Udupi an important Vaishnavite coastal town in Karnataka, is located 381kms from the capital Bangalore. The urban focus of Udupi is an open Square surrounded by temples and matts. Udupi is the birth place of the 12th century saint Madhava, who set up eight sanyasi matts in the town and is one of Karnataka's most important pilgrimage sites. Udupi is also known for its delicious cuisine and Udupi restaurants all over the country.

Udupi, an important Teerthasthal (pilgrimage place) with its historical Krishna Temple is the cultural center of Karnataka. The district, carved out of Dakshina Kannada district two years ago, has its own identity in the field of art and culture.