Mangalore, poised between the Arabian Sea and lush Western Ghats, is an indulgent escape for travelers seeking discreet luxury, soft-sand beaches, and refined coastal culture. Base yourself at a sea-facing resort in Panambur or Tannirbhavi Beach, waking to the murmur of waves and pastel dawns over the water. Begin with a private guided tour of Kudroli Gokarnath Temple and Kadri Manjunath Temple, admiring intricate carvings and fragrant flower offerings, then head to St. Aloysius Chapel, where vivid ceiling frescoes glow like an Italian gallery transported to coastal India. Spend lazy afternoons sailing along the Gurupura River on a chartered houseboat, sipping fresh coconut water as mangroves drift by and kingfishers flash blue across the sky. For a more dramatic panorama, drive to Bekal Fort, perched above roaring surf, and time your visit for sunset, when the stone ramparts blaze gold. Gourmet travelers can linger over Mangalorean seafood at upscale restaurants near MG Road and Lalbagh, pairing neer dosa with delicately spiced kori rotti, crab masala, and fragrant ghee rice. Between courses, wander the bustling Central Market to sample cardamom, cashews, and local coffee, then retreat to your rooftop infinity pool. End your luxury trip with a wellness morning at Someshwara Beach, blending sunrise yoga, Ayurvedic spa rituals, and a final barefoot walk along the copper-tinged shore.