Mangaluru is ready to transform its coastline into a vibrant hub of culture and adventure as the Karavali Utsava 2025–26 officially kicks off on December 20, 2025. This year, the district administration has unveiled a comprehensive "masterplan" specifically designed to elevate beach tourism and attract a global audience.
The Dakshina Kannada district administration, led by Deputy Commissioner Darshan H.V., has announced that the annual Karavali Utsava will begin this Saturday. While the main exhibition and traditional programs will be held at the Karavali Utsava Grounds in Lalbagh, the 2025 edition places a massive emphasis on "Beach Utsav" across six major coastal stretches.
The Beach Masterplan: Event Highlights
To maximize tourist footfall, specific themes and activities have been assigned to different beaches:
- Sasihitlu Beach: Will serve as the hub for adventure sports, including kayaking races and stand-up paddling. A seafood festival is also planned for late December.
- Tannirbhavi & Blue Flag Beach: These will host a curated Wine, Cheese, and Cake Festival, a Music Festival, and a high-end International Kite Festival (scheduled for January 17–18).
- Panambur Beach: The stage for cultural performances and "Musical Nights" featuring Sandalwood and Bollywood artists on January 3 and 4.
- Ullal Beach: Dedicated to beach sports, including football and volleyball tournaments and a Tug-of-War competition.
- Someshwara Beach: Will focus on wellness and serenity with Musical Evenings and Yoga sessions.
New Attractions: From the Skies to the Streets
In a first for the festival, helicopter joyrides have been arranged at the Sahyadri College Grounds during weekends to provide tourists with a breathtaking aerial view of the coastline.
Beyond the beaches, the festivities extend into the city:
- Kadri Park: Will host the 'Kala Parba' (Art Festival) from January 9–11 and a grand Fruit and Flower Show on Republic Day (Jan 26).
- Nehru Maidan: Scheduled to host a major football tournament on December 27 and 28.
- Food Street: A dedicated street food festival will take over Kadri Park Road on January 30 and 31.
Duration and Budget
While the core cultural events run until January 4, 2026, the administration has extended several specialized festivals through February 2026. With a sanctioned budget of ₹2.5 crore, the state government and local sponsors aim to position Mangaluru as the primary winter destination in South India.
