Udupi: A little-known island destination near Udupi has caught the attention of Mahindra Group Chairman Anand Mahindra, who recently highlighted the scenic Jumadi Islands on social media, bringing renewed attention to one of coastal Karnataka’s lesser-known getaways.
Located around the backwaters near Brahmavar, the Jumadi Islands offer a combination of greenery, waterways, coconut groves and secluded stretches of sand. The destination has remained relatively quiet compared with more established tourist attractions along Karnataka’s coast.
Mahindra’s post has put the destination in the spotlight at a time when interest in lesser-known travel locations is growing among travellers looking for quieter alternatives to crowded tourist centres.
What makes Jumadi Islands special?
The Jumadi Islands are a group of small islands located amid the waterways of the Swarna, or Suvarna, river system near Udupi. The landscape is characterised by emerald-green waters, coconut trees and relatively undisturbed natural surroundings.
Unlike some of Karnataka’s better-known beach destinations, the islands have a more secluded character. Visitors can experience the surroundings through boat rides and walks along the island while enjoying views of the waterways and coastal landscape.
The destination is also known for birdwatching, photography and its natural setting. The combination of water, vegetation and open stretches of sand makes it attractive for travellers looking for a slower holiday experience.
A travel guide to the destination describes the islands as being around 8 km from Udupi and accessible by boat. Other travel references place the destination farther from central Udupi depending on the route and starting point.
A quieter alternative near Udupi
Udupi is already one of Karnataka’s popular tourist districts, known for its temples, beaches, cuisine and coastal landscapes. Destinations such as Malpe, St Mary’s Island and Kaup have traditionally attracted a large share of visitors.
Jumadi Islands, however, offer a different experience.
The attraction lies less in large-scale tourist infrastructure and more in the opportunity to spend time in a relatively peaceful natural setting. Coconut groves, waterways and the surrounding backwaters create an environment suited to those looking to disconnect from busy city life.
The islands have also been described as a destination for families and couples, while photographers and birdwatchers can find opportunities to explore the landscape at a slower pace.
Boat journey adds to the experience
Reaching the islands is itself part of the experience.
Since Jumadi Islands are surrounded by waterways, visitors need to travel by boat. The journey provides views of the surrounding backwaters and coastal vegetation before reaching the island.
The island is located around the Kukkede area of Brahmavar in Udupi district. Travel information available for the destination lists access through Kukkede Ramamandir Road and boat transfers to the island.
The relative dependence on boat access has also helped the destination retain its secluded character.
For travellers, this means that planning the trip in advance is important, particularly when checking boat availability, weather conditions and accommodation arrangements.
Stay options amid nature
Jumadi Islands also have accommodation options for visitors who want to spend more time in the area.
A homestay operating under the Jumadi Islands name offers a more private stay experience, with accommodation surrounded by the island’s natural landscape. Information about the property says visitors can enjoy a private beach area, boat rides and birdwatching.
Another accommodation option, Twin Star’s Homestay, is also located in the Jumadi Islands area. Travel information describes it as a property suited to families and groups, with activities such as boating, fishing and kayaking available around the backwaters.
The availability of these stays means the destination is not limited only to a short boat excursion. Visitors can plan a longer break focused on nature and relaxation.
Activities for visitors
The islands offer a range of simple outdoor experiences rather than large-scale commercial attractions.
Visitors can explore the waterways by boat, spend time along the sandy stretches, observe birds, photograph the landscape and enjoy the surrounding greenery. Fishing and kayaking are also mentioned among activities available in the area.
Sunrise and sunset views are another attraction, particularly for photographers.
The absence of a crowded tourist environment is arguably one of the destination’s defining features. However, that also means visitors need to be mindful of the environment and avoid littering or damaging the natural surroundings.
Why Anand Mahindra’s post matters
Anand Mahindra has previously used his social media presence to highlight lesser-known destinations in India.
In June 2026, he drew attention to Honnavar in coastal Karnataka, describing the region’s waterways, mangroves and connection between the Sharavathi River and the Arabian Sea as an underexplored attraction.
His latest spotlight on Jumadi Islands has similarly brought a lesser-known coastal destination before a much wider audience.
The attention could potentially encourage more travellers to explore destinations beyond Karnataka’s established tourist circuit. At the same time, increased visibility can also create pressure on fragile natural areas if tourism grows without adequate planning.
Responsible tourism remains important
Jumadi Islands’ appeal comes largely from its relatively quiet environment. Preserving that character will therefore be important as more people discover the destination.
Visitors can help by avoiding plastic waste, respecting local communities, following boating and safety instructions and leaving the island as they found it.
The island’s natural surroundings are the main attraction, making responsible tourism particularly important.
For travellers, the destination offers an opportunity to experience a different side of Udupi — one centred not on crowded attractions but on waterways, greenery, quiet beaches and the slower rhythm of coastal life.
A hidden corner of coastal Karnataka
Anand Mahindra’s spotlight has brought Jumadi Islands into wider public attention, but the destination’s appeal existed long before the recent social media attention.
Its combination of backwaters, coconut groves, sandy stretches, birdlife and boat-accessible surroundings makes it a distinctive getaway near Udupi.
For travellers seeking lesser-known places in Karnataka, Jumadi Islands represent the kind of destination where the journey and the surroundings are as important as the destination itself.
As coastal Karnataka continues to attract visitors searching for quieter experiences, Jumadi Islands could become increasingly known. The challenge will be ensuring that greater popularity does not come at the expense of the natural environment that makes the islands worth discovering in the first place.