Bunder Old Port - Image 1
1 / 3

Bunder Old Port

4.3
·9 reviews·Mangaluru, India

Bunder Old Port: A historic trade hub where rivers meet the sea, alive with fishing boats and cargo operations.

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Early mornings

See the fishing boats return

CrowdLow
Loading map...
Bunder Old Port - Image 1

Bunder Old Port

Best Time

Early mornings

See the fishing boats return

CrowdLow

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Bunder Old Port: A historic trade hub where rivers meet the sea, alive with fishing boats and cargo operations.

4.3
(9 reviews)

"Experience the authentic pulse of Mangalore at its historic Old Port, a vibrant hub of fishing and trade."

Vertical photo
TIP

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

The port area can be uneven. Sturdy footwear is a must for exploring safely.

🌅 Visit Early for Authenticity

Catch the real action as fishing boats unload their catch. A true slice of local life.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Bustling Fishing Harbor

Bustling Fishing Harbor

Mangalore Dhakke

Witness the daily rhythm of fishermen bringing in their catch. A true spectacle of local livelihood.

Historic Trade Post

Historic Trade Post

Along the river banks

Explore the remnants of a port that once facilitated trade with the Middle East and Lakshadweep.

Floating Restaurant Experience

Floating Restaurant Experience

Cruise & Dine

Enjoy a unique dining experience on the water, especially lively on weekends.

Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Timing Your Visit to Bunder Old Port

Experience the vibrant pulse of Bunder Old Port by visiting during the early morning or late afternoon. This is when the fishing boats return with their catch and cargo operations are at their peak, offering a truly authentic glimpse into local life. Avoid midday heat and crowds for a more enjoyable exploration.

Navigating Bunder Old Port

Bunder Old Port is a working harbor, so wear comfortable shoes suitable for uneven terrain. While exploring, be mindful of ongoing operations. Consider visiting during weekdays for a less crowded experience, though weekends offer a chance to see the floating restaurant in action.

Best Times

When
Early mornings
Why
See the fishing boats return
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoons
Why
Observe cargo operations
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekend evenings
Why
Floating restaurant buzz
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Cruise & Dine - Old Bunder Port, Mangalore ❤️ ft. @abhishek.p.shetty.3 Location: Old Port, Bunder - Mangalore
mangaloremerijaanofficial
9.5K likes • 221.8K views

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

The port area can be uneven. Sturdy footwear is a must for exploring safely. Reddit

🌅 Visit Early for Authenticity

Catch the real action as fishing boats unload their catch. A true slice of local life. Instagram

Mangalore Dhakke (Mangalore Fishing Harbour) 📍old port Dhakke road, Bunder, Mangalore #fishingharbour #harbour #mangaloredhakke #mangaloreharbour #mangaluru #fishing #mangalore
mangalore_vlogs_by_vinny
36.6K likes • 1.2M views
🌊⚓ Echoes of history at Mangalore’s Old Port – Bunder, where tradition still sails strong! 🚢✨ Description: Mangalore’s Old Port (Bunder) is more than just a harbor – it’s the city’s lifeline of trade and culture. From the bustling boats carrying fish, spices, and goods to the timeless charm of wooden vessels anchored along the coast, every corner tells a story of heritage and hard work. A perfect...
laxman_kudva
162 likes • 6.4K views

🍽️ Dine on the Water

Experience the unique floating restaurant, especially lively on weekends. Instagram

📸 Capture the Activity

The port offers great photo opportunities of boats, cargo, and daily life. Instagram

Craving authentic flavors? 🍴 Visit Thalassery Kitchen, Bunder – right opposite Badaria Masjid, Old Port Road, Mangalore. Taste the tradition, right at the heart of the city! ✨
thalassery.kitchen
36 likes • 1.8K views

Tips

from all over the internet

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

The port area can be uneven. Sturdy footwear is a must for exploring safely. Reddit

🌅 Visit Early for Authenticity

Catch the real action as fishing boats unload their catch. A true slice of local life. Instagram

🍽️ Dine on the Water

Experience the unique floating restaurant, especially lively on weekends. Instagram

📸 Capture the Activity

The port offers great photo opportunities of boats, cargo, and daily life. Instagram

🚢 Observe Cargo Operations

Witness the manual loading and unloading of goods onto various vessels. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.3
(9 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise Bunder Old Port for its authentic portrayal of local life, vibrant fishing activity, and historical significance. The unique dining experience at the floating restaurant is a notable highlight. Some find the port's activities limited to small-scale operations, but its charm lies in its raw, working-harbor atmosphere.

"An amazing place to observe small cargo ships and country crafts, coastal ships, fishing boats and the load / discharge operations (manual)
The Old Mangalore Port (Mangalore DAKKE in Tulu) is located to south of New Mangalore Port. It is popularly known by name of Bunder. The port was used to ferry goods and passengers to Lakshadweep island and Middle East countries. Now fishing has become main activity of this harbor."

Raghunandan Ramachandran

"This is an old port of Mangalore where Netravati and Gurupura rivers meet and then join the Arabian sea. From historical times foreigners used this location to trade with the locals. Being on the river side the boats were protected from sea waves. The Britishers also used this trade post even before they had established their supremacy over India."

Alphonse Crasta

"Nice"

abhishek samuel

What People Like

Authentic local life
Vibrant fishing activity
Historical trade post

What People Dislike

Limited large-scale operations

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Bunder Old Port is located in the heart of Mangalore, easily accessible by local buses, auto-rickshaws, and taxis. It's situated near the confluence of the Netravati and Gurupura rivers. For those arriving by car, parking might be limited, so consider public transport. Instagram

Yes, Bunder Old Port is located to the south of the New Mangalore Port. While they are distinct entities, their proximity makes it possible to visit both if you have ample time. Instagram

Exploring on foot is ideal to soak in the atmosphere. You can also opt for a bike ride to enjoy the riverside views. Instagram

Yes, the Taj Vivanta hotel is located on Bunder Old Port Road. The port itself is a landmark, representing the historical trade route of Mangalore. Instagram

While the port is a hub for boats, arriving by boat directly to the port area for general visitors isn't a common mode of transport. Access is primarily by road. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, there are no entry tickets required to visit the general areas of Bunder Old Port. It's a public, working harbor. Reddit

As a working port, Bunder Old Port is active throughout the day and night. However, for the best experience observing activities, aim for early morning or late afternoon. The floating restaurant has specific timings, usually from 12 PM to 11 PM. Instagram

Yes, the boat ride at the floating restaurant is typically an additional charge, around Rs 200 per head without food, and is usually available only on weekends. Instagram

While you can explore the general areas, certain operational zones might be restricted for safety and security reasons. Be mindful of signage and port personnel. Reddit

Official guided tours are not widely advertised. However, you can often strike up conversations with locals or boat operators for insights into the port's history and daily life. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

You can observe small cargo ships, country crafts, coastal ships, and fishing boats. The manual loading and unloading of goods are a key activity. InstagramReddit

Absolutely! The vibrant activity, diverse vessels, and riverside setting make it a fantastic spot for photography, especially during sunrise and sunset. Instagram

Historically, it was a crucial trade post for goods and passengers to Lakshadweep and the Middle East, and was utilized by the British. It's where the Netravati and Gurupura rivers meet the Arabian Sea. InstagramReddit

As a working port, be aware of your surroundings, especially around moving vessels and cargo. Wear appropriate footwear and avoid restricted areas. Reddit

'Mangalore Dhakke' is the local Tulu name for the fishing harbor area within Bunder Old Port, highlighting its importance for the fishing community. Instagram+1

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Thalassery Kitchen, located opposite Badaria Masjid on Old Port Road, is a popular spot for authentic flavors. The 'Cruise & Dine' floating restaurant offers meals and seafood. Instagram+1

The floating restaurant offers meals and seafood items for lunch, and Neer dosa and Chinese dishes for dinner. Instagram

While specific budget eateries aren't highlighted, the general area around a bustling port often has local food stalls or small eateries offering affordable options. Reddit

Yes, as it's a major fishing harbor, you can find fresh seafood. The floating restaurant is a prime spot to enjoy it. Instagram

The floating restaurant is open daily from 12 PM to 11 PM, but the boat ride experience is typically only available on weekends. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

The riverbanks offer great vantage points to capture the boats, cargo operations, and the confluence of rivers. The area around the fishing boats is particularly photogenic. Instagram

Early mornings and late afternoons provide the best light for photography, with the added bonus of witnessing peak activity. Instagram

Generally, photography is allowed in public areas. However, avoid photographing sensitive operational zones or personnel without permission. Reddit

Focus on the diverse range of boats, the process of loading and unloading cargo, the fishermen at work, and the scenic river views. Instagram+1

Drone usage is typically restricted in port areas due to security and air traffic regulations. It's best to check local drone laws before flying. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Bunder Old Port can be an engaging outing for families, offering a real-world glimpse into maritime life. Kids will be fascinated by the variety of boats, from fishing vessels to cargo ships. The bustling activity of loading and unloading can be quite captivating. Instagram

Consider visiting in the morning to see the fishing boats return, or in the late afternoon to observe cargo operations. The 'Cruise & Dine' floating restaurant offers a unique dining experience that can be a highlight for children, especially if you visit on a weekend when the boat ride is available. Remember to wear comfortable shoes as the terrain can be uneven, and keep a close eye on children around the active port areas. Instagram

📸 Photographers' Paradise

For photographers, Bunder Old Port is a treasure trove of visual stories. The interplay of light on the water, the diverse textures of the boats, and the dynamic human activity provide endless opportunities for stunning shots. Capture the vibrant colors of the fishing nets, the weathered wood of traditional vessels, and the raw energy of the cargo operations. Instagram

The best times for photography are undoubtedly the golden hours – early morning and late afternoon. These times offer soft, flattering light and coincide with the most active periods at the port. Experiment with different angles, from wide shots of the harbor to close-ups of the details that tell the story of this historic place. Instagram

🚢 Maritime Enthusiasts

If you have a passion for maritime history and operations, Bunder Old Port is a must-visit. You can witness firsthand the workings of a traditional port that has served as a crucial trade link for centuries. Observe the different types of vessels, from small fishing boats to coastal cargo ships, and appreciate the manual labor involved in their operations. InstagramReddit

Learn about its historical significance as a trading post for the Middle East and Lakshadweep, and its role during the British era. The confluence of rivers meeting the sea adds a unique geographical element to its maritime importance. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Historical Heartbeat of Mangalore

Bunder Old Port is more than just a harbor; it's a living testament to Mangalore's rich maritime history. For centuries, this strategic location, where the Netravati and Gurupura rivers merge before meeting the Arabian Sea, served as a vital trade hub. Foreign traders, including those from the Middle East and Lakshadweep, historically used this sheltered spot for commerce, and the British also recognized its importance long before establishing their dominance. InstagramReddit

The port's historical role in ferrying goods and passengers is evident in its enduring charm. While modern ports have emerged, Bunder retains its authentic character, showcasing traditional wooden vessels alongside smaller cargo ships and bustling fishing boats. It’s a place where the echoes of past trade still resonate with the daily rhythm of the sea. Instagram

Exploring Bunder offers a unique opportunity to connect with this heritage. You can witness the manual loading and unloading operations, a practice that has likely been in place for generations, providing a tangible link to the port's historical significance. Reddit

A Day in the Life: Fishing and Cargo

The primary activity at Bunder Old Port today revolves around fishing and the handling of smaller cargo. Early mornings are particularly captivating as fishing boats return with their fresh catch, creating a lively and colorful scene. Fishermen can be seen unloading their nets, and the air buzzes with activity as the day's bounty is prepared for distribution. Instagram+1

Beyond fishing, the port also handles various cargo operations. Small cargo ships and country crafts are regularly seen loading and unloading goods, a process often carried out manually. This provides a fascinating glimpse into the logistics of local trade and the resilience of traditional methods. Reddit

For visitors, observing these operations offers an authentic experience of the port's working nature. It’s a chance to see the dedication and hard work that sustains this vital part of Mangalore’s economy and culture. Instagram

Culinary Delights at the Waterfront

Bunder Old Port offers a unique culinary experience, most notably through its floating restaurant, 'Cruise & Dine'. This establishment provides a memorable dining setting right on the water, especially popular on weekends. They serve a variety of dishes, including local seafood specialties for lunch and options like Neer dosa and Chinese cuisine for dinner. Instagram

Beyond the floating restaurant, the area around the port also hosts eateries that cater to local tastes. Thalassery Kitchen, situated on Old Port Road, is recommended for those seeking authentic flavors, highlighting the diverse culinary landscape accessible from the port. Instagram

For seafood enthusiasts, the proximity to the fishing harbor means access to incredibly fresh catches. Whether you choose the unique ambiance of the floating restaurant or explore other local dining spots, Bunder Old Port promises a flavorful experience connected to the sea. Instagram

You may also like

1 of 2