Mangalore - The Coastal Gem of Karnataka
Mangalore is a major port city in the state of Karnataka in India. It is between the Western Ghats and the Arabian Sea and is some 353 km from the capital city of the state. It is the state's second-largest and most intelligent city, after Bangalore, the capital. It is known to be the gateway of Karnataka. The Mangalore district became a part of the Arabian Sea in ancient times, and soon, it became a major seaport for the nation. The significant exports of coffee and cashews take place only from the city. It is one of the most multicultural cities in India.
History of Mangalore
The history of Mangalore can be traced to the 3rd century BC when it was ruled by the great Ashoka, a Mauryan Emperor. Soon, it came under the rule of the Kadamba Dynasty, which ruled from the 3rd to 6th century BC. The Kadambas made Banavasi their capital, which came under North Canara. Then, the Alupa Rulers ruled the entire South Canara region from the 7th to 14th century. They were also the feudal rulers and administered the other dynasties such as Chalukyas of Badami, Chalukyas of Kalyani, Hoysalas of Dwarasamudra, and Rashtrakutas of Manyakheta. It was also when the Tunisian Jewish merchant Abraham Ben Yiju travelled to India to visit the Middle East. In 1345, the region came into the hands of Vijayanagar rulers and ruled the area till 1550.
European Rule
1498 BC was the time when the famous Portuguese explorer entered the land of Mangalore while making his first visit to St Mary’s Island. Till the 16th century, the Portuguese made a great name in the commercial industry (with the opponent's Arab and Moplah trade) in Canara while maintaining a cordial relationship with Krishnadevarya (the then ruler). Portugues were in a cold war with Arab Trades and continued with that. However, the Portugues won over Arab trade. Somehow, during the ruling dynasty of Keladi. However, the Arabs Trade was ready to retaliate in 1695.
Mughal Rule
The Muslim ruler Hyder Ali marked his existence and rule from 1763 until 1767. Then, it came under the rule of the British East India Company (1767-1783). Also, several battles and agreements happened between the opponents, such as the First Anglo-Mysore War, the Second Anglo-Mysore War, the Third Anglo-Mysore War, and the Fourth Anglo-Mysore War. During the fourth Anglo-Mysore War, the region came under the control of the British.
Ibn Battuta travelled Mangalore
The famous Moroccan traveller Ibn Battuta visited Mangalore in 1342 and named the region “Manjarur.” He mostly explained the natural beauty of Mangalore, mentioning that it was located on an estuary that was also the largest in the Malabar region.
Ludovico di Varthema travelled Mangalore
Famous Italian traveller Ludovico di Varthema also roamed around Mangalore during 1506. Apart from mentioning the scenic beauty of Mangalore, he also stated the well-established sail industry wherein rice was the prominent article for the sail.
Major Attractions in and Around Mangalore
Bangalore is famous for its tourist attractions. So, without waiting any further, scroll down and add the places in your Mangalore’s to-do list:
1. Kudroli Gokarnath Temple
Built by Sri Narayana Guru, the Kudroli Gokarnath Temple is one of the famous places to visit in Mangalore. It has an amazing charm and spiritual significance. What is somewhat interesting about this place is that Sri Narayan Guru himself was prohibited from visiting any other temple in the area.
2. Panambur Beach
The beach is one of the famous Bangalore tourist places where countless travellers can be seen every year! It is one of the most loved, pristine, and cleanest beaches in the city. If you ever visit this place, you will be in love with the clear blue skies and damp sand. Perhaps the most interesting part about this festival is that the beach holds a kite festival.
3. Kadri Manjunatha Temple
This temple, built in 1068, is a Buddhist landmark situated at the base of Kadri Hills. The idol of reverence and the chief deity is Manjunatha.
4. Kadri Hill Park
This park is one of the largest parks within Mangalore's city limits. It is ideal for families who want to spend quality time together.
5. Sultan’s Battery
Built in 1784, the Sultan’s battery is considered to be the last remnant of the fierce and majestic Tipu Sultan. This place was built specifically using black stones to obstruct warships from entering the river, as this was one of the major routes that the Britishers used to enter the river.
6. St. Aloysius College Chapel
This church is situated in the very heart of the city and is also a significant part of St. Aloysius College. It was built by Jesuit Missionaries in 1880. Painted by an Italian Jesuit, Antonio Mocsheni, in 1899, this place has a stunning fresco on its walls.
Things to Do in Mangalore
- Explore the Beaches
- Visit the Temples and Churches
- Try Mangalorean Cuisine
- Enjoy Shopping in Mangalore
- Take a Backwater Ride
- Attend Karavali Utsav
Festivals of Mangalore
- Mangaluru Dasara
- Karavali Utsav (December - January)
- Kodial Theru (Car Festival)
- Monti Fest (September 8)
- Bhoota Kola & Yakshagana
Best Time to Visit Mangalore
- Winter (October - February): Best time for sightseeing, beaches, and festivals.
- Monsoon (June - September): Perfect for nature lovers, but heavy rains can disrupt travel.
- Summer (March - May): Hot and humid but good for beach activities.
How to Reach Mangalore
To reach Mangalore, you must travel a total of about 2,183 896, 2,186, and 352 km from Indian cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, and Bengaluru. Here are the details on how to reach it by public transport.
By Air
The nearest airport is Mangalore International Airport which is well-connected with other major cities of India and overseas. The airport is served with renowned airline services AirIndia, Air India Express, Indigo, etc. From the airport, you will need to continue your journey via some means of public transportation.
By Train
Deboard at the Mangalore Railway Station, which has frequent trains connecting to and from other Indian cities. The station is just a few kilometers away from the city centre, and once you deboard the station, you will need to book a cab or some other means of public transport to get here.
By Road
Many state and private buses connect Mangalore with neighbouring cities. Traveling by bus is one of the cheapest ways to commute to Mangalore. However, depending on your budget and comfort, you can also travel to this place by booking private cabs or self-driving.
- From Udupi - 55 km via NH66
- From Mysuru - 255 km via Mangalore-Mysore Highway
- From Kannur - 149 km via NH66
Conclusion
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Frequently Asked Questions about Mangalore
Q. What are the top tourist attractions in Mangalore?
A. Mangalore's top tourist attractions include the Mangaladevi Temple, Kadri Manjunath Temple, St. Aloysius Chapel, Panambur Beach, and Ullal Beach.
Q. Are Mangalore and Bangalore different?
A. Yes. Mangalore and Bangalore are different cities in Karnataka. Mangalore is a coastal city known for its ports, and Bangalore is the capital of Karnataka.
Q. Is Mangalore suitable for tourists?
A. Yes! Mangalore is considered as the best tourist city in Karnataka. It features stunning views of the Western Ghats and port city.
Q. Is there a Somnath temple in Mangalore?
A. Somnath temple is located in Western Ghats, which is 13 Kms away from Mangalore.
Q. What is Mangalore known as?
A. Mangalore is also known as Mangaluru. It was named by the Karnataka Government on November 1st, 2014.
