Mangaluru is a well-connected coastal city in Karnataka with multiple transportation options that cater to locals and tourists. While buses and auto-rickshaws are the primary modes of daily transport, taxis, rental cars, and trains also provide convenient travel. Below is a detailed guide covering various transportation modes in Mangaluru.
1. Road Transportation
Mangaluru has a well-maintained road network, connecting the city with nearby towns and states. National Highways NH-66 (Mumbai-Kanyakumari) and NH-75 (Bengaluru-Mangaluru) pass through the city.
Taxis & Ride-Sharing Services
- Uber & Ola: Available for easy city commuting and airport transfers.
- Local Cabs: Available for hire, including airport and intercity travel.
- Cost: ₹15-₹20 per km for local taxis, ₹12-₹18 per km for Ola/Uber.
Auto-Rickshaws
- Availability: Found across the city; best for short distances.
- Cost: ₹30 for the first 2 km; additional charges beyond that.
- Tip: Always ask for a meter or negotiate a fair price before boarding.
Car Rentals
- Self-Drive Cars: Available from Zoomcar, Revv, and local rental agencies.
- Chauffeur-Driven Cars: Available for day rentals and outstation trips.
- Cost: ₹1,500–₹3,500 per day depending on the car type.
2. Public Bus Services
Mangaluru’s bus network is extensive, affordable, and reliable. Both government and private buses operate within the city.
Types of Buses in Mangaluru
| Bus Type | Operator | Route Type | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| KSRTC City Buses | Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) | Local city buses | ₹10 – ₹50 |
| Private City Buses | Various Private Operators | Local areas | ₹10 – ₹50 |
| Express Buses | KSRTC & Private | Intercity (Bengaluru, Mysuru, Goa) | ₹200 – ₹1,000 |
| Luxury AC Buses | KSRTC & VRL, SRS, Sugama | Long-distance travel | ₹500 – ₹1,800 |
- Timings: 6:00 AM – 10:00 PM
- Best Route: Hampankatta – Kadri – Bejai – Surathkal (frequent buses available)
- Tip: Opt for private buses for faster service; KSRTC buses are more organized.
3. Metro Rail
- Status: No metro rail service in Mangaluru as of 2024.
- Alternative: City buses, auto-rickshaws, and taxis provide urban mobility.
4. Rail Transport
Mangaluru has two major railway stations connecting it to major cities like Bengaluru, Mumbai, Chennai, Hyderabad, and Goa.
| Railway Station | Station Code | Major Routes | Distance from City Center |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mangaluru Central | MAQ | Bengaluru, Mumbai, Chennai, Kerala | Located in the city |
| Mangaluru Junction | MAJN | Kerala, Goa, Konkan Railway routes | 5 km from city center |
| Surathkal Railway Station | SL | Mumbai, Goa, Udupi | 12 km from city |
- Cost: Local train fares start from ₹10; long-distance train fares depend on the class and destination.
- Tip: Book train tickets in advance through IRCTC for confirmed seats.
5. Tram Service
- Status: No tram service in Mangaluru as of 2024.
- Alternative: City buses and auto-rickshaws serve as primary public transport.
6. Air Transport
- Airport: Mangaluru International Airport (IXE)
- Location: Bajpe, 13 km from city center.
- Airlines Operating: IndiGo, Air India, Vistara, SpiceJet, and international airlines to Gulf countries.
- Transportation from Airport:
- Prepaid taxis (₹300-₹800)
- KSRTC Airport Bus
- Auto-rickshaws (₹250-₹500)
7. Transportation Table: Summary Guide
| Transport Mode | Availability | Cost | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| City Bus | KSRTC & Private Operators | ₹10-₹50 | Budget travel within the city |
| Auto-Rickshaw | Throughout the city | ₹30 for the first 2 km | Short-distance travel |
| Taxi (Uber/Ola) | App-based, available across the city | ₹12-₹20 per km | Comfortable city rides |
| Car Rentals | Zoomcar, Revv, Local Agencies | ₹1,500–₹3,500 per day | Self-drive long-distance travel |
| Trains | 3 Major Railway Stations | ₹10-₹3,000 (depending on distance & class) | Intercity & long-distance travel |
| Flights | Mangaluru International Airport | ₹3,000-₹10,000 (Domestic & International) | Fastest travel to major cities |
| Intercity Buses | KSRTC, VRL, SRS | ₹200-₹1,800 | Travel to Bengaluru, Goa, Kerala |
8. Additional Tourist Information for Mangaluru
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Best Time to Visit | October to March (pleasant weather, ideal for sightseeing & beaches) |
| Primary Language | Kannada, Tulu, Konkani, English, Hindi |
| Currency | Indian Rupee (INR) |
| Local SIM Availability | Airtel, Jio, Vi (available at airport, railway station & mobile stores) |
| Shopping Areas | Hampankatta Market, City Center Mall, Bharath Mall, Forum Fiza Mall |
| Popular Foods | Neer Dosa, Chicken Ghee Roast, Gadbad Ice Cream, Mangalore Buns, Fish Curry |
| Emergency Numbers | Police: 100, Ambulance: 108, Fire: 101 |
| Nearest Major Cities | Bengaluru (352 km), Kochi (370 km), Goa (365 km) |
| Electric Plug Type | Type C, D, and M (230V, 50 |