Tourists planning a monsoon visit to Mangaluru have been urged to follow newly imposed safety restrictions as rough sea conditions and intensified rainfall continue to affect Dakshina Kannada district.
The district administration and tourism department have issued a high alert across major beaches, including Panambur, Thanneerbavi and Someshwara, following reports of strong waves and dangerous sea currents.
Water sports suspended during monsoon
As a precautionary measure, authorities have suspended all water-based tourism and adventure activities until the end of the monsoon season.
Activities such as floating bridge access, boating, jet skiing, parasailing and other marine recreational sports will remain closed to visitors. Officials said the decision was taken to prevent accidents and ensure public safety during unpredictable weather conditions.
Visitors warned against entering the sea
While tourists can continue to visit beaches and enjoy the scenic coastline, entering the sea has been strongly discouraged. Safety ropes and barricades have been installed along vulnerable stretches to prevent visitors from venturing into the water.
Authorities have also warned that legal action may be initiated against individuals who ignore safety instructions and enter restricted areas.
Round-the-clock monitoring in place
To enforce the restrictions, lifeguards, Coast Guard personnel and local police teams have been deployed across beaches in the district. Continuous surveillance will remain in place throughout the monsoon season.
Officials have appealed to tourists and local residents to cooperate with safety personnel and follow all advisories issued at beach locations.
Scenic drive remains popular
Despite the restrictions, Mangaluru continues to attract visitors during the monsoon, especially travellers from Bengaluru. The approximately 350-km journey via Hassan, Sakleshpur and Shiradi Ghat offers spectacular views of mist-covered hills, waterfalls and lush greenery.
However, travellers are advised to monitor weather forecasts and road conditions before undertaking the journey, as heavy rainfall may occasionally affect traffic movement along the Western Ghats route.