Nestled in the state of Karnataka, Udupi is a vibrant and diverse city that offers something for everyone. Often referred to as the "temple town of Karnataka," Udupi is home to several famous temples, including the Krishna Matta founded by the 13th century saint Jagadguru Shri Madhvacharya. But beyond the religious pilgrimages, Udupi also boasts beautiful beaches that are perfect for a peaceful getaway, including the popular Malpe Beach, as well as a number of lesser-known beaches that are perfect for a peaceful day by the sea.
One of these lesser-known beaches is Mattu Beach, which is located about 10-11 km from Udupi. To get there, you can take a bus from the Udupi bus stand to Katapadi, and then either wait for a bus to Mattu or take an auto rickshaw. You'll be treated to a scenic drive alongside a river that flows into the sea, and once you arrive at the beach, you'll find a peaceful, serene spot that is usually empty during the week but attracts local visitors on the weekends. There are also a few home stays, cafes, and local shops nearby.
Padukere Beach is another great spot, located about 8-9 km from Mattu Beach. The drive to Padukere Beach is a scenic one, with a river on one side and the seashore on the other. The beach is a bit more crowded on holidays and weekends, but it's still a great place to relax. You can walk towards the north end of the beach and find a peaceful spot on the rocky boulders and it is the perfect spot for a leisurely walk along the rocky boulder line.
Padukere Beach |
Kodibengre is a little further out, For a truly unique beach experience, make your way to Kodibengre, a series of beaches located along a narrow countryside road.To get there, take a deviation from the Udupi-Kundapur highway at Santhekatte, and then continue on to Hoode. Along the way, you'll pass through a number of charming villages, including Delta Beach or Delta Point. The narrow countryside road will take you past exotic beach houses, fishermen, boat houses, and cafes. As you continue on your journey, you'll eventually reach the estuary of the Swarna and Sita rivers, where the KodiBengre Beach begins.
Cafe at Delta Point |
In addition to the lesser-known beaches of Mattu and Padukere, there is also the popular Kapu Beach. This tourist spot is filled with beach activities, shops, and eateries, and the main attraction is the Lighthouse tower, which can get crowded on holidays and weekends.
Lighthouse, Kapu |
View from lighthouse |
If you want to explore all three beaches, you can take narrow internal connecting roads and drive along the beachside. You'll get to witness the beautiful, simple lives and culture of the local people who have been living there for generations. You can start your drive from Kapu and head towards Malpe, then continue on to Hoode through narrow countryside roads. Along the way, you'll pass through Mattu and Padukere beaches, and from Malpe, if you drive further north towards Hoode, you'll reach the Delta point of KodiBengre.
If you're driving through these beaches, make sure to stop and see the whale skull on the beachside between Mattu and Padukere.
Whale skull |
The best time to visit Udupi's beaches is during the cooler months from November to February. However, even during the pre-monsoon season, the town has a unique atmosphere with dark clouds and drizzle providing a relaxing escape from the hot summer weather.
No matter the time of year, the serene shores of Udupi's beaches are the perfect place to let go of all your troubles and just relax. No matter where you go in Udupi, you're sure to find something that speaks to you and your sense of journey.
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