Why Cruise Tourism Is The Best Way To Explore Mangaluru’s Scenic Beaches & Temples

Mangaluru is a major port city located on the west coast of India in Karnataka. The place is nestled between the Arabian Sea to the west and the Western Ghats mountain range. And now, to strengthen the economy, Karnataka is planning to boost cruise tourism in the city. Here’s what we know so far.

Karnataka Plans To Boost Cruise Tourism In Mangaluru

For those of you who don’t know, Mangaluru in Karnataka is a well-known and growing destination for cruise tourism. The place serves as a primary gateway for international travellers exploring the beauty of coastal India. According to The Hindu, with an aim to boost the local economy and generate employment, the Karnataka Tourism Department is planning to extend the docking hours of cruise ships at New Mangalore Port from 12 hours to 48 hours or more.

Currently, international cruises operating from the Bahamas, Maldives, Norway and other countries dock at New Mangalore Port for only 12 hours. This new change will ensure that international cruise operators can keep their ships docked for a minimum of two days. Reportedly, the cruise tourism season in Mangaluru runs from October to May, and during this time, the port city receives a good number of tourists.

Also Read: Goa May Soon Get Feni Trails, Caravan Tourism & Hot Air Balloon Rides To Boost Year-Round Footfall

Longer Docking Hours Will Allow Visitors To Explore The City

According to The Hindu, this move could allow visitors to spend more time exploring beaches in Mangaluru, Udupi and other Uttara Kannada districts. Moreover, authorities believe that extending docking hours can also boost temple tourism and help generate more revenue for locals in the city. This is why it can be said that cruise tourism is one of the best ways to explore the city’s beautiful temples and beaches. 

Cruise tourism might be getting a boost, but unlike Goa and Mumbai, the state has no plans to promote casinos for international tourists. Reportedly, locals are not in favour of it, as they believe that Mangaluru’s food, scenic places and beaches are enough to attract visitors.

Also Read: Bengaluru-Mangaluru-Madgaon Vande Bharat Planned To Improve Multi-City Connectivity

What do you think of this? Have you ever been to Mangaluru?

Cover Image Courtesy: Canva Pro/ Toktok No Maski Productions (Representative Image)