20 min · Drive
Manipal
A bustling university town perched on a plateau, offering a sharp, modern contrast to the traditional rhythms of Malpe and Udupi.
Overview
From Hilltop to Valley
Just a 20-minute drive inland from the coast, Manipal is a cosmopolitan enclave built around the sprawling Manipal Academy of Higher Education. It brings a completely different energy to the region.
While the town itself is packed with international cafes, bookstores, and student life, its geographical location on a rocky laterite plateau means it drops off into stunning, lush green valleys, most notably at the famous 'End Point'.
What to do
Things to see & experience
Visit End Point
A beautifully maintained park at the edge of the plateau. It offers sweeping views of the Swarna River valley below and is perfect for a breezy evening walk.
Cafe Hopping
Take a break from traditional coastal food and explore the numerous bakeries, roasteries, and bistros that cater to the diverse student population.
Heritage Village
Visit the Hasta Shilpa Heritage Village (requires booking in advance) to see restored traditional homes and artifacts from across coastal Karnataka.
Getting there from Silver Sands
Plan Your Visit
Manipal is an easy 20-minute drive or auto-rickshaw ride from Silver Sands. It makes for a great late-afternoon excursion.
Keep exploring
Other nearby attractions
15 min · Ferry from Malpe Jetty
St. Mary's Island
Unique hexagonal basalt columns rising from the Arabian Sea — a geological monument unlike anywhere else on India's coast.
Explore & Plan Visit
2 min · Walk from Silver Sands
Malpe Beach
A working fishing harbour by day and a long golden shoreline by evening — walkable from every room at Silver Sands.
Explore & Plan Visit
25 min · Drive to Udupi
Sri Krishna Matha
The centuries-old Krishna temple at the heart of Udupi — birthplace of the city's famous vegetarian cuisine and the Kanakana Kindi legend.
Explore & Plan VisitStay close to it all
Base yourself at Silver Sands
Five minutes from the jetty, two minutes from the beach — everything on this coast is within easy reach.