Mangalore, located in Dakshina Kannada district of Karnataka, is known for its rich spiritual heritage and ancient temples. From centuries-old hilltop shrines to grand riverside temples, the city attracts thousands of devotees and tourists every year.
Here is the complete list of the top 20 famous temples in mangalore and nearby areas you must visit.
This complete Mangalore temple list includes some of the most famous temples in Mangalore along with historical temples that reflect the city’s rich cultural heritage.
Mangaladevi Temple – Mangalore
Mangaladevi Temple is one of the most famous historic temples in mangalore and a major spiritual landmark in Dakshina Kannada, Karnataka. Dedicated to Goddess Mangala Devi, this historic temple is believed to date back to the 10th century. In fact, the city of Mangalore derives its name from this sacred shrine. The temple features traditional South Indian architecture and attracts thousands of devotees during Navaratri and other Hindu festivals. Located in the Bolar area, it is easily accessible from the city center. Among all historical mangalore temples, Mangaladevi Temple holds special religious and cultural importance and is a must-visit destination for pilgrims and tourists exploring Mangalore tourism.
📍 Location: Bolar, Mangalore
🕰 Best Time: Navaratri Festival
Kadri Manjunath Temple
Kadri Temple is one of the oldest temples in Mangalore, known for its historical importance and ancient architecture. Situated on the scenic Kadri Hills, this ancient temple is dedicated to Lord Manjunatha, a form of Lord Shiva. The temple is well known for its bronze idols, stone inscriptions and natural springs called Gomukha. It reflects a unique blend of Buddhist and Hindu influences, making it one of the most historically significant temples in Dakshina Kannada. The annual Kadri Rathotsava festival attracts large crowds from across Karnataka. For visitors searching for famous temples in Mangalore, Kadri Manjunath Temple offers spiritual peace along with scenic hill views.
📍 Location: Kadri Hills, Mangalore
Kudroli Gokarnath Temple
Kudroli Gokarnatha Temple is one of the most famous temples in Mangalore, known for its grand celebrations and cultural significance..
Kudroli Gokarnath Temple, also known as Gokarnanatheshwara Temple, is one of the grandest famous temples in mangalore
. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, this temple was built to promote social equality and spiritual unity. The temple complex is famous for its spectacular Dasara celebrations, decorative lighting and cultural programs. During Navaratri, the temple becomes one of the most visited tourist attractions in Mangalore. Located in Kudroli area, it is easily accessible and draws both devotees and tourists. Among the most photographed temples in Mangalore, Kudroli Temple stands out for its impressive architecture and vibrant festival atmosphere.
📍 Location: Kudroli, Mangalore
Kateel Durgaparameshwari Temple
Kateel Temple is a popular temple near Mangalore dedicated to Goddess Durga and attracts thousands of devotees daily.
Kateel Durgaparameshwari Temple is one of the most powerful goddess temples near Mangalore. Located on an island in the Nandini River, this temple in Dakshina Kannada district attracts thousands of pilgrims every year. Dedicated to Goddess Durga Parameshwari, the temple is especially crowded during Navaratri and special puja days. Its serene riverside location adds to its spiritual charm. Visitors often include Kateel Temple in their list of top temples near Mangalore. For devotees exploring famous temples in Karnataka, this temple is considered a must-visit pilgrimage destination.
📍 Location: Kateel (Approx 30 km from Mangalore)
Polali Rajarajeshwari Temple
Polali Rajarajeshwari Temple is a well-known historical temple near Mangalore in Dakshina Kannada district. Dedicated to Goddess Rajarajeshwari, this temple is famous for its grand annual Rathotsava festival. The temple’s idol is uniquely made of clay and is ceremonially replaced during special rituals, making it culturally significant. Located in a peaceful rural setting, Polali Temple attracts devotees from across Karnataka. It is widely regarded as one of the most sacred temples near Mangalore and is frequently included in religious tour itineraries.
📍 Location: Polali, Dakshina Kannada
Thousand Pillars Jain Temple (Moodabidri)
Saavira Kambada Basadi, also known as the Thousand Pillars Jain Temple, is one of the most important Jain temples near Mangalore. Located in Moodabidri, this 15th-century temple is famous for its intricate wooden carvings and beautifully sculpted pillars. It represents the rich Jain heritage of Dakshina Kannada. Among historical religious monuments in Karnataka, this temple is considered an architectural masterpiece. Tourists searching for ancient temples near Mangalore often visit Moodabidri Jain Basadi for its heritage value and peaceful atmosphere.
📍 Location: Moodabidri
Kukke Subrahmanya Temple
Kukke Subrahmanya Temple is one of the most famous pilgrimage temples near Mangalore. Dedicated to Lord Subrahmanya, this temple is especially known for Sarpa Dosha and naga pujas. Devotees from across India visit Kukke Temple seeking spiritual remedies and blessings. Surrounded by the scenic Western Ghats, the temple combines natural beauty with religious significance. It is among the most visited temples in Karnataka and a major attraction for spiritual tourism near Mangalore.
📍 Location: Subramanya (Approx 90 km from Mangalore)
Dharmasthala Manjunatha Temple
Dharmasthala Manjunatha Temple is one of the largest and most respected pilgrimage centers near Mangalore. Dedicated to Lord Manjunatha (Shiva), this temple is known for its tradition of Annadanam, where free meals are served daily to thousands of devotees. Located in Dharmasthala town, it attracts millions of visitors annually. The temple represents religious harmony and charity. Among major temples near Mangalore, Dharmasthala holds a special place in Karnataka’s spiritual landscape.
📍 Location: Dharmasthala
Kollur Mookambika Temple
Kollur Mookambika Temple is a highly revered goddess temple located near Mangalore in Karnataka. Dedicated to Goddess Mookambika, it is considered one of the important Shakti temples in South India. Devotees believe the goddess blesses students and artists with knowledge and success. The temple is surrounded by the lush greenery of the Western Ghats, making it a spiritually uplifting destination. It is widely included in temple tours from Mangalore.
📍 Location: Kollur
Sharavu Mahaganapathi Temple
Sharavu Mahaganapathi Temple is one of the most visited Ganapathi historic temples in mangalore city. Located in Hampankatta, this temple attracts devotees seeking blessings before starting new ventures or exams. The temple is especially busy during Ganesh Chaturthi celebrations. As one of the centrally located temples in Mangalore, it is easily accessible and forms an important part of the city’s religious heritage.
📍 Location: Hampankatta, Mangalore
🛕 Dongerkery Sri Venkataramana Temple, Mangalore
Dongerkery Sri Venkataramana Temple is one of the well-known Vaishnavite mangalore temple dedicated to Lord Venkataramana (a form of Lord Vishnu). The temple is an important spiritual center for the Goud Saraswat Brahmin community and other devotees in the city.
This historic temple reflects traditional South Indian temple architecture and hosts several religious festivals throughout the year.
📍 Location: Dongerkery, Mangalore
🛕 Deity: Lord Venkataramana
🎉 Major Festivals: Annual Rathotsava, Vaikunta Ekadashi
Kudupu Anantha Padmanabha Temple
Kudupu Anantha Padmanabha Temple is one of the peaceful and spiritually significant temples to visit in mangalore dedicated to Lord Vishnu. Located in the Kudupu area, this temple is surrounded by greenery and offers a calm devotional atmosphere. It is especially known for traditional rituals and community festivals celebrated with great devotion. Among the lesser-crowded but historically important temples in Dakshina Kannada, Kudupu Temple attracts devotees seeking a serene spiritual experience. Visitors exploring famous temples in Mangalore often include this temple in their itinerary for its tranquil setting and religious importance.
📍 Location: Kudupu, Mangalore
Venkataramana Temple
Sri Venkataramana Temple located on Car Street is one of the most prominent Vaishnavite famous temples in mangalore. Dedicated to Lord Venkateshwara (Venkataramana), the temple holds special importance for the Goud Saraswat Brahmin community. Its central location makes it one of the most accessible temples in Mangalore city. The temple celebrates major Hindu festivals like Vaikunta Ekadashi and Rathotsava with grandeur. Among famous Vishnu temples in Mangalore, this temple stands out for its traditional architecture and vibrant spiritual atmosphere.
Venkatramana Temple is a historic temple in Mangalore known for its traditional architecture and religious importance.
📍 Location: Car Street, Mangalore
Mahalingeshwara Temple – Puttur
Mahalingeshwara Temple in Puttur is one of the most ancient Shiva temples near Mangalore. Located in Dakshina Kannada district, this temple is known for its annual jatra festival, which attracts thousands of devotees. The temple has a long-standing historical presence in the region and reflects traditional Karnataka temple architecture. Pilgrims from Mangalore frequently visit this sacred shrine seeking blessings. Among historical temples near Mangalore, Mahalingeshwara Temple is considered a spiritually powerful destination.
📍 Location: Puttur
Anegudde Vinayaka Temple
Anegudde Vinayaka Temple is a well-known Ganesha temple located near Mangalore. Situated on a small hill, the temple offers scenic views and a peaceful atmosphere. Dedicated to Lord Vinayaka, it is one of the popular pilgrimage temples in coastal Karnataka. Devotees believe that visiting this temple removes obstacles and brings success. Among the most famous temples near Mangalore, Anegudde Temple attracts pilgrims throughout the year, especially during Ganesh Chaturthi celebrations.
📍 Location: Anegudde
Anantheshwara Temple – Ullal
Anantheshwara Temple in Ullal is one of the historic coastal temples near Mangalore. Located close to Ullal Beach, the temple offers a serene spiritual environment with scenic surroundings. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, this temple has been an important religious center for the local community for centuries. Visitors exploring temples near Mangalore often combine a beach visit with darshan at this peaceful shrine. Its coastal charm and cultural significance make it a unique religious attraction in Dakshina Kannada.
📍 Location: Ullal
Kadinje Temple
Kadinje Temple is a lesser-known but spiritually significant temple near Mangalore. Located in Dakshina Kannada district, the temple is surrounded by greenery and rural charm. It reflects traditional temple architecture of coastal Karnataka. Devotees visit regularly for daily pujas and festival celebrations. Among hidden temples near Mangalore, Kadinje Temple offers a peaceful spiritual experience away from city crowds. It is a good option for those exploring unexplored religious places in Mangalore region.
Sri Rajarajeshwari Temple – Polali
Sri Rajarajeshwari Temple in Polali is one of the most powerful and historically significant temples near Mangalore in Dakshina Kannada district, Karnataka. Dedicated to Goddess Rajarajeshwari, this ancient temple is widely known for its grand annual Rathotsava (chariot festival), which attracts thousands of devotees from across the region.
One of the unique features of Polali Temple is that the idol of the goddess is traditionally made of clay and is ceremonially renewed during special rituals, making it culturally distinct among historic temples in mangalore. The temple reflects classic South Indian architecture and deep-rooted spiritual traditions of coastal Karnataka.
Located around 25 km from Mangalore city, Sri Rajarajeshwari Temple is an important pilgrimage site for devotees seeking blessings, prosperity and protection. It is considered one of the most famous temples near Mangalore and a must-visit religious destination in Dakshina Kannada.
📍 Location: Polali, Dakshina Kannada, Karnataka
🎉 Major Festival: Polali Rathotsava
🛕 Deity: Goddess Rajarajeshwari
Moodabidri Jain Basadis
Moodabidri Jain Basadis are among the most significant historical religious monuments near Mangalore. These ancient Jain temples represent the rich heritage of Jain culture in Karnataka. The temples are known for intricate carvings and architectural beauty. Tourists searching for historical temples near Mangalore often visit Moodabidri to explore its Jain heritage. These temples are important not only spiritually but also culturally and historically in Dakshina Kannada district.
Kabbinale Temple
Kabbinale Temple is a scenic and peaceful temple located in the Western Ghats region near Mangalore. Surrounded by hills and greenery, this temple attracts devotees and nature lovers alike. It is one of the lesser-known pilgrimage temples near Mangalore but offers a unique spiritual experience. Visitors often include Kabbinale Temple in their temple tours from Mangalore for its calm and natural beauty.
Shri Gopalakrishna Temple, Shakthinagar
Shri Gopalakrishna Temple in Shakthinagar is one of the popular Krishna temples in Mangalore. Dedicated to Lord Gopalakrishna, the temple attracts local devotees throughout the year. The temple becomes especially vibrant during Janmashtami celebrations. Located in Shakthinagar area, it serves as an important spiritual center for residents of Mangalore. Among Krishna temples in Dakshina Kannada, this temple holds a special place for its devotional atmosphere and community involvement.
Famous Krishna Temples in Mangalore
Apart from Shri Gopalakrishna Temple in Shakthinagar, devotees also visit other important Krishna temples in Dakshina Kannada. These temples attract pilgrims especially during Janmashtami celebrations and major Hindu festivals.
This temple plays an important role in the spiritual life of residents in the Shakthinagar and nearby areas.
📍 Location: Shakthinagar, Mangalore
🛕 Deity: Lord Gopalakrishna
🌸 Best Time to Visit: Janmashtami & festival days
Regional Historic Temples of Dakshina Kannada
Apart from the temples listed above, Dakshina Kannada district is home to several other historical temples in Mangalore and surrounding villages. These temples reflect the deep-rooted spiritual traditions of coastal Karnataka. Visitors exploring famous temples in Mangalore often discover many smaller yet culturally important shrines across the region.
For official details, you can visit the Karnataka Tourism website. 👉 https://www.karnatakatourism.org/
🌟 Why Visit Temples in Mangalore?
- Rich cultural heritage
- Ancient architecture
- Major festivals like Navaratri & Dasara
- Scenic Western Ghats surroundings
- Spiritual tourism destination in Karnataka
Why Temples in Mangalore Are Famous?
Temples in Mangalore are known for their rich history, traditional architecture, annual festivals, and spiritual importance in Dakshina Kannada district. From ancient Shiva temples and powerful goddess shrines to historic Jain basadis and Krishna temples, Mangalore offers a complete religious tourism experience in Karnataka.
FAQ
Q1. Which is the most famous temple in Mangalore?
Kadri Manjunath Temple and Kudroli Temple are among the most popular.
Q2. What is the best time to visit temples in Mangalore?
October to February is the best time due to pleasant weather.
Q3. Are temples in Mangalore open daily?
Yes, most temples are open daily with specific timings.
🏁 Conclusion
Mangalore is a city rich in spiritual heritage, offering a wide range of temples that reflect its deep cultural and religious roots. From ancient temples like Kadri Manjunath to vibrant places like Kudroli Gokarnanatheshwara Temple, each location provides a unique experience for devotees and travelers alike.
Whether you are planning a spiritual journey or a cultural exploration, visiting these famous temples in Mangalore will give you a deeper understanding of the region’s traditions and history.
Along with temple visits, you can also explore nearby beaches, parks, and waterfalls to make your trip more enjoyable and memorable. Plan your visit wisely and experience the best of Mangalore.
These famous temples in Mangalore include some of the oldest temples in the region, making them important cultural landmarks.
While exploring temples, you can also relax at the beautiful beaches in Mangalore, known for scenic sunsets and peaceful surroundings.
Nature lovers can also visit stunning waterfalls near Mangalore for a refreshing experience after temple visits.