Krishna Temple

Karnataka


Udupi is home to the atmospheric 13th-century Krishna temple, which draws thousands of Hindu pilgrims through the year. Surrounded by eight maths (monasteries), it’s a hive of activity, with musicians playing at the entrance, elephants on hand for puja (prayer rituals) and pilgrims constantly coming and going. Non-Hindus are welcome inside the temple; men must enter bare-chested. Elaborate rituals are also performed in the temple during the Udupi Paryaya festival.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby Karnataka attractions

1. St Mary's Island

5.87 MILES

This tiny island off Malpe is where Portuguese explorer Vasco da Gama supposedly landed in 1498, and has curious hexagonal basalt formations. Locals sell…