St Mary's Island is a beautiful group of small islands located off the coast near Malpe, close to Mangalore in Karnataka. Known for its unique basalt rock formations and pristine beaches, it is a popular day-trip destination for travelers visiting the region.

This route from Mangalore to St Mary's Island is commonly traveled by tourists and locals alike who want to enjoy a peaceful seaside escape. This guide will help you understand the best ways to reach St Mary's Island from Mangalore using different transport modes, along with practical travel tips for a hassle-free journey.

Getting from Mangalore to St Mary's Island – Main Options

Train

Traveling by train from Mangalore is suitable if you want to reach Malpe, the nearest mainland point for St Mary's Island. Trains offer a comfortable and scenic route but require additional transport to the ferry point.

• Mangalore Central (MAQ) and Mangalore Junction (MAJN) are the main railway stations serving the city, with frequent trains connecting to Udupi and nearby towns.

• The nearest station to Malpe is Udupi, about 10 km away, which can be reached by local trains or buses from Mangalore in around 1.5 to 2 hours.

• Train fares from Mangalore to Udupi range from ₹50 to ₹150 depending on the class, with trains running multiple times daily, making it convenient for day trips.

• From Udupi station, you will need to take a local bus or auto-rickshaw to Malpe port, which takes about 20 minutes and costs ₹30 to ₹100.

• During monsoon season, train schedules may face delays due to heavy rains, so plan accordingly and check IRCTC updates before travel.

Bus

Bus travel is a popular and economical way to reach Malpe from Mangalore. Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) and private buses run frequently on this coastal route.

• Buses depart from Mangalore Central Bus Stand towards Udupi and Malpe, with journey times ranging from 1 to 1.5 hours depending on traffic.

• Regular city buses and private operators charge fares between ₹40 and ₹100, offering both non-AC and AC options for comfort.

• During peak tourist seasons and weekends, buses can get crowded, so it is advisable to arrive early or book tickets in advance where possible.

• The bus route follows National Highway 66 (NH66), passing through scenic coastal areas with several toll plazas, so expect some minor delays during busy hours.

• From Malpe bus stop, the ferry jetty is a short walk, making bus travel a convenient option for last-mile connectivity.

Car / Self-Drive

Driving from Mangalore to Malpe is a flexible and comfortable option, especially if you prefer to travel at your own pace and explore nearby attractions.

• The distance from Mangalore city center to Malpe port is approximately 15 km, taking around 30 to 40 minutes via NH66 and local roads.

• Car rentals and self-drive options are widely available in Mangalore, with daily rates ranging from ₹1500 to ₹3000 depending on the vehicle type.

• The route is well-maintained but includes toll plazas where you will need to pay small fees, so keep change handy for smooth passage.

• Parking is available near Malpe jetty, but it can fill up quickly during weekends and holidays, so plan to arrive early to secure a spot.

• Driving during monsoon requires caution due to slippery roads and occasional waterlogging; check weather forecasts before starting your trip.

Ferry

The ferry is the only way to reach St Mary's Island from the mainland. Ferries operate from Malpe port and are the final leg of the journey after reaching Malpe by train, bus, or car.

• Ferry services run daily from Malpe jetty to St Mary's Island, with trips every 30 to 60 minutes during the day, weather permitting.

• The ferry ride takes about 15 to 20 minutes, covering roughly 6 km across the Arabian Sea, offering scenic views of the coastline.

• Fares for the ferry are affordable, usually between ₹50 and ₹100 per person for a round trip, with separate charges for vehicles if allowed.

• During the monsoon season (June to September), ferry services may be suspended due to rough sea conditions, so check local updates before planning your visit.

• Ferries can get crowded on weekends and holidays, so it is best to arrive early or book tickets in advance when possible to avoid long waits.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

This step-by-step plan is designed for first-time travelers going from Mangalore to St Mary's Island, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable trip.

• Start by booking your train or bus ticket from Mangalore to Udupi or Malpe, depending on your preferred mode. Booking online via IRCTC or KSRTC apps helps avoid last-minute hassles.

• On arrival at Udupi or Malpe bus stop, hire an auto-rickshaw or use local buses to reach Malpe jetty. Confirm the fare beforehand to avoid overcharging.

• Purchase your ferry ticket at Malpe jetty. If visiting during peak season, try to arrive early as tickets sell fast and ferries run on a first-come, first-served basis.

• Board the ferry and enjoy the short scenic ride to St Mary's Island. Carry water and snacks as facilities on the island are limited.

• Explore the island’s basalt rock formations and beaches. Remember to keep your belongings safe and avoid littering to preserve the natural beauty.

• Return to Malpe by ferry before sunset, as services usually stop in the evening. Plan your return trip accordingly to avoid being stranded.

Practical Travel Tips

• Carry bottled water and light snacks, as food options on St Mary's Island are minimal and local vendors may be scarce.

• Wear comfortable footwear suitable for walking on rocky terrain and beaches; avoid slippery shoes especially during monsoon.

• Book train or bus tickets in advance during weekends and holidays to secure your seat and avoid last-minute rush.

• Use prepaid taxis or app-based cabs like Ola and Uber in Mangalore and Udupi for safer and hassle-free local travel.

• Keep your luggage light and secure, as ferry space is limited and you will need to carry your bags on and off the boat.

• Check weather forecasts before traveling, especially during monsoon season, as ferry services may be canceled due to rough seas.

Best Time & Travel Conditions

The best time to visit St Mary's Island from Mangalore is during the dry months from October to March. The weather is pleasant, and ferry services operate regularly without disruption.

Avoid traveling during the monsoon season (June to September) when heavy rains and rough seas can cause ferry cancellations and road delays.

• Avoid major festival periods like Diwali and Christmas when local traffic and accommodation demand spike significantly.

• Morning departures are ideal to enjoy the island during daylight and avoid afternoon heat or sudden weather changes.

• Winter months bring cooler temperatures and clearer skies, making it perfect for photography and sightseeing.

• Be cautious of fog during early mornings in December and January, which can delay trains and buses on the coastal route.

Arrival at St Mary's Island & What to Expect

When you arrive at St Mary's Island, you will disembark at a small jetty with basic facilities. The island is vehicle-free, so be prepared to walk to explore its natural beauty.

Local boat operators and guides may offer short tours around the island, but it is best to confirm prices beforehand. Facilities like restrooms and small snack stalls are available but limited, so plan accordingly.

For your return, prepaid taxis and app-based cabs are easily available at Malpe jetty to take you back to Mangalore or Udupi. The area around Malpe has several budget hotels and homestays if you wish to stay overnight.

Conclusion

The most efficient way to reach St Mary's Island from Mangalore is by combining a short train or bus ride to Malpe followed by a ferry ride to the island. This route balances convenience, cost, and scenic experience well.

Planning your trip with advance bookings, checking weather conditions, and arriving early at Malpe jetty will help you avoid common travel hassles. With these tips, you can confidently enjoy a memorable visit to the unique and beautiful St Mary's Island.