Top 6 Tourist Attractions In Mangalore (Mangaluru)

One of the cleanest cities in India, Mangalore is an important business center and is known for its amazing beaches, seaports and a diverse culture. The region which contains Mangalore has been ruled by various dynasties and empires from the ancient times such as the Kadambas, Rashtrakutas, Chalukyas, Vijaynagar Empire, Portuguese and the British. The city gets its mention in the writings of the Arabian traveler Ibn Batuta in the 14th century as well. Being a historically important place Mangalore is a famous tourist attraction. Here’s the list of the best places you must visit in Mangalore.

1. Mangaladevi Temple

The city of Mangalore was known formerly by the name Mangalapur before it was anglicized by the British. The name Mangalapur comes from the deity Mangala Devi to which this temple is dedicated. The Mangaladevi Temple was established in the 19th century by the King of the Ahepa dynasty. The best time to visit the temple is during the Navratra before Dussehra when the festivities at the temple are at their peak.

2. Gokarnanatheshwara Temple

Dedicated to ‘Gorakhnatha’, another name for the Hindu deity Lord Shiva, the Gokarnanatheshwara Temple is a fairly recently built temple in Mangalore. The temple’s architecture however is more akin to the Dravidian style and features a golden colored gopuram which is 60 feet high and is decorated with stucco figures. The temple features some exquisite works of rock carving and sculpting and is a must visit during the major Hindu festivals.

3. Panambur Beach

The site of the new Mangalore port, Panambur Beach is located 13 kilometers from Mangalore. The beach is one of the sparsely crowded beaches in Mangalore and is the best place to go and relax. The beach is safe for secluded swimming and is a great place to relax and refresh your senses.

4. Surathkal Beach

Surathkal Beach is another pristine beach in Mangalore and is located 12 kilometers from the main city. The beach is known for its unique powdery sand which is really comforting while walking barefoot. The place is also known for its lighthouse that provides some great views of the ocean and the countryside.

5. Pilikula Nisargadhama

Located at a short distance of 15 kilometers from Mangalore, Pilikula Nisagadhama or simply Pilikula, is one of the most preferred picnic spots near the city. Located in the picturesque hamlet of Vamanjoor, Pilikula is a haven for nature and wildlife lovers. One can find several wildlife species inside the park including Tigers, Leopards, Bears and a variety of reptiles and snakes. Pilakula also houses a botanical garden, a cage less zoo, and a golf course within its premises.

6. St. Aloysius Church

St. Aloysius Church was built in 1880 by the Jesuit Missionary and is famous for its marvelous architecture and interiors. The church features paintings by the Italian artist Antonio Moscheni that cover most of the walls inside the chapel. The paintings feature the various saints in Christianity and are well preserved by a special committee that is also responsible for their maintenance and restoration.

While the city of Mangalore is a commercial and educational hub, it is also an important tourist town in Karnataka. The city’s diverse Udupi influenced culture and the various types of special Udupi cuisines are also worth checking out along with the abovementioned attractions that Mangalore houses.

Some More Tourist Destinations Of Karnataka:

• Must Visit Places In Coorg
• Must Visit Places In Agumbe
• Must Visit Places In Aihole