KARAVALI SAGAS
The Sea Side World
Who doesn’t want to see a beautiful sunrise at a hill station, pray in a blissful temple, eat deliciously flavoured ice cream, have lunch with a variety of sea food, participate in an adventure activity, learn about a rich culture and heritage, watch the sun set on the beach, and spend the night with a cultural performance? Of course, we all. But imagine getting all of these experiences in a region which you can reach by air, sea, or road. Welcome to Karavali
Located in the Western Coast of India, Karavali is a stunning stretch of land preserved by nature and rich in historical value. It is situated in the Indian state of Karnataka, encompassing the grasslands and lush green western ghats that is adjacent to the Arabian sea. The beautiful beaches and iconic places of scenic Karavali welcome visitors from all over the world. It provides countless opportunities to explore the region and go on excursions, whether you want to hike, view breathtaking waterfalls, visit temples, or simply relax on the beach.
Mangalore
All in One Destination
Located on the Karavali shore, with charming buildings that states the history, divine filled temples and churches, and the smells of fragrant coconut curries & fish curries, Mangalore is a port city of Daksina Kannada which has retained its old charm through its tradition and culture in this era.
1.Kadri Manjunatha Temple
Built in the 14th century this ancient wonder of Mangalore is dedicated to Lord Shiva and a must visit divine site in Mangalore. One of the stunning features of this temple is the seven ponds which is originated from the seven Manthras. Kadri Manjunath temple is open daily from 5.30 AM to 1 PM and 4 PM to 8 PM for devotees to worship the Lord. The distance from Mangalore to Kadri Manjunath temple is 5.3 KM, and Kadri Manjunatha temple is about 346 KM from Bangalore.
2.NITK Beach
If you want to get lost in the endless blue with a gentle breeze, NITK beach is the best spot to enjoy the waves along with your family & friends. You can also indulge in water sport activities like boating and also can watch beautiful & magnificent kites flying upon the clouds during the Kite festival that happens every year. The major attraction of this beach is the Lighthouse that was built in the year 1972 which provides a magnificent view, along with a tranquil and calm beach, making it an excellent area to relax.
3.Pilikula Nisargadhama
The Pilikula Nisargadhama is a tourist attraction in Mangalore that would satisfy your travel spirit by offering a range of attractions in one location. This multipurpose attraction offers you a Botanical Garden & Arboretum, Zoo & water park, Science centre, 3D planetarium, Golf Course & a Heritage Village. It’s a family entertained location that one must visit in Mangalore.
St. Aloysius Chapel, Mangalore
Well-known for its magnificent pieces of artwork, crafted by Italian painter Antonio Moscheni, the St. Aloysius Chapel is one of the spectacular attractions of Mangalore. Most of the paintings are said to be dedicated to St Aloysius Gonzaga and showcase his life events. Other paintings showcase life events of Jesus Christ- birth, baptism, the wedding feast at Cana and crucifixion of Jesus. St Aloysius Chapel is open to visitors from 9.30 AM till 1 PM and 3 PM till 5.30 PM on all days. Spending a minimum of 1 hour is recommended.
5.Bejai Museum
A Collection like none other, for a One-of-a-kind journey through the Mangalore History, the Srimathi Bhai Memorial Government Museum in Mangalore is a collection of archaeological and geological artefacts, exhibition galleries, paintings, stones and many more ancient astonishing things. There is also a kid section in which is a collection of performing puppets, dolls of Yakshagana and Butha Kola, bird & animals’ figurines, planes, boat models, photographs, wooden models can be found. Other places of attractions in Mangalore includes Adyar Falls, Panamburu beach, bengre beach, Sasihitlu beach, Bappanadu Shri Annapoorneshwari temple, Mangaladevi Temple, Tannirbhavi Beach, Panambur Beach, Sultan Battery, St. Sebastian Church, Milagres Church, Kudroli Gokarnath Temple.
➢ Some of the Unique Experiences you must try in Mangalore:
1.Go on a Temple Visit
Mangalore’s temples give calm and religious ceremonies to see. If you are religious person, this will help you in a great spiritual journey
2.Watching Sunset at the NITK Lighthouse
Life feels like living when you’re standing at the edge of the ocean and looking up at the limitless sky
3.Lunch at Pingara Restaurant
If you are totally in to seafood, Pingara is renowned for providing delicious coastal cuisines, which is notably spicy and lipsmackingly piquant. Other Restaurants are: Sanadige at Gold finch hotel, Shetty’s Luch home, The Machhis, Attane.
4.Go for Surfing in Arabian Sea Shore
Experience the Thrill of Water sports by indulging in surfing in Mangalore. Some of the recommended surfing providers are: Mangalore Surfing Club, Aquatic Indica Surf School.
5. Visiting the Jain Kashi of South Canara
Life feels like living when you’re standing at the edge of the ocean and looking up at the limitless sky
6.Watch a Daivaradhane Ritual
A thrilling and divine experience for a traveller is the witnessing the Daivaradhane.
7.Have a bite of Gudbud at Pabbas– The world recognised Ice cream.
Don’t forget to taste the Gudbud ice cream if you are totally in to flavours and ice cream.
8. Trek to Kumara Parvatha – The Trekker’s Heaven
Nestled in Karnataka’s Western Ghats, the majestic Kumara Parvatha peak soars over the landscape, beckoning adventurous trekkers to tackle its difficult terrain.
9.Witnessing the Vibrant Huli Vesha at Mangaluru Dasara
Performed during the Dasara in honour of the Goddess Durga who’s believed to ride a Tiger, the Huli Vesha or tiger dance is one of the vibrant attractions of Mangalore. The dancers can be seen painted completely from top to bottom with patterns mimicking that of a tiger or a leopard.
➢ Best time to visit Mangalore:
October to March is considered as the best months to visit the Mangalore. If you are in to lush greenery and scenic landscapes you can visit during the rainy season to enjoy the breath-taking views of Western Ghats.
➢ Best options to stay in Mangalore:
- . Vivantha Mangalore
- Nidhivana Farms &Stays
- The Ocean Pearl Inn
- Deepa Comforts
- Goldfinch Hotel
- Ginger Mangalore
- Prestige Hotel
- AJ Grand Elite Hotel
- The Estate Resorts
➢ How to Reach to Mangalore:
1.By Air
The most common way for tourists to reach Mangalore by air is the Mangalore International Airport (IXE). Flights to Mangalore can be found from major international airports in India, such as Bangalore (Kempegowda International Airport – BLR), Mumbai (Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport – BOM), and Chennai (Chennai International Airport – MAA). Middle Eastern Connections: Direct flights may also be available from certain Gulf countries, including Ajman, Abu Dhabi, and Doha, making it more convenient for tourists from the Middle East.
Once you arrive at a major Indian airport, you can take a domestic flight to Mangalore International Airport (IXE). Airlines like IndiGo, SpiceJet, and Air India frequently operate domestic flights to Mangalore.
Direct Flight Option: For those traveling from the Middle East, you can check airlines that operate direct flights to Mangalore, as it serves several international routes.
➢ Connecting Through Major Indian Cities
If you are unable to find a direct flight to Mangalore, you may consider traveling via other major Indian cities first.
1.Fly to Major Indian City: Book a flight to major cities like Bangalore, Mumbai, or Chennai.
2.Domestic Transfer to Mangalore: Take a domestic flight or another mode of transport:
o By Air: From Bangalore to Mangalore, the flight takes approximately 1 hour.
o By Train: You can also take a train from Bangalore to Mangalore. The journey takes about 12-14 hours. For breath taking experience from the moment of arrival you can opt for Vistadome trains from Bangalore to Mangalore by which you can witness the mesmerizing beauty of the western Ghats.
o By Bus or Car: Renting a car or taking a bus is another option, but it may take around 8-10 hours from Bangalore
2.By Train
Although there are no direct international train services to India, you can reach Mangalore by train from nearby major cities after flying into India.
➢ Visa Requirements
Ensure that you have the necessary visas required to enter India. Most foreign nationals need a visa to enter India, which can be obtained through:
o e-Visa: Many nationalities can apply for an e-Visa online before traveling to India. Make sure to check the eligibility on the official Indian government visa website.
o Regular Visa: If you are not eligible for an e-Visa, apply for a regular visa at the Indian embassy or consulate in your country.