The coastal city of Mangalore has a plethora of sights that offer a fantastic insight into the culture of South Canara. These include some of its famed beaches, temples, and churches as well as spots that will allow you to soak in some of its many natural vistas.
Kadri Manjunath Temple, Kadri
Built in the Vijayanagara style of architecture, the temple was originally built around the 10th or 11th century. Dedicated to Lord Manjunatha Swamy, a form of Shiva, the idol is said to be the oldest in South India. The temple has roots in both Hinduism and Buddhism and has a fascinating mythological history as well.
Address: Kadri Temple Rd, Vasanth Vihar, Kadri, Mangalore, Karnataka
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Sulthan Battery, Urva
A watchtower built by Tipu Sultan that dates back to 1784, Sultan Battery is the place to head for a magnificent top view of the Arabian Sea. This is also the place to indulge in water sports and is best enjoyed in the evening when the sun is less harsh.
Address: Sulthan Bathery Rd, Urva, Gandhinagar, Mangalore, Karnataka
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St. Aloysius Chapel, Kodailbail
Built in 1885 by Rev Father Joseph Willy, the St. Aloysius Chapel is modelled as a replica of the Sistine Chapel in Rome. Located atop the Light House Hill within St. Aloysius College, the chapel is dedicated to Aloysius Gonzag. Take note of the arched ceiling, circular pillars, oil paintings on canvas on the ceiling, and paintings by Italian artist Br. Anthony Moschemi when you are here.
Address: P B No 720, P, B 720, St Aloysius College Rd, Kodailbail, Mangalore, Karnataka
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Tannirbhavi Beach, Kasba Bengre
A picturesque beach about 12km from the city centre, Tannirbhavi Beach has several trees that make the landscape picturesque. Head here before sunrise and you can enjoy the waters without the crowds. Also, visit Tannirbhavi Tree Park where you can see some species endemic to the Western Ghats as well as sculptures of the region. Water sports are popular at Tannirbhavi Beach.
Address: Kasba Bengre, Mangalore, Karnataka
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Pilikula Nisargadhama, Vamanjoor
If you want an insight into the culture, educational, and scientific aspects of Mangalore, the Pilikula Nisargadhama has all this and more within its integrated theme park premises. Encompassing 370 acres, there is a tropical forest, Pilikula Lake, Biological Park, Arboretum, Science Centre, Water Amusement Park, Golf Course, and a Heritage Village.
Address: Pilikula Road Mudushedde, Post, Vamanjoor, Mangalore, Karnataka
Website: https://www.pilikula.com
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Panambur Beach, Port Trust
Known for its beautiful sunsets, Panambur Beach is also known for being a safe and clean beach that plays host to an annual carnival. This is where you can enjoy horse and camel rides or if you are more adventurous, try parasailing, jet skinning, or ATV rides.
Address: Port Trust Panambur, NH 66, near New Mangalore, Mangalore, Karnataka
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Kudroli Gokarnanatheshwara Temple, Kodabail
Consecrated by Sri Narayana Guru for the Billava community in 1912, the Kudroli Gokarnanatheshwara Temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is located within a sprawling complex that has smaller temples around it. Look out for the murals dedicated to mythology when you are here.
Address: Kudroli, Kodailbail, Mangalore, Karnataka
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Kadri Park, Kadri
If you like nature and specifically flowers, head to Kadri Gudde to see Kadri Park. Children will enjoy the toy train ride here and there is also a play area for them. The cobbled path is great for walkers and runners. The park is also home to a musical fountain and hosts several flower shows as well.
Address: Kadri, Mangaluru, Karnataka
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Sammilan Shetty’s Butterfly Park, Beluvai
Before visiting Sammilan Shetty’s Butterfly Park, it is recommended you call as this is a seasonal butterfly reserve covering 7.35 acres in Belvai Village. There have been over 150 species of butterflies recorded here. The best time to make the most of this place is between June and November. A guided field tour is available.
Address: Santhadi house NH-169 Butterfly Park Road Mangalore, Beluvai, Karnataka
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Bejai Museum, Bejai
The Shreemanthi Bai Museum or Bejai Museum will take you on a trip down memory lane with its collection of ancient artifacts. There are several old idols, paintings, statues, lamps, and copper inscriptions here. Look out for the copper inscription with the verses of Keladi Venkatappa Nayaka, said to have been made in 1624 AD.
Address: Bejai, Mangalore, Karnataka
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Pilikula Science Centre, Mudushedde
Started by the Department of Science & Technology (DST), Govt. of Karnataka (GoK) and National Council of Science Museums (NCSM) Kolkata, Ministry of Culture, Govt. of India (GoI), this is where you can see interactive science exhibits in a 10-acre space. Check out the planetarium, exhibition galleries, exhibition hall, auditorium, 3D theatre, library, and conference hall. The Science Park outside has a Dinosaur Park too.
Address: Pilikula, Mudushedde – Post, Mangalore, Karnataka
Website: https://www.pilikularsc.com/index_eng.html
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Rosario Cathedral, Hampankatta
Believed to be the oldest church in Karnataka, the Church of Our Lady of Rosary of Mangalore is dedicated to Our Lady of the Rosary and is a Roman Catholic cathedral, a first of its kind in the South Canara region. The Miraculous Wooden Statue of Mother Mary is a must-see here.
Address: Hoige Bazaar, Hampankatta, Mangalore, Karnataka
Website: https://www.rosariocathedral.org/
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Holy Hill, Maroli
Built by Paul Rodrigues in 1993, this cross has an interesting story as it is said this was constructed when he had a dream where Jesus Christ instructed him to buy the land and erect the cross. Located on an elevation, you get to see the beauty of the city from here, and it is also known to be the site of many miracles.
Address: Capitanio School Rd, Maroli, Mangalore, Karnataka
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Infant Jesus Shrine, Bikarnakatte
The Infant Jesus Church has architecture and design inspired by biblical themes from the old and the new testaments. There are five huge columns, three doors, eight windows, five circular Krinklglas frames, and a stunning altar that reflect the architecture. An annual feast and festal mass are held in January when the place is abuzz with activity.
Address: House No. # 3-13-1246, Carmel Hill, St. Joseph’s Monastery, Kulshekar Post, Mangalore, Karnataka
Website: https://www.infantjesusmangalore.net/
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Sunset point, Bengre
If you take a ferry from Bunder old port, you can reach a scenic spot where the Netravathi and Gurupura rivers meet to join the Arabian Sea. The road route is for brave hearts. Bengre is a great site for stunning sunsets and the rocky landscape is a good backdrop for Instagram-worthy images.
Address: Bengre, Netravati River Area, Mangalore, Karnataka
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Sasihithlu Beach, Haleyangadi
Located 25 km from Mangalore, this is the point where the rivers Nandini and Shambhavi join the Arabian Sea. This is a serene location with a tree-lined beachfront that is great for taking a walk. If you have the time, head to the Mantra Surf Club located nearby for a spot of kayaking.
Address: Sasihitlu Rd, Haleyangadi, Karnataka
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Adyar Falls, Adyar
Located 12 km away from the city, Adyar Falls is a secluded waterfall amidst lush greenery. Check with the locals here who will guide you to the two falls that are 200 meters apart. This is also where you can see the Netravati River in all its pristine glory.
Address: 73, Road highway near Adyar, Mangalore, Karnataka
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Bindu Gopal Rao
I am a Bangalore-based writer and photographer who writes as a hobby. Passionate about the environment, I like birding and looking for unusual and local angles in destinations I travel to.
