Puttur at a Glance: Entry, Timings & Key Info
| State | Karnataka |
| Famous For | Dakshina Kannada |
| Best Time to Visit | October to March |
| Ideal Duration | 2-3 days minimum |
| Language | Kannada, Tulu, English |
| Nearest Airport | Mangalore International Airport (IXE), 55km from city |
| Nearest Railway | Puttur Railway Station (PUT) |
| Entry Fee | Free – ₹20+ (varies) |
| Best For | all travellers |
Puttur: What Makes It Worth Visiting
Puttur is a commercial hub located in the Dakshina Kannada district of Karnataka. It is known for its agricultural activities, educational institutions, and as a transit point to other parts of the region. The town provides a glimpse into the local culture and traditions of South Canara.
Puttur offers a peaceful escape from crowded cities and a chance to experience authentic South Indian life. The downside is that it lacks major tourist attractions compared to other destinations. However, if you're looking for a less-touristy experience and want to explore the region's rural charm, Puttur is a good choice.
Puttur: Temples & Religious Site Opening Hours
| Name | Hours | Entry Fee | Best Time | Dress Code |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Shri Mahalingeshwara Temple | 06:00-12:00, 17:00-20:00 daily | Free | Morning or evening, to avoid t | Modest clothing (cover shoulders & legs) |
| Puttur Sri Lakshmi Venkatesha Temple | 06:30-12:30, 17:30-20:30 daily | Free | Early morning for peaceful pra | Modest attire |
| Bejai Church | 07:00-19:00 daily | Free | Anytime during the day | Modest clothing (cover shoulders & legs) |
| Kemminje Shree Durgaparameshwari Temple | 06:00-12:00, 17:00-20:00 daily | Free | Morning or evening for a peace | Modest clothing (cover shoulders & legs) |
How to Reach Puttur: Road, Train, Air & Bus Routes
train Train to Puttur: Nearest Station & Schedules
Nearest Station: Puttur Railway Station (PUT) — Trains connect Puttur to Mangalore, Bangalore, and other major cities.
- From Bangalore: 8-10 hours (₹500-1200)
- From Mangalore: 1-2 hours (₹100-300)
Booking: IRCTC or 12Go.asia
flight Flying to Puttur: Nearest Airport & Transfers
Nearest Airport: Mangalore International Airport (IXE), 55km from city
- Delhi: 2.5 hours (₹5000-8000)
- Mumbai: 1.5 hours (₹3000-5000)
Airport transfer:
- Taxi: ₹1200-1500
- Uber/Ola: ₹1000-1300
directions_bus Bus to Puttur: Services & Timings
- From Mangalore: 2 hours (₹150-250)
- From Bangalore: 7-8 hours (₹600-1000)
Trains are generally more comfortable for longer journeys.
Best Time to Visit Puttur: 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 | The weather is perfect for exploring temples and plantations. This is also the s | Best ✓ |
| Shoulder Season: June to September | 24-30 degrees C | The landscape is at its greenest, and the waterfalls are at their fullest. Howev | This is the off-season, so prices a |
| Avoid: April to May | 30-38 degrees C | The heat can be oppressive, making outdoor activities difficult. The humidity ad | Unless you are very tolerant of hea |
Peak season note: This is peak tourist season, so expect slightly higher prices and more crowds. Booking accommodation in advance is recommended.
2-Day Puttur Itinerary: Day-by-Day Highlights
Day 1 — Temples & Heritage
🌅 Morning (9 AM – 12 PM)
🙏 Shri Mahalingeshwara Temple
This ancient temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is one of the most important religious sites in Puttur. The temple architecture…
💡 Tip: Visit during festivals for a more vibrant experience.
☀️ Afternoon (12 PM – 5 PM)
🙏 Puttur Sri Lakshmi Venkatesha Temple
The Sri Lakshmi Venkatesha Temple is dedicated to Lord Venkatesha and Goddess Lakshmi. It features intricate carvings and a serene…
💡 Tip: Try the temple's prasadam (holy food), which is distributed after the prayers.
📍 Pilikal Nesargadhama
Pilikal Nesargadhama is a beautiful nature park located a short distance from Puttur. It offers a serene environment with lush gre…
💡 Tip: Visit during the monsoon season to see the park at its greenest.
Day 2 — More to Explore
🌅 Morning (9 AM – 12 PM)
🙏 Bejai Church
Bejai Church, officially known as St. Francis Xavier Church, is one of the oldest churches in the region. Its architecture is a bl…
💡 Attend a Sunday mass to experience the local Christian community.
☀️ Afternoon (12 PM – 5 PM)
🙏 Kemminje Shree Durgaparameshwari Temple
This temple is dedicated to Goddess Durga and is an important religious center for the local community. It is known for its tradit…
💡 Visit during the annual festival for a more lively experience.
Top Places to Visit in Puttur: Must-See Attractions & Things to Do
| # | Place | Entry | Duration | Hours |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 🙏 Shri Mahalingeshwara Temple | Free | 2 hours | 06:00-12:00, 17:00-20:00 daily |
| 2 | 🙏 Puttur Sri Lakshmi Venkatesha Temple | Free | 1.5 hours | 06:30-12:30, 17:30-20:30 daily |
| 3 | 📍 Pilikal Nesargadhama | ₹20 | 2-3 hours | 09:00-18:00 daily |
| 4 | 🙏 Bejai Church | Free | 1 hour | 07:00-19:00 daily |
| 5 | 🙏 Kemminje Shree Durgaparameshwari Temple | Free | 2 hours | 06:00-12:00, 17:00-20:00 daily |
| 6 | 🏖️ Manjalpade Waterfalls | Free | 3-4 hours | Open during daylight hours |
🙏 1. Shri Mahalingeshwara Temple
This ancient temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is one of the most important religious sites in Puttur. The temple architecture reflects traditional South Indian style.
Honest take: Worth visiting if you are interested in Hindu temples and local culture.
📍 Getting there: Auto-rickshaw from Puttur bus stand: ₹50, 15 minutes
🙏 2. Puttur Sri Lakshmi Venkatesha Temple
The Sri Lakshmi Venkatesha Temple is dedicated to Lord Venkatesha and Goddess Lakshmi. It features intricate carvings and a serene atmosphere.
Honest take: A must-visit for devotees and those interested in South Indian temple architecture.
📍 Getting there: Auto-rickshaw from the center of Puttur: ₹40, 10 minutes
📍 3. Pilikal Nesargadhama
Pilikal Nesargadhama is a beautiful nature park located a short distance from Puttur. It offers a serene environment with lush greenery and walking trails.
Honest take: Great for families and nature lovers looking for a peaceful escape.
📍 Getting there: Bus from Puttur to Pilikal: ₹30, 45 minutes
Food & Restaurants in Puttur: Local Dishes & Where to Eat
Must-try dishes: Neer Dosa, Goli Bajje, Chicken Ghee Roast, Fish Curry
| Dish / Specialty | Price Range | Where to Find |
|---|---|---|
| Chicken Ghee Roast | ₹₹ (₹400-600 for two) | Puttur City Center |
| Masala Dosa | ₹ (₹200-300 for two) | Near Puttur Bus Stand |
| Biryani | ₹₹₹ (₹600-800 for two) | Puttur City Center |
🛺 Street Food: Puttur Market — Goli Bajje, Bhel Puri, Pani Puri (₹50-100 per person)
Puttur Trip Budget (Per Person)
| Category | Budget | Mid-Range | Comfortable |
|---|---|---|---|
| Accommodation/night | ₹800-1200/night | ₹1500-2500/night | N/A |
| 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 Puttur: Best Accommodation for Every Budget
💰 Budget
Hotel Dwara
₹800-1200/night
Near Puttur Bus Stand
Hotel Ashwini Deluxe
₹700-1000/night
Puttur Main Road
🏨 Mid-Range
Hotel Karthik Residency
₹1500-2500/night
Puttur City Center
Hotel Mayura International
₹1800-2800/night
Near Puttur Railway Station
⭐ Luxury
No Luxury Hotels Available in Puttur
N/A
N/A
Taj Gateway Mangalore (55km away)
₹5000+/night
Mangalore
Puttur Travel Tips: Safety, Money & Getting Around
- ✓ Overcharging by auto-rickshaw drivers: Negotiate the fare beforehand.
- ✓ Fake beggars: Be cautious and avoid giving money to suspicious individuals.
- ✓ Light and comfortable clothing is recommended due to the warm climate. Dress modestly when visiting religious sites.
- ✓ ATMs are available in Puttur town.
- ✓ Airtel and Vodafone offer good coverage. A local SIM card costs around ₹200.
Frequently Asked Questions About Visiting Puttur
How many days are enough for Puttur?
2-3 days minimum is ideal for Puttur. Day 1 covers Shri Mahalingeshwara Temple and Puttur Sri Lakshmi Venkatesha Temple, while Day 2 explores Bejai Church and Kemminje Shree Durgaparameshwari Temple.
What is Puttur famous for?
Puttur is famous for Dakshina Kannada.
What is the best time to visit Puttur?
The best time to visit Puttur is October to March. The weather is pleasant and dry during these months. It's ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
Is Puttur worth visiting?
Yes, Puttur is worth visiting for Dakshina Kannada. It is especially recommended for all travellers and can be combined with a visit to Mangalore.
What is the budget for a trip to Puttur?
A 2-day trip to Puttur costs approximately ₹2,000–₹5,000 per person including accommodation, food, and local transport. Budget accommodation starts at ₹800-1200/night per night.
What are the timings of Shri Mahalingeshwara Temple?
Shri Mahalingeshwara Temple is open 06:00-12:00, 17:00-20:00 daily. Best time to visit: Morning or evening, to avoid the midday heat.
What is the entry fee for Shri Mahalingeshwara Temple?
Entry fee at Shri Mahalingeshwara Temple: Free.
What is the dress code for Shri Mahalingeshwara Temple?
Modest clothing (cover shoulders & legs) when visiting Shri Mahalingeshwara Temple.
What are the timings of Puttur Sri Lakshmi Venkatesha Temple?
Puttur Sri Lakshmi Venkatesha Temple is open 06:30-12:30, 17:30-20:30 daily. Best time to visit: Early morning for peaceful prayers..
What is the entry fee for Puttur Sri Lakshmi Venkatesha Temple?
Entry fee at Puttur Sri Lakshmi Venkatesha Temple: Free.
What are the timings of Bejai Church?
Bejai Church is open 07:00-19:00 daily. Best time to visit: Anytime during the day.
What is the entry fee for Bejai Church?
Entry fee at Bejai Church: Free.
What is the dress code for Bejai Church?
Modest clothing (cover shoulders & legs) when visiting Bejai Church.
Is photography allowed at Bejai Church?
Photography is not allowed inside at Bejai Church.
What are the timings of Kemminje Shree Durgaparameshwari Temple?
Kemminje Shree Durgaparameshwari Temple is open 06:00-12:00, 17:00-20:00 daily. Best time to visit: Morning or evening for a peaceful experience.
What is the entry fee for Kemminje Shree Durgaparameshwari Temple?
Entry fee at Kemminje Shree Durgaparameshwari Temple: Free.
What is the dress code for Kemminje Shree Durgaparameshwari Temple?
Modest clothing (cover shoulders & legs) when visiting Kemminje Shree Durgaparameshwari Temple.
Is photography allowed at Kemminje Shree Durgaparameshwari Temple?
Photography is not allowed inside at Kemminje Shree Durgaparameshwari Temple.