Top 9 Best Road Trip From Mangalore
A road trip from Mangalore opens a gateway to explore the serene landscapes, historical marvels, and captivating cultures of South India. Mangalore, nestled between the Arabian Sea and the Western Ghats, is a perfect starting point for adventurers and travel enthusiasts.
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List of Places Near Mangalore for a Road Trip
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Best Road Trips From Mangalore: Within 200 km
The top 9 road trip destinations that promise to satiate your wanderlust and create everlasting memories are:
1 Siddapur | 110 km
Siddapur, in the Uttara Kannada district, is another splendid road trip destination offering an immersive experience into nature’s beauty. Known for its sprawling coffee plantations and serene landscapes, it’s a perfect spot for a tranquil getaway.
- Best Time to Visit: October to January
- Popularity: Known among those seeking peace and natural beauty
- Activities to Do: Plantation tours, bird watching, and visiting Murudeshwara temple
- Ideal Route: Mangalore - Udupi - Siddapur
2. Kannur | 144 km
Kannur, located on the Malabar Coast, boasts of pristine beaches, historic landmarks, and rich cultural heritage. The Mangalore road trip to Kannur offers a perfect blend of coastal charm and cultural delights.
- Best Time to Visit: October to February
- Popularity: Beaches, Malabar cuisine, forts and handloom heritage
- Activities to Do: Beach visits, historical tours, and cultural experiences
- Ideal Route: Mangalore - Kasaragod - Kannur
3. Coorg | 153 km
Coorg, also known as Kodagu, is a popular hill station known for its verdant landscapes, coffee plantations, and ethnic warrior people, the Kodavas. It’s a road trip that promises both adventure and tranquillity.
- Best Time to Visit: September to June
- Popularity: Coffee plantations, waterfalls and panoramic views
- Activities to Do: Trekking, river rafting, visiting coffee plantations, and cultural tours
- Ideal Route: Mangalore - Puttur - Coorg
4. Kakkabe | 169 km
Nestled in the lap of the Western Ghats, Kakkabe offers a tranquil escape amidst lush greenery and mist-covered hills. The road trip from Mangalore to Kakkabe is characterised by breathtaking views and a serene ambiance.
- Best Time to Visit: September to May
- Popularity: Igguthappa temple, Nalknad palace, wildlife and treks
- Activities to Do: Trekking, bird watching, palace tours, and visit the temple
- Ideal Route: Mangalore - Madikeri - Kakkabe
5. Chikmagalur | 179 km
Chikmagalur, the coffee land of Karnataka, is a must-visit for those who enjoy the serene ambiance of hill stations. Its lush green hills and cool climate make it an ideal road trip destination year-round.
- Best Time to Visit: September to February
- Popularity: Coffee plantation, trekking trails and wildlife sanctuaries
- Activities to Do: Trekking, coffee plantation tours, and wildlife safaris
- Ideal Route: Mangalore - Belur - Chikmagalur
6. Halebid | 200 km
Halebid, once the regal capital of the Hoysala Empire, is now famous for its magnificent temples and intricate carvings. This historical town makes for a fascinating road trip destination from Mangalore.
- Best Time to Visit: October to February
- Popularity: Hoyaleswara temple, Archaeological Museum and Yagachi Dam
- Activities to Do: Temple visits, photography, and historical tours
- Ideal Route: Mangalore - Hassan - Halebid
Best Road Trips From Mangalore: Beyond 200 km
7. Kumta | 203 km
A coastal town in the Uttara Kannada district, Kumta, with its pristine beaches and lush greenery, offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage. It’s an ideal destination for those looking to combine a beach holiday with historical exploration.
- Best Time to Visit: November to March
- Popularity: Handicrafts, Ayurvedic treatment, forts, and beaches
- Activities to Do: Beach hopping, fort exploration, shopping, and enjoying local seafood
- Ideal Route: Mangalore - Udupi - Kumta
8. Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary | 205 km
Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary, nestled amidst the Western Ghats, is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers. The road trip to Bhadra promises thrilling encounters with diverse flora and fauna.
- Best Time to Visit: October to May
- Popularity: A paradise for bird watchers and wildlife photographers
- Activities to Do: Jungle safaris, bird watching, and trekking
- Ideal Route: Mangalore - Agumbe - Bhadra
9. Sirsi | 260 km
Sirsi is a hidden gem that promises an enchanting road trip experience from Mangalore. Known for its lush green forests, majestic waterfalls, and ancient temples, Sirsi is an ideal retreat for nature lovers and history buffs.
- Best Time to Visit: October to March
- Popularity: Growing as an eco-tourism and pilgrimage destination
- Activities to Do: Trekking to waterfalls, temple visits, and exploring the spice plantations
- Ideal Route: Mangalore - Udupi - Sirsi
The road trips from Mangalore are not just journeys; they are experiences that weave through the heart of South India’s natural beauty and historical grandeur. Whether you seek solitude in nature’s embrace, an adventure on rugged trails, or a leap back in time through ancient ruins, these road trips from Mangalore offer it all.
FAQs about Road Trips from Mangalore
What is the best time of year for a road trip from Mangalore?
The best time for a road trip from Mangalore is from October to February, when the weather is pleasant and rainfall is minimal, ensuring smooth travel conditions.
How long does it take to reach popular destinations from Mangalore by road?
The travel time to popular destinations from Mangalore by road varies, ranging from approximately 2.5 to 5 hours, depending on the distance and road conditions.
Are the roads suitable for a road trip around Mangalore?
Yes, the roads around Mangalore are suitable for road trips, offering smooth and well-maintained routes amidst picturesque landscapes.
What are the closest places to Mangalore?
Mangalore is surrounded by diverse destinations like Sirsi, known for its greenery, and Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary, offering wildlife sightings.
Which places should I visit between Udupi and Mangalore in one day?
Siddapur, with its scenic beauty, or Kumta, boasting pristine beaches, are ideal day trip options between Udupi and Mangalore.
What is the best season to plan a journey to Mangalore?
Winter, from November to February, is the best time to explore Mangalore, with pleasant weather for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
What is the distance between Mangalore and Coorg?
The distance between Mangalore and Coorg is approximately 153 kilometres.
Is Coorg worth visiting?
Coorg's lush greenery, coffee plantations, and waterfalls make it a worthwhile destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
What route should I take to reach Sirsi from Mangalore?
The NH169 route is commonly taken to reach Sirsi from Mangalore, offering picturesque landscapes and a 5-6 hour journey time.
How many days are required to visit Halebid?
Halebid, known for its exquisite Hoysala architecture, typically requires a day to explore its ancient temples and intricate carvings.
How long does it take to reach Chikkamangaluru?
Chikkamangaluru, approximately 179 km from Mangalore, can be reached in around 4 hours, offering a serene escape amidst coffee plantations and hills.
Where can I travel from Mangalore in a 3-hour drive?
Within a 3-hour drive from Mangalore, you can explore places like Kannur, famous for its pristine beaches, or Kakkabe, offering trekking opportunities in the Western Ghats.
Are there any scenic destinations near Mangalore within 300 km?
Within 300 km of Mangalore, scenic destinations like Coorg, Chikmagalur, and Sirsi offer lush greenery, coffee plantations, and picturesque landscapes.
What are the places around Mangalore for 1 day trip within 150 km?
For a one-day trip within 150 km of Mangalore, consider visiting Siddapur and Kannur for its scenic beauty or Kumta for its pristine beaches and coastal charm.