Where the sea breeze carries the fragrance of tulasi, and temple bells echo through ancient streets, there stands Udupi — the sacred coastal town of Karnataka, revered as Parashurama Kshetra.
It is a land where devotion meets eternity, where Vedic wisdom breathes through daily life, and where the compassionate gaze of Bala Krishna continues to bless generations of devotees.
The Divine Origin – Land Blessed by Lord Parashurama
According to ancient legend, Udupi was born of divine will. It is said that Lord Parashurama, the sixth incarnation of Vishnu, hurled his mighty axe into the Arabian Sea, commanding the waters to retreat and reveal this sacred stretch of land.
Thus emerged the verdant coastal region of Udupi, sanctified by tapas, temples, and timeless devotion — a living kshetra reclaimed not merely from the sea, but from the heart of the divine itself.
This sacred geography forms the foundation of Udupi’s eternal sanctity — a land blessed first by Lord Parashurama’s power, later illuminated by Sri Madhvacharya’s wisdom, and forever graced by Lord Krishna’s smile.
🕉️ Udupi – The Land of Lord Parashurama (Parashurama Kshetra)
According to ancient legends, the coastal region of Udupi was created by Lord Parashurama, the sixth incarnation of Lord Vishnu. After ridding the earth of oppressive kings, Parashurama threw his axe into the Arabian Sea. The waters receded up to the spot where the axe landed, creating a new stretch of fertile land — today known as the Parashurama Kshetra or Tulunadu region, which includes Udupi and Dakshina Kannada.
A Glimpse into the History of Udupi
The name Udupi (originally “Odipu” in the local Tulu language) derives from “Udupa”, meaning moon — a reference to the Chandra (Moon God) who is said to have worshipped Lord Shiva here to rid himself of a curse. The ancient Chandramouleshwara Temple, located near the Krishna Temple, stands as a reminder of this legend.
Historically, Udupi has been a center of Sanatana Dharma, education, and philosophy since the 13th century. It gained prominence under Jagadguru Sri Madhvacharya, the founder of the Dvaita Vedanta philosophy, who established Udupi as his spiritual headquarters. Over the centuries, Udupi flourished under the care of the Ashta Mathas (Eight Monasteries) and became the heart of Vaishnavism in South India.
Due to its silver-colored soil and shining coastal sands, Udupi was also known as “Rajatha Peetha Pura” — the Silver City. This poetic title beautifully reflects both its natural brilliance and its spiritual radiance.
🕉️ Sri Madhvacharya’s Divine Mission and the Birth of Dvaita Philosophy
Centuries ago, Sri Madhvacharya, the great philosopher-saint and founder of Dvaita Vedanta, walked this very soil — transforming Udupi into a beacon of spiritual learning and devotion.
He established the Ashta Mathas (Eight Monasteries) and the Udupi Shri Krishna Matha, setting in motion a tradition of bhakti (devotion), jnana (knowledge), and seva (service) that continues unbroken to this day.Udupi became not merely a center of worship but the spiritual heart of coastal Karnataka, radiating light through its scriptures, rituals, and humble temple life — a place where the philosophy of dualism revealed the intimate relationship between the soul and the Supreme.
Udupi Shri Krishna – The Eternal Child of Devotion
In the sacred heart of Udupi resides Lord Bala Krishna, the divine child form of the Supreme Being — holding a churning rod and rope, symbolizing his eternal love for butter and his playful nature. His enchanting smile, tender gaze, and youthful grace radiate compassion and purity, captivating the hearts of devotees for centuries.
The Legend of Udupi Shri Krishna
At the heart of Udupi lies the Udupi Shri Krishna Temple, one of India’s most sacred pilgrimage centers. The temple is not just a place of worship but a symbol of divine love, humility, and service.
The Story Behind the Udupi Shri Krishna
According to legend, the Lord Krishna in Udupi was originally worshiped by Rukmini Devi in Dvārakā. Over time, He was covered by Gopi Chandan (holy clay) and lost during the submergence of Dvārakā. Centuries later, a sailor’s ship carrying the Gopi Chandana became stuck near Malpe, a coastal port close to Udupi.
It was at this moment that Jagadguru Sri Madhvacharya, the great philosopher and founder of the Dvaita (dualistic) school of Vedanta, appeared. Through his divine powers, he calmed the raging sea and rescued the ship. In gratitude, the captain offered him anything from the ship’s cargo — and Jagadguru Sri Madhvacharya chose the lump of Gopi Chandan that concealed the Shri Krishna.
Upon washing the clay, the radiant idol of Bala Krishna (Child Krishna) appeared — holding a churning rod and rope, symbolizing the butter-loving divine child. Jagadguru Sri Madhvacharya installed the idol in Udupi in the 13th century, establishing it as a sacred seat of Vaishnava devotion.
The Ashta Mathas of Udupi
To preserve the temple’s discipline and Vedic knowledge, Jagadguru Sri Madhvacharya ordered Eight Bala Sanyasi’s to worship Shri Krishna. Every Bala Sanyasi used to worship every two months.
Later Sri Vadiraja Guru Sarvabhomaru extended two months worship to two years. Sri Vadiraja Guru Sarvabhomaru established eight mathas (Ashta Mathas) in Udupi to propagate his teachings and manage the worship of Lord Krishna at the Shri Krishna Matha. Each of these mathas was given charge of temple administration in a rotational system known as Paryaya, which changes every two years.
The eight original mathas founded by Sri Madhvacharya are:
- Palimaru Matha
- Adamaru Matha
- Krishnapura Matha
- Puttige Matha
- Shirur Matha
- Sode (Sodhe) Matha
- Kaniyooru Matha
- Pejawara Matha
Each Matha has its own Swamiji (Pontiff), lineage, and disciples, and all are jointly responsible for maintaining the temple’s sanctity, Vedic traditions, and rituals.
Every two years, during the Paryaya Festival, the responsibility of managing the Krishna Matha rotates among these eight mathas. The transition is celebrated with majestic processions, Vedic chanting, and cultural programs — symbolizing unity and continuity in devotion.
The Paryaya Mahotsava, held biennially in Udupi, marks the ceremonial transfer of the temple’s administration from one Matha to the next. The Swamiji of the incoming Matha takes charge of the Udupi Shri Krishna Matha for the next two years. This grand event is accompanied by Vedic processions, cultural performances, and religious ceremonies attended by thousands of devotees.
👉 There are other Mathas named Sri Bhndarakeri Matha, Sri Annyaacharya Matha, Sri Sripadarak=ja Matha, Sri Vyasaraja Matha, Sri Bheemanakatte Matha, Sri Utharadhi Matha, Sri Raghavendra Swamy Matha, Sri Subramanya Matha. Those are Matha’s are not part of the Ashta Matha system established by Sri Vadiraja Guru Sarvabhumaru.
Temples Around Udupi Car Street
The Car Street (Ratha Beedi) in Udupi forms the divine circle surrounding the Shri Krishna Matha. During festivals like Rathotsava, the golden chariots of Lord Krishna are pulled through this sacred street with chants, music, and lamps — creating one of the most vibrant religious spectacles in South India.
The main temples around the Car Street are:
- Anantheshwara Temple
- Dedicated to Lord Anantha Padmanaabha.
- Believed to have been established by King Rama Bhoja on the guidance by Lord Parashurama.
- This is one of the oldest temples in Udupi, and Jagadguru Sri Madhvacharyaru is said to have received his early education here.
- Devotees usually offer prayers here before visiting the Shri Krishna Matha.
- Chandramouleshwara Temple
- Located adjacent to Anantheshwara Temple.
- Associated with the legend of Chandra (the Moon God), who worshipped Lord Shiva here to rid himself of a curse.
- The name “Udupi” (from Udupa, meaning Moon) originates from this temple’s legend.
- Udupi Shri Krishna Matha
- Established by Sri Madhvacharya in the 13th century.
- The Bala Krishna (Child Krishna) is worshipped here
Udupi – A Living Temple of Devotion
Today, Udupi stands as a living temple, where every chant of “Krishna” merges with the murmur of the sea, and every street still breathes the stories of saints, scholars, and devotees.
The rhythmic bells, the aroma of tulasi and sandalwood, the unbroken cycle of Paryaya rituals, and the simplicity of satvik cuisine — all speak of a tradition that has remained pure and timeless.
In Udupi, divinity and humanity coexist — the Lord who once turned toward his devotee through Kanakana Kindi still watches over all who come in faith.
This is the soul of Udupi — a place where history becomes devotion, and devotion becomes eternity.
Festivals and Celebrations in Udupi
Throughout the year, Udupi celebrates numerous festivals that fill the town with color, devotion, and joy.
- Krishna Janmashtami – The birth of Lord Krishna is celebrated with grandeur, bhajans, and mosaru kudike (human pyramids to break curd pots).
- Paryaya Mahotsava – A biennial festival marking the handover of temple administration among the eight mathas.
- Rathotsava (Car Festival) – The grand chariot procession where devotees pull the temple car, singing and chanting the Lord’s name.
- Deepotsava – The festival of lights illuminating the temple and surrounding streets in divine glow.
These festivals not only showcase Udupi’s spiritual vibrancy but also its deep-rooted sense of community and inclusiveness.
Udupi Cuisine – The Gift to India’s Culinary Heritage
When people hear the name Udupi, they often think of Udupi hotels — vegetarian restaurants found all across India. The roots of this cuisine lie in the satvik and temple traditions of Udupi.
Prepared without onion and garlic, Udupi cuisine focuses on freshness, balance, and nutrition. The use of local ingredients like coconut, tamarind, curry leaves, Mattu Gulla, Cucumber, Pumkin, jaggery, and mustard seeds gives each dish its distinctive flavor.
Some must-try dishes include:
- Sambar & Rasam (Saaru)– Fragrant Mattu Gulla, Cucumber, Pumpkin based Sambaar with a tangy wist.
- Rasam (Saaru) –
- Masala Dosa – Crispy golden dosa stuffed with spiced potatoes.
- Goli Baje – Fluffy fried fritters made from maida and curd.
- Kosambari – A refreshing lentil salad with coconut and lemon.
- Payasa – A traditional sweet dish made of rice, jaggery, and coconut milk.
Udupi’s temple kitchen has inspired the vegetarian restaurant culture that spread worldwide — blending simplicity with sanctity.
Udupi Beyond the Temple – Beaches, Heritage & Natural Beauty
While Udupi is renowned for its spiritual heritage, it also boasts breathtaking natural beauty and vibrant culture. From golden beaches to lush backwaters and art forms, Udupi offers a complete experience for every traveler.
🏖️ Malpe Beach
Just 6 km from Udupi town, Malpe Beach is known for its clean sands and water sports. The gentle waves, sea breeze, and sunset views make it one of Karnataka’s most beautiful beaches.
Take a short boat ride from Malpe to St. Mary’s Island, a unique geological marvel known for its hexagonal basalt rock formations — believed to have been formed by ancient volcanic activity.
🕍 Pajaka – The Birthplace of Madhvacharya
About 13 km from Udupi, Pajaka Kshetra is the birthplace of Jagadguru Sri Madhvacharyaru. Visitors can see his ancestral home, a banyan tree said to be planted by him, and sacred ponds where he performed miracles as a child.
🎭 Yakshagana – The Soul of Coastal Karnataka
Udupi is also the cradle of Yakshagana, a traditional dance-drama that combines music, dance, dialogue, and mythological storytelling. The colorful costumes, rhythmic beats, and expressive performances bring epics like the Ramayana and Mahabharata to life.
The Modern Face of Udupi
Today, Udupi has evolved into a blend of tradition and progress. The town is home to educational institutions like Manipal University, hospitals, and modern infrastructure, all while retaining its cultural soul.
The coexistence of spirituality and modernity here is seamless — one can visit a centuries-old temple in the morning and enjoy a sunset by the beach in the evening. Udupi teaches the art of balance — between devotion and dynamism, faith and freedom.
🙏 The Essence of Udupi Shri Krishna
The story of Udupi is, above all, the story of Bhakti (devotion). The idol of Bala Krishna, turning towards his devotee Kanakadasa, symbolizes that true devotion transcends barriers — caste, creed, and status. It is the purity of heart that draws the divine presence.
As the eternal child of Udupi, Lord Krishna continues to enchant every soul that visits this sacred land — teaching us simplicity, love, and humility. Whether you come as a pilgrim or a traveler, Udupi leaves you with a sense of peace and fulfillment that lingers long after you leave.
