Kastuntuniya (Kasthundi): A Hill Town in Coastal Karnataka

Location & Administrative Context

Kastuntuniya (also spelled Kasthundi) is a small hill town in Udupi District, Karnataka, South India. It lies adjacent to Hiriyadka in the Udupi taluk area and falls within Kundapura Taluk, where it constitutes one of the 58 hoblis (revenue circles).

Geographic Setting

• Region: Western Ghats foothills / coastal Karnataka transition zone.
• Climate: Tropical monsoon—heavy rainfall (June–Sept), moderate temperatures year-round.
• Landscape: Undulating hills, arecanut/coconut plantations, paddy fields, laterite soil.

Access & Nearby Centers

• Nearest Town: Kundapura (~15–20 km), a coastal hub with rail (Konkan Railway) and bus links.
• District HQ: Udupi (~40 km), known for Krishna Temple and cuisine.
• Major City: Mangaluru (~90 km), airport, port, medical/educational facilities.

Significance

Like many hobli centers, Kastuntuniya serves as a local administrative and market node for surrounding villages. The area is known for Yakshagana (traditional dance-drama), Kambala (buffalo race), and production of Udupi jasmine, cashew, and coconut products. Tourism is nascent, focused on homestays and Western Ghats trekking.