Udupi City Guide

Food here is mostly vegetarian with famous Udupi dishes like Masala Dosa, Idli, and Sambar. Seafood is common too. There are few international options, mostly Indian and some Chinese. Vegan and vegetarian food are easy to find.

Nightlife is quiet, mostly small bars and pubs near Manipal catering to students.

Strong filter coffee culture with a few modern cafes offering specialty coffee.

Tipping is appreciated but not required. 5-10% in restaurants is common, small change for taxis or auto-rickshaws.

Buy SIM cards at official stores in the city. Top providers are Airtel, Jio, and Vodafone Idea with good coverage. eSIMs are available for compatible devices. Registration needs passport and photo, activation takes hours to a day.

Cleanliness varies by area. Main tourist spots tend to be cleaner than local markets. Waste pickup exists but littering occurs.

Some pharmacies and convenience stores open late but full 24/7 services are limited. Emergency hospital services are always available.

Groceries are available at supermarkets like More, Reliance Fresh, Big Bazaar, and local fresh markets. Hours usually 9 AM to 9 PM, with some stores open on Sundays. Bargaining is common at local markets.

Card payments work in bigger stores and urban areas, but cash is needed for smaller shops and local transport. UPI apps are widely used.

ATMs are common around the city from major banks. Withdrawal fees apply at non-network ATMs, typically around ₹20-25 for domestic cards, more for international cards.

Manipal area hosts several schools including international and private schools with English and Kannada instruction. Admissions usually start late winter for the June academic year.

No formal digital nomad community or co-living spaces. Some Wi-Fi cafes exist in Manipal.

Parks and riverside green areas exist but shaded walking paths are limited.

Running routes near beaches and around Manipal are common. Roads can be busy, so watch for traffic.

Several gyms exist in Udupi and Manipal, offering basic fitness equipment.

Tennis courts are found mainly at sports clubs and universities; some offer coaching and equipment rental.

Padel is not commonly available.

Yoga classes are offered at studios and spiritual centers. English-speaking instructors are common.

Local martial arts schools offer Karate, Taekwondo, and traditional Indian styles.

No skiing in Udupi or nearby.

Kayaking, paddleboarding, jet skiing, and boat rides are available with rental gear and guided tours.

Malpe and Kodi Bengre beaches have surf spots suitable for all levels. Surf schools and rentals are available.

Diving sites near Malpe and Kaup offer clear waters and diverse marine life, suitable for beginners and advanced divers.

Manipal Hospital near Udupi is well regarded with English-speaking staff. Private hospitals offer better facilities than public ones. Pharmacies are widespread and often open late. Emergency services are available 24/7.

Tap water is unsafe for direct drinking. Use bottled water or filters.

Udupi has family-friendly places like playgrounds, kid-friendly cafes, and local attractions like Malpe Beach and St. Mary's Island. Baby supplies are available in supermarkets.

LGBTQ+ acceptance is limited and discretion is advised. No known safe spaces or events.

Pet services and supplies exist but limited pet-friendly accommodations or parks. Rules for pet import apply.