The Udupi Sri Krishna Temple, located in the temple town of Udupi, Karnataka, is one of the most sacred pilgrimage sites in South India. Revered for its association with Lord Krishna and its founder Sri Madhvacharya, this temple draws thousands of devotees each year. The temple’s iconic Kanakana Kindi (a window from which devotees glimpse the idol) and its deeply spiritual atmosphere make it a must-visit destination for pilgrims and travelers alike.
History & Mythology of Udupi Sri krishna Temple
The temple was established in the 13th century by Sri Madhvacharya, a renowned philosopher and founder of the Dvaita Vedanta school of thought. Legend says a shipwrecked sailor from Dwarka carried an idol of Lord Krishna that Madhvacharya discovered and enshrined here. The idol faces west, and devotees view it through the Kanakana Kindi, named after the saint Kanakadasa, who was once denied entry but was blessed with divine darshan through this window.
Best Time to Visit Udupi Sri krishna Temple
October to March – Pleasant weather for sightseeing and temple visits.
Janmashtami (Aug/Sep) – Celebrated with grandeur and devotion.
Chaturmasa (July–November) – A period of spiritual practices and austerity.
Paryaya Festival (every two years in January) – A grand event where temple management is ceremonially transferred between the Ashta Mathas.
How to Reach Udupi Sri krishna Temple
✈️ By Air
Nearest Airport: Mangalore International Airport (60 km)
Travel Cost: ₹1,500–₹2,500 by taxi; ₹100–₹200 by bus
🚆 By Train
Nearest Station: Udupi Railway Station (3 km)
Local taxis and auto-rickshaws are readily available.
🚌🚗 By Road
Well-connected via KSRTC buses and private operators from Bangalore, Mangalore, Mysore.
Self-drive option: Scenic roads with excellent infrastructure.
Estimated Travel Cost (Per Person)
| Departure City | Travel Mode | Cost Estimate |
|---|---|---|
| Mangalore (60 km) | Bus/Taxi | ₹500 – ₹3,500 |
| Bangalore (430 km) | Bus/Train/Flight | ₹1,000 – ₹5,000 |
| Mysore (310 km) | Bus/Train | ₹1,200 – ₹4,500 |
| Chennai (620 km) | Train/Flight + Taxi | ₹2,500 – ₹8,000 |
| Mumbai (900 km) | Flight + Taxi/Train | ₹3,500 – ₹12,000 |
| Delhi (2,000 km) | Flight + Taxi | ₹6,000 – ₹15,000 |
Temple Timings & Rituals of Udupi Sri krishna Temple
Timings: 5:30 AM – 9:30 PM
Sevas: Krishna Alankara, Tulabhara, Annadanam
Darshan Time: 30–45 minutes on average
Entry Fee: Free darshan; charges apply for special sevas
Here is the link to official temple query contact – Contact
Sri Krishna Temple Udupi Contact :- 0820-2520598
Nearby Attractions to Udupi Sri krishna Temple
Malpe Beach – Serene beach, just 7 km away
St. Mary’s Island – Famous for its unique volcanic rock formations
Kaup Lighthouse – A short drive offering panoramic coastal views
Anantheshwara Temple – An ancient Shiva temple near the Krishna shrine
Recommended Trip Duration for Udupi Sri krishna Temple
1-Day Trip: Temple + Malpe Beach
2-Day Trip: Add St. Mary’s Island + Kaup Lighthouse
3-Day Trip: Spiritual exploration + leisure on the coast
Accommodation & Food
Stay Options:
Budget: Dharmashalas & guesthouses (₹500–₹1,500/night)
Mid-range: Hotels near the temple (₹1,500–₹3,500/night)
Luxury: Beach resorts, premium hotels (₹3,500+ per night)
Here you can book for Accomindations in Udupi –Accommodations bookings
Food Recommendations
Anna Prasadam: Free meal served at the temple
Must-Try Cuisine: Masala Dosa, Udupi Sambar, Mangalorean seafood
Popular Eateries: Mitra Samaj, Woodlands, Hotel Diana
Essential Travel Tips
Dress modestly – Traditional attire preferred inside temple
Non-Hindus may be restricted from sanctum access
Carry some cash – Local stalls may not accept cards
Book early – Accommodations fill fast during festivals
Respect temple customs – Avoid loud behavior and follow queue etiquette
Final Thoughts
The Udupi Sri Krishna Temple offers more than just a spiritual experience—it’s a window into Karnataka’s rich culture, architecture, and devotional heritage. Whether you’re a pilgrim seeking blessings or a traveler exploring coastal Karnataka, this temple is bound to leave you spiritually and culturally fulfilled.
“If you’re planning temple trips in South India, you might also enjoy reading our guide on the Tirumala Temple.”
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