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Gurupura River

Gurupura or Phalguni

About:

The Gurupura River, also known as the Phalguni River, flows through the Dakshina Kannada district in Karnataka, India. Originating in the Western Ghats, the river is essential for the coastal ecology and supports agriculture, fishing, and daily water needs of the local population. Known for its serene landscape, the Gurupura River flows alongside the city of Mangalore before joining the Arabian Sea.

Mangalore lies on the backwaters of the Netravati and Gurupura rivers. These rivers effectively encircle the city, with the Netravti flowing at the south of the city, and the Gurupura flowing at the north of the city. The rivers form an estuary at the southern region of the city and subsequently flow into the Arabian sea.[51] The city is often used as a staging point for traffic along the Malabar Coast. The coastline of the city is dotted with several beaches, such as Mukka, Panambur, Tannirbavi, Suratkal, and Someshwara. Coconut trees, palm trees, and Ashoka trees comprise the primary vegetation of the city.

Location info:
The Gurupura River begins in the Western Ghats near the town of Moodabidri and flows through Mangalore city in the Dakshina Kannada district of Karnataka. It runs for about 80 kilometers, eventually merging with the Arabian Sea near the town of Tannirbavi, close to Mangalore.

Climate/Weather:
Summer: (March to May) – Warm and humid, with temperatures ranging from 25°C to 35°C. Monsoon: (June to September) – Heavy rainfall replenishes the river, leading to lush landscapes and a significant increase in river flow. Winter: (November to February) – Mild and pleasant, with temperatures from 20°C to 30°C, ideal for visiting..

History:
The Gurupura River holds significance in the region’s history and is closely tied to the cultural heritage of Mangalore. Named after the town of Gurupura, which it flows through, the river has supported local agriculture and commerce for centuries. It has also served as an important waterway, especially when Mangalore served as a trade center for spices and other goods. The river’s estuary near Tannirbavi is a popular site for fishing and boating, retaining its traditional role in the local economy.

Interesting things to do:
Boating and Fishing: The estuary near Tannirbavi is popular for boating and fishing, offering scenic views and an experience of the local fishing culture. Photography and Bird Watching: The riverbanks are home to various bird species, particularly during early mornings and evenings. Riverfront Walks: Enjoy peaceful walks along the river, especially near the Gurupura Bridge, for panoramic views of the city and river.

Interesting things to Visit:
Tannirbavi Beach: Located near the mouth of the Gurupura River, Tannirbavi Beach offers scenic views and is known for its sunsets. Sultan Battery: Built by Tipu Sultan, this historical watchtower overlooks the Gurupura River and offers great views of the surrounding landscape. Kadri Manjunath Temple: A renowned temple in Mangalore, located a short drive from the river, known for its unique architecture and cultural heritage. Pilikula Nisargadhama: An eco-tourism park with a lake, biological reserve, and cultural village, providing a holistic experience of the region’s ecology and heritage.

Mobile range info:
Mobile connectivity is generally strong along the Gurupura River, especially near Mangalore. Signal strength may weaken slightly in some rural areas but is generally reliable.

How to reach?
Nearest Railway Station: Mangalore has well-connected railway stations, such as Mangalore Central and Mangalore Junction, making it accessible from major cities.
Nearest Airport:The nearest airport is Mangalore International Airport, about 20 km from the river..
Road Transport:Mangalore is connected by national highways, and state buses and taxis are readily available to reach locations along the Gurupura River..

Nearest Visiting places:
Mangalore: Known for its cultural heritage, beautiful beaches, and temples. Moodabidri: Often called Jain Kashi, famous for its ancient Jain temples and architecture. Surathkal Beach: A popular beach near Mangalore, known for its scenic lighthouse and views of the Arabian Sea.

Nearest Petrol Pump:
Petrol pumps are abundant throughout Mangalore city and along major highways, ensuring easy refueling options for travelers.

Hotels/Lodge/Accommodation:
Mangalore: Offers a variety of accommodations, including budget hotels, mid-range guesthouses, and luxury hotels. Tannirbavi and Surathkal: Some small lodges and guesthouses are available near the beaches, catering to tourists looking for a seaside stay.

Things to carry:
Comfortable and lightweight clothing, especially during the warmer months. Sunglasses, sunscreen, and a hat for sun protection. Camera and binoculars for photography and bird watching. Water bottle and snacks for the journey. Personal hygiene essentials, especially if spending time outdoors or on the beach.

Tips & Suggestions:
Winter is the best time to visit for pleasant weather and ideal river views. Avoid visiting during heavy monsoon rains when the river level can rise significantly, and boating may be limited. Respect local customs and traditions, especially at religious sites near the river. Keep the environment clean and avoid littering around the riverbanks and beaches.

Help Line/Phone Number:
Karnataka Tourism Information:+91-80-2235-2828
Nearest Hospital:Mangalore

Gurupura or Phalguni Nearest Attraction
St. Mary's Island
Located 58 km north of Mangalore, the St. Mary's Island beach is special for the unique formation of basalt rocks which have crystallized into columns and split into vertical hexagonal blocks. This group of islands is accessible by ferry from Malpe which is a major fishing harbor.....more
Kollur Temples
Kollur Mookambika Temple, an important seat of Shakti worship is located in very picturesque surroundings at the foot of the Western Ghats in Kundapur taluk of Udupi district. This sacred place is situated on the banks of river sauparnika and surrounded by thickly wooded hills and has a natural formation resembling the Sri Chakra. Kollur is one of the seven mukti places which were created by Parashurama.....more
Udupi Temples
Udupi, the Kokani city is the headquarters of the Udupi District, Karnataka State, India. When one hears the name "Udupi" either "Udupi Krishna" or "Udupi Masala Dosa" comes to the mind. Of course the famous, Krishna temple is located in this city. The temple is famous for a unique statue of Lord Krishna.....more
Kollur Forest
Kollur is a tiny hamlet situated 40km Kundapur Town, about 140 km away from Mangalore City in Karnataka state in Southern part of India. This village lies at the foot of the Western Ghats, and is famous for the Mookambika temple, a Hindu pilgrim center.....more
Mookambika Wildlife Sanctuary
Located in Udupi District, Karnataka, Mookambika Wildlife Sanctuary spans over 247 sq km and is thick with evergreen, semi-evergreen and moist deciduous forests of the Western Ghats, and small patches of teak plantations. It is contiguous with the Sharavathi Valley Wildlife Sanctuary.....more
Someshwara Wildlife Sanctuary
Located in the Western Ghats, Someshwara Wildlife Sanctuary in Udupi District of Karnataka. This 88 sq km sanctuary is consists of semi-evergreen and evergreen forests. Wildlife species include tiger, leopard, wild dog, jackal, gaur, wild pig, sambar deer, spotted deer, barking deer, lion tailed macaque, bonnet macaque and common langur.....more
Karkala
Karkala is a town and also the headquarters of Karkala Taluk in Udupi district of Karnataka, India, and is located about 300 km from Bangalore. It lies near the Western Ghats. The first name of this town was Pandya Nagari during the Jain regime but afterwards it was changed to Karikallu because of black stones.....more
Koosalli Falls
The fabulous picnic spot, Koosalli waterfalls is located near Koosalli village in Kundapura. A series of six falls, one above the other, in splendid surroundings makes it one of the best waterfalls in the state. The combined height of all six falls is about 380 ft....more
Kedaka River
The Kedaka River is a river flowing through Kundapur and Gungulli in western India. It joins with the Souparnika River, Varahi River, Chakra River, and Kubja River and merges into the Arabian Sea.....more
Pangala River
Pangala is a village situated in Udupi taluk of Udupi district, Karnataka. India's National Highway number 17 (NH-17) road connecting Mangalore (Kudla or Mangaluru) to Mumbai (Bombay) passes through this village.The village is on the north banks of Pangala river.....more
Souparnika River
Souparnika River is a river flowing through Kundapur and Gangolli in western India. It joins with the Varahi River, Kedaka River, Chakra River, and Kubja River and merges into the Arabian Sea.Sauparnika is a sacred river which emerges from a verdant mountain near Maravanthe in Udupi District of Karnataka.....more
Udyavara River
Udyavara is a village on the outskirts of the town of Udupi, Karnataka, India. It is located to south of Udupi, and to the north of the Udyavara river. Udyavara was formerly called Udayapura. It was the capital of the Alupas.....more
Kaup Beach
Kaup Beach is located 12 km south of Udupi. It is situated on the coastal belt. The Kaup beach is one of the most beautiful beaches. Its placement is perfect. The beach with the 100 ft high lighthouse on the rocks is a photographer's paradise.....more
Malpe Beach
About 6 kms from Udupi, in South Canara is Malpe, an ideal picnic spot with its virgin beach. The endless stretch of golden sand, graciously swaying palm trees, the clear blue sky and the gurgle of the sea all set a perfect mood for an unforgettable holiday here....more
Trasi Beach

Trasi is a beautiful place on the west coast of India, 100 km from Mangalore, 900 km from Mumbai and 12 km north from Kundapur.Here you can see a unique scene where a National highway separates the Arabian sea from the Sauparnika river.....more

Panna Island
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Kudumari Falls
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Seeta/ Seetha falls / Koodlu Theertha falls / Sita falls
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