupi institution, serving multi-cuisine fare, but their desserts steal the show.
• Thamboolam Café
  A peaceful space perfect for brunch or an evening bite. Try their banana flower vadas, healthy millet bowls, and traditional herbal teas. Great for those who want something regional with a modern twist.
• Malpe Beach Shacks
  If you're craving seafood, head to the beachfront shacks for fresh catches turned into spicy fish fry, prawn curry, and squid masala. A sunset dinner here is pure bliss.

Ratha Beedi (Car Street)
Located around the Sri Krishna Temple, this bustling stretch is perfect for buying religious mementos, like brass diyas, rudraksha malas, sandalwood idols, and temple bells. You’ll also find colorful bangles, incense sticks, and framed art of Krishna. The street is vibrant during temple festivals, with stalls lit up and devotional songs echoing in the background.

Shree Shanthi Silks
Udupi’s saree game is strong, especially when it comes to kasavu, Ilkal, and Mysore silks. This reputed shop has everything from wedding wear to simple cottons. The staff are known to help patiently, and many women travel here from nearby towns just to shop for festive silks.

Udupi Coir Product Emporium
Want something eco-friendly and unique? Pick up coir-based doormats, bags, runners, and décor items made by local artisans. These are perfect earthy souvenirs that support traditional industry and make your home feel coastal too.

Spice & Snack Stores – A Taste of Udupi
Don’t leave without stocking up on Udupi’s famous banana chips, jackfruit papads, goli bajji mixes, and spice powders. Stores like Mitra Traders or Bhavani Stores offer neatly packed items that travel well and carry the taste of the coast wherever you go.