Best Places to Visit for a One-Day Trip From Mangalore

An intriguing conglomeration of culture, architecture and natural beauty makes Mangalore an ideal tourist destination. Mangalore is nestled between the Arabian Sea and the Western Ghats, offering visitors scenic beauty. The sheer beauty and cultural essence of sea beaches, ports, temples, churches etc., here fill visitors’ hearts with contentment.

The underlying section lists a run-down of top destinations as one-day trip from Mangalore, helping one to streamline their search.

1. Kadri Manjunath Temple | 6 km away from Mangalore

Individuals who are planning a one-day trip to Mangalore must consider visiting Kadri Manjunath Temple. This temple reflects the artistic excellence of the 10th and 11th centuries, depicting the Vijayanagara architecture. The temple is symbolic of religious harmony, allowing people from two different faiths and beliefs (Hinduism and Buddhism) to worship and perform religious rites together.

• Best Time to Visit:  All throughout the year.
• Entry Fee:  Free of cost.
• Timings: Every day between 6:00 am to 1:00 pm and 4:00 pm to 8:00 pm.
• How to Reach: Take a bus. There are two railway stations near it: Mangalore Junction and Mangalore Central.
• Things to do: Attend different festivities like Jathra Mahothsava, Kadir Utsava, Navaratri, Karthik Masam, etc. Even one can perform rituals like Bilva Archana, Ekadasa Rudrabhishekam etc. 
• Nearby Places to Visit: St. Aloysius Chapel, Kadri Hill Park, Father Muller Museum etc.

2. Light House Hill Garden | 11 km away from Mangalore

Light House Hill Garden, situated amidst Mangalore city, is soaked with natural beauty and historical relevance. One can definitely include the place in Mangalore’s one-day trip plan. Visitors get to enjoy the scenic beauty of the sea standing on the top of the lighthouse.

• Best Time to Visit:  All throughout the year.
• Entry Fee: Free of cost.
• Timings:  9:00 am to 12:00 pm and 4:00 pm to 9:00 pm.
• How to Reach: Take a bus or car.
• Things to do: Explore the flora and fauna of the place, experience the sunset, go to the public library etc. 
• Nearby Places to Visit: Idgah Mosque, St. Aloysius Chapel etc.

3. Ullal Beach Mangalore

The Ullal beach is yet another destination ideal for a one-day trip in Mangalore, helping one to unwind amidst the waves, plantations and natural scenic spots. The beach also hosts numerous water activities and water sports for adventure lovers.

• Best Time to Visit:  All through the year.
• Entry Fee:  Free of cost.
• Timings:  6:00 am to 1:00 pm and 4:00 pm to 8:00 pm.
• How to Reach: Take a bus. There are two nearby railway stations, namely, Mangalore Junction and Mangalore Central.
• Things to do: Attend different festivities like Navaratri, Karthik Masam, Jathra Mahotsava, Kadir Utsava, etc. One can even participate in rituals like Bilva Archana, Ekadasa Rudrabhishekam etc.
• Nearby Places to Visit: Kadri hill park, Father Muller Museum, St. Aloysius Chapel, etc.

4. Someshwara Beach | 17 km away from Mangalore

Someshwara Beach, situated in Ullal city at the confluence of the Arabian sea and Netravati River, is a hidden gem that must be included in the Mangalore one day tour package. The beach boasts long stretches of golden sand and is surrounded by lush green mountains and peppered by rock boulders known as Rudra Shile. In addition, Ottinene Hill is a major tourist attraction that is nestled in the close vicinity of Someshwara Beach, giving visitors stunning views of the city.

• Best Time to Visit:  Between October to March.
• Entry Fee:  No entry fee.
• Timings:  Throughout the day.
• How to Reach: Via car or taxi. Ullal Railway Station is the nearest railhead. 
• Things to do: Enjoy the beautiful sunset, engage in adventure activities etc. 
• Nearby Places to Visit: Someshwara Temple, Panambur Beach, Kadri Manjunatha temple, Tannirbhavi Beach etc.

5. Sasihithlu Beach | 22 km away from Mangalore

This beach is a perfect weekend destination from Mangalore and is covered with white sand contrasting with the colour of the azure blue sea. The place is also a fishing destination and offers peace if one wishes to spend a relaxing, laid-back holiday away from the city.

• Best Time to Visit:  All through the year.
• Entry Fee:  No entry fee.
• Timings:  8:00 am to 7:30 pm.
• How to Reach: Local bus, taxi or tuk-tuk; the nearest airport is just 27 km.
• Things to do: Surfing, bird-watching, fishing, swimming.
• Nearby Places to Visit: Tannirbhavi Beach, Kateel Shri Durgaparameshwari Temple, etc.

6. Mudabidri | 34 km away from Mangalore

Mudabidri is a beautiful town which is situated in Dakshina Kannada district. The place is locally popular as the town of 18 roads, 12 Jain shrines and 18 lakes. This place holds the essence of Jain heritage and is popular for the extensive growth of bamboo. Mudabidri or Moodbidri is considered to be the fulcrum of Jainism and Tulu culture.

• Best Time to Visit: Between August to October.
• Entry Fee: Free.
• Timings:  All throughout the day (Timing for exploring the temples differs).
• How to Reach: Via bus or train. The nearest railway station is Surathkal. 
• Things to do: Explore different churches and temples and attend different festivities like Hulivesh, Navratri, Mari Pooja, Moodabidri Kambala etc.
• Nearby Places to Visit: Hanuman Temples, Horanadu Annapoorneshwari Temple, Thousands Pillars Temple, Shri Venkataramana temple, Saavira Kambada Basadi etc.

7. Sammilan Shetty’s Butterfly Park | 42 km away from Mangalore

Sammilan Shetty's Butterfly Park houses around 118 species of butterflies and is a man-made haven for people seeking peace in a natural setting. The butterflies are left open, and it is a sight to behold as the winged critters flutter in the breeze as you trek through the park.

• Best Time to Visit:  Between October to May.
• Entry Fee:
  • Indian nationals:  ₹ 200 per person.
    
  • Foreign nationals: ₹ 1000 per person.
• Timings:  10:00 am to 5:00 pm. Trek hours: 6:00 am to 5:00 pm.
• How to Reach: By bus, taxi or private car via State Highway 66. 
• Things to do: Explore picturesque trek routes, and enjoy spotting wildlife and waterfalls.
• Nearby Places to Visit: Hebbe Waterfalls, Rock Cut Garden, Hanumana Gundi falls, Kudremukh Peak etc.

8. Venur | 53 km away from Mangalore

Venur is a small village located by the banks of river Gurupur. It is famous for holding a lot of historical and religious importance. The monolithic statue of Bahubali swami, or the Lord Gomateshwara, is a major attraction in Venur that attracts numerous visitors. The statue of Bahubali is among the four major monoliths in Karnataka.

• Best Time to Visit:  Between November to December.
• Entry Fee:  No entry fee.
• Timings:  Entry time to the Gomateshwara statue is 7:00 am to 6:00 pm.
• How to Reach: By car or taxi via NH73 and Siddakatte Venoor Road.
• Things to do: Explore the ancient history related to the place, go sightseeing etc. 
• Nearby Places to Visit: Mahalingeshwara temple, Kapu Beach, Padubidri Beach, St. Mary's Island etc.

9. Udupi | 55 km away from Mangalore

Udupi, a beautiful coastal town, is among the best places to visit near Mangalore, which is considered to be a major pilgrimage site. One of the recognised tourist spots here is Krishna Mutt. This place is jewelled with the beauty of the Arabian Sea and the Western Ghats. The local architecture, breathtaking view of nature and Udupi cuisine make the town a favourable tourist destination.

• Best Time to Visit:  Between October to March.
• Entry Fee:  No entry fee.
• Timings:  Entry time for the Krishna temple is from 5:00 am to 11:00 am and 6:00 pm to 9:00 pm. 
• How to Reach: Via car or taxi. Udupi is the nearest railhead.
• Things to do: Explore the scenic beauty, try the delicious seafood, attend the Paryaya festival, Rathasaptami etc.
• Nearby Places to Visit: St. Mary's Island, Jomlu Teertha, Kaup Beach, Delta Beach etc.

10. Karkala | 60 km away from Mangalore

Karkala, a quaint town nestled in the Udupi district, is a great place for a one-day trip. The magnificent Gomateshwara statue is one of the significant tourist attractions. It is a single-stone statue surrounding a Jain event called Mahamastakabhisheka, which attracts tourists from all over the world.

• Best Time to Visit:  Between September to March.
• Entry Fee: Free of cost.
• Timings:  One can visit the Gomateshwara statue from 7:00 am to 6:00 pm.
• How to Reach: Udupi is the nearest railhead. 
• Things to do: Exploring different religious sites and pilgrimage.
• Nearby Places to Visit: St. Lawrence Church, Sri Venkataramana Temple, Moodabidri, Anekere Lake and more.

11. Malpe | 60 km away from Mangalore

Malpe beach is an iconic port and fishing harbour in Karnataka. This beautiful beach is backed by swaying palm trees and a long stretch of golden sand. The coastline of the beach is bordered by four islands: Daria-Gadara-Kallu, Kari-Illada-Kallu Daria-Bahadurgad and St. Mary’s Island. The beach is one of the preferred picnic spots for visitors.

• Best Time to Visit:  Between October and December.
• Entry Fee: Free.
• Timings:  Open throughout the day.
• How to Reach: Regular buses available in all parts of Mangalore. Also, Udupi is the nearby railway station. 
• Things to do: Take a ferry and indulge in water sports, including banana boat rides, and parasailing, enjoy local delicacies and more.
• Nearby Places to Visit: St. Mary Island, a boat ride away from the Malpe Harbour, Padukere Beach, Kapu Beach and Sri Krishna Temple.

12. Jamalabad Fort | 60 km away from Mangalore

Jamalabad Fort, also known as ‘Gadaikallu’ is located amidst the Kudremukh range of hills in the Dakshina Kannada district of Karnataka. It was established as a watch tower by Tipu Sultan to track the movement of the enemy. A lake, placed at the top, adds to the mesmerising sight.

• Best Time to Visit:  Between February to May.
• Entry Fee:
  • Adult: ₹ 20 per person.
  • Child: ₹ 10 per child.
• Timings:  6:00 am to 6:00 pm
• How to Reach: Take a bus from Mangalore to Belthangady. One can also opt for the nearby railway station, Kabaka junction.
• Things to do: Enjoy panoramic views of mountains and go trekking.
• Nearby Places to Visit: Shree Shishilesh Temple, Bandaje Arbi Falls, Sri Sanyasikatte Parashurama Temple etc.

13. Dharmasthala | 74 km away from Mangalore

Another tourist spot that must be included in the list of places for one-day trip Mangalore is Dharmasthala. The place is endowed with natural beauty and the essence of culture. The place houses the magnificent Dharmasthala Temple. A notable festival named Lakshadeep is celebrated here, which attracts thousands of visitors from all over the world.

• Best Time to Visit:  Between October to March.
• Entry Fee: Free of cost.
• Timings:  Dharmasthala Temple darshan is allowed from 6:30 am to 11:00 am, 12:15 pm to 2:30 pm and 5:00 pm to 8:30 pm.
• How to Reach: Nearest railhead is Mangalore. One can also take a bus or car.
• Things to do: Explore different churches and temples nearby and attend different annual festivities.
• Nearby Places to Visit: Netravathi River Barrage, Bahubali Statue, Ram Mandir etc.

14. Hanuman Gundi Falls | 79 km away from Mangalore

Hanuman Gundi Falls, also known as Suthanabbe Falls, is another notable ideal spot for a one-day trip in Mangalore. It is a seasonal waterfall that is located in Kudremukh National Park and is nestled between Karkala and Lakya dams. Visitors must visit this place after the monsoon to behold the full glory of this tiered waterfall.

• Best Time to Visit:  Between October and November (Post monsoon months).
• Entry Fee: 
• Adult: ₹ 50 per person.
  • *Additional charge of ₹ 20 will be required for parking.*
• Timings:  9:00 am to 5:00 pm.
• How to Reach: Bus or private car via NH13.
• Things to do: Indulge in trekking, and hiking activities.
• Nearby Places to Visit: Kudremukh National Park, Lakya Dam etc.

15. Kudremukh National Park | 99 km away from Mangalore

Kudremukh National Park, another astounding spot to visit in Mangalore, is one of the largest national parks. Visitors can enjoy flora and fauna and the high-rising peaks.  This park is considered to be a thrilling trekking destination and is ideal for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers. This park also houses several endangered and endemic plants and animals.

• Best Time to Visit:  Between October to May.
• Entry Fee: 
• Indian nationals: ₹ 200 per person.
• Foreign nationals: ₹ 1000 per person.
• Timings:  10:00 am to 5:00 pm. Trekking hours: 6:00 am to 5:00 pm. 
• How to Reach: By bus, taxi or private car via state highway 66.
• Things to do: Explore picturesque trekking routes, and enjoy wildlife spotting and beautiful waterfalls.
• Nearby Places to Visit: Hanumana Gundi Falls, Hebbe Waterfalls, Rock Cut Garden, Kudremukh Peak etc.

16. Agumbe | 100 km away from Mangalore

This is also popular by the name “Cherrapunji of the South” and is a forested village in the Western Ghats. It is a rainforest housing numerous flora and fauna and is famous for its rich biodiversity.

• Best Time to Visit: Between October to February.
• Entry Fee: 
  • Adult: ₹ 100 per person (To visit the sunset point).
• Timings:  6:00 am to 6:00 pm.
• How to Reach: Udupi Railway Station is 50 km; one can also take a bus.
• Things to do: Indulge in trekking, visiting the sunset point, and natural biodiversity.
• Nearby Places to Visit: Onake Abbi Falls, Agumbe Sunset View Point, etc.

17. Kukke Subramanya | 105 km away from Mangalore

Kukke Subramanya, located in the heart of Subramanya village, is a very famous temple to visit near Mangalore. This temple, surrounded by lush green gardens, is dedicated to Lord Subramanya and is believed to be the home of ‘nagas’. Furthermore, the view of Shesha Parvatha, which resembles a six-headed cobra around the temple, makes the place worth visiting.

• Best Time to Visit:  Between September to March.
• Entry Fee: Free of cost.
• Timings:  6:00 am to 9:30 pm.
• How to Reach: Take a train from Mangalore Junction station to the temple.
• Things to do: Perform Sarpa Samskara pooja, Ashlesh pooja and many other religious rituals; take a holy dip in Kumaradhara river, go trekking in Kumara Parvatha etc.
• Nearby Places to Visit: Sringeri Mutt, Kumara Parvatha Trek, Biladwara cave, Subrahmanya Mutt etc.

18. Murudeshwar |155 km away from Mangalore

Murudeshwar is another notable tourist spot that is ideal for a one-day trip from Mangalore. The geographical location of the place, with the Arabian Sea on the three sides and the Western Ghats on the other. The place houses the world's second-largest statue of Lord Shiva hence is an important religious site in Mangalore. The nearby Murudeshwar temple and fort add to the rustic charm of the place.

• Best Time to Visit:  Between October to March.
• Entry Fee:  No entry fee.
• Timings:
  • Murudeshwar Temple: 3:00 am to 1:00 pm and 3:00 pm to 8:00 pm. 
  • Murudeshwar Fort: 8:00 am to 6:30 pm.
• How to Reach: Take a bus, cab or taxi. Nearby railhead is Murudeshwar railway station.
• Things to do: Arrange a picnic, engage in adventure activities, spend quality time at the Eco beach, experience a beautiful bird's-eye view from Rajagopuram, etc.
• Nearby Places to Visit: Murudeshwar Temple, Murudeshwar Fort, Bhatkal Beach, Statue Park, Idagunji Temple, Netrani Island, Mirjan Fort etc.

19. Sakleshpur | 156 km away from Mangalore

Sakleshpur is an enchanting hill station located amidst the Western Ghats. The slope surrounding it is covered with coffee, pepper and tea plantations. The scenic beauty of the place is enhanced by the pleasant weather. Sakleshpur also stands out for its rich biodiversity and massive agricultural output.

• Best Time to Visit:  Between November to February.
• Entry Fee: 
  • Indian nationals:  ₹ 10 per person (To visit Manjarabad Fort).
  • Foreign nationals: ₹ 100 - 110 per person (To visit Manjarabad Fort).
  • *No entry fee for visiting Sakaleswara Temple. 
• Timings:  Trekking time starts from 7:00 am to 4:00 pm.
• How to Reach: Nearby railhead is Sakleshpur Railway Station. Even the place is well connected by bus.
• Things to do: Indulge in adventure activities like trekking, hiking etc.
• Nearby Places to Visit: Agni Gudda Hill, Manjarabad Fort, Hemavathi Dam, Sakaleswara Temple, etc.

20. Sultan Battery | 272 km away from Mangalore

Sultan battery is a watch tower that was constructed by Tipu Sultan is a great place for a one-day visit in Mangalore. It is located 930 metres above sea level and was established to monitor the movements of attacking ships. Visitors can enjoy a breathtaking view of the Arabian Sea from the top of the tower.

• Best Time to Visit:  Between October to March.
• Entry Fee:  Free of cost.
• Timings:  9:00 am to 9:15 pm.
• How to Reach: NH 766 is near the place. The closest railhead is Kozhikode.
• Things to do: Explore flora and fauna and engage in water sports.
• Nearby Places to Visit: Ganapati Temple, Edakkal Caves, Ambalavayal Heritage Museum, Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary etc.