Bus to Mangalore: A Traveller’s Guide to Mangalore 

Drenched in history, multicultural Mangaluru (also known as Mangalore) is a popular base for exploring India’s idyllic Malabar Coast. For centuries, spice traders have visited its bustling seaports by ship. Its culinary scene reflects the regional abundance of fresh seafood and spices, featuring fragrant delicacies like Ros Curry and peppery fish fries. Framed by the Arabian Sea on one side and the lush Western Ghats hills on the other, Mangaluru provides a scenic setting for exploration and relaxation. Its modern business centres are punctuated by Hindu temples including Mangaladevi and Kadri Manjunatha, along with Jesuit churches like St Aloysius Chapel. Now all you need to do is hop on a bus to Mangalore to explore the heart of coastal Karnataka, as well as enjoy convenient day trips to nearby cities like Udupi.    

Why visit Mangalore by bus? 

Families, young adventurers and business travellers alike will enjoy Mangaluru’s vibrant culture and tasty cuisine. Here are a few compelling reasons to start planning your next visit: 

• Natural scenery: Whether trekking in the UNESCO-protected Western Ghats or sunbathing on Someshwara and Panambur beaches, Mangalore’s advantageous position means you’re never far from a tranquil outdoor setting.  
• Multicultural heritage: Explore Mangalore’s centuries of tradition at its well-preserved, lavish temples and churches as well as historic forts like the Sultan Battery.  
• Ancient traditions: Mangalore still retains many of its authentic rural traditions. One not to miss is Kambala, which blends spectacle with community celebrations. In this truly unique sporting event, you can see pairs of buffaloes race their way through muddy waters to victory.  

Ready to experience it all? Book your Mangalore bus tickets to explore this city’s abundant charms. 

Bus travel to Mangalore: Top attractions in Mangalore 

• St Aloysius Chapel: Perched on Mangaluru’s Lighthouse Hill, this Jesuit-built chapel is a central attraction. Inside its gold-hued interior, visitors can view a series of vibrant frescos and murals depicting the life of the Saint. 
• Gokarnanatheshwara Temple: This Hindu institution sits next to the city’s Gurupura River. Its ornate architecture is beautiful to behold at any time of day, but is unmissable at night when fully illuminated.  
• Mangaladevi Temple: Titled after the city’s namesake deity, Mangaladevi, this ancient Hindu temple is one of the best places to view traditional Kerala style architecture. 
• Ullal Beach: Soak in the Karnataka sunshine at beaches like Ullal, located just outside the city centre. Here, you’ll find clean waters and golden sands framed with lush casuarina trees, alongside lively bars and restaurants.  
• Sultan Battery: Constructed in 1784 by Tipu Sultan using black stones, this stately tower was designed to withstand invaders. It still stands watch over the city, and visitors who climb to the top of the watch tower are rewarded with magnificent seaside views.  

Getting around Mangalore 

Navigating Mangalore transport options may seem confusing at first, with so many vehicles speeding by. Yet with taxis, buses, and auto rickshaws to choose from, you’ll quickly find your way.   

• Mangalore City Buses: Mangalore’s bus station is in the State Bank. The Mangalore city bus network is very convenient, with multiple private companies serving routes throughout the city.  You’ll also find public city buses operated by the Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC).   
• Taxis: When you’re travelling with luggage in tow, taxis are often most convenient form of transport in Mangalore. You’ll find traditional taxi services available at all tourist attractions. Rapido Taxis and Uber are also available for in-app bookings.  
• Auto Rickshaws: For short-haul journeys between tourist attractions, auto rickshaws are another popular and affordable option. These three-wheel vehicles are found throughout the city. Although fares are usually metered, if not, it’s important to negotiate the price in advance. 

Best time to visit Mangalore 

While Mangalore is pleasant to visit at any time of year thanks to its balmy sea breezes, monsoon season can bring tropical conditions with occasional heavy rainfall. To keep dry, it may be worth booking your bus to Mangalore between late September and February. Milder temperatures, teamed with less humidity, mean it’s a great time to see the sights. Some of Mangaluru’s most vibrant cultural festivals take place during peak seasons. Mangaluru Dasara spans ten days of celebrations in September-October, showcasing traditional dance, music, and evening light displays. Of course, if you don’t mind hotter temperatures, the off-peak period between March and May brings optimal beach weather, all with fewer crowds.  

Mangalore culinary delights 

With a rich, centuries-old history of trade and resulting cultural exchanges from Europe and the Middle East, Mangalorean cuisine is a rich melting pot of flavour. The region’s fertile soil, tropical climate and seaside location also ensure that fresh ingredients, particularly seafood, coconut, and spices, are used in abundance. Sampling fish fry is a must when visiting Mangalore, with fresh-caught seafood marinated in red chilli and tamarind. Alternatively, try the Kori Rotti, a complex spicy chicken curry served with wafer-thin rice sheets. Don’t miss the chance to taste Mangalore Buns, deep-fried savoury treats made with ripe bananas. And if you’re looking for a souvenir to take back home, visit a market to stock up on Mangalore’s locally produced cashews and coffee.