Mangalore travel guide
Mangalore Tourism | Mangalore Guide
You're Going to Love Mangalore
A popular jumping off point for cruises along India's gorgeous Konkan Coast, Mangalore is a thriving business center that is packed with temples and fine dining options.
Top 5 Reasons to Visit Mangalore
1. The Glorious Coast of Karnataka
For most visitors, Mangalore is a gateway to the beaches of Karnataka. Stay in a Mangalore hotel, rent a car and you can head to blissful spots like Malpe or Kapu Beach.
2. Beautiful Temples
Named after the goddess Mangaladevi, Mangalore was a major religious center under the Mysore Sultans and the British Raj. Today, you can tour lavish temples like Urwa Marigudi and the Kudroli Gokarnanatha.
3. Visit the Jungles of the Western Ghats
A beautiful string of forested mountains with UNESCO protected status, the nearby Western Ghats are a sublime place to hike.
4. Fun Family Attractions Near the City
Mangalore offers plenty for families, including the rides and games at Pilikula Nisarga Dhama and Kadri Hill Park, a well-managed urban zoo.
5. Superb Udupi Cuisine
Southern Indian food revolves around seafood, dosa pancakes and coconut, and you can explore it in style at Mangalore restaurants like Taj Mahal.
What to do in Mangalore
1. This Saint Your Everyday Chapel
Situated on Lighthouse Hill in the center of Mangalore, St. Aloyius Chapel is much more than just a church attached to the city's premier school. Built in 1880 by Jesuit priests, the chapel was intended to be a vivid expression of Catholic art and creativity. It may not have won everyone over to Christ, but the result was a stunning interior shot through with gold and exquisite paintings, most of which depict the life of St Aloysius himself. The work of two years to create, these paintings are some of the most impressive Jesuit creations of the 19th century.
2. A Brilliant Billava Creation
Located in the Kudroli neighborhood next to the Gurupura River, the Gokarnanatheshwara Temple was constructed as recently as 1912, but outdoes almost all of Mangalore's other Hindu sites in terms of sheer magnificence and scale. The temple isn't just a Hindu institution. It's a center for the Billava ethnic group - once downtrodden, but now on the up. And you can sense that confidence in the splendid design. Although it's an incredible sight at any time, the temple is best seen at night, when the whole complex is illuminated in spectacular fashion.
3. Cool Off In The Karnataka Sunshine
The coast of Karnataka has plenty of beaches to choose from, and fortunately for visitors to Mangalore, Ullal is one of the very best. Located around 5 miles south of the city center, it features golden sand, swimmable waters, and a shoreline that's green and beautiful, yet still somehow packed with bars and restaurants. There are also some bonus historical attractions near the beach, such as the fort of Rani Abbakka Chowta, who fought the Portuguese in the 16th century. But above all, this is a place to relax and unwind.
4. Another Jesuit Gem
Mangalore is well-favored in terms of Christian architecture, more so than almost any other Indian city, and the Cathedral of Rosario is another masterpiece. It's also remarkably ancient, having been erected by the Portuguese colonial state in 1568. After that, it became the favorite place of worship for high caste locals, before being remodeled in 1910. Thankfully, the rebuilding was carried out skillfully by Jesuit experts, who sought to recreate St Peters in an Indian setting, with surprising success.
5. A Towering Monument To Tipu's Determination
Constructed in 1784 by Tipu Sultan ("the Tiger of Mysore") as he battled against the British East India Company, you'll find this impressive remnant in Boloor, around 3 miles from the center of Mangalore. Tipu chose to demonstrate his power by using stones from the region's churches, and tried to use the bastion to beat back British warships as they assaulted his kingdom. These days, the tower remains, providing exceptional views across the Arabian Sea, and a poignant reminder of one man's resistance.
1. This Saint Your Everyday Chapel
Situated on Lighthouse Hill in the center of Mangalore, St. Aloyius Chapel is much more than just a church attached to the city's premier school. Built in 1880 by Jesuit priests, the chapel was intended to be a vivid expression of Catholic art and creativity. It may not have won everyone over to Christ, but the result was a stunning interior shot through with gold and exquisite paintings, most of which depict the life of St Aloysius himself. The work of two years to create, these paintings are some of the most impressive Jesuit creations of the 19th century.
2. A Brilliant Billava Creation
Located in the Kudroli neighborhood next to the Gurupura River, the Gokarnanatheshwara Temple was constructed as recently as 1912, but outdoes almost all of Mangalore's other Hindu sites in terms of sheer magnificence and scale. The temple isn't just a Hindu institution. It's a center for the Billava ethnic group - once downtrodden, but now on the up. And you can sense that confidence in the splendid design. Although it's an incredible sight at any time, the temple is best seen at night, when the whole complex is illuminated in spectacular fashion.
3. Cool Off In The Karnataka Sunshine
The coast of Karnataka has plenty of beaches to choose from, and fortunately for visitors to Mangalore, Ullal is one of the very best. Located around 5 miles south of the city center, it features golden sand, swimmable waters, and a shoreline that's green and beautiful, yet still somehow packed with bars and restaurants. There are also some bonus historical attractions near the beach, such as the fort of Rani Abbakka Chowta, who fought the Portuguese in the 16th century. But above all, this is a place to relax and unwind.
4. Another Jesuit Gem
Mangalore is well-favored in terms of Christian architecture, more so than almost any other Indian city, and the Cathedral of Rosario is another masterpiece. It's also remarkably ancient, having been erected by the Portuguese colonial state in 1568. After that, it became the favorite place of worship for high caste locals, before being remodeled in 1910. Thankfully, the rebuilding was carried out skillfully by Jesuit experts, who sought to recreate St Peters in an Indian setting, with surprising success.
5. A Towering Monument To Tipu's Determination
Constructed in 1784 by Tipu Sultan ("the Tiger of Mysore") as he battled against the British East India Company, you'll find this impressive remnant in Boloor, around 3 miles from the center of Mangalore. Tipu chose to demonstrate his power by using stones from the region's churches, and tried to use the bastion to beat back British warships as they assaulted his kingdom. These days, the tower remains, providing exceptional views across the Arabian Sea, and a poignant reminder of one man's resistance.
Where to Eat in Mangalore
For top-quality southern Indian cuisine, head to Udipi restaurants like Taj Mahal or the Hotel Ayodhya, while Gajalee is a great seafood restaurant and Sagar Ratna is a wonderful vegetarian option. Meals shouldn't cost more than RS400 per head.
When to visit Mangalore
The best weather conditions for sightseeing in Mangalore probably stretch from late September to February, following the monsoon and before the onset of the extremely hot summer season.
How to Get to Mangalore
Plane
Mangalore International Airport has plenty of links to other Indian airports. KSRTC runs buses from the airport to the city center. Expect a taxi to cost around RS400.
Train
Trains from Mumbai and other major cities stop at Mangalore Junction, around 3 miles outside the center.
Car
Highway 75 runs from Bangalore, while travelers coming from Mumbai can take coastal Highway 66.
Bus
Pragathi Tourist Corporation, Adinatheshwara Roadlines and Sri Durga Motors run buses into Mangalore. Expect to pay around RS450 to travel from Bangalore.
Airports near Mangalore
Airlines serving Mangalore
Where to stay in Mangalore
Some of Mangalore's standout accommodation options include the modern Goldfinch Hotel, the Gateway Hotel Old Port Road and the reliable Hotel Deepa Comforts.
Popular neighbourhoods in Mangalore
Kankanadi - The southern part of Mangalore lies on the Netravathi River and features a lively flower market which is well worth visiting.
Attavar - Attavar is where you'll find the central train station, along with many of the best hotels.
Hampankatta - The place to head for dining options, Hampankatta is home to restaurants like Malabar, Kairali and Sagar Ratna.
Where to stay in popular areas of Mangalore
Most booked hotels in Mangalore
How to Get Around Mangalore
Public Transportation
A range of bus companies serve the various neighborhoods in Mangalore, which can get a little confusing. Ask around to make sure you have the right bus. When you find the correct route, expect to pay RS5 per journey.
Taxi
Autorickshaws ply the central streets of Mangalore and prices start at RS25. If you need a proper taxi, expect to pay around RS25 for the meter drop, followed by RS35 per mile.
Car
If you want to see the coast or the Ghats, you can rent a car from local companies like Car4Hires, Zoomcar or Adithya for around RS400 per day.
The Cost of Living in Mangalore
Shopping Streets
Mangalore has a huge selection of modern malls, including city center complexes in Hampankatta and Balmatta and the Bharath Mall, which hosts major international chains like Levi's and Subway.
Groceries and Other
Local supermarkets include SPAR, More and Reliance Fresh. Expect to pay around RS130 for a gallon of milk.