357 kms west of Bangalore is the district headquarters of Dakshina Kannada - Mangalore.

With an important port, this coastal town is a major commercial centre. Mangalore could be your entry point to Beach Country - with its virgin and unexplored beaches. It has several famous pilgrim centres.

It is a cosmopolitan city, leader in more than one way in banking, private entrepreneurship and in general awareness amongst people.

While in Mangalore try and see a Yakshagana performance - an elaborate dance form unique to Karnataka. The Kambala (buffalo race) is another exciting event.

A trip to Mangalore would be incomplete without a visit to the 10th century Manjunatha Temple, St. Aloysius Chapel, Mangala Devi Temple, Tipu's Battery and the Jumma Masjid. The Ullal Beach with Casuarina groves is another attraction that draws tourists all through the year.

Prime Attractions of Mangalore
§ Yakshagana : No visit to Mangalore would be complete without watching the 'Yakshagana'. Its an elaborate dance-drama performance unique to Karnataka. A nightlong event, with people adorned vibrantly and dancing to the beat of the drums, 'Yakshagana' performance attracts hundreds of people.

§ Udupi : 58 kms north, this town has the famous Krishna Temple with the Gold Chariot. It is here that the Saint Madhwacharya lived and preached 700 years ago. The famous 'masala dosai' has its origin here.

§ Karkala : Situated 52 kms north-east of Mangalore. The 452 it tall monolithic statue of Bahubali and the St. Lawrence Church are the main attractions here.

Excursions of Mangalore
§ Maravanthe : 110 kms north of Mangalore. Maravanthe has a scenic beach.

§ Malpe Beach : 66 kms north of Mangalore. The pristine beauty complemented by peaceful surroundings, makes this beach a favourite holiday spot. The St. Mary's Island, another delightful holiday hangout, is just a boat ride away.

§ Kollur : 140 kms north. The famous Mookambika Temple here attracts thousands of devotees.

§ Dharmasthala : 75 kms east. This town is a unique example of communal harmony, famous for its Manjunatha Temple. Every person who comes here, irrespective of caste or creed, is welcomed and given a free meal.

Places to stay in Mangalore
» Cauvery International, Kulur Junction. Hotel Panchami, Near KSRTC Bus Station.
» Circuit House, Kadri Hill.
» Hotel Siddhartha, URS Building, Kodialball.
» Hotel Wood Side, K.S. Rao Road
» Summer Sand Beach, Chota Mangalore, Ullal.
» Welcome Group Manjuran.

There are plenty of other hotels also in Mangalore.

How to Get There
Air : Mangalore has its own airport.

Rail : Mangalore has a railway junction and is connected to Mumbai and Bangalore.

Road : The place has well-developed network of roads and is connected to the neighbouring areas by roadways.