Mangalore, a coastal town in Karnataka, offers tourists a diverse range of captivating experiences. From the grand Sultan Battery to the exquisite carvings at Kadri Manjunatha Temple, Mangalore beckons travellers to embark on a journey of exploration. As you stroll through its vibrant streets, you'll encounter spiritual havens, pristine natural settings, and markets bustling with authentic charm. Mangalore invites tourists to experience its culinary tapestry, immerse themselves in its historical marvels, and explore the unique fusion of modernity and tradition that characterises this stunning destination. Here are the best places to visit in Mangalore if you are visiting for the first time:
One of the best attractions in Mangalore, the Panambur beach is one of India's cleanest and most well-maintained beaches. The name of the beach is derived from the words "panam," which translates to "money," and "ur," which means place. Panambur Beach is renowned for its international kite festival, romantic sunsets, and lively carnivals, such as boat racing and sand sculpture contests. Several eateries around the beach make it easy to refuel before hitting the beach again.
Activities To Try: Jet skiing, camel and horse riding and dolphin sighting
Location: Port Trust Panambur, NH 66, Near New Mangalore, Mangaluru
Timings: 10 am to 6 pm
One of the most popular destinations in Mangalore for families is Kudroli Gokarnath Temple, also called Gokarnanatheshwara Temple. Built by Sri Narayana Guru, who was barred from visiting other temples in the area, this Mangalore temple is dedicated to Gokarnanatha, a manifestation of Lord Shiva. The temple's 60-foot-tall golden Gopuram has the characteristic Dravidian style of architecture. Throughout the year, thousands of worshippers travel from all over the nation to this ancient temple to offer prayers and ask for blessings.
Location: Kudroli, Kodailbail, Mangalore
Timings: 6 am to 9 pm
Sultan Battery, built in 1784, is all that remains of the fierce and majestic Tipu Sultan. It is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Mangalore for history buffs. Built of black stone, the tower was constructed to keep an eye on any invading ships near the Arabian Sea. There are canyons and underground chambers where the sultan stored gunpowder. Afterwards, the British took over this place and used it as a Naval Office.
Location: Sulthan Bathery Rd, Urva, Gandhinagar, Mangalore
Timings: 9 30 am to 7 pm
St. Aloysius Chapel is a catholic church located atop Lighthouse Hill. This peaceful church features many paintings from the fifteenth century. It offers the perfect environment for a moment of reflection and mindfulness. Another beautiful sight from the church's campus is the vista of the Arabian Sea. It takes approximately 16 minutes to reach the church via road.
Location: St Aloysius College Rd, Kodailbail, Mangalore
Timings: 9 am to 1 pm and 2:30 pm to 5 pm
The oldest Roman Catholic church in the Canara region, Rosario Cathedral, is among the most popular sites in Mangaluru. The cathedral, also known as the Church of Our Lady of Rosary of Mangalore, is well-known for its intricate interior design and architecture, particularly the stunning wooden statue of Mother Mary.
The present-day church's cross and dome can be seen for miles, and when lit at night, it serves as a landmark for fishermen returning to the port after dark.
Location: Hoige Bazaar, Hampankatta, Mangalore
Timings: 9 am to 5 pm (Sundays closed)
Often referred to as the Seemanthi Bai Government Museum, this two-story building with a ship-like shape is situated in the heart of Mangalore City. This museum in Mangalore offers a detailed insight into Indian history, tradition, and culture. It houses impressive collections of ancient coins, artefacts, weaponry, items of daily use, paintings, and sculptures. Built by Col. V.R. MIrajkar in 1955, the Bejai Museum is the only museum in the city and offers a fascinating slice of our history.
Timings: 10 am to 5:30 pm (Mondays closed)
Entry fee: Free
The Kadri Manjunatha temple, located at the base of the Kadri hills, is dedicated to the Hindu god Manjunatha. Its architectural style dates back to the 12th century in the Vijayanagara style. The temple was built in 1608 and has several prehistoric caves. Kashi Bhageerathi Theerth is a spring located behind the temple. It is believed that the water supply here originated from the Bhageerathi River in Kashi. Before entering the temple, devotees traditionally cleanse themselves with the waters of this spring.
Location: Kadri Rd, Vasanth Vihar, Kadri, Mangalore
Timings: 5:30 am to 1 pm
The airport at Mangalore, located around 18 kilometres from the main city in Bajpe area, has good flight connectivity to cities like Bangalore, Mumbai and Hyderabad. You can also board a train to reach the Mangalore Central Railway station.