Pilgrimage Tourism in Mangalore Pilgrimage tourism in Mangalore is quite popular among the people belonging to all religions as the place provides diverse religious refuges. These gather a number of devotees and tourists from far off regions not only for their religious significance but also for exploring the architectural wonders and unique traditions prevailing in the city. Kadri Manjunath Temple Kadri Manjunath Temple is located at the foot of the highest hill of the city. The temple belongs to 11th century. It exhibits a square structure along with nine tanks. It houses the idol of Lokeshwara which is regarded as the best bronze statue of the country. Mangaladevi Temple Mangaladevi Temple is another temple of Mangalore. It was constructed by the Ballal family of Attavar as a tribute to a Princess of Kerala. St. Aloysius Church St. Aloysius Church stands in the city of Mangalore as a religious refuge of Christians. The church walls showcase paintings of the Italian artist Antony Moshaini. It was constructed between the period of 1899 and 1900. The architectural grandeur of the church invites a number of tourists too and has often encountered comparison with the famous Sistine Chapel of Rome. Ullal Dargah Ullal Dargah is a prominent mosque of the city and is also the centre of the grand Uroos fair. It was structured in the year 1958. Uroos festival which is celebrated in the mosque once in five years allures devotees from far off regions across the country. Dharamasthala Dharamasthala is a temple village nestled along the bank of the Nethravathi River. It is located towards the east of Mangalore at a distance of 75 kilometres. The village is famed for a Shiva temple where the Lingam is worshipped. Gorkarna Gokarna is another pilgrimage destination near the city which is visited by a number of Hindu devotees. The village also serves as a tourist destination as it nurtures a number of beaches and temples. Nature Tourism in Mangalore Nature tourism in Mangalore is immensely pleasing owing to its plethora of beaches and places embraced by exquisite natural beauty. The port city exhibits a unique charm and is bestowed with some of the most beautiful landscapes. Mangalore Beach Mangalore beach lies near the backwaters formed owing to the confluence of Netravathi and Gurupur Rivers. The beach has an enchanting natural beauty. It also hosts a special night long performance of Yakshagana which is worth witnessing. It is also the site for Kambala or Buffalo event. St. Mary Beach St. Mary beach is located at a distance of 58 kilometres from the city of Mangalore. The magnificent beach offers an invigorating time to the visitors. Crystallized basalt rocks are scattered over the beach which form another attraction. Due to the rocky terrain, the beach is not favourable for strolling and swimming. Suratkal Beach Suratkal beach is another popular beach, situated at a distance of 15 kilometres from the city. The beach hosts a temple along its shore which is dedicated to Sadashiva. Jog Falls Jog Falls is another natural charm located near Managlore. It is popular for being the second highest plunge waterfalls in the country after Nohkalikai Falls in Meghalaya. Leisure Tourism in Mangalore Leisure tourism in Mangalore provides an opportunity to explore many intrinsic aspects of the city and offers a refreshing time to the visitors. The history as well as the lifestyle of the city peeps out through these places. Sultan Battery Sultan Battery is a historical monument located at a distance of 6 kilometres from the city of Mangalore. This black stone structure was constructed by Tipu Sultan for preventing the entry of warships to the Gurpur River. Presently it is in ruins and is often referred as Tipu's well. The relics stands in a deserted place, however there is a watchtower which gives the impression that the monument was once a miniature fortress. Light House Hill Garden There is an ancient lighthouse in Mangalore which belongs to 18th century and was built by Hyder Ali. A beautiful garden is set near the lighthouse which offers panoramic view of the vast sea and the ships and boats sailing on it. Seemanthi Bai Government Museum Seemanthi Bai Government Museum is an excellent place for leisure tourism in Mangalore. It hosts a huge assortment of idols and artefacts of historical significance. Kadri Park Kadri Park is cherished by the children and adults alike. It shelters snakes and animal zoo, a wonderful garden and a toy train. |