Explore Secluded Destinations in South India with This Coastal Karnataka Itinerary!

India has diverse landscapes and physiography, and every avid traveller should make the most out of it! May it be the grand Himalayas or the breathtaking islands, in this article, we bring forth to all our travel enthusiasts, the perfect Coastal Karnataka Itinerary! Drive through the serene coastline of India as you soak in the sweeping views of the sunset and the palm groves! Indulge in authentic south indian cuisine and embark on adventures like jet skiing, parasailing and more. If you wish to experience wanderlust, this Coastal Karnataka Itinerary will leave you in awe! Let's dive in, shall we? 

Day 1

Morning

Begin your journey in Mangalore as you enjoy a traditional South Indian breakfast at a local eatery. After breakfast, visit the historic Kadri Manjunath Temple, renowned for its peaceful atmosphere and beautiful architecture. From there, head to the St. Aloysius Chapel, famous for its colourful wall paintings and stunning ceilings. This tranquil start provides a glimpse of the city's spiritual and artistic side and will help you make the most out of your coastal Karnataka itinerary. 

Afternoon

Spend a laid-back afternoon as you travel to Pilikula Nisargadhama, which is just a short drive from the city. This eco-tourism park features a zoo, a lake, a botanical garden, and even a science centre. It's a great place to walk around, observe wildlife, and enjoy the lush greenery. This place is the ideal spot for those who love nature and want a break from their regular city life. For lunch, try some local favourites like fish curry or a Manglorean Gassi with rice or chicken ghee roast at a nearby restaurant.

Evenings

If you want to watch a mesmerising sunset, head to Tannirbhavi Beach, known for its clean sands and calm waves. It’s perfect for watching the sunset or simply relaxing by the sea. You can enjoy a peaceful evening walk here before heading to dinner at a popular seafood restaurant in the city. The fresh catch of the day, cooked with authentic  Mangalorean spices, is something you shouldn't miss. Karnataka is known for its scenic coastline and clean beaches. The azure shores are what make this coastal itinerary a super hit. The state is also home to a few Blue Flag Beaches, which are the world's cleanest and safest beaches. If you have the time, do try visiting these beaches for an unforgettable experience. 

Day 2

Morning

Begin your morning early and drive to Udupi, which is about one and a half to two hours from Mangalore. Once there, visit the famous Sri Krishna Temple, where you can view the unique idol of Lord Krishna through a window called Kanakana Kindi. After soaking in the spiritual atmosphere, stroll through the temple streets, where you’ll find small shops selling snacks, sweets, and souvenirs. For breakfast, enjoy a traditional Udupi-style masala dosa and filter kaapi, either at the temple bhojanalaya or a nearby hotel.

Afternoon

In the afternoon, make your way to Malpe Beach, just 20 minutes from Udupi. From there, you can take a short boat ride to St. Mary’s Island, known for its rare hexagonal rock formations and clear blue waters. Truly, an underrated spot, it does not attract a lot of tourists, thus it's the perfect place to soak in the coastal beauty of Karnataka. It’s an excellent spot for photos and simply relaxing by the sea. Since there aren’t many food stalls on the island, it’s wise to carry some light snacks or sandwiches with you, along with enough water. If you are visiting these locations at noon, carry sunglasses, scarves and hats to protect yourself from the sun. 

Evening

Return to Malpe Beach in the evening and spend some time by the shore.  This beach boasts a variety of water sports. You can try activities like jet skiing or parasailing if you're up for it. The sunset here is beautiful, and the cool breeze makes it even more enjoyable. For dinner, sit at one of the beachside shacks or restaurants that serve fresh seafood and local dishes, making it a perfect end to a fun and breezy day.

Day 3

Morning

Start your morning with a drive to Kundapura, which is around one and a half to two hours from Udupi. Once you arrive, stop for a light breakfast at a small local restaurant, and then head straight to Kodi Beach. This beach is special because it’s where the backwaters meet the sea, creating a peaceful and beautiful view. It’s less crowded, secluded and away from the hustle bustle, giving you time to enjoy nature in a quiet setting.

Afternoon

In the afternoon, drive towards Maravanthe Beach, about 45 minutes from Kundapura. On the way, you’ll pass one of India’s most scenic roads, where the sea is on one side and the river on the other. It’s a view you won’t forget and will be etched in your memory forever. Once at Maravanthe, enjoy a simple coastal lunch—this region is known for its spicy Kundapura chicken and fresh fish dishes.

Evening

As the evening sets in, relax by the wide-open beach or take a short detour to the Souparnika River, where you can enjoy a leisurely boat ride surrounded by coconut trees and calm waters. Watch the sun dip into the Arabian Sea and enjoy the peaceful ambience. After sunset, you can return to Udupi or Mangalore to conclude your trip or prepare for your journey back home, or if you wish to explore more of this coastal paradise, then, you can extend your trip and visit these top attractions. 

Top Attractions to Explore

1. Murudeshwar Temple and Beach (near Bhatkal)

Murudeshwar is a must-visit for both spiritual and scenic reasons. The main highlight here is the giant statue of Lord Shiva, which stands tall at 123 feet and looks out over the Arabian Sea. It's truly breathtaking and can be seen from a distance as you approach the town. The Murudeshwar Temple is built on a hill right next to the sea, and you can take a lift to the top of the temple tower for an amazing view of the coast. The beach is wide, clean, and perfect for a stroll or just sitting on the sand while listening to the waves. It’s a great spot for both devotees and travellers who love peaceful sea views.

2. Anegudde Vinayaka Temple (near Kundapura)

Located in the quiet village of Kumbashi, Anegudde is one of the most respected temples in Coastal Karnataka. It is dedicated to Lord Ganesha and is believed to bring good luck, especially for those starting something new, like a business or a journey. The temple is surrounded by greenery and has a calm, welcoming vibe. The idol of Ganesha is unique, and during festivals, the temple is filled with devotees from all over the region. Even if you’re not religious, the peaceful surroundings and warm local atmosphere make it a lovely place to visit.

3. Kapu Beach and Lighthouse (near Udupi)

If you’re looking for a beach that’s quieter than the popular ones, Kapu Beach is a great choice. What makes this beach special is the old lighthouse standing on a group of rocks right by the sea. You can climb to the top of the lighthouse (when it’s open) and enjoy a panoramic view of the ocean, the waves crashing against the rocks, and the palm-lined coastline. The beach itself is clean and natural, with fewer shops and tourists, which adds to its charm. It’s a perfect place for a relaxed evening or a photo session. Check the timings on Google before you visit the lighthouse. 

4. Someshwara Beach and Rocks (near Ullal, Mangalore)

Just a little outside Mangalore, Someshwara Beach is known for its giant rocks scattered along the shore, locally called "Rudra Shile". The sea waves crash beautifully against these rocks, making it a peaceful and scenic spot to unwind. There’s also an old Someshwara Temple right by the beach, giving the place a spiritual touch. This beach is less commercial, so it’s ideal if you’re looking to enjoy the natural beauty of the coast without the noise and crowds. It’s also a great sunset point.

Things to do in Karnataka

1. Enjoy a Backwater Boat Ride in Kundapura or Udupi 

While Kerala is famous for backwaters, Coastal Karnataka has its hidden gems. You can enjoy a quiet boat ride through the backwaters around places like Kundapura or the Kollur region. The calm water, surrounded by coconut trees, mangroves, and birds, makes it a peaceful and scenic experience. It’s a great way to enjoy nature at a slow, relaxing pace and see village life from the water.

2. Explore Traditional Coastal Homes

If you’re interested in local culture, spend a few hours visiting a traditional Tulunadu or Konkani home. Some homestays and local hosts offer cooking experiences where you can learn to make coastal dishes like neer dosa, fish curry, or kori rotti. You also get to understand the ingredients, spices, and family traditions that go into Mangalorean cooking. It's a warm, hands-on activity that connects you with the culture and food in a fun way.

3. Visit a Yakshagana Performance or Folk Art Show

Coastal Karnataka is known for Yakshagana, a traditional dance-drama that combines music, storytelling, and elaborate costumes. If you’re visiting during the right season (usually winter or early summer), you might catch a live night performance in a village or temple setting. It’s a unique experience, very different from regular stage shows, and it helps you see how deeply art is connected to local life here. If a live show isn’t happening, you can even visit a local theatre group or art centre that showcases the costumes and instruments used.

Best Places to Stay

The Postcard on the Arabian Sea

If you don’t mind splurging a bit on your stay, this hotel is the perfect place to stay in Karnataka. Situated right on the beach, guests can explore the best of Karnataka right from their hotel. The Postcard on the Arabian Sea in Udupi offers a private beach area and direct beachfront access. Guests can relax by the outdoor swimming pool or enjoy the serene garden. The hotel serves Indian, local, international,  and seafood cuisines. People who prefer vegan food can try the exclusive vegan menu. The room starts, Rs. 26,000 and upwards. 

Swarna River front cottage (Airbnb)

The Swarna River front cottage is the perfect place to unwind. Located away from the crowd of the main city, this riverfront cottage is where guests can relax and soak in the serene vibes. This Airbnb can accommodate up to 3 people and more depending on the space. It offers various amenities like air conditioning, private lake access, a personal garden, and a kayak. For more such details, check out the Swarna Riverfront cottage on Airbnb. 
Rs. 23,965 for five nights. 

Whitehouse Villa 

Whitehouse Villa is one of the most beautiful places to stay for your coastal Karnataka itinerary. Whitehouse Villa in Manipal offers a homestay experience with free WiFi throughout the property. Guests can relax on the terrace or balcony, enjoying mountain views. Many guests here have had a wonderful stay, and it is the perfect spot to stay during your Karnataka vacation! Guests can stay here from Rs. 2,000 and upwards. 

Things to Buy in Karnataka

Mysuru Pak

If you don’t try Mysuru Pak in Karnataka, your trip will be incomplete! Made from sugar syrup, gram flour, and a generous amount of ghee, Mysuru Pak originated by mere accident in the royal palace of Mysuru. This famous sweet from Mysuru is available in almost all the sweet shops in the city and is one of those desserts that is truly a treat for the taste buds. The best place to purchase Mysuru Pak is the local shops. 

Mysore Silk Saree

Imagine coming to Mysore or Karnataka and not purchasing the iconic Mysuru Silk Saree will be a lost chance! The weave of the saree itself is a tedious process that requires utmost patience and precision. Weaved from Mulberry Silk, the soft, light and airy fabric is what makes it a beautiful saree. The price depends from shop to shop. However, the average price of a Mysore Silk Saree will be Rs. 10,000.

Coffee

The southern states of India are renowned for their coffee production. As a hub for coffee, Karnataka is the ideal place to buy fresh, locally grown coffee. Whether it's the perfectly roasted Arabica or the strong aroma of the Robusta, every coffee lover must try the coffee here! If you’re wondering where you can purchase coffee, then check out the local shops for some local input. Visitors can also buy the authentic filter kaapi, which is the soul of South Indian coffee.