Malpe is a popular beach town that is stuck next to the Bluish Arabian sea in the temple town Udupi. This pristine beach has a long stretch of never-ending coastline that runs for kilometers and is surrounded by rocky islands. For many centuries Malpe has acted as an important port and a fishing harbor in Karnataka. And a considerable number of the population here are engaged in fisheries. Hence don’t forget to gobble down some local and authentic spicy seafood delicacies in Malpe.

Clean white sand, swaying palm trees lined up on the shores, pleasant weather, crystal clear waters, islands, and blue sky make nature-lovers go gaga over the spot. Not just that, there are a wide variety of water sports and adventurous activities that would excite the adventure of Junkies. For kids there are camel rides and horse rides to keep them entertained. At certain places the water level is shallow and it is perfect to take a dip. However, there are lifeguards who will keep an eye on your safety. All the above reasons, make Malpe beach one of the most preferred destinations for a beach vacation in Karnataka.

\"Sea Image Credits: Shashikanth Shetty( Flickr)

You can take a long walk along the shores as the waves keep splashing at you to the sea walk point. This point is possibly one of the best spots to witness Sunsets that would turn every in its way to orange.

Water Sports and Adventurous Activities In Malpe Beach

For all water babies out there, Malpe has plenty of  Water activities around the corner that is bound to excite all. You will come across water activities like jet Ski or Water Scooter Rides, Parasailing, Banana Rides, Speed Boat Rides, Bumpy Rides, Kayaking, Speed Boat Cruise to St. Mary’s Island, and surfing. Never miss out on Parasailing, which is the star of the show, especially when the sun is bidding adieu.

\"Water Image Credits: Anish Kumar (Flickr)

Outside of this, as the beach is surrounded by many rocky islands, it also offers adventurous activities like rock climbing and trekking. These activities are sure to put your adventurous skills to test. Try hiring a speedboat and tour the rocky island of Malpe namely Daria-Bahadurgad, Kari-Illada-Kallu. Daria-Gadara-Kalluthe, and Mary’s Islands (thonse paar).

Since the beach Is situated at the mouth of the Udyavara River or Paapanaashini, which is a small river that flows around this beach. You can also experience plenty of freshwater activities.

 All shutterbugs out there, try carrying your lens to capture some amazing moments you will spend with nature.

 You can head to the garden on the beach which hosts Mahatma Gandhi\’s statue to sit and relax. Besides this, you can stroll along the coastlines for 2 km  in the south to witness Temba Shipyard and port

What To Eat While In Malpe

When you have landed in Malpe be prepared to munch on seafood from an array of delectable food shacks near the beach. Most of the eateries here serve both Indian and international cuisines. There are plenty of tiny fresh fish fry outlets or carts where you have an option to choose the fish and they readily cook it for you. In particular, try munching on spicy  Anjal Rava fry, pomfret fry, and prawns curry prepared in authentic local style.

Make a pitstop and sip on tender coconuts to beat the heat and quench your thirst with the refreshing natural drink.

Spring Zouk Festival

If you happen to be here in the month of February then don\’t miss the 3 days long Spring Festival. This festival showcases some of the best bands,  DJs, art, cuisines, and culture which attracts thousands of tourists. Usually, Zouk aims to promote international rock bands and DJs along with the local tribal and folk musicians. Undoubtedly, it is one of the best festivals which lets tourists or travelers get a chance to become familiar with the culture and traditions of this region. 

How To Reach Malpe Beach

You can utilize frequently available bus services from Bangalore to reach the temple town Udupi. Malpe is just 6 kilometers away from the Udupi Bus stand. From the Udupi bus stand, you can either take a public bus or an auto-rickshaw to get to the beach. If in case you are taking an Auto-rickshaw try to bargain or else be prepared to pay a hefty amount.

Malpe Beach Informations

Distance From Udupi: 6 Km

Entry Fee: NA

Best Time To Visit: October To January

Water Activities: Available

Restaurants: Available

Homestays / Hotels: Available

Parking: Available

Free Wifi Facility: Available 24/7 (30 min / Mobile)

Wash Rooms:  Available

Distance From Bangalore: 410 Km

Udupi district which sits on the Southwest region of Karnataka is sandwiched between the Arabian sea on one side and western ghat on another side. This place is known for its religious centers that attract thousands of devotees from all over the world every year. Besides this, there are beaches to relax, untouched Islands, backwaters, waterfalls, picture-perfect landscapes, huge mountains to trek, ancient architectures, etc. In other words, Udupi is a small wonder which has something for all kinds of travelers.

Of all temples, Krishna Temple in Udupi town and Mookambika temple in Kollur are popular ones. Undoubtedly, one of the best things about these temples is that they provide free food (Prasadam) for all their devotees. Now that you are here, don’t miss an opportunity to munch on some delicious hot food served by the temple. Apart from this, you will also come across famous Jain temples like Chathurmukha Basadi, Bahubali, Varangakere Basadi in Karkala town.

You can catch the performances of regional art forms like Yashaghana, Bhoota Kola, etc. Bhoota kola is a ritual coastal town dance performed by Tuluva communities to honor the deities. Yakshagana is a dance-cum-drama performance show of the Karavali region. Besides this, you can also witness Kambala(buffalo race) unique festival (or sports) that happens annually among the farming communities.

What To Eat In Udupi 

\"Udupi

Udupi is a culinary paradise that serves a wide range of cuisines. Udupi hotels that serve local vegetarian cuisines at pocket-friendly prices can be seen in every nook and corner of India.  Actually, the most popular dish “Dose”  or “Masala Dosa” originated in Udupi. You can try out Dosas, Moode or idli, Neer Dose, Goli Baje, Mangalore buns, rasam rice or sambar rice, etc.

 Homemade Happalas( pappad) and Sandiges made of sweet potatoes, horse gram, and jackfruit are popular. Also, pack some spicy hot mango and lemon pickles when you are heading home.

If you are a meat-eater, sure Udupi will never disappoint you. You gobble down Neer Dose with Kori Sukha( chicken dry) or Kori Rotti( Chicken Curry). Moreover, you can move to a beach town in Udupi to experience coastal delicacies like Bangude Tawa fry, fish fry, prawns, crabs, etc.

Also, read; Best Places To Visit In Udupi.

Kudlu Falls resides deep inside the jungles of the Western Ghats, near the Hebri town of Udupi. Water plunges through 2 gigantic mountains that have rough terrains and patches of green vegetation, from a height of about 150 ft. Not to mention, about a big pool of 5 ft depth formed at the bottom of the falls, where you can swim and laze around playing. Local people here consider water to be holy as it was inhabited by many sages in the past. So, never miss an opportunity to take a dip in the holy waters of Kudlu Falls. This waterfall is formed by the river Sita and hence it is also “Sita Falls”

You need to trek for 3 to 4 km to reach the foot of the falls. Begin your trek from the parking lot at the base. Trekking trail leads you through a small stream, followed by concrete well-laid steps inside the forest with tall lofty trees. Sound of water cascading down the hill can be heard from a distance. Finally, you need to jump across a few slippery rocky boulders to reach the Kudlu falls. The best thing about the place is its calm and serene surroundings with hardly any crowd.

If you stroll further near the waterfall, you can spot another falls called “Manga Theertha” on top of the hill. However, due to the high-risk involved in hiking to this falls, no human hikes this little beauty. Mostly you can spot Monkeys hiking this fall, hence it is called” Manga” which means monkey in the Kannada Language.

You will hardly find any eateries around the corner, so make sure to carry packed food along with you.

How To Reach Kudlu Waterfalls

You can take a private or Government bus from Udupi\’s main bus stand to reach Hebri town, which is 42 Km away. From Hebri you can hire a taxi which will drop at the base of Kudlu Theertha Falls. Followed by a short trek of 3 km will take you to the bottom of.falls.Else head to this falls in your own vehicles, which is perfect as you can also visit Agumbe, which is a few miles away.

Kudlu Falls Trek Information

Entry Fee: Rs 50/ person

Timings: 9 Am To 3 Pm

Trek Distance: 3 to 4 Km (approximate)

Difficulty Level: Easy.

Best Time To Visit: September To March.

Trek duration: 30 mins.

Also, read: Maidadi Viewpoint

Udupi district which sits on the Southwest region of Karnataka is sandwiched between the Arabian sea on one side and western ghat on another side. This place is known for its religious centers that attract thousands of devotees from all over the world every year. Besides this, there are beaches to relax, untouched Islands, backwaters, waterfalls, picture-perfect landscapes, huge mountains to trek, ancient architectures, etc. In other words, Udupi is a small wonder which has something for all kinds of travelers. Here are the details of the places you can visit and things you can do in Udupi.

Best Places To Visit In Udupi

Maravanthe Beach

\"Maravanthe

Maravanthe is a small coastal town that houses the long stretch of Virgin beaches on the western coast of Karnataka. It is known for its pristine sandy beaches, blueish waters, serene swaying rivers, palm trees, endless seashores, and Kodachadri hills crowning the scenery. Maravanthe Beach runs parallel to National Highway 17 at 100 meters and the Souparnika river makes it a hot spot among travelers. Especially, among the bikers who get to view the beauty of the Arabian sea on one side and river on the other side while riding.

The waves are mild and gentle, hence don’t forget to take your beachwear to take a dip in the water. Moreover,  this is the best place to laze around doing nothing and watch sunsets that are absolutely magnificent. In peak monsoon seasons you can even witness the beauty waves crashing the road with a thud sound. If you are an adventure freak then scuba diving and snorkeling gotta be at the top of your to-do list in Maravanthe. With greenish waters, palm trees lined up on shores, lotus flowers, and tiny scenic islands, boat rides in the backwaters are sure to give a memorable experience.

Know More about Maravanthe Beach.

Kodi Bengre Beach Is One Of The Best Places To Visit In Udupi

\"Kodi

Sun, sand, seafood, and surfing is on your menu then head to Kodi Bengre Beach on the Konkan coastline. A lesser-known beach that sits on the laidback fishing Village Kodi Bengre, Udupi, Karnataka. Tucked away pristine beaches, Calm backwaters, and lots of greenery with dense mangrove trees is the highlight of the place. Outside of this, there is Sangam point, where the river Suvarna merges with the relentless Arabian sea.

Kodi Bengre distances itself away from the rest of the world, making it a hotspot among solo Travellers and Photographers. Also known as the Delta beach, this place is just 9 km from Udupi town and 70 km from Mangalore. Apart from this, you can go surfing, visit fisherman villages nearby, and go for a boat ride in backwaters. Don\’t missout on freshly brewed super cold coconut palm toddy and fish fry.

Know More about Kodi Bengre Beach.

Kaup Beach

\"Kaup

 

Tucked away from the masses, Kaup is a long sandy beach with blueish water, rough waves, and palm trees everywhere. Located just 15 km from Udupi on Udupi-Mangalore highway, this place is bound to make any person skip a beat with its beauty. However, it is advisable not to take a swim as the waves might turn wild at any moment.

As you stroll through the beach you will come across a small fort built by Tippu Sultan, Jain Basadis which are in ruins,  Mariamman temples, and a lighthouse that adds to the beauty. Another great thing about the beach is a century-old lighthouse perched on a huge rocky base. Standing tall at 27.12 m, this lighthouse was built in 1901 to guide the sailors and warn them about the rocks. By the way, this lighthouse is still in operation.

Not to mention, the dramatic view of the lighthouse with the sunset as the background is truly magnificent.

Know More about Kapu Beach Udupi.

St Mary’s Islands

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St Mary’s islands are a group of islands that rests just a few miles off the coast of Malpe, Udupi. These islands are also known as coconut islands due to tall coconut trees that beautify one of the isles. North Island, South Island, Coconut Island, and Darya Bahadurgarh island together make the stunning St Mary’s islands. As you walk into the islands bluish saline water, white sands, seashells, tall green coconut tree, and basaltic rocks seems to be taking you into a different world altogether.

Besides all this, what makes this a top-notch destination is the distinctive geological formation of basaltic Columnar rocks that are hexagonal in shape. Scientifically, basalts here are formed due to subvolcanic activity that took place millions of years ago. Similar kinds of rock formation traces can also be seen in the Madagascar region of Africa. Hence, it is believed that Madagascar was attached to India before the rift separated them millions of years ago, due to subvolcanic activity.

In fact, this unique rock formation is what made this place a geological monument of Karnataka and India.

Know More about St. Mary\’s Island.

On the whole, Udupi is one of the most beautiful and scenic places that you can\’t afford to miss. So, what are you waiting for, just pack your bags and leave right away? If you have any queries, please leave them in the comment section below, we will be happy to reply to comment.