Begin your journey from Mangalore to Gokarna, a beautiful coastal town known for its serene beaches and ancient temples. Visit the Om Beach and indulge in water sports like banana boat rides, snorkelling and jet-skiing. Trek to the Paradise Beach, one of the secluded beaches in Gokarna, accessible only by foot through picturesque forests and rocky terrain. Catch the sunset at the Kudle Beach and relish some delicious seafood at beach-side shacks.
Start your day early and visit the Mahabaleshwara Temple in Gokarna, known for its unique Dravidian architecture and intricate carvings. Then head to the Baindur Beach, known for its pristine white sand and clear blue waters. Take a dip and enjoy some relaxing moments. Proceed to Kaup Beach and climb up to the lighthouse for a panoramic view of the Arabian Sea. Arrive in Udupi in the evening and witness the Udupi Sri Krishna Temple, known for its spiritual significance to the devotees of Lord Krishna.
Make a trip to the St. Mary's Island early morning from Malpe Beach. Enjoy the pristine beaches, columnar basaltic lava rock formations and spot dolphins during the ferry ride. Then head to Murdeshwar Temple, a magnificent temple in the backdrop of the Arabian Sea with the second tallest Shiva statue in the world. Relax at the Murdeshwar Beach and grab a bite at the beach-side restaurants before heading back.
If you have more time, consider visiting the Kotikulam Sri Gopalkrishna Temple in Udupi, the Guddekal Ganapathi Temple in Kundapur or the Anshi National Park in Karnataka. If you want to reduce your travel time, skip Baindur Beach and head straight to Kaup Beach. Make sure to pack light, comfortable clothes and carry sunscreen as most of the activities involve outdoor activities and beaches. Also, consider hiring a taxi or renting a car for hassle-free travel.