Kudroli Gokarnath Temple is a popular pilgrimage site in Mangalore and a must-visit for anyone interested in Hindu culture and architecture. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and features an impressive gopuram, intricate carvings, and elaborate rituals. Visitors should plan to arrive early to avoid crowds and enjoy the morning puja.
Talakaveri is the starting point of the river Kaveri, one of the seven sacred rivers in India. It's a serene location surrounded by hills and forests, and there's a temple dedicated to Lord Brahma at the site. Visitors can also take a dip in the nearby holy pond and enjoy hiking trails in the surrounding mountains.
Nandi Hills is a scenic hill station situated in the outskirts of Bangalore. It offers panoramic views of the surrounding countryside, especially at sunrise and sunset. There's also a 16th-century fort, Tipu Sultan's Summer Palace, and a scenic drive through winding roads. Visitors can enjoy paragliding and other adventure sports at the site.
Ramanagara is a popular rock climbing destination, thanks to its unique terrain of granite cliffs, boulders, and hills. Visitors can climb up to 350 routes with varying levels of difficulty, and enjoy the scenic surroundings of silk farms and paddy fields. The town is also famous for being the filming location for the Bollywood movie Sholay.
If you have extra time, consider adding a visit to the beaches and backwaters of Udupi, a mere 2-hour drive from Mangalore. Alternatively, you can explore the wildlife and tea estates in Coorg, a scenic hill station near Talakaveri. Those with less time can skip Talakaveri and proceed directly to Nandi Hills or Ramanagara from Mangalore.