Discovering Mangalore: A 4-Day City Experience

  1. Day 1: Exploring the Historic Mangaladevi Temple
    Average travel time from Mangalore Airport: 30-40 min.

    The Mangaladevi Temple is a magnificent 9th-century temple located in the heart of Mangalore. This temple is an architectural wonder, adorned with detailed carvings, frescoes, and sculptures. Dedicated to goddess Mangaladevi Devi, this temple is believed to be one of the spiritual sources of the city. Visitors can witness the puja rituals and make offerings to deities. Few shops near the temple sell souvenirs and traditional garments.

  2. Day 2: Visit the Panambur Beach and St. Aloysius Chapel
    Average travel time from Mangaladevi Temple: 20-30 min.

    Located 13 km away from the central city, the Panambur Beach is one of the most popular tourist places in Mangalore. With its picturesque scenery, golden sands, and clear sea waters, this beach attracts visitors from across the country. Water activities such as Jet Skiing, Paragliding, and Banana rides are the most thrilling and encouraged by the local tourism.

    The St. Aloysius Chapel is a magnificent church and museum located in the heart of Mangalore, about 15 minutes from Panambur Beach. This church houses beautiful paintings from the life of St. Aloysius Gonzaga, accompanied by crafted marble floorings, and gold gilded dome over the building.

  3. Day 3: Journey to the Pilikula Zoological Park and Science Center
    Average travel time from Panambur Beach: 45-55 min.

    The Pilikula Zoological Park is a beautiful wildlife sanctuary that houses many exotic species such as the Bengal Tiger, Lion, Deer, and Reptiles. Apart from this, the park also has a botanical garden and a boating facility inside.

    The Pilikula Science Center located opposite the zoo, is an ideal place for kids and young people where they will learn and entertain through various interactive exhibits, digital planetarium, and a 3D theater. Moreover, the discovery and innovation center include various activities like rock climbing, virtual reality, and a rope course adventure.

  4. Day 4: Shopping at the Central Market and ending at Kadri Manjunath Temple
    Average travel time from Pilikula Science Center: 25-35 min.

    The Central Market is a buzzing hub, around the main city, consisting of a large cluster of shops selling fresh produce, vegetables, and handcrafted items. The market also has a separate area for fish and meat stores. In contrast, the roadside hawker's exhibit local antiques and famous "Udupi" dishes.

    Ending the day with the Kadri Manjunath Temple, approx. 6 km away from the Central Market. This temple is a magnificent 11th-century constructed stone temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, decorated with unique carvings and ancient sculptures. The temple's architecture style resembles that of a Buddhist temple.

Time and Cost Estimates

  • Mangaladevi Temple (1-2 hours, free admission)
  • Panambur Beach (2-3 hours, Water sports packages range from INR 1000-2000)
  • St. Aloysius Chapel (1-2 hours, INR 20-50)
  • Pilikula Zoological Park (2-3 hours, INR 60-200)
  • Pilikula Science Center (2-3 hours, INR 80-250)
  • Central Market (1-2 hours, free admission)
  • Kadri Manjunath Temple (1-2 hours, free admission)
  • Total Estimated Costs: INR 1160-2870

Useful Tips

Please note that some of the traveling/staying options may not be viable due to the current Covid-19 pandemic. The itinerary can be more extensive by visiting the nearby cities/towns like Udupi (58 km away) or Kasargod, Kerala (95 km away). For less number of days, the temples and shrines can be removed. However, the shopping and other listed activities provide a holistic Mangalore experience.

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