Udupi

About Udupi

Udupi is known for the Krishna Mutt (Temple of Lord Krishna). The Krishna Mutt was founded by the Shri Madhvacharya , a Vaishnavite saint in the 13th century. The Ashta Mathas (set of 8 religious organizations manage the temple administration, and the daily sevas. According to legned, the statue of Sri Krishna in the famous temple here is believed to have turned around to give darshana to the kuruba devotee, Kanakadasa , who was not allowed to enter the temple because Kanakadasa belonged to a different caste. Each of the Ashta Mathas performs temple management activities for two years on rotation.

During the Paryaya festival, held every two years, the temple management is handed over to the next Matha. Each of the Mathas is headed by a Swami, who will be in charge of the temple during his Paryaya. These eight Mathas are Pejavara, Puttige, Palimaru, Adamaru, Sodhe, Kaniyooru, Shirur and Krishnapura. If one needs to learn the Dvaita or Tatvavaada philosophy, the Krishna Matha is the Gurukul for it. It is also famous for the Daasa Sahitya, a form of literature that originated in Udupi.

Climate/Weather

The months of January and February are slightly cold while summers begin from March and continues till May. Post monsoon begins from October and remains till December. The best season to visit Karnataka is definitely the winter (between October to February) where the travelers can enjoy the most of Karnataka.

History

Legend says that the moon and his wives made their prayer at the Chandramouleeshwara temple at Udupi, creating a linga that can be seen even today. According to this story, therefore, Udupi means the land of the “lord of the stars,” the moon.

Nearest Visiting places

Chandramauleshvara Temple - In the temple square near the market area is the Chandramouleshwara Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva boasts of towering roof like a pyramid.

Madhava Sarovar - This is the holy tank or Kalyani where devotees take a dip before offering prayers to God.

Pajaka is the birth place of Saint Madhvacharya. This is the ancestral home of the Saint. Some memorabilia of the seer can be found here, like the huge banyan tree and the two stones he lifted and the pond from where he used to fetch water.

Manipal is very famous educational centre and the medical college. There is a small muesium showcasing artifacts collected by Mr. Vijaanath Shenoy.

Kaup Beach, the beautiful beach with a coast line of 12 kms is located in Southern Udupi. There is the 100 feet light house, a must see.

Malpe Beach is a port town, 6kms from Udupi is famous for its scenic beauty. This place attracts many tourists owing to the estuary of the Malpe river and St Marys Island. One can find magnificent rock formation. These rocks made of basalt are naturally formed.

Brahmavar named as the “settlement of Brahmins” is a town about 13 kms from the North of Udupi. This place is famous for the Mahalinga temple, Gopinatha temple , Janardhana shrine in the Agrahara. There is the oldest Holy Family Church which was established in the Aptil 01, 1934, and the Saint Mary’s Syrian Church are located in Brahmavara.

Location info

• **Address:**Udupi, the Kokani city is the headquarters of the Udupi District, Karnataka State, India.

• **District:**Udupi

• **Nearest City:**Kokani

• Best time to visit: Oct-Jun

Things to do at Udupi

If one needs to learn the Dvaita or Tatvavaada philosophy, the Krishna Matha is the Gurukul for it. It is also famous for the Daasa Sahitya, a form of literature that originated in Udupi.

Things to visit & highlights

The main attraction is the Krishna Temple, Pajaka, Ananteshwar Temple, Chandramauleshwara temple. The actual feel of Udupi comes to visiting the famous Manipal, Kaup Beach, Malpe and Brahmavar

How to reach Udupi

• **Nearest Railway Station:**Udupi

• **Nearest Airport:**Mangalore Airport

• **Road Transport:**On NH17, 80kms from Mangalore, 415kms from Bangalore

Hotels & accommodation nearby

Mangalore is one of the quickly growing cities in Karnataka. Number of visitors also has been increasing steadily. And to meet the requirements, there are many hotels and resorts in the city. You will find both luxury and budget hotels in Mangalore. Most of the luxury hotels also provide good business facilities. The hotels that stand out are Taj Manjarun Hotel, Hotel Moti Mahal, Hotel Poonja International and Hotel Srinivas.

Tips & suggestions

Over the years Udupi has transformed by various upcoming industries like the small-scale industries fish farming, cashews, banking and education

Helpline & emergency contacts

• **Police Station:**Udupi

• **Nearest Hospital:**Nearest Town: Udupi

• Society/Community Phone Number

Mobile network coverage

Airtel, Jio, BSNL, and Vi all provide coverage across Karnataka. 4G is reliable in Bangalore, Mysore, Mangalore, Hubli, and along highways. Coverage may be weaker in deep forest areas of Bandipur, Nagarhole, and certain Western Ghats sections. Most hotels, resorts, and cafes in tourist areas offer free Wi-Fi.

Food & restaurants nearby

Karnataka’s cities offer diverse cuisine. Bangalore has a legendary food scene from iconic darshinis (stand-up eateries) to craft breweries. Mysore is known for Mysore pak and traditional meals. Temple towns (Udupi, Dharmasthala, Murudeshwar) offer excellent vegetarian fare.

Nearest petrol pump

Petrol pumps are available in the nearest town or on the approach road — check locally for the closest option.

Accessibility

Religious sites may have steps at the entrance and may not have ramps. The interiors are generally level once inside. Some historic sites have uneven stone floors. Visitors with mobility concerns should check in advance.

Rules & restrictions

Modest dress is required: shoulders and knees must be covered (scarves or shawls are often available at the entrance). Photography is generally permitted without flash, but video may be restricted. Maintain silence inside. Mobile phones should be on silent mode. Remove shoes if required (indicated by signage). Do not touch artefacts or altars. These are active places of worship — respect services, festivals, and devotees.

Best photography spots

Karnataka has a rich collection of churches primarily in Mangalore (Mangalorean Catholic), Bangalore (colonial-era), and Mysore. St. Philomena’s Cathedral in Mysore (neo-Gothic, one of Asia’s largest) and the Rosario Cathedral in Mangalore are the most photogenic. The interiors of Mangalorean churches with their detailed altars are worth shooting.

Best time to visit Udupi

October to March offers pleasant weather for temple visits. Major festivals at the temple draw large crowds — visit during non-festival periods for a quieter experience. Early morning (6-8 AM) is ideal for peaceful darshan.

Timings & opening hours

Typically 6:00 AM to 12:00 PM and 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM daily. Pooja timings vary by temple. Special ceremonies during festivals may extend hours. Some temples have specific darshan timings.

Entry fee & tickets

Entry is generally free. Special pooja, abhisheka, or VIP darshan tickets may have charges (typically INR 10-200). Camera/phone fees may apply at some major temples.

Duration needed

30 minutes to 1 hour for a standard visit. 1-2 hours if attending special poojas or exploring the temple architecture. Half a day during major festivals.

Safety tips

Temples in Karnataka are generally safe. Remove footwear before entering (shoe-keeping counters available). Secure your belongings. Beware of pickpockets in crowded areas during festivals. Follow temple-specific dress codes.

Things to carry

Carry drinking water, snacks, comfortable walking shoes, hat/cap, sunscreen, sunglasses, camera, power bank, and personal medications. A light jacket or umbrella is recommended during monsoon season (June-September). Carry a scarf or shawl for covering shoulders. Small change for offerings and donations. Avoid leather items inside temples.

Nearest airport, railway & bus

Nearest railway station serves the district. Nearest airport: typically Kempegowda International Airport Bangalore or Mangalore International Airport. KSRTC buses connect major towns near the temple.

Frequently asked questions

Q: What are the temple timings? A: Typically 6:00 AM-12:00 PM and 4:00-8:00 PM. Check locally for specific pooja schedules. Q: Is photography allowed? A: Exterior photography is usually allowed. Interior/sanctum photography may be restricted — check signage. Q: What is the dress code? A: Modest dress covering shoulders and knees is expected. Traditional Indian attire is preferred.

Quick facts

• Type: Tourist Attraction
• State: Karnataka
• Category: Pilgrims Destination

Visitor information

Please check locally for current visitor information.

Photo gallery of Udupi

Photos coming soon. In the meantime, you can find images of Udupi on popular travel photography sites and social media.