Confused by many as the other name for Bangalore, the hilly city of Mangalore is actually located 357 kms from the capital of Karnataka on the Western Ghats. The city is believed to have derived its name from the famous Mangaladevi Temple located there. Mangalore is known for exporting coffee and cashew nut. Situated in the country's tropical region, Mangalore's weather is hot and humid during summer but becomes refreshingly cool during winters. Needless to say therefore, that winters are the best time to plan the Mangalore trip.

Accommodation and Connectivity

Mangalore figures in the air map of the country. The airport is located on the outskirts some 20 kms away. The Mangalore railway station, though small in size is located to the south of the city. But all trains on that route do not stop at Mangalore station. A few trains also stop at the nearby Kankanadi Station situated 5 kms east of Mangalore main city. Both government and private buses operate between Mangalore and nearby places of importance.

The various hotels and lodges of Mangalore offer good services to tourists to ensure a comfortable and memorable stay.



Tourist Attractions

Sultan Battery

As the name itself suggests, Sultan Battery built by Tipu Sultan is a big hit among tourists here. On the outskirts of Mangalore city, it was built in black stones by Tipu Sultan with an intent to prevent enemy warships from entering Gurupur river. Although the battery was built as a watchtower, the impression one gets is that of a miniature fortress.

Kadri Temple

Kadri is another place of historical importance.The beautifully built Kadri Temple has nine tanks. The square shaped temple is on the foot of the highest hill there. Many opine that the Lokeshwara bronze statue in the temple is the best available statue in the country.

Aloysius Church

An architectural marvel associated with Christianity in Mangalore is Aloysius Church. Paintings of famous Italian artist Antony Moshaini adorn the walls of the temple. St. Aloysius College Chapel is compared with the Sistine chapel of Rome. Every inch of the roof and walls of the chapel are covered with exquisite paintings.


Shri Sharavu Mahaganapathi Temple

Shri Sharavu Mahaganapathi Temple of Mangalore is actually a collection of temples of Sharavu, Kadri, Mangaladevi, and Kudroli. There is an 800 year old history associated with the temple. Another temple that has been renovated recently to attract more tourists is the Kudroli Gokarnath Temple situated 3 kms away from the main city centre.

Excursion Delights

Dharmastala
Located 75 km east of Mangalore, the place has a number of Jain temples including the famous Manjunatha Temple. There is also a museum that gives ample information about the temples and history of the place.

Venur

Venur is another place famous for Jain temples and the ruins of the Mahadeva temple.

Karkal

Karkal is a place famous for several important temples. There is also a 13 km high Bahubali statue. The statue was constructed in the year 1432. The statue is on a small serene hillock. A good view of the western ghats is available from the place.


The atmosphere of Mangalore always remains festive and joyful. The main festivals celebrated here are Dusshera and Janmashtami. Tiger Dance is a unique dance form of the place performed during Dusshera. Aati festival is another event exclusive to Mangalore. Along with many other Hindu festivals, Ganesh Puja and Navaratri are also celebrated with pomp and gaiety.