357 kms west of Bangalore is the district headquarters of Dakshina Kannada
- Mangalore.
With an important port, this coastal town is a major commercial centre.
Mangalore could be your entry point to Beach Country - with its virgin and
unexplored beaches. It has several famous pilgrim centres.
It is a cosmopolitan city, leader in more than one way in banking, private
entrepreneurship and in general awareness amongst people.
While in Mangalore try and see a Yakshagana performance - an elaborate
dance form unique to Karnataka. The Kambala (buffalo race) is another
exciting event.
A trip to Mangalore would be incomplete without a visit to the 10th century
Manjunatha Temple, St. Aloysius Chapel, Mangala Devi Temple, Tipu's Battery
and the Jumma Masjid. The Ullal Beach with Casuarina groves is another
attraction that draws tourists all through the year.
Prime
Attractions of Mangalore
- Yakshagana
No visit to Mangalore would be complete without watching the
'Yakshagana'. Its an elaborate dance-drama performance unique to
Karnataka. A nightlong event, with people adorned vibrantly and dancing
to the beat of the drums, 'Yakshagana' performance attracts hundreds of
people.
- Udupi
58 kms north, this town has the famous Krishna Temple with the Gold
Chariot. It is here that the Saint Madhwacharya lived and preached 700
years ago. The famous 'masala dosai' has its origin here.
- Karkala
Situated 52 kms north-east of Mangalore. The 452 it tall monolithic
statue of Bahubali and the St. Lawrence Church are the main attractions
here.
Excursions of Mangalore
- Maravanthe
110 kms north of Mangalore. Maravanthe has a scenic beach.
- Malpe Beach
66 kms north of Mangalore. The pristine beauty complemented by peaceful
surroundings, makes this beach a favourite holiday spot. The St. Mary's
Island, another delightful holiday hangout, is just a boat ride away.
- Kollur
140 kms north. The famous Mookambika Temple here attracts thousands of
devotees.
- Dharmasthala
75 kms east. This town is a unique example of communal harmony, famous
for its Manjunatha Temple. Every person who comes here, irrespective of
caste or creed, is welcomed and given a free meal.
Places to stay in Mangalore
- Cauvery International, Kulur Junction. Hotel Panchami, Near KSRTC Bus
Station.
- Circuit House, Kadri Hill.
- Hotel Siddhartha, URS Building, Kodialball.
- Hotel Wood Side, K.S. Rao Road
- Summer Sand Beach, Chota Mangalore, Ullal.
- Welcome Group Manjuran.
There are plenty of other hotels also in Mangalore.