Exploring Mangalore

City Information
Population : 7.4 Lakhs (approx.)
Area : 7,371 Sq.Km.
Languages : Kannada, Tulu, Konkani, English, Hindi

Places of Interest

a) Udupi/Malpe (St Mary’s Island)

Udupi is a divine shrine in the coastal region of Western Ghats. Situated about 60 kms from Mangalore, it is a fairly large and upcoming town that was sanctum of Madhvacharya, the great Sanskrit Philosopher. The famous temple here, has a fascinating idol of Lord Krishna that is richly adorned with jewels. It is the center for education, social and religious activities in the district of South Canara. It is known for the famous Sri Krishna temple. The reasons for its fame are the statue of Sri Krishna installed by the great saint Sri Madhvacharya and the penance and influence of Sri Vaadiraja yathivarenya. Another attraction of this temple is the ‘Kanakana Kindi’ -a small window through which Krishna is believed to have given darshan to his ardent devotee, Kanakadasa.

Malpe is 7Kms from Udupi and has a fishing harbour. The beach at Malpe is also good. St Mary’s Island is a group of Islands lying to a little north of Malpe.Totally uninhabited, St Mary’s has just a few coconut trees for vegetation but nonetheless there are quite a few things that one can do here. If you happen to the lazy type, you can spend relaxed moments watching the azure blue sea. And when it gets too hot, you can catch your proverbial 40 winks of sleep in those straw huts constructed by tour-operators. The hexagonal rocks in various shades: of black and red are certain to hypnotize the itinerant tourist and one can spend quite some time climbing the taller ones. You can put more than your big toe in lagoons created by these rocky outcrops. Or walk on the soft, sands with the waves gently caressing your feet. The islands hold out possibilities of being developed into a popular holiday resort.

b) Suratkal:

Suratkal is a small town on the outskirts of Mangalore and Famous for National Institute of Technology (NIT formerly REC). The beaches at Suratkal are worth visiting.
c) Panambur:
Panambur has wonderful view of the break waters, ideal for romantic walks at sun set and also a chance to watch ships up close as they attempt to dock into the harbour.Panambur is approx 8 Kms from City

d) Mangaladevi Temple:

Situated 3 Km Southwest of Mangalore City, this temple has influence on the name and importance of Mangalore. The word Mangalore is derived from Goddess Mangaladevi, the main deity of the temple. The temple built in memory of the princess of Malabar Mangale in the 10th century. The Goddess Mangale is worshiped as Shakti. The festival is celebrated during 9 days of Navaratri (October).