Mulki at a Glance: Entry, Timings & Key Info
| State | Karnataka |
| Famous For | River Town, beaches, temples |
| Best Time to Visit | October to March |
| Ideal Duration | 2-3 days minimum |
| Language | Kannada, Tulu, English |
| Nearest Airport | Mangalore International Airport (IXE), 30km from city |
| Nearest Railway | Surathkal (SL), 15 km from Mulki |
| Entry Fee | Free – ₹1500+ (varies) |
| Best For | pilgrims and beach lovers |
Mulki: What Makes It Worth Visiting
Mulki is a serene river town in Karnataka, situated on the banks of the Shambhavi River. It's a coastal town located en route to Mangalore, offering a blend of natural beauty and spiritual significance.
A visit of 2-3 days is ideal to explore Mulki's attractions. The nearest airport is in Mangalore, and local transport mainly consists of auto-rickshaws and buses.
Mulki: Temples & Religious Site Opening Hours
| Name | Hours | Entry Fee | Best Time | Dress Code |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Durgaparameshwari Temple, Bappanadu | 06:00-12:00, 15:00-21:00 daily | Free | Morning - for peaceful darshan | Modest clothing (cover shoulders & legs) |
| Venkatramana Temple | 07:00-12:00, 16:00-20:00 daily | Free | Morning - for peaceful prayers | Modest clothing (cover shoulders & legs) |
How to Reach Mulki: Road, Train, Air & Bus Routes
train Train to Mulki: Nearest Station & Schedules
Nearest Station: Surathkal (SL), 15 km from Mulki — Most express trains stop here, frequent auto-rickshaws and buses available.
- From Delhi: 36 hours (₹1500-3000)
- From Mumbai: 16 hours (₹800-1500)
Booking: IRCTC or 12Go.asia
flight Flying to Mulki: Nearest Airport & Transfers
Nearest Airport: Mangalore International Airport (IXE), 30km from city
- Delhi: 2.5 hours (₹4000-8000)
- Mumbai: 1.5 hours (₹3000-6000)
Airport transfer:
- Taxi: ₹800-1200
- Uber/Ola: ₹700-1000
directions_bus Bus to Mulki: Services & Timings
- From Mangalore: 1 hour (₹80-120)
- From Udupi: 1.5 hours (₹100-150)
Trains more comfortable for long distances.
Best Time to Visit Mulki: Month-by-Month Guide (2026)
Best months: October to March
| Season | Temperature | What to Expect | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| Best Time: October to March | 22-32 degrees C | This is the best time for surfing and other water activities due to calm seas. T | Best ✓ |
| Shoulder Season: September and April | 25-35 degrees C | You can find better deals on accommodation and avoid the peak season crowds. How | Some water sports activities might |
| Avoid: May to August | 27-35 degrees C | Avoid visiting during this time due to the monsoon season and potential flooding | Travel can be disrupted due to heav |
Peak season note: Expect slightly higher prices for accommodation, especially during peak season. Booking in advance is recommended.
2-Day Mulki Itinerary: Day-by-Day Highlights
Day 1 — Temples & Heritage
🌅 Morning (9 AM – 12 PM)
🏖️ Shambhavi River
The Shambhavi River is a prominent feature of Mulki, offering picturesque views and opportunities for boating. The river flows thr…
💡 Tip: Visit during sunrise or sunset for the most stunning views.
☀️ Afternoon (12 PM – 5 PM)
🙏 Durgaparameshwari Temple, Bappanadu
This ancient temple is dedicated to Goddess Durga and is known for its unique architecture and religious significance. It's locate…
💡 Tip: Try the temple's prasadam (blessed food), which is offered to all visitors.
🏖️ Mulki Beach
Mulki Beach is a serene and relatively less crowded beach, perfect for relaxation and water sports. The beach is known for its cle…
💡 Tip: Visit during weekdays to avoid weekend crowds.
Day 2 — More to Explore
🌅 Morning (9 AM – 12 PM)
📍 Kinnigoli
Kinnigoli is a small town near Mulki, known for its scenic beauty and temples. It offers a glimpse into the rural life of Karnatak…
💡 Try the local sweets and snacks available in Kinnigoli's market.
☀️ Afternoon (12 PM – 5 PM)
📍 Surfing at Mantra Surf Club
Mantra Surf Club is a popular surf school and hangout spot in Mulki. They offer surfing lessons for all skill levels, from beginne…
💡 Check the weather forecast before booking your session.
🙏 Venkatramana Temple
A beautiful temple dedicated to Lord Venkatramana. The temple features intricate carvings and a peaceful atmosphere.…
💡 Try to visit during the annual temple festival for a vibrant cultural experience.
Top Places to Visit in Mulki: Must-See Attractions & Things to Do
| # | Place | Entry | Duration | Hours |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 🏖️ Shambhavi River | Free | 2-3 hours | Open 24 hours |
| 2 | 🙏 Durgaparameshwari Temple, Bappanadu | Free | 1-2 hours | 06:00-12:00, 15:00-21:00 daily |
| 3 | 🏖️ Mulki Beach | Free | 2-4 hours | Open 24 hours |
| 4 | 📍 Kinnigoli | Free | 3-4 hours | Open 24 hours |
| 5 | 📍 Surfing at Mantra Surf Club | ₹1500 per session (includes board rental) | 2-3 hours | 07:00-18:00 daily |
| 6 | 🙏 Venkatramana Temple | Free | 1 hour | 07:00-12:00, 16:00-20:00 daily |
| 7 | 🏖️ Delta Beach | Free | 2-3 hours | Open 24 hours |
🏖️ 1. Shambhavi River
The Shambhavi River is a prominent feature of Mulki, offering picturesque views and opportunities for boating. The river flows through lush greenery before meeting the Arabian Sea.
📍 Getting there: Auto-rickshaw from Mulki town center: ₹50-70
🙏 2. Durgaparameshwari Temple, Bappanadu
This ancient temple is dedicated to Goddess Durga and is known for its unique architecture and religious significance. It's located on the banks of the Shambhavi River.
Honest take: A must-visit for religious travelers and those interested in local culture.
📍 Getting there: Auto-rickshaw from Mulki town center: ₹80-100
🏖️ 3. Mulki Beach
Mulki Beach is a serene and relatively less crowded beach, perfect for relaxation and water sports. The beach is known for its clean sands and clear waters.
📍 Getting there: Walking distance from Mulki town center
Food & Restaurants in Mulki: Local Dishes & Where to Eat
Must-try dishes: Neer Dosa, Fish Curry, Goli Baje, Chicken Sukka
| Dish / Specialty | Price Range | Where to Find |
|---|---|---|
| Fish Thali | ₹₹ (₹400-600 for two) | Mulki town center |
| Chicken Biryani | ₹₹ (₹500-700 for two) | Near Mulki Bus Stand |
| Prawn Fry | ₹₹ (₹600-800 for two) | Near Mulki Beach |
🛺 Street Food: Mulki Market — Goli Baje, Bonda, Samosas (₹50-100 per person)
Mulki Trip Budget (Per Person)
| Category | Budget | Mid-Range | Comfortable |
|---|---|---|---|
| Accommodation/night | ₹1500-2500/night | ₹3000-5000/night | ₹6000+/night |
| Food/day | ₹200–400 | ₹500–800 | ₹1,000–1,500 |
| Local transport | ₹100–200 | ₹300–500 | ₹500–1,000 |
| Entry fees (avg) | ₹50–100 | ₹100–200 | ₹200–400 |
| Total (2 days) | ~₹1,700 | ~₹4,500 | ~₹11,000 |
Hotels in Mulki: Best Accommodation for Every Budget
💰 Budget
Sai Vishram Business Hotel
₹1500-2500/night
Mulki town center
Hotel Ayodhya
₹1200-2000/night
Near Mulki Bus Stand
🏨 Mid-Range
Summer Sands Beach Resort
₹3000-5000/night
Near Mulki Beach
Red Rock Residency
₹2500-4000/night
Kinnigoli
⭐ Luxury
Paradise Isle Beach Resort
₹6000+/night
Udupi (near Mulki)
Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Manipal
₹5000+/night
Manipal (near Mulki)
Mulki Travel Tips: Safety, Money & Getting Around
- ✓ Overcharging by auto-rickshaw drivers: Negotiate the fare beforehand or use ride-hailing apps.
- ✓ Fake guides: Only hire guides from reputable sources. Verify their credentials.
- ✓ Light and comfortable clothing is recommended, especially during the summer months. Pack swimwear for the beach and water activities. Dress modestly when visiting temples.
- ✓ ATMs are available in Mulki town center.
- ✓ Airtel and Jio offer good coverage. Sim cards are available at the airport or in town.
Frequently Asked Questions About Visiting Mulki
How many days are enough for Mulki?
2-3 days minimum is ideal for Mulki. Day 1 covers Shambhavi River and Durgaparameshwari Temple, Bappanadu, while Day 2 explores Kinnigoli and Surfing at Mantra Surf Club.
What is Mulki famous for?
Mulki is famous for River Town, beaches, temples.
What is the best time to visit Mulki?
The best time to visit Mulki is October to March. Pleasant and dry weather, ideal for outdoor activities and water sports. The humidity is relatively low during these months.
Is Mulki worth visiting?
Yes, Mulki is worth visiting for River Town, beaches, temples. It is especially recommended for pilgrims and beach lovers and can be combined with a visit to Mangalore.
What is the budget for a trip to Mulki?
A 2-day trip to Mulki costs approximately ₹2,000–₹5,000 per person including accommodation, food, and local transport. Budget accommodation starts at ₹1500-2500/night per night.
What are the timings of Durgaparameshwari Temple, Bappanadu?
Durgaparameshwari Temple, Bappanadu is open 06:00-12:00, 15:00-21:00 daily. Best time to visit: Morning - for peaceful darshan.
What is the entry fee for Durgaparameshwari Temple, Bappanadu?
Entry fee at Durgaparameshwari Temple, Bappanadu: Free.
What is the dress code for Durgaparameshwari Temple, Bappanadu?
Modest clothing (cover shoulders & legs) when visiting Durgaparameshwari Temple, Bappanadu.
Is photography allowed at Durgaparameshwari Temple, Bappanadu?
Photography is not allowed inside at Durgaparameshwari Temple, Bappanadu.
What are the timings of Venkatramana Temple?
Venkatramana Temple is open 07:00-12:00, 16:00-20:00 daily. Best time to visit: Morning - for peaceful prayers.
What is the entry fee for Venkatramana Temple?
Entry fee at Venkatramana Temple: Free.
What is the dress code for Venkatramana Temple?
Modest clothing (cover shoulders & legs) when visiting Venkatramana Temple.