It was the month August 2011 and monsoon had set-in all parts of Southern India. The smell of rain and cool breeze motivated us to take our time off from our daily routine and plan a day or two away from home. Off all the places we decided to visit Mangalore. Long stretch of beaches and crimson sun sets were very welcoming.
The city of Mangalore has its history taking us back in time when spice trade was in peak. The ports were bustling with traders from different countries. The city saw its transformation when it fell in the hands of British who ruled for two centuries. Many important Temples and Churches v.i. Mangaladevi Temple which has given its present name, Kadri Temple, St. Alloysious Church, etc. have become prominent landmarks.
The city is beautiful and has got very good options for stay whether be a budget hotel or an executive hotel. We reached Mangalore by train and took a hotel (Hotel Nalpad) close to the railway station. It is situated in the midst of the main market surrounded by restaurants and malls.
Being a hard core vegetarian we always look out for a joint wherein descent pure vegetarian food is served. We came to know about Hotel Tajmahal which is a pure veg restaurant and offers a variety of South Indian food. the best was the Mangalore goli bhaji which we ordered every time we visited the place.
Places to visit:
Marwanthe Beach - a beach wherein at one particular point you get to see the Arabian sea on your left and a fresh water river on the right of the road.
Kadiri Temple - its an old Shiva Temple.
Malpe Beach - most busiest beach wherein families flock to spend their evenings in the summer seasons.
Kumbasi Ganapathi Temple which comes on the way to Udupi.
Udupi
Udupi which is centered due to presence of the Famous Lord Krishna Temple has a centuries of history. Established by Sri. Madhavacharya enshrines a beautiful Krishna idol. Around the temple Madhavacharya established eight mutts which will take care of the temple activities,turn by turn.This practice is followed till date. Udupi is also famous for the masala dosas and many other fast food items which find their origin here. Visitors can see many jewellery shops in the vicinity of the temple.
The drive to Maravanthe and the walk in the beach was an unforgettable experience. Swimming is strictly prohibited since the slope of the beach is very steep. We sighted a beautiful sunset though it was drizzling a little bit. The place is very romantic and couple who visit in the day time are suggested to carry beach umbrellas to cover themselves from the hot sun. The breeze is cool and there are a few hutment shops around where in you get Coffee and Tea (avg. quality), good tender coconut and some biscuits. Spending two to three evening hours is recommended.
We hired a city taxi from Mangalore for a day and it works out to be cheaper and safer than hiring private taxis.
The best time of the year would be to visit in the months of September and October or in the months of January and February. But for a couple who want their privacy the best time is when there is not much of rush.
