Mangalore

Mangalore is an important port city located in Karnataka. Deriving its name from the Goddess Mangaladevi, it is the district headquarters for Belthangaduy, Sullia, Puttar, and Bantwal taluks of the Dakshina Kannada District.

History of the City

Mangalore was ruled by several dynasties like the Hoysalas and Mauryas before it went to the Portuguese. It was then the source of strife between Hyder Ali and Tipu and the British. Even in ancient times, it flourished as an important trade and business hub and port. After being part of the Madras Presidency during British rule, it was formally included in Karnataka State post-independence.

Mangalore is famous for: Art and Culture and Heritage, Adventure, Port, and Business Hub

Mangalore, being an ancient city, has a great deal to offer heritage lovers. There are dozens of ancient temples, many of them with beautiful sculptures, reflecting the rule of that time. There are also a famous church and a mosque, making it a great religious destination for all. Mangalore boasts a surf club and several safe beaches where tourists go swimming. Mangalore is a major port of India, handling the bulk of the cashew and coffee exports, among other products like spices.

Moreover, it has several significant enterprises manufacturing iron ore, chemicals and fertilizers, petrochemicals and even has its own shipyard, making it a powerful magnet for businesses.

Culture of Mangalore

Having interacted with people from all over the world, Mangalore is a cosmopolitan city. Yet, traditional dance and music, like Yakshagaana,, Pilivesha, Paddanasandkolkaiare very popular. In addition, the city celebrates festivals like Dassera, Ganesh Chaturthi, Id, and the Eucharistic procession here. Mangalore fish curry, korirotti,neerdosa, kadubu, patrode, boothaigasi are the local delicacies.

Languages Spoken by the City

The number of languages spoken around here that reflects the cultural diversity of Mangalore. 

Tulu is the most widely and most popular spoken language here. The Brahmin community having a slight variation of their own. 

Kannada is the official state language. 

Konkani has two different versions. The one spoken by Konkanas or the Goud-Saraswaths and another by Konkani Catholics.

Muslims speak Beary language. 

Havyaka Brahmins uses the Haveeka language. 

Finally, English is widely spoken, making communication easy for tourists.

Shopping and Food in Mangalore

There is no scarcity of shopping complexes and malls in Mangalore. Apart from posh Falnir, Hampankatta, Balmatta, and Kankanady, most new malls are coming up on MG Road, a dual carriageway. Further, the "Empire Mall" has Cafe Coffe Day, Nilgiris supermarket, Amazon Multi-cuisine restaurant, and a few other retail chains. It also houses Combinations, a perfect stop for artificial jewelry and cosmetic requirements, not as big as, but similar to Claire's.

There is a number of small restaurants where one can eat cheap food as long as one likes South Indian food. The most typical ones are the Udupi-style restaurants that serve the staple fare of various dosa, Wada, and idli. You can end your meal with some home-grown tea or filter coffee.

Moreover, one of the more famous Udupi-style restaurants is the Woodlands standing on Bunts Hostel Road, which has preserved its old-world quaintness. Further, if you are seeking just plain filter coffee, try out any of the Udupi cafes without the extra hype. For example, the Taj Mahal restaurant (at hotel Panchamahal) near Navabharath Circle, Kodial Bail, and Town Hall areas.

Climate and Best Time to Visit

The pleasing winter months of September to April are the best time to visit Mangalore as the weather allows you to explore the beaches with the least humidity. 

Accommodation in Mangalore

Since the city is bustling with tourists, accommodation does not disappoint you. You can go for budget hotels like Ayodhya, Hostel youth, etc. Further, for mid-range, the city has Prestige, Hotel Hindusthan, etc. And if you seek luxury, go for The Gateway Hotel, Moti Mahal, etc.