Malpe

Malpe is one of the natural ports located at about six kilometers to the west of Udupi, in the state of Karnataka, India. The place is a famous port town and fishing harbor on the Karnataka coast. At the mouth of the Udyavara river, marks the beginning of this small scenic place Malpe.

The suburban city Udupi is administered by Udupi City Municipality. There is mainly three languages spoken here Tulu, Kannada and Konkani. This picturesque beach is the prime attraction of the port, Malpe. It is popular among both locals and tourists and is generally crowded.

St. Mary's Islands is one of the main attractions at Malpe, with its pristine secluded beach. People can also take a boat ride to St Mary's Island for some fascinating volcanic rock formations. Malpe is formed by a unique formation of volcanic rocks which are vertical hexagonal rocks. It is a big collection of islands found in different sizes. It is therefore called a beach flanked by Islands.

Malpe also contributes to the religious importance as the Balarama and Ananteshwara temples attract devotees. Basavappa Nayaka of Bidanur built a fort on the island of Daria-Bahadurgad on the off shores of Malpe.

There are many shrines in the name of many Gods.The port has a never ending stretch of soft sand, untouched by the commercialization with three rocky islands adjoining its western part. Daria-Bahadurgad, on the northern most ends, Daria-Gadara-Kallu in the middle and Kari Illada Kallu in the southern most part are the three islands. The main industry of Malpe is the fishing industry and tile manufacturing which contributes in the economy of the country.

To the south of Malpe lies the ideal picnic spot called Virgin Beach. Many pilgrims come to offer prayers at the temple of Vadabhandeshwara which enshrines the idol of Balarama, established by Sri Madhwacharya. The place also offers the visitors an island on the western side all made up of rocks.

The amazing view of the place sets up a perfect mood for an unforgettable trip. The place is characterized by silver white sand beach and is secluded from most of the modern areas around. A trip to Malpe is incomplete without a visit to a quite fascinating harbor which is also a ship building centre. The best months to enjoy Malpe are from October to March.