Monsoon Curbs Damp Udupi’s Summer Tourism Buzz

With the arrival of summer, Udupi usually becomes a hotspot for tourists drawn to its scenic coastline and spiritual heritage. Attractions like Malpe Beach, St Mary’s Island, Kollur, and Krishna Math temple typically witness large crowds. However, this season, visitors are met with unexpected restrictions.

In preparation for the monsoon, the Udupi district administration has imposed a four-month ban—from May 15 to September 15—on all water-based adventure activities and access to St Mary’s Island. The move, aimed at ensuring public safety amid rough sea conditions, is enforced annually under harbour craft regulations.

As a result, boat services and water sports at Malpe Beach have been completely suspended, even as tourists continue to arrive in large numbers during the summer break. Despite appeals from tourism stakeholders for a short extension, officials have stood firm, citing the unpredictability of the sea during this season.

Tourists may be allowed limited access to shallow waters until June 1, depending on sea conditions. After this date, barricades will be installed to restrict deeper entry, and beach games such as cricket and shooting stalls have also been shut down in compliance with government orders.

Many visitors expressed disappointment. Ananth, a tourist from Bengaluru, shared, “We were excited to visit St Mary’s Island, but safety comes first. The lifeguards are managing the crowds well.”

Officials urge tourists to schedule visits post-monsoon, when full beach access will be restored.

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