Low Budget City Experiences in Udupi - 4-Day Itinerary

Friday, November 17, 2023: Arrival and Local Exploration

Morning: Start your trip by arriving in Udupi from Bangalore. Check-in to a budget-friendly hotel and freshen up. Afterward, head to the famous Sri Krishna Temple, known for its beautiful architecture and religious significance. Spend some time exploring its intricately carved halls and observing the temple rituals.

Afternoon: Indulge in a traditional vegetarian lunch at one of the local Udipi restaurants, known for their delectable South Indian cuisine. Don't miss trying the Udupi-style masala dosa, idli, and filter coffee.

Evening: Visit Malpe Beach, located just a few kilometers away from Udupi. Enjoy a relaxing walk along the sandy shores, take a dip in the Arabian Sea, or admire the magnificent sunset. End the day with a visit to the night market at Malpe, where you can shop for local handicrafts, clothes, and more.

• Sri Krishna Temple: Free, 1-2 hours
• Udipi Restaurant: INR 200-300 per person, 1-2 hours
• Malpe Beach: Free, 2-3 hours
• Night Market at Malpe: Varies, 1-2 hours

Restaurants

• Start your day at the popular Café City, located near Malpe Beach. Indulge in their delicious breakfast menu, featuring a variety of freshly baked pastries, savory omelettes, and aromatic coffee. Average cost for a meal is about ₹200 per person.
• For a satisfying lunch, head to Fisherman's Wharf, a seafood restaurant known for its mouthwatering coastal cuisine. Feast on their signature dishes like fish curry, prawn masala, and grilled squid. Average cost for a meal is about ₹500 per person.
• End your day with a memorable dinner at Diana Restaurant, a cozy eatery offering a range of local and international dishes. From traditional Indian curries to Chinese stir-fries, their diverse menu has something for everyone. Average cost for a meal is about ₹300 per person.

Saturday, November 18, 2023: Historical Exploration

Morning: Start your day with a visit to St. Mary's Island, famous for its unique hexagonal basalt rock formations. Take a boat ride from Malpe Harbor and explore the pristine beaches and geological marvels on the island.

Afternoon: Head back to Udupi and visit the Udupi Museum, which displays a rich collection of historical artifacts and relics, providing insights into the rich cultural heritage of the region.

Evening: Explore the quaint streets of Udupi and visit Chandu Ananta Pai Memorial, a historical house that showcases the traditional way of life in the region. If time permits, catch a mesmerizing sunset from one of the nearby viewpoints.

• St. Mary's Island: Boat ride - INR 200-300 per person, 4-5 hours
• Udupi Museum: INR 50 per person, 1-2 hours
• Chandu Ananta Pai Memorial: Free, 1-2 hours

Restaurants

• Start your day with a delicious South Indian breakfast at Hotel Udupi Residency. Enjoy their famous idlis and Masala dosas. Average cost for a meal is about ₹150 per person.
• For a satisfying lunch, head to Diana Restaurant. Indulge in their authentic coastal cuisine, including Mangalorean fish curry and Neer dosa. Average cost for a meal is about ₹300 per person.
• End your day with a delightful dinner at Hotel Palmgrove. Try their mouth-watering seafood specialties, such as tawa fry prawns and fish pulimunchi. Average cost for a meal is about ₹500 per person.

Sunday, November 19, 2023: Nature and Spirituality

Morning: Embark on a scenic journey to the tranquil Kodi Beach, situated around 25 kilometers from Udupi. Enjoy the serene ambiance, take peaceful walks along the shore, and soak in the natural beauty.

Afternoon: Visit the famous Anegudde Vinayaka Temple, dedicated to Lord Ganesha and believed to be one of the seven sacred murtis of the region. Spend some time in prayer and witness the religious rituals.

Evening: Explore the Pajaka Kshetra, the birthplace of Madhwacharya, the founder of the Dvaita school of Vedanta philosophy. Visit the Madhwacharya Birthplace Shrine and gain insights into the spiritual significance of the place.

• Kodi Beach: Free, 3-4 hours
• Anegudde Vinayaka Temple: Free, 1-2 hours
• Pajaka Kshetra: Free, 1-2 hours

Restaurants

• A charming local café, Rosie's Breakfast Nook, offers a delicious spread of eggs, pancakes, and freshly brewed coffee to kickstart your day. Average cost for a breakfast here is about $10 per person.
• For a quick and satisfying lunch, visit Pasta Paradise, where you can indulge in a variety of homemade pasta dishes served with a side of fresh salad. Average cost for a lunch here is about $15 per person.
• For an exquisite dinner experience, treat yourself to a delectable meal at The Gastronomy House, known for its innovative fusion cuisine and elegant atmosphere. Average cost for a dinner here is about $50 per person.

Monday, November 20, 2023: Culinary Delights and Departure

Morning: Explore the local markets of Udupi, such as the City Market and Diana Circle Market, known for their fresh produce, spices, and local delicacies. Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere and enjoy some street food.

Afternoon: Experience the authentic flavors of Udupi by participating in a cooking class. Learn to prepare traditional dishes like sambar, rasam, and various chutneys from expert chefs.

Evening: End your trip with a visit to the Manipal Lake Garden, a picturesque park that offers beautiful views of the surrounding landscapes. Enjoy a peaceful stroll, capture some memorable photos, and reflect on your Udupi adventures.

• City Market and Diana Circle Market: Varies, 2-3 hours
• Cooking Class: Starts from INR 500 per person, 2-3 hours
• Manipal Lake Garden: Free, 1-2 hours

Restaurants

• A perfect spot for breakfast is Cafe Nisarga, known for its delicious South Indian dishes like idli, vada, and dosa. Average cost for a meal is about 100 INR per person.
• For lunch, head to Hotel Woodlands, a local favorite that serves a variety of vegetarian thalis and North Indian delicacies. Average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
• Indulge in a delightful dinner experience at Gudia's Seafood Restaurant, where you can feast on fresh seafood dishes prepared with local flavors. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For off the beaten path experiences, explore the quaint village of Kaup, situated near Udupi. Visit the iconic Kaup Lighthouse, offering panoramic views of the coastline. Take a boat ride in the serene Kapu River and enjoy birdwatching in the mangrove forests. Another hidden gem is Kadiyali Mahishamardini Temple, known for its ancient stone carvings and serene surroundings.

For a truly local experience, don't miss the opportunity to indulge in Udupi's famous vegetarian cuisine. Visit small food stalls and local messes that offer authentic Udupi dishes like masala dosa, idli, vada, and the mouthwatering Udupi thali, which includes a variety of delicious preparations. Interact with the friendly locals and learn about the cultural significance of these culinary delights.

Udupi is a city brimming with unique experiences, rich history, and culinary delights, catering to both budget-conscious travelers and those seeking authentic city experiences.

For budget-friendly hotel and flight options in Udupi, click here.