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Mangalore is a lively seaside city in India, rich in culture and natural charm. With a wealth of things to do in Mangalore, guests will indeed have a fantastic experience. From beautiful beaches to historical sites and busy markets, Mangalore offers a variety of activities that cater to all interests. Whether you want to relax on the clean sands, explore old buildings, or enjoy local food, there’s something for everyone. Discover the best adventures and soak up the charm of this city.
10 Things To Do In Mangalore
Mangalore is a treasure trove of attractions that cater to various interests. Below are the top 10 things to do in Mangalore that you cannot miss.
1. Visit The St. Aloysius Chapel
Photo: Haydn Blackey / Wikimedia Commons
St. Aloysius Chapel, known for its paintings, is a must-visit landmark in Mangalore. Built in the late 19th century, the church boasts gorgeous artwork made by Italian artist Antonio Moscheni, which covers its walls and ceilings. The meticulous details and bright colours tell bible stories, making it an artistic wonder. A stop here allows you to enjoy the artistry and provides insight into the region’s historical and religious importance. It’s one of the best things to do in Mangalore for art and history fans.
Ideal Duration: 1 hour
Timings: 6 AM – 7 PM
Location: St. Aloysius College Campus, Light House Hill Road
2. Explore The Panambur Beach
Photo: Raghavan2010 / Wikimedia Commons
Panambur Beach is one of the most famous beaches in Mangalore, giving a wonderful mix of rest and action. Known for its clean sands and soft waves, it’s an ideal spot for relaxing, swimming, and water sports. The beach is also famous for its colourful sunsets, making it a pleasant break. You can enjoy local snacks from the beach shacks, or walk along the shore while enjoying the seaside scenery. This beach is a top Mangalore attraction for locals and tourists.
Ideal Duration: 2 – 3 hours
Timings: 24*7
Location: Panambur, Mangalore
3. Visit Kadri Manjunath Temple
Photo: Vaikoovery / Wikimedia Commons
Kadri Manjunath Temple is a respected Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, known for its rich past and beautiful architecture. The temple goes back to the 10th century and is adorned with sculptures and detailed paintings. The calm setting and green surroundings make it a peaceful place for thought and reflection. The temple’s unique mix of Indo-Saracenic design is a feast for the eyes. Exploring Kadri Manjunath Temple is one of the most sacred things to see in Mangalore, showing the city’s cultural history.
Ideal Duration: 1 – 2 hours
Timings: 6 AM – 1 PM, 4 PM – 8 PM
Location: Kadri, Mangalore
4. Stroll Through The Mangalore Market
Photo: Pexels / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only
For an authentic local experience, walking through the busy Mangalore market is a must. The market is a lively hub of activity, giving a visual explosion of sights, sounds, and smells. There are various goods here, from fresh fruits and veggies to sauces, textiles, and art. Engaging with friendly local sellers adds a human touch to your buying experience. Remember to try the delicious street food, showing Mangalore’s culinary wonders, such as hot snacks and cool drinks. The lively atmosphere and coloured shops make this market an excellent spot to soak in the local culture.
Ideal Duration: 1 – 2 hours
Timings: 6 AM – 8 PM
Location: Near Central Market, Mangalore
5. Enjoy The Sunset At Surathkal Beach
Photo: Raghavan2010 / Wikimedia Commons
Surathkal Beach is a secret gem with a perfect calm and natural beauty mix. Known for its soft golden sands and clear blue seas, this beach is less busy than other famous beaches, making it an ideal break for relaxing. Surathkal Beach is also home to an ancient tower that adds to its charm. Visitors can enjoy leisurely walks along the shore, soak up the sun, or engage in beach sports. Experiencing the attractiveness of Surathkal Beach is one of the best things to do in Mangalore, offering a peaceful escape for nature lovers and photographers alike.
Ideal Duration: 2 hours
Timings: 24*7
Location: Surathkal, Mangalore
6. Visit The Sultan Battery
Photo: Athulvis / Wikimedia Commons
Sultan Battery, an old watchtower, is a historical icon that offers fantastic views of the Arabian Sea and the nearby scenery. Constructed by Tipu Sultan in the 17th century, this fortress served as a vital point for shoreline defence. The building is made of black stones and includes gun holes, adding to its historical importance. Today, Sultan Battery is a famous spot for tourists looking to study Mangalore’s rich past while enjoying its panoramic loveliness. The nearby grounds provide a lovely place for meals and quiet walks.
Ideal Duration: 1 hour
Timings: 6 AM – 7 PM
Location: Sultan Battery, Mangalore
7. Discover The Tannirbhavi Beach
Photo: Aviator423 / Wikimedia Commons
Tannirbhavi Beach is another seaside location in Mangalore, offering an ideal break for beach lovers. Known for its quiet and less developed atmosphere, this beach features soft sands and gentle waves, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, or resting. The thick palm trees lining the beach provide shade and add to the beautiful scenery. Tannirbhavi Beach is also an excellent spot for relaxing lunch or watching the sunset. Witnessing this secret gem is among the best things to do in Mangalore, offering a peaceful escape for those wanting comfort by the sea.
Ideal Duration: 2 – 3 hours
Timings: 24*7
Location: Tannirbhavi, Mangalore
8. Explore The Pilikula Nisargadhama
Photo: Athulvis / Wikimedia Commons
Pilikula Nisargadhama is a vast eco-park that blends nature, excitement, and education, making it an enjoyable location for children. The park offers a zoo, a water park, and a golf course, giving a range of activities for all ages. Visitors can discover the rich wildlife through its well-maintained grounds and animal areas. The water park provides fun-filled entertainment for children and adults alike, while the calm settings make it ideal for picnics and nature walks. Pilikula Nisargadhama allows families to spend quality time together while enjoying nature and wildlife.
Ideal Duration: 3 – 4 hours
Entry Fee: ₹50 for adults, ₹30 for children
Timings: 10 AM – 5:30 PM
Location: Pilikula, Mangalore
9. Attend A Local Festival
Photo: Krock1211 / Wikimedia Commons
Mangalore is lively and has cultural variety, holding events throughout the year that showcase its rich customs. Local events such as Mangaluru Dasara and Karavali Utsava allow tourists to immerse themselves in the local culture. These events feature bright parades, traditional dances, music, and delicious regional food, creating an electric atmosphere. Engaging with locals during these events offers insight into Mangalore’s history and community spirit. Whether it’s the holiday lights, the rhythmic beats of traditional music, or the delicious smells from food stalls, visiting a fair is one of the best things to do in Mangalore.
Ideal Duration: Varies
Timings: Varies by event
Location: Various locations in Mangalore
10. Visit The NITK Lighthouse
Photo: Fab_photos / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only
The NITK Lighthouse, located near the National Institute of Technology Karnataka, is an attractive building that gives a unique view of Mangalore’s seaside beauty. Climbing to the top awards tourists with sweeping views of the Arabian Sea and the nearby surroundings, making it a popular spot for picture fans. The quiet atmosphere surrounding the lighthouse is ideal for peaceful walks and thought. Visiting the NITK Lighthouse is one of the most lovely things to do in Mangalore, giving both a glimpse into marine history and stunning views of the shoreline.
Ideal Duration: 1 hour
Timings: 10 AM – 5 PM
Location: NITK, Surathkal, Mangalore
Mangalore is a captivating city that blends history, culture, and natural beauty seamlessly. With its array of attractions, there are countless things to do in Mangalore for every type of traveller. Whether you’re wandering through ancient temples or relaxing on serene beaches, you’ll find experiences that will be in your memory long after. Plan your trip with TripXL for an amazing experience and uncover this coastal paradise’s hidden gems.
Cover Photo: Premkudva / Wikimedia Commons
