Mangalore, the bustling port city of coastal Karnataka, is a destination where tradition meets modernity. The city offers a wide range of activities, ranging from iconic temples, heritage chapels, beaches, local cuisine and adventure sports. Whether you’re here for a weekend getaway or an extended holiday, this guide to the Top 10 Things to Do in Mangalore in 2025 will help you plan a trip you’ll never forget.
Relish Pabbas Ice Cream
A trip to Mangalore is incomplete without visiting Pabbas, the legendary ice cream parlour run by Ideal Ice Cream. Known for its iconic Gadbad sundae—a towering dessert with layers of ice cream, jelly, fruits, and dry fruits—Pabbas is a favourite across generations. Their seasonal specials, like mango ice cream during summer and classic falooda drinks, keep visitors coming back for more. It’s not just dessert; it’s a slice of Mangalorean culture.
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Pabbas Ice Cream
- From Hotel Shoolin Grand: 3.1 km
- From Hotel Shoolin Comforts: 6.2 km
- From Shoolin Palace 10.2 km
Kadri Park – Mangalore’s Green Escape
Kadri Park is Mangalore’s favourite place to relax and unwind. With green lawns, colourful flowers, and a cool sea breeze, it’s perfect for a morning walk or an evening with family. The musical fountain, toy train, and peaceful surroundings make it a spot everyone loves—a simple, happy escape in the heart of the city.
How Far is Kadri Park from Your Stay?
- From Hotel Shoolin Grand: 4.1 km
- From Hotel Shoolin Comforts: 5.6 km
- From Shoolin Palace 10.4 km
Visit Kudroli Sri Gokarnanatheshwara Temple
Kudroli Temple is one of Mangalore’s most iconic religious landmarks. Known for its towering gopuram (gateway tower) and vibrant Dravidian-style architecture, the temple comes alive during Navaratri and Dussehra when dazzling idols of Navadurga and Sharada Devi are taken out in grand processions. Cultural performances, music, and the famous tiger dance (Pili Nalike) turn the temple into the epicentre of festivities. Even outside festival season, its serene atmosphere makes it worth a visit.
How Far is Kudroli Sri Gokarnanatheshwara Temple from Your Stay?
- From Hotel Shoolin Grand: 3.1 km
- From Hotel Shoolin Comforts: 7.4 km
- From Shoolin Palace 11.6 km
Relax at Tannirbavi Beach
If you’re looking for a blend of serenity and natural beauty, Tannirbavi Beach is the place to be. Unlike crowded urban beaches, this stretch of golden sand offers peace and stunning views of the Arabian Sea. The beach is famous for its sunset walks, shaded tree zones, and water-based activities. Families love it for its calm atmosphere, while solo travellers and photographers come here for the glowing evening skies.
How Far is Tannirbavi Beach from Your Stay?
- From Hotel Shoolin Grand: 13.0 km
- From Hotel Shoolin Comforts: 8.6 km
- From Shoolin Palace 12.8 km
Go Surfing at Mulki
For adventure seekers, Mulki, a small coastal town just 30 km north of Mangalore, is paradise. Known as the surfing capital of Karnataka, Mulki is home to India’s oldest surf schools like Mantra Surf Club. Whether you’re a beginner trying to ride your first wave or an experienced surfer chasing adrenaline, Mulki offers the perfect environment. Beyond surfing, its calm backwaters and mangrove-lined rivers make it a serene escape from city life.
How Far is Mulki from Your Stay?
- From Hotel Shoolin Grand: 35 km
- From Hotel Shoolin Comforts: 30.5 km
- From Shoolin Palace 33.7 km
Taste Maharaja’s Famous Ghee Roast 🍗
When it comes to iconic coastal flavours, Maharaja in Mangalore is a name every foodie swears by. Their legendary Chicken Ghee Roast — spicy, tangy, and rich with clarified butter — is an authentic Mangalorean dish that has earned fans across India. Alongside, Maharaja is also known for its seafood delicacies and traditional Mangalorean curries that bring out the true taste of the coast.
How Far is Hotel Maharaja from Your Stay?
- From Hotel Shoolin Grand: 1.0 km
- From Hotel Shoolin Comforts: 8.1 km
- From Shoolin Palace 12.4 km
📍 Location: Balmatta, Mangalore
Explore Pilikula Nisargadhama
A unique mix of ecology, heritage, and recreation, Pilikula Nisargadhama is a massive cultural and nature park spread across hundreds of acres. Families can enjoy the zoo, boating on the lake, botanical gardens, and the Science Centre. History buffs will love the Heritage Village, where traditional homes, crafts, and folk performances recreate rural coastal life. For nature lovers, it’s a refreshing break that combines education and entertainment.
How Far is Pilikula Nisargadhama from Your Stay?
- From Hotel Shoolin Grand: 11.3 km
- From Hotel Shoolin Comforts: 8.2 km
- From Shoolin Palace 12.4 km
Go Kayaking in Padubidri
If you’re looking for something offbeat, head to Padubidri, around 30 km from Mangalore. Known for its blue-flag certified clean beach, Padubidri also offers excellent kayaking experiences in its backwaters. Surrounded by coconut palms and mangroves, the calm waters are perfect for both beginners and seasoned kayakers. It’s a tranquil, slow-paced activity that lets you soak in the natural beauty of Karnataka’s coastline.
How Far is Padubidri from Your Stay?
- From Hotel Shoolin Grand: 36.9 km
- From Hotel Shoolin Comforts: 32.5 km
- From Shoolin Palace, .36.7 km
Visit St. Aloysius Chapel
Standing tall on Light House Hill, St. Aloysius Chapel is a masterpiece of 19th-century architecture. Built by Jesuit missionaries, the chapel’s interiors are adorned with frescoes painted by Italian artist Antonio Moscheni. The entire ceiling, arches, and walls are covered in biblical themes, earning it the title of the “Sistine Chapel of India.” Whether or not you’re religious, the art and history here will leave you awestruck.
How Far is St. Aloysius Chapel from Your Stay?
- From Hotel Shoolin Grand: 550 m
- From Hotel Shoolin Comforts: 9.2 km
- From Shoolin Palace 13.5 km
Sky-dining
Skydining in Mangaluru is a Unique Dining Experience suspended 120ft in the air by a Crane. With its Picturesque view, lively atmosphere and Delicious Cuisine, Skydining Restaurant in Mangaluru is a must-visit destination for anyone looking for a Memorable Dining Experience with their friends and loved ones.
How Far is Sky-dining from Your Stay?
- From Hotel Shoolin Grand: 11.3 km
- From Hotel Shoolin Comforts: 6.9 km
- From Shoolin Palace 10.3 km
Travel Tips for Your Mangalore Trip
- Best time to visit: October–February for pleasant weather and festivals.
- What to pack: Light cotton clothes, sunscreen, and comfortable footwear.
- Evening rush: Popular temples, beaches, and restaurants get crowded—plan extra travel time.
Pick Your Stay:
-After a long day of exploring Mangalore’s lively streets and local charm, historic temples, and coastal landmarks, there’s no better feeling than sinking into comfort at Hotel Shoolin Grand. Conveniently located in the heart of the city, it’s your perfect base to rest, recharge, and be ready for another day of adventure.
-If you’re travelling with family or prefer quick access to the airport and highways, Hotel Shoolin Comforts makes things easy. Spacious rooms, cosy vibes, and a peaceful location mean you can unwind without the city rush while staying well-connected to everything around.-For those who like their stay to feel a little royal — with elegant interiors, grand banquet spaces, and a premium ambience — Shoolin Palace offers a truly regal escape right in the heart of Mangalore. Whether it’s a weekend getaway, a celebration, or a business trip, it makes every moment feel special.
- Transport: Autos, cabs, and bike rentals are easily available for short city trips.
Transportation Guide – Getting Around Mangalore
Exploring Mangalore’s attractions is simple thanks to multiple travel options:
- Auto-rickshaws: Best for short city rides to temples, markets, and eateries.
- Taxis & cab services (Uber/local cabs): Comfortable for longer distances or day trips to beaches and nearby towns.
- Public buses: Budget-friendly and well-connected to major spots like Kudroli Temple, Hampankatta, and city beaches.
- Bike & car rentals: Popular with travellers who want flexibility to explore Mulki, Padubidri, or Udupi at their own pace.
👉 Pro Tip: During weekends and festivals, factor in extra time as key roads near Kudroli Temple and Hampankatta get busier.
Where to Stay in Mangalore
- In the heart of the city, Hotel Shoolin Grand offers newly updated executive rooms and works well for those who’d like Kudroli Temple, Pabbas, St. Aloysius Chapel, and Tannirbavi Beach within easy reach.
- Closer to the airport and highways, Hotel Shoolin Comforts provides spacious rooms that suit families and travellers planning onward trips to Mulki, Padubidri, or Udupi.
Here’s a quick map link to the famous locations in Mangalore
Pabba’s, Lalbhag: Google Maps
Kadri Park: Google Maps
Kudroli Sri Gokarnanatheshwara Temple: Google Maps
Tannirbavi Beach: Google Maps
Surfing at Mulki, Google Maps
Hotel Maharaja: Google Maps
Pilikula Nisargadhama : Google Maps
Kayaking in Padubidri: Google Maps
St. Aloysius Chapel: Google Maps
Sky-dining: Google Maps
Connect with us
👉 Plan your perfect Mangalore stay this season – enjoy special offers when you book directly with us! Visit us at www.theshoolingroup.com.
+91 8147084414
+91 7204078488
Hotel Shoolin Grand address:
Light House Hill Rd, Hampankatta, Mangaluru, Karnataka 575001
Hotel Shoolin Comforts address:
Amar Nexus, Junction, Marakada, Kavoor, Mangaluru, Karnataka 575015,
