Family-Friendly Itinerary: Udupi, Karkala, and Mangalore
Tuesday, September 26, 2023: Arrival in Udupi
Start your trip in Udupi by exploring the famous Sri Krishna Temple in the morning. The temple is known for its beautiful architecture and rich cultural heritage. Afterward, head to Malpe Beach for some family-friendly fun in the sun. Enjoy a leisurely afternoon by the beach, indulging in water activities and relishing local cuisine. In the evening, take a stroll through the bustling markets of Udupi and savor delicious street food.
Sri Krishna Temple: Free entry, 1-2 hours
Malpe Beach: Free entry, 3-4 hours
Exploring Udupi Markets: Varies on personal expenses, 1-2 hours
Restaurants
A popular breakfast spot in Udupi is the Woodlands Restaurant, known for its delicious South Indian breakfast dishes such as idli, vada, and dosa. A meal here costs around ₹150 per person.
For lunch, head to Diana Restaurant in Karkala, which offers a wide range of vegetarian dishes, including local specialties like Goli Baje and Neer Dosa. The average cost for a meal at Diana Restaurant is about ₹250 per person.
In Mangalore, enjoy a memorable dinner at Gajalee Seafood Restaurant. This popular eatery serves delectable coastal seafood dishes like fish curry, tandoori prawns, and crab masala. A meal at Gajalee Seafood Restaurant costs approximately ₹500 per person.
Wednesday, September 27, 2023: Exploring Udupi
Start your day by visiting the quaint St. Mary's Island, a short boat ride away from Udupi. Marvel at the unique rock formations and enjoy a picnic on the pristine beaches. After returning to Udupi, have a traditional lunch at one of the local vegetarian restaurants. In the afternoon, visit Kapu Beach to witness a mesmerizing sunset. In the evening, take a serene walk around the Paryaya Mutt Lake, surrounded by lush greenery.
St. Mary's Island: Boat ride cost (around INR 300 per person), 3-4 hours
Vegetarian Lunch: Varies on personal expenses, 1-2 hours
Kapu Beach: Free entry, 2-3 hours
Paryaya Mutt Lake: Free entry, 1-2 hours
Restaurants
Hanuman Thindi Mane is a popular breakfast spot in Udupi, known for its delicious south Indian breakfast dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 100 INR per person.
Woodlands Restaurant is a famous vegetarian restaurant in Udupi, offering a wide range of traditional lunch options. Average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
Hotel Shrinivas is a well-known dinner spot in Udupi, serving tasty Indian and Chinese dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
Thursday, September 28, 2023: Karkala Exploration
Embark on a day trip to Karkala and visit the famous Bahubali Statue in the morning. This colossal monolithic statue is one of the largest in the world and offers a mesmerizing view of the surrounding landscape. Afterward, explore the enchanting Chaturmukha Basadi, a Jain temple known for its intricate carvings and architectural brilliance. Enjoy a delicious lunch at a local restaurant, followed by a visit to the Karkala Fort. End your day by admiring the beauty of the Anekere Lake.
Bahubali Statue: Free entry, 2-3 hours
Chaturmukha Basadi: Free entry, 1-2 hours
Lunch: Varies on personal expenses, 1-2 hours
Karkala Fort: Free entry, 1-2 hours
Anekere Lake: Free entry, 1-2 hours
Friday, September 29, 2023: Mangalore Delight
Start your day in Mangalore by visiting the Kudroli Gokarnath Temple, a beautiful Hindu temple known for its intricate architecture. Afterward, indulge in a delicious breakfast of Mangalorean specialties at a local eatery. In the afternoon, explore the vibrant markets of Mangalore and shop for souvenirs. Don't miss a visit to the Sultan Battery, an ancient watchtower offering panoramic views of the city and Arabian Sea. End your day with a serene sunset walk along the serene Panambur Beach.
Kudroli Gokarnath Temple: Free entry, 1-2 hours
Mangalorean Breakfast: Varies on personal expenses, 1-2 hours
Exploring Mangalore Markets: Varies on personal expenses, 2-3 hours
Sultan Battery: Free entry, 1-2 hours
Panambur Beach: Free entry, 2-3 hours
Restaurants
Mangalore's Best Breakfast: Head to the iconic Taj Mahal Cafe for a delicious South Indian breakfast. This popular eatery is known for its fluffy idlis, crispy dosas, and aromatic filter coffee. Average cost for a meal is about ₹150 per person.
Lunch with a View: Enjoy a leisurely lunch at Goldfinch Mangalore, a rooftop restaurant offering stunning views of the city skyline. Indulge in a wide range of North Indian and coastal delicacies, including succulent seafood dishes. Average cost for a meal is about ₹300 per person.
Dinner by the Sea: Treat yourself to a memorable dinner at Gajalee Seafood Restaurant. Located by the beach, this restaurant specializes in fresh seafood prepared in traditional Mangalorean and coastal flavors. Average cost for a meal is about ₹500 per person.
Saturday, September 30, 2023: Departure from Udupi
Spend your last morning in Udupi by visiting Kaup Beach, known for its picturesque lighthouse and breathtaking views. Enjoy a leisurely walk along the sandy shores and soak in the tranquil atmosphere. Afterward, have a delicious coastal lunch at a local seafood restaurant. In the afternoon, visit the renowned Manipal Museum of Anatomy and Pathology to learn about the human body and medical advancements. Bid farewell to Udupi and head back home with incredible memories.
Kaup Beach: Free entry, 2-3 hours
Seafood Lunch: Varies on personal expenses, 1-2 hours
Manipal Museum of Anatomy and Pathology: Free entry, 1-2 hours
Restaurants
Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Cafe Coffee Day in Udupi. This popular chain café offers a variety of breakfast options, such as sandwiches, croissants, and freshly brewed coffee. Average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
For a delicious lunch, head to the Sea Lounge at Kaup Beach. With its stunning ocean views, this seafood restaurant serves a wide selection of coastal delicacies including fish fry, prawn curry, and Malabar biryani. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
Indulge in a memorable dinner at Wild Woods Restaurant and Bar in Manipal. This rustic-themed restaurant offers a diverse menu featuring Indian and international cuisines. Enjoy dishes like tandoori platters, wood-fired pizzas, and sizzling brownie sundaes. Average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
For a unique and off the beaten path experience, consider visiting the serene Kodi Beach, located near Udupi. It's a less crowded and pristine beach where you can relax and enjoy the tranquility. Another local favorite is the Maravanthe Beach, with its breathtaking views of the Arabian Sea on one side and the Suparnika River on the other. These hidden gems offer a peaceful retreat amidst nature and are perfect for a family outing.
Check hotel and flight prices for Udupi, Karkala, and Mangalore here.