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.
When to Visit Mangalore
Estimated hotel price
Mangalore in {1}
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 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.
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.