It’s the Mahathobara Shree Mangaladevi Temple that we’re referring to here. What an iconic place, standing proudly amidst the coastal charm of Mangaluru. The temple was believed to have been built sometime in the 9th century by a king whose sole intention was to please the ruling queen, as she would have been a follower of the deity, Goddess Mangaladevi herself. However, popular legends say that Mangaluru has been named after this goddess, who is regarded as the founding deity of the city. A perfect blending of Kerala architectural traditions with ornamental carvings and religious art that could easily touch upon people’s devotional tendencies.Location: 3 km from Mangaluru City Centre, KarnatakaPrice: Free EntryTiming: 6:00 AM – 1:00 PM & 4:00 PM – 8:30 PMBest Time to Visit: October to MarchThe entire area around the temple might look serene and quiet, but the decorated inner sanctum of Goddess Mangaladevi, as well as the riot of colour and devotional activity surrounding it during occasions such as the Navratri festival, will give you a truly magical and memorable time, thereby pulling in visitors from all parts of the world. Because of its peculiar blending of faith and tradition, history and cultural importance, Mangaluru’s Mahathobara Shree Mangaladevi Temple is one of the significant attractions that draws the locals and the global travellers alike. This is one of the places where you can absorb the essence of the regional culture and feel the rhythm of religious life here. In fact, if you get the opportunity to find yourself in the quiet atmosphere of this temple, you will find ample time to reflect on the happenings, to meditate or to feel the presence of a great spiritual force. Being an important landmark of this place, this is definitely a great option to know the history and the spirituality of Mangaluru and Karnataka, for that matter.
