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MANGALORE
357 kms west of Bangalore is the district headquarters of Dakshina Kannada - Mangalore.
With an important port, this coastal town is a major commercial centre. Mangalore could be your entry point to Beach Country - with its virgin and unexplored beaches. It has several famous pilgrim centres.
It is a cosmopolitan city, leader in more than one way in banking, private entrepreneurship and in general awareness amongst people.
While in Mangalore try and see a Yakshagana performance - an elaborate dance form unique to Karnataka. The Kambala (buffalo race) is another exciting event.
A trip to Mangalore would be incomplete without a visit to the 10th century Manjunatha Temple, St. Aloysius Chapel, Mangala Devi Temple, Tipu's Battery and the Jumma Masjid. The Ullal Beach with Casuarina groves is another attraction that draws tourists all through the year.
PRIME ATTRACTIONS
Pulikula Nisarga Dhama:
At Mudushedde, 11 kms north-east from Mangalore is an integrated tourist destination with a variety of attractions.
Narharigudda:
About 28 kms from Mangalore, this calm and quiet hamlet is surrounded by natural scenic beauty.
Moodabidri:
lies 35 kms north-east, and is famous for its 1000 - pillared Jain shrine.
Yakshagana:
No visit to Mangalore would be complete without watching the 'Yakshagana'. Its an elaborate dance-drama performance unique to Karnataka.
A nightlong event, with people adorned vibrantly and dancing to the beat of the drums, 'Yakshagana' performance attracts hundreds of people.
Varanga:
Nearby, is an important Jain pilgrim centre.
Katil:
Katil is 27 kms east, on the banks of the river Nandini. It has a famous temple dedicated to Poarameshwari Durga.
Jamalabad:
40 kms east of Mangalore. The fort here was built by Tipu Sultan and namedaf ter his mother Jamalbee.
Karkala:
Situated 52 kms north-east of Mangalore. The 452 it tall monolithic statue of Bahubali and the St. Lawrence Church are the main attractions here.
Udupi:
58 kms north, this town has the famous Krishna Temple with the Gold Chariot. It is here that the Saint Madhwacharya lived and preached 700 years ago. The famous 'masala dosai' has its origin here.
EXCURSIONS
Venur:
65 kms from Mangalore, Venur is well known for its Bahubali statue.
Malpe Beach:
66 kms north of Mangalore. The pristine beauty complemented by peaceful surroundings, makes this beach a favourite holiday spot. The St. Mary's Island, another delightful holiday hangout, is just a boat ride away.
Maravanthe:
110 kms north of Mangalore. Maravanthe has a scenic beach.
Baindur:
It is a hamlet, 45 kms from Maravanthe. It has a beautiful beach nearby. Ottanane near Baindur is famous for its glorious sunset.
Kollur:
140 kms north. The famous Mookambika Temple here attracts thousands of devotees.
Dharmasthala:
75 kms east. This town is a unique example of communal harmony, famous for its Manjunatha Temple. Every person who comes here, irrespective of caste or creed, is welcomed and given a free meal.
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