Udupi District in
Karnataka was formed by joining the three northern
taluks of
Dakshina Kannada District.
Udupi,
Kundapura and
Karkala are the major towns. The area is 3,575 sq km and the population is over 1 million.
Tulu,
Kannada, and
Konkani are the main languages. English and
Hindi are also spoken. Major rivers are
Swarna, Sita,
Netravati,
Chakra, and
Varahi. Coconut, cashew, mango, and jackfruit trees are found here.
Udupi is one of the few pilgrim centers that preserves the hoary Vedic culture and Vedantic philosophy of India. Famous Pajaka Kshetra and Parashurama Kshetra are located in Udupi. The reminiscence of the rich past and glory of this magical land are Yakshagana, Talamaddale,
Gombeatta, Bhoota worship, Naaga worship, temples and cockfight. Barakuru, Hastashilpa,
Karavali, Krishna Mutt, Malpe, and St Mary's Island are the main tourist spots.