Mangalore is Karnataka’s own, but this port city has a special charm that makes it stand out from other cities.  With its port history, Mangalore has been exposed to western culture for centuries and it is quite evident in the city’s social infrastructure.  Known for its pristine beaches, diverse traditions and serene localities, this city will easily stir up the wanderlust in any discerning traveller.  Rich with historical landmarks, it is not easy to see Mangalore in a day, but there are a few places you must visit while you are in the city.

Mangalore offers much to your heart’s content in terms of spirituality, be it churches, temples or mosques. The most famous of them is the Kudroli Gokarnath Temple. It’s best to start your trip with a visit to this architectural wonder. The temple, known to have been consecrated by Narayana Guru, celebrates Dussehra in a spectacular manner. Lord Shiva is the main deity of the temple. If you have some spare time, check out Kadri Manjunath Temple, St. Aloysius Chapel and Someshwara Temple.

Kudroli Gokarnath Temple

Ode to Nature
If spirituality is not your thing you can skip temples and head straight to Pilikula Nisargadhama, an eco-education and tourism development project by the government of Karnataka, to indulge in some nature time. It’s a beautiful wildlife sanctuary that houses a biological park, arboretum, a science centre, a lake park with a boating centre, an amusement park and a golf course.

Eating Corners
If you have worked up an appetite with all that walking, then do indulge in some local delicacies such as Mangalore buns, goli bajje and podis at Woodlands (Bunts Hostel Road), an old yet popular restaurant in the city.  You can also plan a sumptuous lunch at ‘Village’ (Airport road)– a restaurant known for its seafood specialties.  Their neer dosa, silverfish rava fry, crab masala fry, chicken ghee roast and chicken kundapuri are to die for. Do not miss the ice creams at Ideals or Pabbas (multiple locations).

Mangalore Food

Shopaholic’s Guide
If you thought Mangalore has nothing much to offer in the shopping department, you are misinformed! The city has many big malls including City Centre Mall, located right in the midst of the city. If you prefer street shopping to malls you can take a walk from Milagres bus stop to KS Rao Road and find everything you are looking for! Also check out Dubai Market for some interesting buys.

The New Port
The trip to Mangalore would not be complete without paying a visit to the port. Squeeze in some time for seeing the new Mangalore port as it is a testimony to the rich trading history of Mangalore. The new port is the 9th most important port in India. It is around 7 km away from Surathkal Railway Station.

Mangalore Beach

Breathtaking Beaches
Surathkal Beach is where the locals come after a day’s work. There’s no better place to spend an evening in Mangalore other than this beach. Here, you can watch the sunset and unwind while sipping a cold drink.

If you would like to live by the bay and enjoy the Mangalorean way of life, do have a look at Provident Skyworth located in Mangalore.