Ottinene Beach & Kshitija Nesara Dhama revisited (June 2022)

April 2022 & June 2022: Visited few more times, yet to edit video footages

A drone footage can now be seen below [Watch on youtube]

Ottinene Beach is a lesser known offbeat attraction in Udupi. Coupled with an elevated cliff that offers excellent view, Ottinene beach + Kshitija Nesara Dhama (has a park and few cottages) is a perfect getaway. I revisited Kshitija Nesara Dhama near Baindoor. It was my 3rd visit. A few things have changed since my last visit.

• An elevated observation deck has been created, offering better view.
• Road condition is now excellent. Was partly unpaved earlier.
• Entry fee of Rs 10 per person is collected, need to make entry in forest department register.
• Guest houses seem to be well maintained. A few had occupants also. I was earlier told these are bookable from Kundapura or Baindoor forest office. Rent 1700 per room per day, a cafeteria is also setup now (October 2021)
• This time I got total green surrounding- earlier it was brown/black due to summer months

While passing through NH 66 between Kundapura and Honnavara, do not miss a short diversion to Kshitija Nesara Dhama to view Ottinene beach. Beach is also accessible by road, but another small detour is needed. You can also walk down from the hill to beach and climb up.

On a clear day, Kudumari falls may be visible at a distance from the highway.

Ottinene & Kshitija Nesara Dhama, visitor information

• Nearest towns: Byndoor and Bhatkal
• Stay option: Sai Vishram has a resort nearby. Else stay options are available in Bhatkal, Baindoor or Kundapura. Forest department runs a few guest houses in Kshitija Nesara Dhama, priced 1200-1700 per day with food extra, but no online booking. Check with Kundapura or Baindoor forest department office.
• Time to spend: 15 minutes- just for the view, 1-2 hours if you wish to trek down to the beach
• Entry fee: 10 INR per person
• Parking fee: None
• Facilities available: Sitting area, stay option (need to be booked). No canteen, no toilets for visitors
• Map: There are two ways to enter: Option 1; Drive to Kshitija Nesara Dhama, which is the viewpoint on top with guest houses. [Map location], Option 2: Drive to Someshwara temple at Ottinene, you can hike up the hill to reach view point 

Nearby: Kudumari falls  * Koosalli falls * Bhatkal lighthouse * Uppinakudru Yakshagana Puppetry * Places to visit in Bhatkal *