Photo spot in Udupi
Sri Krishna Matha
Udupi, Karnataka
The 13th-century Krishna temple founded by the saint Madhvacharya, where the deity is worshipped through a silver-plated 'Navagraha Kitiki' window — Udupi's spiritual heart.
Best time
Early morning, when Car Street is quiet and the light falls softly on the chariots; evening, when lamps light up the temple square.
Best angle
Photography is restricted inside, so stand on Car Street and take a wide photo of the temple chariots with the matha gateway and pilgrims in the background.
Entry fee
Free
Opening hours
4:30 AM – 9:00 PM
Crowd level
High
Best outfit colors
Overview
Best time to visit Sri Krishna Matha
Early morning, when Car Street is quiet and the light falls softly on the chariots; evening, when lamps light up the temple square. Crowds here are typically high. Arrive a little early to claim your angle and catch the softest light before the day tips over.
Poses & angles
Photo tips for Sri Krishna Matha
Photography is restricted inside, so stand on Car Street and take a wide photo of the temple chariots with the matha gateway and pilgrims in the background. Work a few of the pose ideas below, shoot wide for context and tight for detail, and give yourself a couple of extra minutes to get the frame right.
At the temple entrance
By the temple chariot
Outfit guide
What to wear at Sri Krishna Matha
For photos at Sri Krishna Matha, saffron, white and gold work beautifully — they stand out against the setting without fighting it. Pick one hero colour and keep the rest of the look calm so you stay the subject of the frame.
Best outfit colors for photos
Trending wear for this spot
Popular modern looks travellers are wearing across Udupi.
Traditional wear for this spot
Timeless, cultural looks that suit Sri Krishna Matha.
Eat nearby
Food near Sri Krishna Matha
Round out the visit with something to eat. Look for udupi masala dosa and udupi meals nearby, or settle in at one of the 1 restaurants close by.
Special dishes to try
Restaurants & food places nearby
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Good to know
Local tips
Men should be ready to remove shirts and vests before entering the inner temple.
Wear traditional or modest clothes, as jeans, T-shirts and sleeveless tops are turned away.
Visit early in the morning or after lunch to avoid the longest queues.
Leave shoes at the counter before you enter.
Take your photos outside on Car Street, as photography is restricted inside.
Look for the Kanakana Kindi on the outer wall of the temple.
Eat breakfast at one of the old vegetarian restaurants on Car Street.
About Sri Krishna Matha
The Sri Krishna Matha was founded in the 13th century by the philosopher Madhvacharya and is the heart of Udupi. Its image of Krishna as a child is seen through the Navagraha Kindi, a silver-plated window with nine openings, rather than face to face. On the outer wall is the Kanakana Kindi, a small window linked to the saint Kanakadasa, who, the story goes, saw Krishna turn to face him through the wall.
The temple is run in turn by the eight Ashta Mathas, each for two years, and the handover, Paryaya, is Udupi's biggest festival. Around the temple, Car Street is lined with the monasteries, the older Anantheshwara and Chandramouleeshwara temples and the tall wooden chariots used in processions. The temple kitchen serves free meals to pilgrims every day.
Questions
Sri Krishna Matha — FAQ
What is the best time to visit Sri Krishna Matha?
Early morning, when Car Street is quiet and the light falls softly on the chariots; evening, when lamps light up the temple square. Photography is restricted inside, so stand on Car Street and take a wide photo of the temple chariots with the matha gateway and pilgrims in the background.
Is there an entry fee at Sri Krishna Matha?
Entry to Sri Krishna Matha is free.
What are the opening hours of Sri Krishna Matha?
Sri Krishna Matha is open 4:30 AM – 9:00 PM.
What should I wear at Sri Krishna Matha?
Saffron, white and gold photograph especially well here. Explore the trending and traditional outfit ideas on this page for full looks.
How crowded does Sri Krishna Matha get?
Crowd levels are typically high. To miss the busiest window: early morning, when Car Street is quiet and the light falls softly on the chariots; evening, when lamps light up the temple square.
What food should I try near Sri Krishna Matha?
Try udupi masala dosa and udupi meals, available at nearby restaurants.
What is the Sri Krishna Matha famous for?
It is famous for its image of Krishna as a child, seen through the silver Navagraha Kindi window, for the Kanakana Kindi, and for the Paryaya handover between the eight Ashta Mathas every two years.
What is the dress code at the Sri Krishna Matha?
Men are asked to remove shirts and vests before entering the inner temple, and jeans, T-shirts and sleeveless clothes are not allowed. Women should wear a saree or other traditional outfit. The rules were tightened in January 2026, so check at the gate.
Can I take photos inside the Sri Krishna Matha?
Photography is restricted inside the temple, and staff may stop you. Take photos of the chariots, gateways and Car Street from outside instead.
How much time do I need at the Sri Krishna Matha?
Allow 1–2 hours for darshan, the queue and a walk around Car Street. On festival days and weekends, the queue can take much longer.