Udupi, also known as Odipu or Parushurama Srishti, is a coastal town in Udupi district of Karnataka. This picturesque and peaceful town is a land of rich cultural inheritance; full of great stories, temples and beaches. Surrounded by the magnificent Western Ghats and the Arabian sea, Udupi is home to the educational hub- Manipal University.
When in Udupi, tourists also enjoy a number of serene beaches, especially the Malpe beach which is also a favorite spot for photographers. Beaches like Mattu, Kadike, Polipu, and Kapu are untouched spots and are among the most beautiful beaches in the country. While Udupi itself has a lot to offer, there are many neighboring hill stations that one can travel to. Here is a list of some of the best hill stations near Udupi:
Top 10 Hill Stations Near Udupi
Are you planning a visit to Udupi? Check out the most beautiful hill stations near Udupi for the most enthralling vacation in this serene coastal town:
1. Agumbe – 55 Km From Udupi
2. Sringeri – 89 Km From Udupi
3. Murudeshwar – 102 Km From Udupi
4. Kodachadri Hills – 112 Km From Udupi
5. Horanadu Hill Stations – 128.7 Km From Udupi
6. Kumta – 147 Km From Udupi
7. Subramanya – 160 Km From Udupi
8. Gokarna – 180 Km From Udupi
9. Honnemaradu – 174 Km From Udupi
10. Chikkmagluru – 172.9 Km From Udupi
1. Agumbe
Famously known as the Cherrapunji of South, Agumbe is a hill station in Shimoga district of Karnataka. It receives the highest rainfall in South India and is rich in its biodiversity. Agumbe attracts tourists for its breathtaking sunsets looking over the Arabian sea, enriching trekking trails all among the unparalleled beauty of the lowland rainforests.
The hill station is home to rare species of medicinal plants giving it the name of “Hasiru Honnu” which means green is gold. Agumbe has been a significant contributor in the protection of Biodiversity in India.
It houses the Agumbe Rainforest Research Station- India’s oldest weather station that helps monitor changes in the rainforest areas. Tourists from all over travel to Agumbe to experience nature in its purest, unabridged form.
Additional Info:
Distance from Udupi: 55 kilometers
Elevation: 643 meters
Places of interest: Sunset Point, Kunchikal Falls, Gopala Krishna Temple, River rafting in Sita Nadi River
Best time to visit: June to October
Places To Stay: Samrat Residency Agumbe, BMR Residency, S Dot Boarding & Lodging, King’s Comforts
Must Read: Water Sports In Udupi: A Guide To The Most Enthralling Experience
South Weekend Holiday Packages On TravelTriangle
2. Sringeri
Sringeri is a famous hill station situated in the Chikkamagaluru District of Karnataka. It is a pilgrimage site and has gained popularity because of the Sharada Peetham which was built by the great Adi Shankara in the 9th century. Legend says, Adi Shankaracharya stayed here for 12 years and shared his learnings with his disciples.Sringeri attracts students from different parts of India as it houses numerous temples, ancient relics and vedic learnings.
The hill station is along the banks of River Tunga and the entire place comes to life during the festival of Navaratri as rituals are performed in the presence and adoration of countless devotees. Despite it being a pilgrimage site, Srinegri also displays an abundance of nature’s magic. It is a paradise for nature lovers and photography enthusiasts
Additional Info:
Distance from Udupi: 89 kilometers
Elevation: 672 meters
Places of interest: Kigga, Srinegri Mutt, Sarada Temple, Four Guardian Temples
Best time to visit: October to March
Places To Stay: Pallavi lodge, Shreepoorna Lodge, Vamoose Panchavati, Sri Vana Durga Service Apartment, Sri Haravari -Executive Home
Suggested Read: 6 Illuminating Churches In Udupi Unveiling The Glorious Past/a>
3. Murudeshwar
Murudeshwar has risen to fame for being the home to the world’s 2nd tallest statue of Lord Shiva (123 ft). It is among the choicest of picnic spots for the folks of Kerala and Karnataka; courtesy of the glorious Arabian Sea and Western Ghats.
The Murudeshwar temple and fort are among the most visited spots that truly display historic beauty. Netrani island is also a trending tourist attraction where one can explore snorkelling and scuba diving opportunities.
Additional Info:
Distance from Udupi: 102 kilometers
Places of interest: Netrani Island, Murudeshwar Temple, Murudeshwar Beach
Best time to visit: October to May
Places To Stay: Vamoose Sea View, Hotel Palm Grove, ARYANA GUEST HOUSE, Hotel Murdeshwar International
Things To Do: Visit Temples And Forts
Suggested Read: 6 Waterfalls In Udupi You Must Visit For Reviving Your Soul
4. Kodachadri Hills
Kodachadri is a mountain peak with dense forests in the Western Ghats in Shivamogga District of Karnataka. The Karnataka Government has declared it as a natural heritage site and it is the 13th highest peak of Karnataka.
The place is a tourist attraction for its trekking trails. The trails are accompanied by the mind-blowing backdrop of the evergreen forests to a town called Maravanthe. South Kanara Forest.
Different treks are available that can be easily done by beginners. Most of the expedition is of a forest landscape, i.e. low altitudes thus chances of altitude sickness are low. The total distance covered is 14 kilometres (to and from journey).
Additional Info:
Distance from Udupi: 112 kilometers
Elevation: 1343 meters
Places of interest: Kodachadri Hill trek
Best time to visit: All times of the year
Places To Stay: Vamoose Sea View, ARYANA GUEST HOUSE, Hotel Murdeshwar International, Kotadi yashashvi stays
Suggested Read: 23 Interesting Places To Visit In Udupi On Your South India Tour
5. Horanadu Hill Stations
Horanadu hills or “The holy abode of Devi Annapoorna” is a holy town located in Malnad, Karnataka. It is has gained popularity because of the revered Annapoorneeshwari Temple. It also hold an extensive range of dry fruits, namely cashew nuts and almonds along with the natural beauty of green paddy fields and a hilly backdrop.
Legend has it that the pilgrimage site which is dedicated to Devi Annapoorna was established by Maharishi Agasthya in the 8th century. Innumerous devotees visit the site on the holy occasion of Navratri festival as it is well celebrated in the temple.
Additional Info:
Distance from Udupi: 128.7 kilometers
Elevation: 831 meters
Places of interest: Annapoorneeshwari Temple, Kalaseeshwara Temple
Best time to visit: All times of the year
Places To Stay: Basarikatte homestay, Double Room stay, Dorm Room stay, Single Room stay, Malenadu Mist
Suggested Read: 11 Udupi Temples You Can Visit For An Ecclesiastic Experience This Vacation!
6. Kumta
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Kumta is a town in the Uttara Kannada district of Karnataka. It is located on the coast of the Arabian sea and adjacent to the vast western ghats. To the north of the city, the river Aghanashini joins the Arabian Sea which makes for stunning scenery making it one of the most enticing places to visit in Karnataka.
The place offers nature at its best in the form of breathtaking beaches, beautiful black rocks, temples and boundless greenery. Kumta is the apt place for relaxing and unwinding in solitude or loved ones.
Additional Info:
Distance from Udupi: 147 kilometers
Places of interest: Mahabaleshwar Temple, Om Beach, Mirjan Fort
Best time to visit: October to March
Places To Stay: Vishraanti Beach Stay, Blue Ocean Sands, The Naavika Beach Stay, TANSHI STAY, Palm Beach Huts
Suggested Read: 5 Water Parks In Udupi That Will Give You An Electrifying Experience
7. Subramanya
Subramanya is a village located in Dakshina Kannada. The famous Kukke Subramanya Temple is located here and was originally named “Kukke Pattana”.
Kukke Subramanya is situated on the banks of the river Kumaradhara and brings a general auro of natural beauty and religious beliefs.Its unparalleled natural beauty is what makes it a popular tourist destination.
Additional Info:
Distance from Udupi: 160 kilometers
Elevation: 1712 meters
Places of interest: Sringeri Mutt, Kumara Parvatha Trek, Kukke Subramanya Temple
Best time to visit: July to March
Places To Stay: Shesha KUTEERA, Hotel Akshayadhara, HOTEL ADITHYA NEST, SLR Residency, Hotel Sheshnaag Aashraya
Suggested Read: 7 Must-Try Udupi Cafes Where You Can Satisfy Your Foodgasm!
8. Gokarna
This famous tourist location is situated on the coast of Karwar and is a small town in Karnataka. It has risen to its spot primarily for its pristine beaches, serene landscapes and temples.
Every year thousands of tourists visit Gokarna to immerse themselves in the beauty of the place and in search of sanctity and relaxation. It has the perfect blend of country vibes on the beaches and a contrasting town life on the inside.
Additional Info:
Distance from Udupi: 180 kilometers
Places of interest: Om Beach Mahabaleshwara Temple Water Sports in Gokarna
Best time to visit: All times of the year
Places To Stay: Kahani Paradise, Coconut Tree Resort, Gokarna City Stay Rooms, Namaste Sanjeevini
Things To Do: Take a Spiritual Trip, Trekking
Suggested Read: 21 Historical Places In Karnataka Every History Buff Should Visit
9. Honnemaradu
Honnemaradu, situated on the backwaters of River Sharavathi, is a small cozy village in Karnataka. The place derived its name from the Honne tree but literally means Golden Lake.
The site can be found right in the middle of a valley. It is quintessential for a weekend getaway. The village is scarcely populous, and the only adventure attraction is the water sports done at the Honnemaradu lake.
Additional Info:
Distance from Udupi: 174 kilometers
Elevation: 554 meters
Places of interest: The Honnemardu Reservoir Dabbe Falls Rafting in Honnemaradu
Best time to visit: October to December, March to April
Places To Stay: GundiMane, Hills View Stay, Mehek Home stay, SRI RANGA RESIDENCY, Jog sharadha homestay
Suggested Read: 7 Major Airports In Karnataka For A Safe & Joyful Trip In The Air
10. Chikkmagluru
Waterfalls surrounded by coffee plantations, ancient holy caves, towering mountains, and the presence of rare wild animals- these are just some of the things that attract travelers to Chikkmagalur.
The hill station is among the most famed ones in Karnataka, and for good reason. Apart from plentiful natural beauty and a thriving ecosystem, Chikkmagalur is also home to some very important Hindu temples as a result of which, it attracts a flood of devotees every day.
Additional Info:
Distance from Udupi: 172.9 kilometers
Elevation: 831 meters
Places of interest: Annapoorneeshwari Temple, Kalaseeshwara Temple
Best time to visit: All times of the year
Places To Stay: Kenshodeva Retreat, Homestay in chikmagaluru , holiday home stay, Treebo Trend Orchid Hotel
Further Read: 10 Awesome Places To Visit Near Coorg On Your Next Holiday To Karnataka
As far as natural beauty and adventure are concerned, Karnataka is the land of plenty. Udupi, and all the blissful hill stations around it are proof enough of that. If you haven’t already been planning to visit the beautiful land of Karnataka, this article might be a sign that you need to start.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Hill Stations Near Udupi
What are some essentials that need to be carried to Agumbe?
Since it is the second wettest place in India, one must carry adequate raincoats, umbrellas and extra clothes. In fact, one must avoid wearing cotton while rafting and should opt for synthetic or polyester fibre clothes.
What food items are specific to Agumbe and are available for tourists?
One must try the crispy Masala Vada (locally called Ambode), Kashaya and the vanilla-flavoured tea as they are regional specialities.
Any restaurant/dish recommendations when in Sringeri?
There aren’t too many food options but there are a lot of local shops that serve local and popular food. One should try the famous traditional sweet called Sringeri Halwa. Local dishes like Dosa, Bisi Bele Bath, Akki Roti, Jolada Rotti, Idli, Vada, Sambhar, are available.
How to reach Murudeshwar?
Murudeshwar is well connected by both railways and roadways. Regular rail and bus services can be availed. If one wishes to travel by air, the nearest airport is in Mangalore, approximately 137 km away from Murudeshwar.
What items can be purchased Horanadu?
The town of Horanadu being agriculture centric is rich in tea, coffee and spice plantations. One can purchase these in bulk at much cheaper rates than those found in cities.
How many days does one need on Kodachadri Hills?
One can complete the trek in a day but it is recommended to stay overnight for the campfire night and return only the next day.
How can one reach Gokarana?
One can avail bus services from Bangalore/Goa. The nearest Airport is in Goa (Dabolim). The train Matsyagandha Express will halt in Gokarna itself. Other trains can be taken that will halt at Ankola situation.
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