Udupi-Yana-Gokarna-Goa! 750 kms of west coastal train trip

Day 1: Bangalore to Udupi:

Udupi is a coastal town in Karnataka besides the Arabian sea. I boarded the 'Karwar Express' from Bangalore. This train goes via some scenic places like Sakleshpura, Bhantwala, Mangalore and then reaches Udupi in 12 hours. Book a sleeper coach, grab a book, put some music on and enjoy the ride.

Day 2: Malpe and St.Mary's island:

Ahh! the calm and quite town. You can just stroll around the market or the beach and never get bored. Although Udupi is famous for Krishna temple, it is home for some marvelous beaches.

For 40/- INR from the city center, the rickshaw will drop you off at Malpe port. Take a moment to observe the liveliness of the port; ships arriving, fishermen knitting their nets, crows all over and the abundance of fish. It is a long walk from the port to Malpe beach. At the beach you will find private boats and ferry which will take you to St.Mary's island. You can spend the entire day here and take the last ferry back to Malpe.

Places to visit: Krishna temple, Malpe, St.Mary's island, Udyavar Pithrodi and Kapu Beach

Day 3: Yana:

180 kms from Udupi is the unique rock formations also known as Bhairaveshwara Shikhara and Mohini Shikhara. The cheapest way to travel from Udupi to Yana is train via Kumta. These laterite rocks are situated amidst the lush green backdrop, beautiful hillock and dense forest. One can also take up a small refreshing trek to the rocks. Adding to the scenic landscape is Vibhooti waterfalls. Half a day is quite sufficient to visit Yana. There are no restaurants or eateries nearby, one will have to go to Sirsi or Kumta for stay and food.

Places to visit: Trek, Caves,Vibhooti falls and Marvanthe (if you take the road)

Day 4: Gokarna:

An hour drive and 50 kms from Yana is the all famous Gokarna. You can also go to Gokarna in 20 minutes from Kumta in train. Far away from parties and hubbub this coastal town is a low-key travelers paradise. There are plenty of shacks one can stay in at the Om beach which is the main attraction. One can also stay at Kudle beach which is lesser known. There are a few adventure water activities as well.

Places to visit: Om Beach, Mahaganapati and Mahabaleshwara Temple, Paradise Beach, Kudle Beach and Half Moon Bay.

Day 5: Margao Goa:

You can now finish off your trip in the party destination of India. 130 kms of drive or train across the coast of Arabian Sea is a captivating journey. I stayed in Margao and spent the day in Benaulim beach. If you seek serenity and tranquility, this is the place to be. Just 2 kms away from Colva beach, Benaulim has amazing shacks and restaurants. You can experience the laid-back enchanting beaches, silver sands, luxurious accommodation and parties.