Mangrove Kayaking

Imagine yourself gliding through calm and peaceful backwaters, surrounded by scenic lush green mangroves and fresh, cool breezes. The sun is shining brightly overhead, and the only sound is the gentle lapping of water against your kayak. This is the classic kayaking experience in Saligrama, a small town in the state of Karnataka, India.

Saligrama is a beautiful town located on the coast of Karnataka, India. This small town in Udupi District is known for its divine temples, friendly people, rich culture, and love for arts, especially the beautiful art form of Yakshagana. The town is home to two revered temples, Sri Gurunarasimha and Sri Anjaneya Swamy.

Kayaking in Saligrama is a great way to relax and escape from everyday busy life. It is also a great way to get some exercise and enjoy the beauty of nature. As you glide through the calm water of the Sita river surrounded by the dense verdant mangroves forests, you will be amazed by the diversity of flora and fauna. You may see kingfishers, herons, and other birds perched on the branches of the trees. So what else do you need to have a wonderful kayaking experience in Saligrama? Just a sense of adventure and a willingness to explore.

Our recent kayaking adventure at Mangrove Kayaking was simply unforgettable. Manju Prasad, our tour guide and trainer, was incredibly knowledgeable and helpful. The entire team, including the owner and staff, was friendly, skilled, and passionate about their work.

These photos capture our wonderful morning kayaking through the lush mangrove forests of Saligrama, Karnataka on 28th October, 2023.

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Quick Facts and Tips

• Don’t miss out on the opportunity to experience the thrill of kayaking, if you are in the Udupi/Mangalore/Kundapura region in Udupi District, Karnataka, India.
• Best time to Visit: November to February (Winter months), cool weather, less rainfall.
• Clothing: Wear comfortable synthetic t-shirts or tank tops, swim shorts or leggings, sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses, water shoes or sandals.
• These Kayaking servicers are located on Padukere Road (Padukere Beach Main Road-Parampalli), Saligrama in Udupi District, Karnataka, India and run by private people.
• Tours are operated from morning session: 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM and evening session: 2:00 PM to 6:00 PM depending on the season. It is always best to contact Kayaking Services directly to confirm the timings. 
• These services offer a variety of kayaking tours at affordable prices. Tour prices between ₹300 and ₹500 per hour for a single kayak. The price may vary depending on the type of tour, the duration of the tour, and the number of people in your group.
  • Mangrove tour: ₹300 per hour, 
  • Backwater tour: ₹500 per hour, 
  • Sunset tour: ₹300 per hour, 
  • Renting a Kayak: ₹300 – ₹500 per hour for single to double 
• It is recommended to contact the kayaking services directly to get a quote for specific tours. 
• The average depth of the water in the mangrove forest in Saligrama is 2 and 4 feet depending on the location and tides. 
• Be aware of the tides when kayaking in the mangrove forest, as the water level can change significantly in a short period of time.
• Visitors must wear life jackets for their safety.
• Wear appropriate clothing and footwear when kayaking.
• Be aware of your surroundings and watch out for branches and other obstacles.
• Take extra caution not to get tangled in the mangrove roots.
• Bring a change of clothes and towel in case you get wet. 
• Bring water and snacks. 
• Don’t forget to bring a camera to capture your memories.
• Enjoy the sweet and refreshing coconut water from the local stall and then have refreshments at one of the many delicious restaurants nearby.
• Nearby attractions: Sri Guru Narasimha Temple, Sri Anjaneya Temple, Divine Park, Padukere Beach.