Mangalore, located on the western coast of India, is a vibrant city known for its beautiful beaches, historical sites, and delicious cuisine. This 4-day itinerary will take you on a journey through the best that Mangalore has to offer, from exploring ancient temples to indulging in local seafood delicacies.
Before you start planning your trip, make sure to check hotel and flight prices on Kayak.
Wednesday, September 6: Exploring the Old City
Begin your trip by immersing yourself in the rich history of Mangalore's Old City. In the morning, visit the famous Kadri Manjunath Temple, an ancient temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. Explore its intricate architecture and serene surroundings. For lunch, head to Giri Manja's, a local favorite for authentic Mangalorean cuisine. In the afternoon, take a leisurely stroll through the vibrant markets of Hampankatta and buy some traditional handicrafts. In the evening, witness the beautiful sunset at Tannirbhavi Beach and enjoy a delicious seafood dinner at Machali.
Kadri Manjunath Temple: Free entry, approximately 1-2 hours
Giri Manja's: ₹500 (approx.) for lunch, 1-2 hours
Hampankatta Market: Free entry, 1-2 hours
Tannirbhavi Beach: Free entry, 2-3 hours
Machali Restaurant: ₹800 (approx.) for dinner, 1-2 hours
Restaurants
For a delicious breakfast, head to Pabbas Ice Cream Parlour. Indulge in their famous ice cream topped with warm pancakes. The average cost for a meal is about 100 INR per person.
For a scrumptious lunch, visit Giri Manja's. This local favorite offers authentic Mangalorean cuisine including delicious seafood dishes. The average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
For a memorable dinner experience, dine at Machali. Enjoy their fresh seafood delicacies while enjoying the stunning view of Tannirbhavi Beach. The average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
Thursday, September 7: Pilgrimage and Beaches
Start your day with a visit to the Mangaladevi Temple, a popular pilgrimage site dedicated to the Hindu goddess Mangaladevi. Experience the spiritual atmosphere and admire the intricate carvings. For lunch, savor some Mangalorean seafood at Gajalee. In the afternoon, head to Panambur Beach, known for its golden sands and clear waters. Enjoy various beach activities or simply relax. As the evening approaches, visit the St. Aloysius Chapel and marvel at its stunning frescoes.
Mangaladevi Temple: Free entry, approximately 1-2 hours
Gajalee: ₹600 (approx.) for lunch, 1-2 hours
Panambur Beach: Free entry, 3-4 hours
St. Aloysius Chapel: Free entry, 1 hour
Restaurants
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Ideal Cafe, known for their fluffy pancakes and crispy bacon. Average cost for a meal is about $10 per person.
Savor some authentic Mangalorean cuisine for lunch at Machali, offering a variety of seafood dishes bursting with flavor. Average cost for a meal is about $15 per person.
Indulge in a fine dining experience at Giri Manja's, known for their flavorful vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes. Average cost for a meal is about $25 per person.
Friday, September 8: Cultural Exploration
Immerse yourself in the rich culture of Mangalore on this day. Begin with a visit to the Ullal Beach, known for its tranquil ambiance and picturesque views. Enjoy a traditional Mangalorean breakfast at Shetty Lunch Home. In the afternoon, explore the stunning Mangalore Palace, a beautiful architectural marvel. As the evening sets in, attend a Yakshagana performance, a traditional dance drama unique to the region.
Ullal Beach: Free entry, 2-3 hours
Shetty Lunch Home: ₹300 (approx.) for breakfast, 1 hour
Mangalore Palace: ₹50 entry fee, 1-2 hours
Yakshagana Performance: ₹200 (approx.) per person, 2-3 hours
Restaurants
Shetty Lunch Home offers a delicious Mangalorean breakfast with dishes like idli, vada, and dosa. Average cost for a meal is about ₹150 per person.
For lunch, head to Gajalee Restaurant and try their authentic seafood dishes like fish curry and prawn masala. Average cost for a meal is about ₹300 per person.
For dinner, visit Machali Restaurant known for its mouth-watering coastal cuisines like chicken ghee roast and neer dosa. Average cost for a meal is about ₹500 per person.
Saturday, September 9: Nature's Delight
Escape the city and explore the natural beauty surrounding Mangalore. Start your day with a visit to the Pilikula Nisargadhama, a nature park that houses a zoo, botanical garden, and boating facilities. Enjoy a picnic lunch amidst the lush greenery. In the afternoon, journey to the serene Surathkal Beach and soak in the tranquility. As the evening approaches, visit the nearby Lighthouse Hill Garden and enjoy panoramic views of the coastline.
Pilikula Nisargadhama: ₹100 entry fee, 3-4 hours
Surathkal Beach: Free entry, 2-3 hours
Lighthouse Hill Garden: Free entry, 1-2 hours
Restaurants
The Seaview Cafe is a charming breakfast spot located near Surathkal Beach, offering a stunning view of the ocean. Enjoy a variety of freshly brewed coffees and tasty breakfast treats. Average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
For lunch, head to Gajalee Seafood Restaurant, situated close to Lighthouse Hill Garden. Indulge in delicious seafood delicacies, prepared using traditional Mangalorean recipes. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
In the evening, dine at Central Cafe Restaurant which offers a cozy ambiance and a range of Indian and Chinese dishes. Savor their popular biryanis and mouthwatering desserts. Average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
While exploring Mangalore, don't miss out on visiting the hidden gems and local favorites. One such place is Sultan Battery, an ancient watchtower that offers stunning views of the Arabian Sea. Another hidden gem is the Kudroli Gokarnath Temple, known for its unique architecture and serene ambiance. Make sure to try the local delicacy, Mangalorean Prawn Curry, at a traditional coastal eatery like Hotel Narayana.