About Kaup Beach
Kaup Beach, also known as Kapu Beach, is a coastal attraction in Kaup town in Udupi district, Karnataka, along the Arabian Sea. It is known for its sandy shoreline, scattered laterite rock formations, and the Kapu Lighthouse situated on a rocky outcrop. Located about 13 km south of Udupi and 45 km north of Mangaluru, the beach is noted for sunset views, fishing activity, and views of the lighthouse, making it a popular stop on the coastal Karnataka circuit.
Visitors guide
Visitors can expect a wide sandy beach bordered by the Arabian Sea with scattered black laterite rocks and a prominent lighthouse on a small rocky hill at the southern end. The setting includes fishing boats, open sea views, and a shoreline suitable for walking and photography. The Kapu Lighthouse can be climbed for panoramic coastal views when open. The area has small food stalls and parking near the entrance and is primarily visited for sightseeing and sunset viewing.
Key highlights
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Historic Kapu Lighthouse (1901) on rocky outcrop offering panoramic sea views
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Wide sandy shoreline with distinctive laterite rock formations
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Popular sunset viewpoint over the Arabian Sea
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Views of traditional fishing boats and activity
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Ruins of Kaup Fort near the lighthouse
History of Kaup Beach
The Kapu Lighthouse was constructed in 1901 by the British administration to aid navigation along the Arabian Sea coast and remains operational. Remains of a small fort near the lighthouse are locally associated with the coastal fortifications of the region.
Culture & Context
The beach is part of the coastal fishing culture of Udupi district and is located near local temples and mosques in Kaup town; it is a well-known leisure and sunset spot for residents and visitors on the Karavali coast.
Route
| By air | Nearest airport is Mangaluru International Airport (IXE), about 45-50 km away |
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