Surathkal
How to reach there: By train using Bangalore – Mangalore train from Mysore and Bangalore and then public or private bus to Surathkal. One can use Konkan railway to reach here from Mumbai. Also, bus services are available from various cities to Mangalore and then city bus service to Surathkal.
Where to stay: Hotel Lalit International (0824-2476343), Hotel Panchami (0824-2479533), Hotel Saroj (0824-2271212), Hotel Sathyapra (0824-2279100), HOTEL SADANAND (0824 – 2475370, 2475570). As Surathkal is nearby one can even stay in Mangalore.
Where to eat: HOTEL SADANAND (0824 – 2475370, 2475570), Dhabas on Highway, Kamadhenu Bar and Restaurant (0824-2475654 ), Tikka Hut Fast Food Restaurant (0824-2478386). You can aslo eat in Mangalore.
Languages spoken: Tulu, Kannada, Hindi, English
Surathkal is small suburb of Mangalore on NH 17 and is famous for housing India’s number 1 National Institute of Technology (NIT), formerly known as Regional Engineering College (REC). It also has few big name industries like The Mangalore Refinery and Petrochemicals Limited (MRPL), Mangalore Chemicals and Fertilizers Limited (MCF) and a port The New Mangalore Port Trust (NMPT). Legend has it that the name Surathkal has been derived from the Tulu word “shiradakal” which means headstone.
What to see:
1. Sadashiva temple: Also, known as Narahari Parvatha Sadashiva Temple is located in the Bantwal taluk of Dakshina Kannada District. The temple located on top of the is hill is dedicated to Lord Shiva. There are 4 ponds in featuring the shape of Shanka (Conch), Chakra (Wheel), Gadha (Weapon) and Padma (Lotus). It is believed to be scared to take bath here. The Surrounding of the is enchanting scenary.
Evening view from Sadashiva temple
2. Krishnapura Matha: It is one of the ashta matha established by Sri Madhwaacharya located around 3 kilometres from Surathkal. The extensive wooden work are worth seeing.
3. Lighthouse: The lighthouse is located near the Sadashiva temple and it gives an awesome view of the surrounding and the Arabian sea.
4. Beach: Surathkal has some of the most clean and pristine coastline and beaches. One take a long stroll just listening to the music of Arabian sea. Do check the sunrise and sunset.
If you have tie in hand do visit the country side as much you can and relish the coastal food as much as you can.