Plan Your Dream Christmas Event at The Shoolin Palace — Mangalore’s Most Iconic Venue
In Mangalore, Christmas is celebrated with a unique coastal charm, blending traditional Catholic rituals with local culture and a festive atmosphere. The city, sometimes called the “Rome of the East” due to its large Catholic population, comes alive with carol singing, local delicacies, and beautifully decorated churches.
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Here's a guide to experiencing the magic of Christmas in Mangalore.
Join in the traditional festivities
- Attend midnight mass: The highlight of the Christmas season is the midnight vigil mass on Christmas Eve at one of the city's historic churches. The most popular locations include:
- Milagres Church: One of the oldest and most beautiful Roman Catholic churches in the region, known for its solemn midnight services, followed by fireworks and festive greetings.
- Rosario Cathedral: The first Roman Catholic church in the Canara region, which features beautiful decorations, carol singing, and a special Christmas mass.
- Admire the Christmas cribs: Many churches and homes in Mangalore set up elaborate nativity scenes, or cribs, for which inter-parish competitions are held. You can visit these displays throughout the Christmas season to see the creative and intricate designs.
- Listen to Christmas carols: During the weeks leading up to Christmas, youth groups and choirs visit houses across the city to sing carols in Konkani and English, spreading messages of peace and joy.
- At Cordel Church in Kulshekar, the parish lights up during the festive season with special carol nights and a community-driven ‘Carol Day’ organised by the youth, making it a heartfelt experience of Christmas spirit in Mangalore.
Indulge in Mangalorean Christmas delicacies
- Savor Kuswar: A platter of traditional Christmas sweets and snacks, Kuswar is a culinary staple in Mangalorean Catholic homes. The assortment can include a variety of treats, such as:
- Kulkuls: Sweet, curly dough fritters.
- Nevri: Fried pastries with a coconut filling.
- Rose cookies: Delicate, flower-shaped cookies.
- Feast on a traditional Christmas lunch: The Christmas day meal is a lavish affair, often featuring local Mangalorean specialties like pork curry, duck roast, and sanna—a spongy, rice-based bread.
- Taste the season's sweets: In December, bakeries and homes are filled with the scent of freshly baked plum cakes. You can also find rich desserts like chickoo souffle and custard trifle.
Explore the festive atmosphere
- Witness the festive decorations: As a city with a significant Christian population, Mangalore is filled with Christmas cheer. Churches, shopping malls, and streets are adorned with festive lights, decorations, and towering Christmas trees.
- Enjoy special events: Many hotels and venues host special Christmas parties and dinners with live music, delectable food, and entertainment. In 2024, a popular Christmas Night Market featured live performances and stalls. Check local listings for what's on offer in 2025.
- Enjoy the pleasant winter weather: The winter season in Mangalore is an ideal time for a visit, with cool, dry, and pleasant weather perfect for exploring the festive sights.
Visit decorated churches
- St. Aloysius Chapel: Visit this chapel to admire its stunning frescoes and architectural beauty, especially charming in the evening light.
- Infant Jesus Shrine: Located in Bikarnakatte, this shrine celebrates Christmas with special masses and events.
See beyond the city
- Explore nearby attractions: If you have time, consider visiting other regional attractions. Options near Mangalore include:
- Panambur and Tannirbhavi Beaches
- Kudroli Gokarnath Temple
- Pilikula Nisargadhama, a nature park
Stay with The Shoolin Group — Celebrate Christmas in Style
At The Shoolin Group, Christmas in Mangalore is one of our favourite times of the year. The city sparkles with lights, the churches come alive with carols, and the air carries that unmistakable festive warmth. For us, it’s not just a season — it’s a feeling we love to share with our guests. Whether you’re here to unwind, celebrate with family, or plan a grand festive gathering, our three properties — The Shoolin Grand, The Shoolin Comforts, and The Shoolin Palace — have something special to offer every kind of traveler.
The Shoolin Grand — A Luxurious Christmas in the Heart of Mangalore
At The Shoolin Grand, you don’t have to go looking for that feeling — it’s right outside our doors. We’re tucked along Light House Hill Road, where the city feels alive this time of year. Step outside and you’ll see the streets dressed in lights, hear carols echoing from the old churches, and feel that quiet excitement that fills the city during Christmas. It’s all happening just around us — no rush, no noise, just the right kind of festive energy.
And when you get back after wandering through the city, we’ll have everything waiting for you — a warm meal, a peaceful room, and the kind of quiet that makes you feel at home again.
Google Maps link: Hotel Shoolin Grand
The Shoolin Comforts — A Peaceful Christmas Retreat Near the Airport
We’re just about ten minutes from the Mangalore airport, tucked in a spot that feels calm even when the city gets busy. Christmas here moves at an easy pace.
You’ll probably wake up to birds outside your window, maybe take your time with breakfast, and spend the evening chatting over a cup of coffee without any rush. It’s that kind of place — quiet, homely, and just right for slowing down during the holidays. It’s the kind of stay that makes you slow down — yet keeps you close enough to the heart of the city.
Families love the homely atmosphere here. You can easily drive to Kadri Park for a breezy walk, visit nearby churches for Christmas Mass, or spend a calm evening surrounded by twinkling lights.
Google Maps link: Hotel Shoolin Comforts
The Shoolin Palace — Grand Celebrations, Lasting Memories
The Shoolin Palace at Maravoor isn’t just another venue — it’s where celebrations truly come to life. We’re only a couple of minutes from the airport, but once you step inside, it feels like you’ve entered a different world. The place opens up with wide lawns, warm lights, and that easy coastal breeze that makes Mangalore evenings special.
Christmas here is always lively. Some families come together for dinner, some for big parties, and a few stay through to ring in the New Year. We handle everything — the lights, the food, the décor — so you can simply enjoy the moment.
If you’re here with friends or family, The Shoolin Palace gives you space to laugh, celebrate, and make memories that stay long after the season ends. And if you want to slip away for a quiet drive, Panambur Beach is just a short ride from here.
Google Maps link: Shoolin Palace
Get in touch with our team, and we’ll suggest the best stay options based on how you’d like to spend your vacation.
Contact Number: +91 8147084414 | +91 7204078488
Email ID: info@theshoolingroup.com
