Set out on a coastal odyssey

Enter a world where historical temples coexist peacefully with vibrant marketplaces, where the scent of spices lingers in the salty sea breeze, and where there is always a new adventure waiting to be discovered. Welcome to Mangalore and Udupi, two charming coastal towns nestled along Karnataka’s sun-kissed coast. Explore the rich culture, mouthwatering food, and captivating scenery of these coastal gems with us as we embark on a voyage of discovery.

Bright Markets and Multicolored Bazaars: Imagine exploring the vibrant markets of Mangalore, where the sounds of vendors selling their wares fill the air. Explore the Central Market’s network of stalls, where handicrafts, textiles, and spices vie for attention and provide a sensory overload unlike anything else. Enjoy the regional specialities ranging from hot and spicy street food to sweet confections like the well-known Mangalorean ice cream.

Sacred Sites and Temple Trails: Explore Mangalore’s historic temples and holy locations to learn about the city’s rich cultural legacy. Visit the imposing Kadri Manjunath Temple devoted to Lord Shiva which features elaborate carvings that depict historical events from long ago. Admire the beauty of the Gokarnanatheshwara Temple, a popular destination for devotees seeking blessings and indulging in the divine energy.

A seaside spiritual haven

Stepping into the sacred grounds of one of Karnataka’s holiest sites, the Udupi Sri Krishna Temple will fill you with calm and peace. Admire the stunning design of this historic temple, where the statue of Lord Krishna serves as a symbol of the grace and love of the divine. Take in the fascinating everyday rituals and ceremonies that fill the air with the sweet aroma of incense and the soothing sounds of devotional music.

Coastal Charm and Beach Bliss: Take a break from the city and relax on one of the beautiful beaches that line Udupi’s coastline. Bask in the golden rays of the sun as you plant your toes in Malpe Beach’s soft sand and experience its warm embrace. While enjoying the rhythmic dance of the waves on a leisurely walk along the beach, you can collect seashells. For the more adventurous souls, indulge in water sports like surfing, scuba diving, and jet-skiing, or embark on a thrilling boat ride to explore the nearby St. Mary’s Island.

An explosion of flavours

Enjoying the delicious food of Mangalore and Udupi is a must-do while visiting these places. As you sample regional specialities like crispy vadas, Udupi-style dosas, and Mangalorean fish curry, your taste buds will be treated to an explosion of flavours. Enjoy your meal with a cool bowl of soft coconut ice cream or a delicious plate of ghee-soaked holige for dessert. Wash it all down with a cool glass of buttermilk or a hot cup of filter coffee.

Spice gardens and tea plantations: Go inland to discover the greenery of Mangalore and Udupi, where undulating hills are covered in fragrant spice gardens and emerald tea plantations. Start with a guided tour of a nearby tea estate, where you can taste some of the best brews straight from the source and learn about the craft of tea processing and cultivation. Explore spice gardens full of cardamom, pepper, cloves, and cinnamon, and be amazed at the abundance of nature’s spice cabinet.

Timings

Opening time - 05:00 AM to 11:00 AM and 06:00 PM to 09:00 PM

Explore beyond

Mangalore and Udupi provide a range of outdoor activities to suit every taste for those who love the outdoors and adventure. Put on your hiking boots and embark on a journey through the picturesque Western Ghats, where you can expect to see lush forests, bubbling streams, and tumbling waterfalls. Undiscovered jewels like the enchanting St. Mary’s Island, with its distinctive rock formations and immaculate beaches, and the diverse flora and fauna of Kudremukh National Park can be found there. As you see magnificent eagles soar high overhead, vibrant kingfishers darting across the water, and animated parakeets chattering in the treetops, keep your binoculars close at hand.

You can take part in age-old customs and rituals, engage with the hospitable locals, and fully immerse yourself in the vibrant culture and traditions of Karnataka. Experience the vibrant costumes and upbeat music of a traditional Yakshagana performance, which brings myths and legends from antiquity to life. Try your hand at moulding clay on a traditional potter’s wheel by visiting a nearby pottery village, or enrol in a cooking class to discover the techniques behind traditional Mangalorean and Udupi cuisine.