Kere Basadi Varanga Udupi – Lake Jain Temple Tour Karnataka

Estd. 1990

Gujarat Toursim
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Kere Basadi Varanga Jain Temple Karnataka

Duration

01 Night / 02 Days

Places Covered

Mangalore - Udupi - Varanga - Mangalore

Kere Basadi Varanga Lake Jain Temple Karnataka

This Varanga Lake Jain Temple Tour is a short yet culturally rich getaway that blends scenic beaches, island exploration, and Jain heritage temples. Starting from Mangalore, the tour takes you to Udupi, a major pilgrimage town famous for the Sri Krishna Temple, followed by time at Malpe Beach and a possible excursion to the unique basalt rock formations of St. Mary’s Island (subject to weather). Overnight stay is in Udupi.

The next day explores the serene Jain temples of Varanga, including the magnificent Kere Basadi, a rare 12th-century temple located in the middle of a lake, accessed by a small boat ride. You’ll further visit Karkala, known for the towering monolithic statue of Lord Bahubali, and Moodbidri, home to the stunning thousand-pillared Savira Kambada Basadi, before returning to Mangalore.

Perfect for spiritual travellers, heritage enthusiasts, and nature lovers, this tour provides a balanced mix of coastal charm and peaceful religious sites in just two days. It’s ideal for quick weekend trips, especially for travellers arriving in Mangalore by flight, train, or road.

FAQ About Varanga Lake Jain Temple

Q. What is the best time to visit Udupi and Varanga?

The ideal time to visit is between October and March, when the weather is pleasant. Monsoon months (July–September) are scenic but St. Mary’s Island may remain closed due to high tides.

Q. Is St. Mary’s Island visit guaranteed in this package?

The visit to St. Mary’s Island is weather-dependent. Boat services may be suspended during rough sea conditions or rainy seasons.

Q. How do we reach Kere Basadi in Varanga?

Kere Basadi is accessible only via a small paddle boat ride across the lake. The boat ride is short, calm, and adds to the spiritual experience.

Q. Are the Jain temples open to non-Jain visitors?

Yes, all visitors are welcome, provided they follow temple etiquette such as maintaining silence, dressing modestly, and not disturbing rituals.

Q. What type of accommodation is provided in Udupi?

Typically, standard to deluxe hotel options are offered depending on the package preference. You may request upgraded or luxury stays at an additional cost.

Q. How much travel time is involved per day?

Mangalore to Udupi: 1–1.5 hours
Udupi to Varanga: 1 hour approx.
Varanga–Karkala–Moodbidri sector: local travel under 1 hour each
Return to Mangalore: 1.5–2 hours

Q. Is the tour suitable for elderly travellers?

Yes, the tour is generally comfortable. However, those with mobility issues should consider the boat ride to Kere Basadi and some mild walking at heritage sites.

Q. Can vegetarian food be arranged during the tour?

Yes, pure vegetarian meals are available, especially close to temple areas. Jain meal requests can also be accommodated with prior notice.

Q. Are photography and videography allowed at temples?

Photography is generally allowed at Malpe Beach, St. Mary’s Island, and Bahubali statue. However, inside Jain temples, photography may be restricted, so it’s advisable to ask the temple caretaker.

Q. What should we carry for this trip?

Carry comfortable clothing, walking shoes, sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat or cap, and ID proof. If visiting during monsoon, carry a rain jacket or umbrella.

Tour Itinerary

Day 1 Arrive Mangalore - Udupi (Beach & Temple Experience)

Upon arrival at Mangalore Airport or Railway Station, you will be greeted and driven towards Udupi. The journey takes about 1 to 1.5 hours and offers beautiful glimpses of Karnataka’s coastal landscapes. After reaching Udupi, check into your hotel and relax for a while.

In the afternoon, visit the tranquil Malpe Beach, known for its golden sand, serene seashore, and the spectacular Sea Walk viewpoint that provides stunning vistas of the Arabian Sea. If weather conditions permit, take a short boat ride to St. Mary’s Island, a small cluster of islands known for its remarkable volcanic rock formations.

Later in the evening, proceed to the sacred Sri Krishna Temple in Udupi, a major pilgrimage centre for devotees. The unique ritual of witnessing the deity through the Kanakana Kindi (small window) is a special experience. After the temple visit, explore the local market or nearby food stalls at leisure.

Overnight: Hotel

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Day 2 Udupi – Varanga – Karkala – Moodbidri – Mangalore

After breakfast, depart towards Varanga, a peaceful village surrounded by lush greenery. Begin your spiritual tour with visits to Neminatha Basadi and Chandranatha Basadi, both known for their simplicity and ancient Jain architectural style. The highlight here is the stunning Kere Basadi, a 12th-century Jain temple located right in the middle of a lake. You will reach this temple through a short paddle boat ride, offering a serene and unforgettable setting.

Continue the journey to Karkala, home to the towering 41.5-feet monolithic statue of Lord Bahubali (Gommateshwara). The statue is an iconic representation of Jain heritage in Karnataka. A brief stop at Anekere Lake, often filled with lotus flowers, adds a scenic charm to the visit.

Next, proceed to Moodbidri, famously known as the Jain Varanasi of South India. Here, explore the historic Savira Kambada Basadi, also called the 1000-Pillar Temple, an architectural marvel known for its elaborate stone and wooden pillars.

In the evening, drive back to Mangalore. Upon arrival, you will be transferred to the airport or railway station for your onward journey.

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