St Mary's Islands

About

A short ferry ride from Malpe Beach takes you to one of the most unusual landscapes in India. St. Mary's Islands are a group of four small uninhabited islands located about 6 km off the Udupi coast, best known for their striking hexagonal basalt rock formations that look almost too perfect to be natural. These geometric columns were formed around 88 million years ago by volcanic activity, when the Indian subcontinent was still connected to Madagascar. Similar formations can be seen at the famous Giant's Causeway in Northern Ireland, making St. Mary's Islands one of the few places in India where visitors can witness this rare geological phenomenon up close. The islands are also linked to one of the most significant moments in world history. According to local accounts, Vasco da Gama stopped here in 1498 during his voyage to India and named the islands after St. Mary. Whether you're interested in geology, history, photography, or simply beautiful coastal scenery, the islands offer a fascinating mix of all three. Walking along the shoreline, you'll find towering basalt columns rising from the sand, crystal-clear waters lapping against the rocks, and panoramic views of the Arabian Sea in every direction. The islands remain largely untouched, with no permanent settlements, adding to their wild and remote feel.