Malpe

St. Mary's Island near Malpe beach

Quick Overview

Best Time to Visit: October to February
Weather: Pleasant winters, warm summers
Budget: ₹1,500–₹6,000/day

Plan Your Trip

Getting There

  • Nearest Airport: Mangaluru International Airport (~60 km away)
  • Nearest Railway Station: Udupi Railway Station (9 km away)
  • By Road: Situated at the mouth of Udupi River; connected via SH‑65/NH‑169A. Regular buses, cabs, and auto‑rickshaws available

Where to Stay?

  • Beachfront: Paradise Isle Beach Resort — ocean‑view rooms, pool, spa
  • Budget homestays/cottages: Chillies Home Stay, HisGrace Cottages — cozy and close to the beach
  • In Udupi/Manipal: More choices with cafés and city comforts

Packing List

  • Light cotton clothing
  • Swimwear & quick-dry towel
  • Sunscreen, sunglasses, and hat
  • Comfortable walking shoes or sandals
  • Reusable water bottle
  • Raincoat or umbrella

Top Places to Visit & Things to Do

  • Malpe Beach
    Relax on soft white sands fringed by palm trees. Spot fishermen and enjoy beachside snacks.
  • Sea Walk Malpe
    Stroll on a rock-built walkway near the harbor for panoramic views and great photo ops.
  • St Mary’s Islands
    A short ferry ride takes you to four volcanic basalt islands—famous for hexagonal columns, part of India’s National Geological Monuments.
  • Vadabhandeshwara Balarama Temple
    A serene temple near the beach dedicated to Lord Balarama, with cultural and spiritual significance.
  • Fishing Harbour & Port
    See the bustling hub of the Mogaveera fishing community. Boats, auctions, and fresh catch in action.
  • Kadike & Padukere Beaches
    Lesser-known golden-sand beaches north and south of Malpe—peaceful escapes off the beaten path.

Must-Try Experiences

  • Water Sports
    Try parasailing, jet skiing, banana‑boat rides — perfect for adventure lovers.
  • Boat Ride to St Mary’s
    Enjoy a calm ferry ride through gentle waves to explore island beauty.
  • Sea-walk Sunset
    Catch sunset hues along the sea walk — ideal for evening relaxation and photography.
  • Local Seafood Sampling
    Fresh catch at beach shacks: prawns, grilled fish, crab—sweet, spicy coastal flavours await.
  • Yakshagana Performances
    Watch traditional Tulu dance-drama at the beach amphitheatre when available.

Local Cuisine

  • Breakfast: Plain dosa, neer dosa, idli
  • Lunch: Fish curry rice, kori rotti (chicken-onion flatbread), sannas (steamed rice cakes)
  • Snacks: Mangalorean chaat, corn on the cob, sweet & spicy coastal treats

Culture & Local Life

Malpe is a vibrant coastal village celebrated for its Mogaveera fishing community. Tulu, Kannada, and Konkani are commonly spoken. It’s a lively mix of traditional life and growing tourism, with boats docking at sunrise and fish markets buzzing.

Local Insights

  • Getting Around: Auto‑rickshaws, cabs, rental scooters; many places walkable from the beach
  • Safety Tips: Lifeguards patrol the shore; swim near the harbor in safe zones
  • Weather Note: Monsoon (June–Sep) brings rough seas—many services close and ferry to islands stops

Enjoy Your Yatra!

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