Introduction
What to do
Where to eat
When to visit
How to get there
Where to stay
Hiring a car
Local costs

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.

Article

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.

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.

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

Mangalore in August
Estimated hotel price
₹ 1090
1 night at 3-star hotel
Mangalore in August
Estimated hotel price
₹ 1090
1 night at 3-star hotel

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.

Data provided by weatherbase
Temperatures
Temperatures
Data provided by weatherbase

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.

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

CNNKannur Intl
IXEMangalore Bajpe
RQYShivamogga

Airlines serving Mangalore

Air France
Good (1,466 reviews)
Air India
Okay (2,926 reviews)
Qantas Airways
Good (877 reviews)
Virgin Atlantic
Good (655 reviews)
Air India Express
Okay (9 reviews)
IndiGo
Good (478 reviews)
SpiceJet
Okay (88 reviews)
Star Air
Find flights to Mangalore

Where to stay in Mangalore

Kankanadi - The southern part of Mangalore lies on the Netravathi River and features a lively flower market which is well worth visiting.

Popular Neighborhoods in Mangalore

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.

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

See all
Hotel Ganga Sagar
3 stars
Excellent (8.2, Excellent reviews)
₹ 1,117+
View
Goldfinch Hotel Mangalore
4 stars
Good (7.8, Good reviews)
₹ 4,129+
View
Hotel Citywalk Residency
3 stars
Good (7.4, Good reviews)
₹ 1,694+
View
Cosmo Lodge
2 stars
Good (6.9, Good reviews)
₹ 859+
View
Hotel Poonja International
3 stars
Good (6.2, Good reviews)
₹ 1,460+
View

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.

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.

Find car hire in Mangalore

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.

Cheap meal
₹ 81
A pair of jeans
₹ 2,883
Single public transport ticket
₹ 14
Cappuccino
₹ 108

Everything you need to know for your stay in Mangalore

Mangalore Travel Guide - View the KAYAK Mangalore city guide for the best Mangalore travel tips. To help you organise your Mangalore trip ideas, this Mangalore visitors guide provides travel information and trip tips about how to get there, where to stay, what to do, where to eat and more.