18 places to visit and things to do in Mangaluru

Someshwar beach (and temple)

Someshwar Beach is a clean beach with minimal crowd. If you go at around 5 am, you can see the fishing boats returning. Accommodation is easily available near the beach. There are several guest-houses available in the neighbouring village of Uchiha (Vazco guesthouse is the most popular).

A popular tourist attraction here is the Someshwar temple which was once a stronghold of Tipu Sultan due to its strategic location. It has a great view of the sea and to get there, one must take the Number 42 bus from the city centre and get down at Sankolige bus stop.

Ideal ice cream parlour (or Pabba's)

If you ask anyone in Mangaluru where to go for some good ice cream, you will get only one name, Ideal ice cream parlour! Ice cream lovers are in luck every time they find themselves in Mangaluru. One must try the "gadbad", a rich sundae with dry fruits. Other staples: the parfait, tiramisu (for chocolate/coffee lovers), dilkhush, and the yummy shakes.

There are multiple branches of this parlour, including Pabba's ice cream parlour, it has a different name but is run by the same family.

Milagres church

Amongst the other things to do in Mangaluru, the Milagres Church is worth a visit. Built in the late 16th century, the Milagres Church is the oldest Roman Catholic churches in South Karnataka. It is an ideal site in Mangaluru to spend time exploring. It is dedicated solely to the miracles of the Church of Our Lady. In recent times, the original Milagres Church has been restored by a beautifully built cemetery and chapel after its demolition by Tipu Sultan.

New Mangaluru port

The Mangaluru seaport is the 7th largest port in India. It is located in Panambur, Mangaluru, and is deep water, all-weather port. The port is a functional one, but what is really of interest to tourists is the easy accessibility to beaches. Tannirbhavi beach, Panambur beach are the ones closest to the port. Jami Mosque of Zinad Baksh is a place of worship that is another major tourist attraction. The Mangaluru seaport is famous for the easy route it provides to some of the most breathtaking beaches in the city.

Sammilan Shetty's butterfly park

Sammilan Shetty's butterfly reserve is spread across 7.35 acres of land in Belvai village. The place being encompassed by the Western Ghats has registered more than 150 species of butterflies, including some of the most rare and enticing butterflies in the world. The park escapade includes a guided field tour. The guided tour helps in spotting butterflies in their natural habitat and to top it off, a video presentation on butterflies and their life cycle is also available for visitors to watch. From June to November are the best months to visit the park. It is ideal to call and enquire before you plan your visit. Sammilan Shetty’s butterfly park definitely makes it into our list of the best things to do in Mangaluru!

Kudroli Gokarnath temple

To make your trip more fulfilling, one of the things to do in Mangaluru would be to pay a visit to the holy Gokarnath temple located 2km away from the main city. Consecrated by Narayana Guru, it is a temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple walls are graced with murals of various gods and goddesses from the Hindu epics and legends. Though the temple is almost always thronging with devotees, it is clean and very well maintained to provide a wonderful experience. Live performances are a frequent occurrence at the temple, with multiple points for prasadams. At the entrance, one can find devotees singing hymns.

Kadri Manjunath temple

If you are religious, do include the holy Kadri Manjunath temple in your 'Things to do in Mangaluru’ list. Situated in the heart of the city, Kadri Manjunath Temple is an ancient temple graced with the deity of Manjunath. The temple premises consist of pools where devotees can take a dip before darshan. Yogeeshwara mutt and Kala Bhairava temple are situated at the top of the temple steps. The temple premises have good parking facilities.

Bekal fort

Bekal Fort is an ideal site near Mangaluru to explore at your leisure. It is a majestic fort that was planned with precision and appears to emerge from the sea itself. It is situated in the state of Kerala but is an ideal getaway for tourists, hitchhikers, and picnickers from neighbouring territories.

NITK lighthouse

Your list of things to do in Mangaluru must include the NITK lighthouse. It is located on an untouched beach in Surathkal, a suburb of Mangaluru. It is around 25 kms from the city centre. The pristine sand is welcoming and it is a great location to watch the sunset.

Spice markets

Visit the spice markets for the best and freshest spices. In Mangaluru city, in and around the central market, you'll find the best pepper, coffee, and cashews.

St Aloysius Chapel

Buil -in 1885, St Aloysius chapel was an extension of the southern wing of the St Aloysius College built in 1882. It is a replica of the revered and renowned Sistine Chapel in Rome.

Spindrift (The Brewery)

Spindrift, the first brewery in Mangaluru, offers truly a delightful surprise for the beer lover in us! Spindrift provides a relaxing environment for visitors and travellers after spending an entire day outdoors, exploring the city. It is the most relaxing spot to have an awesome evening while grabbing your favourite beer and listening to great upbeat music.

New Taj Mahal cafe

This is a superb spot for a perfect date, both cheap and local. Breakfast dishes are an old favourite of the locals.

Pilikula Nisargadhama

Pilikula Nisargadhama is a prime tourism spot in Mangaluru. It consists of an open zoo that is houses wild animals such as tigers, king cobras and wild cats. The site is characterized by features of eco-education and tourism. A park is a classic place for people who love spending time amidst nature, and traversing the park is one of the most pleasant and calming experiences one could enjoy in Mangaluru. This place houses a botanical garden, golf course, science center, a mini aquarium, and a lake consisting of boating facilities.

Tannirbhavi beach

Tannirbavi Beach in Mangaluru is one of the most populated tourist spots in the coastal region of Karnataka. Other than the beach itself, the Sultan Battery, the Tannirbhavi Tree Park as well as the Marine Museum are popular tourist enticements. One can reach there via land near the Kulur Bridge or boat from the Sultan Battery that cuts across the Gurupur River. Essential utilities include lifeguards, proper toilets, parking lot, small eateries, and seating facilities.

Swami Vivekananda Planetarium

To have a peek into space and everyday science, it is an ideal place to spend a whole day here. Great place to visit for children and adults alike, a place for leisure and fun!

Mangaldevi temple

Mangaladevi Temple is a Hindu temple situated in Bolar, Mangaluru, about 3 km southwest of the city center. The temple is dedicated to the Hindu God Shakti in the form of Mangadevi. The temple has great historical significance and is believed to have been built in the 9th century under the auspices of Matsyendranaths, the most famous king of the Alupa dynasty, Kundavarman. According to another legend, this temple is believed to have been built by Parashurama, one of the ten incarnations of the Hindu God Vishnu and later expanded by Kundavarman.

Tips to make the most of your trip!

To make sure that you have made the most of your trip, among other things, make sure you check out adventure sports like stand up paddling, kayaking, surfing among other fun stuff that Mangaluru is famous for!
If you are a shopaholic, then make sure to visit shopping centers like the Hampankatta market, Seafood market, the Dubai, and Central market.
The city of Mangaluru has been incorporated in the Smart Cities Mission list. It has also been mentioned among the 100 smart cities to be developed in India. It's an awe-inspiring city, full of vibrant diversity.

Mangaluru is the only city in Karnataka to have all four modes of transport—air, road, rail, and sea, which is a total win-win for travelers who seek adventure at every step of their journey!
The fascinating city's landscape is permeated by rolling hills, rivers, and coconut palms.
The private bus service of Mangaluru (recognizable by its numbering and paint job) is the best way of travel if you are looking for an authentic city experience. However, you must be careful since it is quite hectic. Tourists may prefer hiring cars or two-wheelers instead.

Is Mangaluru worth visiting?

During ancient times, Mangaluru developed as a port in the Arabian Sea. 75% of India's coffee and cashew exports is captained by Mangaluru.
It is also the country's seventh-largest container port.
In contemporary times, Mangaluru is characterized to be a commercial, industrial, educational, healthcare and startup hub.
To experience how far the city has come, and all the things this city has to offer, one trip to Mangaluru might just not be enough!

During present times, the pandemic has restricted travellers and adventure lovers to venture outdoors. However, many hope that in the near future, the situation will ease up and allow tourists to enjoy the sunshine and heritage of Mangaluru!

FAQs

Q. What is Mangaluru famous for?

A. Breathtaking view of the mountain ranges and sea, amazing beaches, diverse culture, and seaports. Seafood is a big part of the diet here. Mangaluru is essentially known for being an important business center.

Q. What are the famous outdoor activities available in Mangaluru?

A. Visits to the holy temples, sitting by beach shores, watching sunsets and sunrise. Nature lovers can visit the Butterfly Park or Light House Hill Garden, and plenty of other places.

Q. How can I travel to Mangaluru?

A. Mangaluru is a 25-minute ride to the main city from the airport. Mangaluru is well connected to all major cities in India. Rail services are available as per convenience from all the major South Indian cities. Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) buses are also available for those looking for a bus journey.

Q. What is the best time in the year to visit Mangaluru?

A. Mangaluru, like any other port city, is subjected to humid weather. Best time for a visit to this city would be between September to April as one can expect favourable climatic conditions during this time. Monsoons make the Western Ghats quite treacherous and thus tourists are recommended to avoid travelling during those months.

Q. Does Mangaluru have a nightlife?

A. Spark up your night by visiting Surathkal beach and Panambur beach which has vibrant outdoor leisure and amazing pubs. Some of the must-visit pubs include Liquid Lounge, Froth on top and The Last Stop.

Q. What are the famous places to eat in Mangaluru?

A. Mangaluru city is a food haven for all the gastronomes. The most famous food spots are New Taj Mahal Cafe, Ideal ice cream parlour, Lighthouse Chaat, Shetty Lunch Home and many more.

Places to Visit in Mangalore | Best Places to See in 2024

by Avathi Outdoors | Things To Do

Table of Contents

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Geodesic Dome In Wayanad - Hipnoetic Stays

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Scuba Diving for Beginners at Havelock Island

Le Roma Gardenia Presents- The Boho Villa

Luxurious Vegetarian Resort near Bangalore Airport

Tambdi Surla Temple Visit near Mollem

1N/2D at a Cozy Homestay in Dandeli

1N/2D at an Enchanting Heritage Home in Murudeshwar

1N/2D at a Luxurious Wellness Farm Stay

1N/2D at a Weekend Retreat in Dandeli

Wilderness Hideaway

Charming Tent Stays in Gokarna

Tiny Cabins in Dandeli!

1N/2D at a Quaint Homestay In Dandeli

Waterman Training in Mangalore

Elegant Homestay in Vagamon

Jungle Night Safari in Goa

Open Water Scuba Diving Certification in Chennai

1N/2D at a Traditional Mud Hut in Bangalore

1N/2D at a Homely Farmhouse

1N/2D at a Naturistic Amusement Park

Beginners Rock-climbing(Top Rope)- Private Group

A Traditional Organic Farm Stay Near Bangalore

Single Day Scuba Diving in Pondi

Snorkeling in Goa

Stay at the Garden Boutique Stay

Early Morning Birding near Mollem

Divar Island Exploration

A Day Out at an Enchanting Nature Resort!

Bamboo Rafting through Forests

Cycle through the heart of Wayanad

1N/2D Cottage and Camping at Manga Lake View Farms

Luxury Tent Stays in South Goa!

Experience Farm Stay at a Pet-Friendly Farm near Bangalore

Chorao Chillout Mangrove Kayaking

Surfing Lessons in Pondicherry

Hike on the Mt. Ridges in Coorg

Stay in a French Heritage Villa

Scuba Diving for Beginners in Goa

Comforting Stay at a Gorgeous Resort in Havelock Island

1N/2D at the Mocha Estate

Luxury Nature Stay at an Island Resort

1N/2D at a Beach View Resort in Gokarna

1N/2D at a Rustic Homestay in Coorg

1N/2D at an Elegant Eco-Friendly Resort

Body Surfing- surfing without a surf board!

Riverview Homestay in Udupi

Kayaking to a Private Beach

Stay at the French Marigold Retreat

Flyboarding in Goa! Discounted Package!

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1N/2D at an Elegant Backwater Homestay

1N/2D at a Luxurious Hillside Resort in Goa

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Birding for Experienced Persons

The Christian Art Trail at Old Goa

Hike to the <3 Lake (Chembra Peak Range)

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A Day Out at a Food Forest Farm

Riverside Stay at Riverside Inn

1N/2D at a Charming Heritage Bungalow

Stay at the Chigarimala Nature Camp

River-facing Cabin Stay and Water Activities

High Rope Activities in Coorg Rainforest

Stay in an Egyptian Tent House

1N/2D at a Fun Nature Resort in Dandeli

Birding for Beginners in Coorg Forests

Lunch on the Sea

Discover Scuba Diving in Havelock Island

Elegant Stay at Backwater Stay in Coorg