Situated 250 km west of Bangalore (now Bengaluru), the state capital of Karnataka, the coastal town of Mangalore (now Mangaluru) remains one of the prime tourist attractions in South India all throughout the year. Although Mangalore is known beaches, islands, temples and the sunrise and sunset points, you will be able to find many more interesting things in this coastal town if you are ready to explore. In fact, you can make Mangalore the base in the bid to explore the entire western coastline. Since Mangalore is well connected by air, road and railway network you can easily go out for sightseeing.
While you are on the move, food remains one of your major concerns for sure. When you visit Mangalore, be ready to serve served with delicious sea foods and other authentic Canara dishes which are simply mouth-watering to say the least. Now when you are in Mangalore, you must be prepared to face the tropical climate there. Although the mornings are not too hot and you can brave the sun, the evenings remain the best time to be at the beach and relax with an ice-cream while watching the sun disappear. So, if you are stationed in Bengaluru and looking for a weekend destination, Mangalore can definitely be your ultimate choice.
- The crime rate in this coastal town is significantly low. But keeping your eyes and ears open will indeed help you to avoid unwanted situations.
- It is better to stay away from touts.
- Flashing large amount of cash may not be the right thing to do especially when you are travelling. Using cards to settle your bills is a much better option. But if you need to carry cash then be careful when you take out your wallet or purse.
- Since it is a new place, never forget to turn on your GPS. The localities are extremely friendly. But, in case, if you found yourself lost, then do not hesitate to communicate with the local people.
- Language is not a barrier here. You can communicate in several languages which include English, Hindi, Malayalam, Konkani, Kannada, Tulu etc. So, if you think that you need some assistance then never hesitate to talk to the localities. They are friendly and will help you in the best possible way.
- If you need to hire tour guide then always choose a company or an agency which is well reputed.
- If you are a person who likes to explore a new place by his own then you must have ample knowledge about the place. So, firstly jot down the places that you want to visit. Then you a hire a bike or a can. If you are driving alone, then you must have clear idea of the traffic rules of Mangalore.
If you visit Mangalore but you fail to pay a visit to Ottinene Sunset Viewpoint then surely you will end up on the losing side. Situated about 125 km away from Mangalore, this place must top your ‘to visit’ list as Ottinene will serve you with unexplainable natural beauty. Located at the edge of a small hill with Arabian Sea right next to it, this viewpoint is one of the best places to witness the sun kissing the horizon. River Sumana merging with the sea right below the viewpoint adds to the beauty.
2. Kodachadri Hill
If you enjoy trekking, then you are bound to fall in love with Kodachdri hill. It is 160 km away from Mangalore and is well connected by road. From Kollur, you can hire jeeps that will take you up to Kodachadri (1300 m above sea level) if you are not comfortable with trekking. Once you reach the peak, you will be amazed by the beauty of the Western Ghats.
3. Kadri Manjunath Temple
If you visit Mangalore, you will see that the streets are filled with temples. The architecture portrays the skill of the craftsmen and once you see them you will remember them for a lifetime. Kadri Manjunath temple is one of the most famous temples in the city.
4. Ullal Beach
Visiting Ullal beach is a must when you visit this coastal city. Fishermen lanes and the stretch of coconut trees make this beach picturesque. The Abbakka Devi fort, the Jain temples and the dargah of Sayed Mohammed Shereful Madani are some of the key tourist attraction there.