To reach Manipal University (Manipal Academy of Higher Education, MAHE) from Mangaluru, you have several transportation options. Manipal is approximately 60–65 km from Mangaluru, and the journey typically takes about 1 to 1.5 hours, depending on the mode of transport. Below are the most common ways to travel:
The distance from Mangalore to Manipal is approximately 65 Kilometres and can be covered in under 90 minutes by cab, or about 2 hours in locally run private buses or the government-run, state-of-the-art, air-conditioned Volvo buses.
If you come by train, there are two railway stations. Stations for Mangalore are Mangalore Jn. and Mangalore Central. Get down at the Mangalore Central railway station and take an Auto to the Bus stand (say SBI Bus Stand to the auto rickshaw driver – Mangalore has a meter system, and it should not cost more than 25-30 Bucks).
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1. By Bus
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Details: Buses are the most affordable and frequent option. Both private and state-run buses operate regularly between Mangaluru and Manipal. Locally run Private transport buses are available at a good frequency. A bus leaves Mangalore every 5 minutes for Udupi (5 Km from Manipal) and every 15-20 minutes for Manipal. However, be warned that these buses often overload passengers like sardines in a tin can and are also known for their “edge of the seat” driving, which is not for the faint of heart. The government-run, air-conditioned Volvo buses are a more expensive option and operate every half hour. However, these are much safer and more comfortable.
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Boarding Points in Mangaluru: Common pick-up points include Mangaluru – Adyar, Padil, Pumpwell, Jyothi Circle, or Kottara Chowki Circle.
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Dropping Points in Manipal: Buses typically drop off passengers at the Manipal Bus Stop or Tiger Circle, located near the university.
2. By Train
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Details: The nearest railway station to Manipal is Udupi Railway Station, about 4–5 km away. From Mangaluru, you can take a train to Udupi and then a taxi or auto-rickshaw to Manipal. Trains are generally inconvenient.
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Train Options: Trains from Mangalore Junction (MAJN) to Udupi take approximately 1 hour 45 minutes to 1 hour 52 minutes.
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Cost: Train tickets cost between ₹100 and ₹800, depending on the class (e.g., sleeper, AC). After arriving at Udupi, hire a prepaid taxi or auto-rickshaw (5–10 minutes, ₹100–₹200).
3. By Taxi/Car
- Details: Driving or hiring a taxi is the fastest and most convenient option. The road distance is about 37–42 miles, and the journey takes approximately 52–58 minutes.
- Cost: Taxi: ₹ 1,500–₹ 2,000 from Mangalore International Airport or the city centre to Manipal.
- Self-drive: Fuel costs around ₹500–₹900, depending on the vehicle.
- Route: The route follows NH66, a well-maintained highway connecting Mangaluru to Manipal via Udupi.
- From Mangalore Airport: Prepaid taxis are available outside Mangalore International Airport (60 km from Manipal). The ride takes about 1.5 hours.
- Tip: Negotiate fares with local cab drivers.