Daijiworld Media Network – Udupi
Udupi, Nov 10: Tourism activities near Malpe’s scenic Kodibengre have gained fresh momentum following the launch of a new barge service between Hangarakatte and Kodibengre. The service is expected to transform the area into a tourism hotspot in the coming days.
The barge service, which had been operational for over a decade, was suspended several months ago after the old vessel broke down, cutting off direct connectivity between the two locations. This caused major inconvenience to residents and tourists alike. Now, with a new medium-sized barge built at a cost of Rs 5 crore under the department of ports and fisheries, operations have resumed, rekindling tourism prospects in the region.
The short 10-minute ferry ride between Hangarakatte and Kodibengre offers travellers a picturesque experience, with serene river views merging into the sea and breathtaking sunset scenes. The distance between the two points is barely 700 metres. Without the barge, residents of Kodibengre had to take a long detour of nearly 30 km via Kemmannu, Santhekatte, and Brahmavar to reach Hangarakatte through Airody.
Kodibengre has emerged as a popular tourist attraction, drawing visitors from across the state and beyond with its captivating Delta Beach. The spot, located at the confluence of the Sita and Suvarna rivers, offers a unique natural setting but has long faced connectivity challenges. The barge provides a safe and convenient alternative to boat travel, especially during the monsoon season when the waters turn rough.
The newly introduced barge can carry six to seven cars, about fifteen two-wheelers, and even a mini bus at once. Tourists arriving from Kundapur and Brahmavar can now board the barge at Hangarakatte, cross over to Delta Point, enjoy the scenic beauty of the Suvarna and Sita rivers, and then proceed via Kemmannu and Hoode to reach Malpe and Udupi.
The renewed barge service not only restores vital local connectivity but also boosts tourism in the coastal belt, enhancing Kodibengre’s reputation as one of Udupi’s most promising tourist destinations.