Temples in Mangalore
Mangalore is a city of many faiths, and its temples, churches and mosques sit close together. The Hindu temples here follow the coastal style, with sloping tiled roofs, wooden pillars and brass lamps, and many are centuries old.
The best known are the Mangaladevi Temple, which gives the city its name, the ancient Kadri Manjunatha Temple and the Kudroli Gokarnanatha Temple, centre of the Mangaluru Dasara. These are active places of worship, so dress modestly and follow the rules at each one.
Famous Temples in Mangalore
Kudroli Gokarnanatha Temple was consecrated in 1912 by the social reformer Sree Narayana Guru and is dedicated to Shiva as Gokarnanatha. It is the heart of the Mangaluru Dasara, when the temple is lit up and a large procession sets out on the last day of the festival.
Kadri Manjunatha Temple stands at the foot of Kadri Hill and is known for its old bronze images, including a Lokeshwara figure with an inscription usually dated to 968 CE. Behind it, a spring called Gomukha feeds a series of stone tanks, and laterite caves known as the Pandava Caves sit on the hillside.
Mangaladevi Temple at Bolar, about 3 km south-west of the city centre, is dedicated to the goddess from whom Mangalore takes its name. It is especially busy during Navaratri.
St Aloysius Chapel on Lighthouse Hill is not a temple, but it is one of the city's most visited places of worship. Its walls and ceiling are covered in paintings by the Italian Jesuit artist Antonio Moscheni.
Tips for Visiting Temples in Mangalore
- Wear modest clothes that cover your shoulders and knees.
- Leave your shoes at the counter outside the entrance.
- Photography is usually not allowed near the inner shrine, and not at all inside St Aloysius Chapel.
- Visit early in the morning for a calmer visit and cooler stone floors.
- Expect very large crowds at Kudroli and Mangaladevi during Dasara.
- Check darshan timings before you go, as most temples close for a few hours in the afternoon.
- Stay quiet during rituals and do not stand in the way of worshippers.
Questions
Mangalore — FAQ
Which is the most famous temple in Mangalore?
The Mangaladevi Temple is the city's namesake shrine, while the Kudroli Gokarnanatha Temple is the best known for its Dasara celebrations. The Kadri Manjunatha Temple is one of the oldest, with its bronzes and spring-fed tanks.
What is special about Kudroli Gokarnanatha Temple?
It was consecrated by Sree Narayana Guru in 1912 and is the centre of the Mangaluru Dasara. During the festival the temple is lit up and hosts a large procession through the city.
Can I take photos inside Mangalore's temples?
Photography near the inner shrine is usually not allowed. You can often take photos in the outer courtyards, but always check the signs or ask a temple staff member first.
Can I visit St Aloysius Chapel if I am not Christian?
Yes. Visitors of all faiths can see the chapel outside service times. Dress modestly, keep quiet, and note that photography is not allowed inside.