2 min walk
Malpe Fishing Harbour
A chaotic, colourful, and profoundly authentic look into the lifeblood of the Udupi coastline.
Overview
The Rhythm of the Coast
Before Malpe was a tourist destination, it was—and still fiercely is—one of Karnataka's most vital fishing hubs. The harbour is a sensory overload in the best way possible.
Hundreds of colourful trawlers and deep-sea vessels dock here. Visiting the harbour is not a curated tourist experience; it's a raw glimpse into the grueling, fascinating work that sustains coastal communities and provides the very seafood we serve at the Shanty.
Activities
What to experience
The Morning Auction
Witness the fast-paced, loud, and incredible system of the morning fish auction. It's organized chaos that locals navigate with ease.
Photography Walks
The bright blue and red hulls of the trawlers, the sorting of the catch, and the intense activity provide striking subjects for photography.
Shipbuilding Yards
Walk slightly beyond the main dock to see massive wooden and steel trawlers being built and repaired by hand.
Travel Plan
Getting There & Itinerary
The harbour is literally down the road from Ivory by Shore. You can easily walk there in a couple of minutes.
- Pre-dawn (6:00 AM): This is an early riser's excursion. Head out right as the sun comes up to see the boats returning from their night voyages.
- Observation (6:15 AM - 7:30 AM): Watch the offloading and the frantic auctions. Keep out of the way of the workers and carts!
- Breakfast (8:00 AM): Return to the Shanty, wash up, and enjoy a well-deserved, quiet breakfast on the verandah.
Note: Wear closed, sturdy shoes. The harbour floor is wet, slippery, and smells strongly of fish. It is not for the faint-hearted!