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Best Places to Visit near Mangalore

A beautiful town situated in the district of Udupi, Karkala is known for its beautiful historical landmarks. The massive Gomateshwara statue which is approx. 42 ft. in height is one of the major tourist attraction in the town. Karkala is considered to be one of the most important pilgrimage places for Jains which houses 18 Jain Basadis.

This small town worships all religions and has some exceptional creations of Churches, Temples and Mosques. One of the most famous religious sites is Ananthapadmanabha Temple which comes under the Archaeological Survey of India. Karkala offers an exceptional experience to its guests with its beauty, charm and stunning creations.

Location: Udupi District, Karnataka

Distance from Mangalore: 60 Kilometres.

Mudabidri or famously known as Moodabidri is a small Temple town located at Dakshina Kannada District of Karnataka. It derived its name from two words Moodu which mean East and Bidiru which means Bamboo. The town has extensive bamboo growth which gave it the name Mudabidri.

This place is famous for Jain Heritage which is still practised widely. The Saavira Kambada Basadi or The Thousand Pillars Temple is amid the most famous attractions in Moodabidri. It is a great place for tourists who are especially inclined towards spirituality.

The temples and churches are beautiful and a must see. Mudabidri celebrates festivities like Navratri, Mari Pooja, Hulivesh, etc. in full swing and being a part of these celebrations is fun.

Location: Dakshina Kannada District, Karnataka

Distance from Mangalore: 34 Kilometres.

One of the most famous places to visit near Mangalore, Dharmasthala is a beautiful small town which is known for its temple. The very popular- Dharmasthala Temple is famous for its religious importance and architectural grandeur. Amusingly, the admiration in the temple is run by the Jains and all the Poojas are done by the Hindu priests which clearly states the love and understanding between different castes.

This famous temple sees around 10000 devotes a day who come from every part of the world. Dharmasthala becomes one of the most preferred places during the months of November and December when it celebrates its most important festival- Lakshadeep. During this time, the whole town dazzles with lights and celebrate the festival in full swing.

Location: Dakshina Kannada, Karnataka

Distance from Mangalore: 75 Kilometres.

Located at the gorgeous surroundings of Western Ghats, Kukke Subramanya is a very famous temple which is devoted to Lord Subramanya. This beautiful temple is nestled at Subramanya village which is amid the most visited tourist places near Mangalore.

Being worshipped as the Serpents Lord, the Kukke Subramanya Temple witness thousands of tourists and worshippers from all over the world who come especially to take part in the Sarpa Samskara pooja in order to ward off their sarpa dosha.

The lush green forests and the overlooking Kumara Parvatha Mountain enhances the overall beauty of this temple. This mountain is among a famous trekking point for the trekkers. Truly a great place to explore which has so much to offer.

Location: Mardala - Sullia, Subrahamanya, Karnataka

Distance from Mangalore: 106 Kilometres.

Famous for the local Udupi cuisine and temple, Udupi is one of the significant places to visit near Mangalore. Founded by Vaishnava paragon Sri Madhavacharya in the 13th century, the Krishna Mutt is one of the most recognized hotspots in Udupi.

The local Udupi cuisine which is now found throughout the world was allegedly linked to the Krishna Mutt. It was the same dish which was offered to Lord Krishna every day. Now, the same Udupi food at Krishna Mutt is served free of cost.

The local architecture and Udupi cuisine take the limelight while you visit this beautiful and historically rich place.  

Location: Udupi District, Karnataka

Distance from Mangalore: 55 Kilometres.

If sun, surf and sand is your thing, then Maple is just right for you. One of the most favourite tourist places near Mangalore, Maple offers an exciting getaway to its visitors. This beautiful city is an important fishing place which is also a natural port of Karnataka coastline keeping it a busy place always.

Maple beach is amid the much-loved picnic spots due to its breath-taking views and cool sand and water. The island is made of volcanic rocks which makes it look very unique and beautiful. You can take a ferry to St. Mary's Island from Maple which is yet another must see place.

The swaying coconut trees and the pristine beach is a treat to your eyes. In all, Maple offers an ideal vacation to the beach lovers. 

Location: 6 Kilometres West of Udupi, Karnataka

Distance from Mangalore: 60 Kilometres.

A beautiful hilltop fortification- Jamalabad Fort is a popular trekker destination which has gained momentum in the recent past. Just a few kilometres away from Mangalore makes it one of the most sort after places to spend a weekend away from the hustle of city life.

The trekking trail to this fort is considered medium level and offers amazing views to the visitors. The scintillating sights of the nearby places from the hilltop are mesmerizing. A great place for travellers who wish to spend some quality time amidst nature.

Location: Killoor Road, Belthangady, Dakshina Kannada District, Karnataka

Distance from Mangalore: 65 Kilometres.

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Venur is considered to be one of the important pilgrimage tourist places near Mangalore for Jains. This small town is known to be a rich architectural piece which has gained a lot of popularity for its magnificent Lord Gomateshwara statue which is as tall as 35 feet. Venur has a prodigious historical and religious significance which has been attracting tourists from all over the globe.

Having one of the four known monolithic statues of God Gomateshwara in Karnataka makes it an even more important tourist destination to explore. This place offers peace and serenity for a quiet calm holiday.

Location: Situated at the banks of River Phalguni in Belthangady Taluk, Dakshina Kannada, Karnataka

Distance from Mangalore: 54 Kilometres.

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Also known as the very famous Suthanabbe Falls, the Hanuman Gundi Falls is a beautiful waterfall which vaunts of exceptional natural beauty. The waterfall has a height of 22 metres which is a treat to the eyes. It forms a mystical spray as it falls from such a height and covers the surrounding lush green area with its soothing misty cover

Hanuman Gundi falls is named after the Hindu Deity- Hanuman. The visitors can enjoy at this surreal place after climbing 400 steps. The site of the waterfall looks unreal and offers a perfect way to relax after the tiresome climb.

Location: Situated around Kudremukh National Park in Chikkamagaluru district, Karnataka

Distance from Mangalore: 79 Kilometres.

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One of the important places to visit near Mangalore, Kudremukh National Park is amid the largest national parks which is beautiful, blissful and immensely popular among the national and international tourists. Spread over a whopping 600 Kilometres, the park is covered with lush green vegetation, coffee and tea estates.

It is surrounded by hills which makes it an ideal place for trekking in Kudremukh. Kudremukh National Park is home to some endangered and rare species of birds like Malabar whistling thrush, Imperial-pigeon, Malabar trogon and the great pied hornbill. In all, it is a beautiful place to spend your entire day.

Location: Mudigere Taluk Chikmagalur district, Karnataka

Distance from Mangalore: 100 Kilometres

Built-in 1784 by the great Tipu Sultan, the Sultan Battery was Sultan's watchtower from where he would keep an eye on the enemies and fired cannons on them. It is a very famous tourist destination due to its rich history and the beautiful views it offers from the top.

The view of the Arabian Sea and the perfect blend of the manmade and natural excellence is simply stunning. A quick boat ride takes you to the destination. Hence, enjoy the sea, sun and sand while you explore the magnificence of our royal history.

Location: Sultan Battery Rd, Urva, Gandhinagar, Mangaluru, Karnataka 575003

Distance from Mangalore: 4 Kilometres.

Built during the 10th or 11th century, the famous Kadri Manjunath Temple located in Mangalore is one of the most famous temples in South India. This temple holds among the oldest Lord Manjunatha Swamy statues which is glorious and beautiful.

Kadri Manjunath Temple is an example of great artwork which reflects a perfect amalgamation of Indian architecture mixed with Buddhist effects. The surrounding landscapes and ponds give a refreshing look to the temple which is gorgeous and peaceful. So, while in Mangalore, a visit to this temple is a must.

Location: Kadri Temple Rd, Vasanth Vihar, Kadri, Mangaluru, Karnataka

Distance from Mangalore: 5.3 Kilometres

Someshwara Beach is one of the most beautiful beaches in Karnataka which is still unexplored and untouched. It is dotted with numerous big boulders and the nearby lush green area and lovely hills enhance the beauty even more.

The large rocks at the beach are called Rudra Shile that means rocks of Lord Shiva. The presence of famous Lord Shiva Temple- Someshwara Temple has earned it the Rudra Shile name.

Someshwara Beach provides a perfect getaway for visitors who wish to have a calm and composed holiday. The beautiful hills and swaying trees around soothes your mind and body. A stroll at the beach is truly relaxing and totally worth it.

Location: Ullal in Mangalore, Karnataka

Distance from Mangalore: 15 Kilometres from Mangalore City Centre.

The Panambur beach is one of the important places to visit near Mangalore as it is credited to be one of the cleanest and safest beaches in India. This beach is well known for its charming sunsets and lovely port which makes it to be a great spot for picnics.

The ships anchored in the sea looks beautiful in the evening and is a favourite place for photographers. The panambur beach offer activities like boating, jet skiing and chariot rides. Children can enjoy horse and camel rides on the shore. The food stalls offer local cuisine which is a must try. This place offers a complete holiday experience in one place.

Location: NH-66, Near New Mangalore Port Trust Panambur, Mangalore, Karnataka

Distance from Mangalore: 13 Kilometres.

Ullal Beach is considered to be the favourite beach of the Karnataka's government making it one of the most maintained beaches of South. This beach does not fail to mesmerize its visitors as its panoramic views along the coastline is stunning and surreal.

The complete coastline of the Arabian Sea is flanked with dense palm trees and tall swanky casuarinas which makes it look like a picture from a beautiful painting. You will love this place even more if you love water sports as this beach offers water sports like boat rides, water skiing and many more.

With so much to offer, Ullal beach is truly one of the great places to visit near Mangalore for a perfect family outing.

Location: Ullal, Karnataka 575020

Distance from Mangalore: 12 Kilometres South of Mangalore City.

The Kudroli Gokarnath Temple which is also known as the Gokarnanatheshwara Temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is one of the most beautiful temples in the South that is built in the Dravidian style.

The temple has golden coloured Gopuram which looks magnificent. It is 60 feet tall which is adorned with stucco figures, thereby enhancing the overall look.

The Kudroli Gokarnath Temple flaunts some exceptional sculptures and rock carvings that add more splendour to this temple making it one of the finest places to visit near Mangalore.  

Location: Kudroli, Kodailbail, Mangalore, Karnataka

Distance from Mangalore: 3 Kilometres from Mangalore City Centre.

Built during 1885, St. Aloysius Chapel is situated on top of the Light House Hill-Garden. This beautiful chapel is known for its striking architecture and frescoes which reminds everyone of the very famous Rome chapel- Sistine Chapel.

The paintings of Crowing of the Cock and other noble people at Chantry is stunning. The oil canvas compositions and the artwork of roof are surely going to hold your eyes. In all, it is one of the important tourist places to visit near Mangalore which ensures magical artwork and architecture.

Location: St Aloysius College Rd, Light House Hill-Garden, Mangalore

Distance from Mangalore: 1 Kilometre from Mangalore Railway Station.

Tannirbhavi Beach is an ideal place for a serene getaway in Mangalore. This gorgeous beach can be reached either by ferry through Gurupura river or by land via kuloor bridge. It offers complete bliss to the tourists as it is away from the city and not very crowded.

The calm blue-green water of the beach is a treat to the eyes. The surrounding greenery along the coastline of the Arabian Sea and the sight of the sun and sand is truly mesmerizing. The guests can enjoy some water activities like surfing, boating and jet skiing.

Tannirbhavi beach offers a calm and quiet holiday experience to the visitors which help to reboot and relax the mind and body.

Location: Near Fathima Church, Mangalore.

Distance from Mangalore: Kasba Bengre, Mangaluru, Karnataka 575010

Known to be one of the holiest temples in India, Kateel Shri Durgaparameshwari Temple is an ancient temple which is dedicated to Goddess Shakti. This temple is situated on an islet of river formed naturally in the centre of the river, thereby giving the name-Kateel which means in the centre.

The architecture in this temple is amazing and the surrounding river makes it look even more stunning. Truly a great place to visit during weekends and even during Navaratri when the entire town celebrates the festival eccentrically.

Location: Dakshina Kannada District, Karnataka

Distance from Mangalore: 26 Kilometres.

Known to be made during the 9th century, Mangaladevi Temple is one of the most famous temples in Karnataka which is dedicated to Goddess Shakti. It is believed that Mangalore got its name from Goddess Mangaladevi.

The architectural structure of this temple is made in Kerala style which is beautiful. Visiting the temple during Navratri is terrific. Hence, be a part of the celebration to experience an awesome time.

Location: Mangaladevi Road, Bolar, Mangalore, Karnataka

Distance from Mangalore: 3 Kilometres from City Centre.

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Built by Tipu Sultan and Haider Ali during the 18th century, light house hill garden is a beautiful tourist destination which has a lot to offer. This place has a gorgeous garden along the lighthouse which allows the tourists to enjoy the spectacular views of the sea and observe the continuous motion of the ships and boats.

The sunset view from this place adds on to the serene beauty of this place. While visiting the lighthouse, you may even see St. Aloysius Chapel which is very close to the hill garden.

Location: Hampankatta, Mangalore, Karnataka

Distance from Mangalore: 1 Kilometre from Mangalore Railway Station.

One of the perfect weekend destinations from Mangalore is Sasihithlu Beach which is a beautiful white sand blue beach. The perfect combination of sand and water makes it heaven to be especially if you wish to have a laid back holiday away from the crowd and noise.

The Sasihithlu beach is famous for fishing and the famous Karnataka Surfing Festival was done on the same beach. An untouched beach which has a lot to offer.

Location: Sasihithlu village, Karnataka

Distance from Mangalore: 22 Kilometres.

Home to almost 118 species of gorgeous butterflies, Sammilan Shetty's Butterfly Park is a heaven for the beauty lovers who find peace and happiness watching these winged beauties fluttering over trees, flowers and even on your shoulders.

This beautiful place is a manmade initiative to give a home to such attractive butterflies who wander without any kind of restrictions and cage. It is truly one of the best tourist places near Mangalore to explore and cherish forever.

Location: 13, Butterfly Park Road, Belvai, Karnataka

Distance from Mangalore: 40 Kilometres.

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