Now, experience the thrill of kayaking in the mangroves of coastal Karnataka

While Coastal Karnataka is known for beautiful beaches and majestic temples, mangrove kayaking is a growing attraction for tourists in the region (Express Photo by Jithendra M)

What began as an adventure by Mithun Kodi and his friend Lokesh quickly developed into Sails and More Adventures - Kayaking Point Saligrama in the backwaters of Seetha river in Saligrama village of Udupi district (Express Photo by Jithendra M)

Basking in the surreal beauty of the pristine nature while kayaking amidst mangroves is the best treat to the eyes (Express Photo by Jithendra M)

Kayaking starts at 6 am every day and goes on till 7 pm. Best experience of the ride will be better during the high tide as inflow of water from the sea is more (Express Photo by Jithendra M)

Tourists can experience both solo and tandem kayaks rides. Using solo kayaks are much easier because it only takes a few minutes to learn the basics of paddling. In tandem kayak, you’ll have to row along with another person or instructor (Express Photo by Jithendra M)

One need not be an expert to do kayaking. One just needs to follow the instructions that are given by the experts (Express Photo by Jithendra M)

Instructors and guides give visitors a demo. They provide introductory sessions on the basic techniques about strokes, basic control and the balance of the kayak. Each team is followed by a instructor during the ride (Express Photo by Jithendra M)

Ajith M, a tourist on a kayak said, "I am happy that this is finally happening in Udupi. The potential of tourism should be exploited. When you pass by areas which are covered by mangroves to an extent that even sunlight does not reach, there is a feeling of thrill. People enjoy boating in the backwaters of the neighbouring state of Kerala. But now they can enjoy this here.” (Express Photo by Jithendra M)

The cost of one hour for kayaking per person is Rs 300. "I think it's reasonable. Each Kayak has one guide with us and all safety precautions are there in hand. If we go boating in Madiwala Lake in Bengaluru, each person has to pay Rs 50 for half an hour. So here you are getting to see unexplored areas amidst thick tufts of mangroves. I feel the cost is very cheap," said Vidyashree, another tourist from Bengaluru. (Express Photo by Jithendra M)