The Grandest Cultural Saga of Dakshina Kannada
Dates: December 21, 2025 – January 31, 2026
Location: Mangaluru, Dakshina Kannada
Karavali Utsava is not merely an event; it is the thunderous cultural heartbeat of Karnataka’s entire coastal belt. Bringing together the unified spirit of three major districts – Dakshina Kannada, Udupi, and Uttara Kannada – this festival serves as a spectacular bridge between the pristine Arabian Sea and the majestic Western Ghats. It is designed to showcase the immense diversity of “Tulunadu” and the Canara region to the world, proving that this land is a melting pot of languages, art, and traditions.
The festival is an extravaganza that transforms the city into a carnival of colors, beginning with a grand procession that features the mesmerizing Huli Vesha/Pili Nalike (Tiger Dance) and tableaux depicting local legends. At the heart of the celebration is the rich tradition of Yakshagana, the high-energy dance-drama that narrates epic stories through elaborate costumes and thunderous drumming. The event also hosts a massive exhibition (Karavali Utsav Exhibition) displaying indigenous crafts, handlooms, and agricultural marvels, supporting local artisans.
Simultaneously, the ‘Beach Festival’ section celebrates the region’s geographical blessing with kite festivals, sand sculpture competitions, and food festivals serving the spiciest, freshest seafood delicacies like Kori Rotti and Kane Rava Fry. It is a platform where the ancient rituals of the coast meet modern entertainment, making it the most critical tourism event for the region. From the rhythm of the waves to the beat of the Chande drums, Karavali Utsava is an invitation to experience the soul of coastal Karnataka.
How to Reach
By Airways
- Mangaluru International Airport (IXE): Located just 15 km from the city center. It has direct flights from Bengaluru, Mumbai, Dubai, and other major hubs.
- Kannur International Airport (CNN): Approx. 140 km away (a scenic drive via Kerala).
By Railways:
- Stations: Mangaluru has two major stations:
- Mangaluru Central (MAQ): For trains from Kerala and Chennai.
- Mangaluru Junction (MAJN): For trains from Mumbai, Goa, and Bengaluru.
- Connectivity: The city is a major railway hub with excellent connectivity to all parts of India.
By Roadways :
- NH-75: The primary route connecting Bengaluru to Mangaluru via the Shiradi Ghats (approx. 7-8 hours).
- NH-66: The spectacular coastal highway connecting Goa-Udupi-Mangaluru-Kerala..
Where to Stay?
Mangaluru offers a wide range of stay options:
- Luxury: The Ocean Pearl or Goldfinch Hotel – Centrally located with excellent access to the exhibition grounds.
- Beachside: Summer Sands Beach Resort (Ullal) – For those who want to stay close to the sea.
- Budget/Mid-Range: Various hotels near Hampankatta and K.S. Rao Road offer great access to the city’s food and shopping hubs.
Traveller Tips
- Must-Try Food: Mangaluru is a food paradise. Don’t miss Chicken Ghee Roast at Shetty Lunch Home, Fish Curry at Giri Manja’s or Machali, and the famous Gadbad Ice Cream at Pabba’s.
- Cultural Spot: Visit Pilikula Nisargadhama, an integrated theme park featuring a heritage village (Guthu Mane) that perfectly showcases the architecture of Dakshina Kannada.
- Spiritual Stop: Visit the Kudroli Gokarnanatheshwara Temple, famous for its grand architecture and annual Dasara celebrations, or the historic St. Aloysius Chapel to see its stunning paintings.
- Sunset Spot: Catch the sunset at Tannirbhavi Beach or Panambur Beach; both are lively during the festival season.
Download the Official Schedule:
Please find the Utsava brochure and timeline here