Formed by the rapid cooling of Deccan volcanic lava tens of millions of years ago, the islands’ pillow-like hexagonal and polygonal basalt columns are among the very few such formations in India, comparable to Ireland’s Giant’s Causeway, and the site has been designated a national geological monument. Legend also links the islands to Vasco da Gama, who is said to have landed here in 1498 and planted a cross before proceeding to Kozhikode, and the islands remain accessible only by a roughly 20–30 minute motorboat ride from Malpe jetty, weather permitting. St Mary’s Island sits at an elevation of 11 m and is typically explored in about half day. The most favourable months to visit are January, November, February, and March, when conditions are best suited for sightseeing. Nearby points of interest include Basalt Rock Formations, Ferry Jetty & Ticket Counter Area, and Coconut Grove Beach. Other notable highlights include walk on ancient hexagonal basalt columns, spot coconut crabs among rocky crevices, and watch waves crash against column cliffs. It falls within Udupi, Udupi district, and Karnataka.
State: Karnataka
Ideal Duration: Half Day
January, November, February, March
You need to take a ferry from Malpe Harbour, which is about 6 km from Udupi town. The boat ride takes around 20-30 minutes, and ferries operate only during daylight hours, typically from 9 AM to 4 PM, depending on weather and tide conditions. The best time to visit is between October and March, when the sea is calm and the weather pleasant.
Most visitors spend about 1.5 to 2 hours on the island, which is enough to walk around, take photos, and enjoy the unique columnar basalt rock formations formed by volcanic activity. Do not miss the small lighthouse viewpoint and the natural rock pools at the southern end. Also, check the ferry return schedule before you explore, as the last boat leaves promptly and you cannot stay overnight.
There are no permanent restaurants or drinking water taps on the island, so you must carry your own water and snacks. A few temporary stalls may appear during peak season selling coconut water, chips, and simple snacks, but they are unreliable. There are no restrooms, so please plan accordingly before you board the ferry.
Swimming is not allowed near the ferry landing area due to strong currents and rocky underwater formations. You can wade in shallow, calm spots, but lifeguards are not present, so it is not recommended for senior travellers. Snorkelling is possible in clear patches, but you must bring your own gear and stay close to the shore — the island has no rescue services.
The island has rocky terrain with uneven basalt columns, and there are no paved walkways, so walking can be challenging. You will need to climb up and down from the boat onto the shore, which requires some balance and care. We recommend carrying a walking stick, wearing sturdy non-slip shoes, and taking it slow — but it is doable if you are reasonably active.