Pilikula Nisargadhama in Mangalore is one of the most popular eco-tourism spots in coastal Karnataka. Spread across acres of green landscapes, this nature park brings together wildlife, culture, science, heritage, and leisure activities in one peaceful destination. It is especially loved by families because visitors can explore the Biological Park (Zoo), enjoy boat rides, watch 3D shows at the Planetarium, learn at the Science Centre, and spend time near the lake—all in a single visit.
Whether you want a calm day in nature or a fun outing with children, Pilikula has something for everyone. This updated guide provides Pilikula Nisargadhama timings, entry fees, zoo ticket price, planetarium show timings, boating charges, attractions list, parking details, location map, contact numbers, and visitor reviews—explained clearly so you can plan your trip easily.
Why Pilikula Nisargadhama Is Special
Pilikula Nisargadhama is more than just a park—it is a complete blend of nature, culture, wildlife, science, and recreation. The word “Pilikula” comes from Tulu, meaning Tiger Pond, as tigers once roamed this region. Today, it has been developed into one of Karnataka’s best eco-tourism zones under the Pilikula Development Authority.
What makes Pilikula truly stand out is the number of attractions it offers in one location. Visitors can enjoy wildlife, heritage, boating, planetarium shows, science exhibits, gardens, and peaceful nature trails—all inside this massive campus.
Top Reasons Why Tourists Love Pilikula Nisargadhama
• A huge Pilikula Biological Park (Zoo) with a wide variety of animals
• A scenic Pilikula Lake with boating options
• Heritage Village that displays traditional coastal life
• The famous Pilikula 3D Planetarium with regular shows
• An interactive Science Centre for children and students
• Beautiful botanical garden, arboretum, and local artisan village
• Plenty of photo-friendly spots and shaded picnic areas
• Clean pathways, natural greenery, and a peaceful atmosphere
With so much to explore, Pilikula is easily one of the best family outing places in Mangalore.
Pilikula Nisargadhama Mangalore Timings
All major attractions inside the Pilikula campus follow nearly the same schedule.
Daily Opening Hours
10:00 AM to 5:00 PM
(Open all days unless updated by the authorities)
For visitors planning a full-day trip, reaching before noon is ideal. This gives enough time to explore the zoo, watch a planetarium show, go boating, and visit the Heritage Village comfortably in one trip.
Pilikula Planetarium Show Timings – 3D Dome Experience (Updated Schedule)
The Swami Vivekananda 3D Planetarium at Pilikula Nisargadhama is one of the biggest attractions in Mangalore, known for its immersive full-dome visuals and high-tech sound system. Visitors can watch two popular shows—“Dawn of the Space Age” and “Mysteries of the Unseen World”—available in both English and Kannada on selected days.
Below is the updated Pilikula Planetarium schedule, rewritten clearly for better planning.
1. Dawn of the Space Age – 3D Dome Show
This show takes you on a journey through the history of space exploration, from the first satellites to modern missions.
Show Days & Timings
| Day | Show Timings |
|---|---|
| Sunday | 12 PM (English), 2 PM (Kannada), 4 PM (English) |
| Tuesday | 12 PM (English), 2 PM (Kannada), 4 PM (English) |
| Thursday | 12 PM (English), 2 PM (Kannada), 4 PM (English) |
| Saturday | 12 PM (English), 2 PM (Kannada), 4 PM (English) |
2. Mysteries of the Unseen World – 3D Dome Show
A fascinating science documentary that reveals the hidden microscopic world around us.
Show Days & Timings
| Day | Show Timings |
|---|---|
| Wednesday | 12 PM, 2 PM, 4 PM (All shows in English) |
| Friday | 12 PM, 2 PM, 4 PM (All shows in English) |
Important Notes for Visitors
- Monday is the weekly holiday for the Pilikula Planetarium.
- Extra shows may be organised on Sundays and public holidays during high footfall.
- Schools and educational groups can request special Kannada shows with prior booking.
- It is advised to reach 15–20 minutes early as seats fill quickly on weekends.
Pilikula Attractions, Timings & Entry Fees (Complete Updated Guide)
Pilikula Nisargadhama offers multiple attractions across a vast eco-tourism campus, and each zone has its own timings and ticket prices. To help visitors plan their trip smoothly, here is a simple, well-structured table covering all major attractions inside Pilikula, including contact numbers, entry charges, operational hours, and weekly holidays.
What You Can Explore Inside Pilikula Nisargadhama
Visitors can enjoy wildlife at the zoo, watch stunning 3D dome shows at the planetarium, explore coastal heritage, visit science exhibits, walk through gardens, spend time at the lake, and relax in beautifully maintained green spaces. Below is the complete Pilikula attractions list for quick reference.
| Attraction | Contact | Timings | Charges | Weekly Holiday |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Combo Ticket (All Attractions) | — | — | Adults ₹120, Children ₹60, Students (Group of 15) ₹60 | — |
| 3D Planetarium (Full Dome Shows) | — | Show-wise timings | Adults ₹90, Children ₹70 | Monday |
| Pilikula Biological Park (Zoo) | 0824-2263300 | 10:30 AM – 5 PM | Adults ₹80, Children ₹50, Below 3 yrs free | Monday |
| Pilikula Lake Garden & Boating Area | 0824-2263562 | 9 AM – 6 PM | Adults ₹25, Children ₹15, School Groups ₹10 | Monday |
| Arboretum & Artisan Village | 0824-2263562 | 10 AM – 5 PM | Free Entry | Monday |
| Heritage Village (Guthu Mane, Craft Units) | 0824-2263562 | 10 AM – 5 PM | Adults ₹50, Children ₹20 | Monday |
| Nisargadhama Office | 0824-2263565 | 10 AM – 5:30 PM | — | Sunday |
| Regional Science Centre | 0824-2263536 | 10 AM – 5:30 PM | Entry: Adults ₹30, Children ₹20; 3D Theatre: Adults ₹20, Children ₹15 | Monday |
| Botanical Museum | — | — | Free Entry | Sunday |
| Manasa Water Park (Outside Pilikula Gate) | +91-7022024365 | 10:30 AM – 5 PM | As per park rates | Open all days |
Pilikula Camera Charges (Applicable Everywhere)
- Camera: ₹170
- Video Camera: ₹500
These charges apply across the zoo, lake garden, heritage village, arboretum, and other attractions inside Pilikula Nisargadhama.
How to Reach Pilikula Nisargadhama (Travel Guide)
Pilikula Nisargadhama is located around 12–13 km from Mangalore city, making it one of the easiest and most accessible tourist spots in the region. Visitors can reach the campus through multiple transport options, depending on their convenience and budget.
Nearest Railway Station
- Mangalore Junction (MAJN) – the closest major station with frequent trains from Bengaluru, Kerala, Mumbai, and Goa.
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Nearest Airport
- Mangalore International Airport, located about 25 km from Pilikula. Taxis and airport cabs are easily available.
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Transport Options to Pilikula
- City buses to Vamanjoor and Moodushedde routes
- Auto-rickshaws from nearby areas
- Taxis and app-based cabs for hassle-free travel
- Private vehicles with ample parking space available inside the campus
Pilikula is well-connected by road, making it easy for tourists, families, and students to reach without any difficulty.
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Best Time to Visit Pilikula Nisargadhama
The ideal time to explore Pilikula is during October to February, when the weather is cooler and perfect for outdoor activities. These months are pleasant for walking around the zoo, enjoying the lake, and visiting outdoor attractions.
Recommended Timings for Visitors
- Morning hours (10 AM to 12 PM) are best for viewing animals at the Biological Park.
- Weekdays are quieter and crowd-free, making the experience more enjoyable.
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Travel Tips for Pilikula Visitors
To make your trip more comfortable and enjoyable, here are some practical travel tips:
- Wear comfortable footwear as the zoo and gardens require a good amount of walking.
- Carry water bottles and light snacks, especially if visiting with kids.
- The Biological Park is large, so keep extra time to explore it fully.
- Families with children should not miss the 3D Planetarium and Regional Science Centre—both are highly engaging.
- For photography enthusiasts, the late afternoon golden light is perfect for capturing the lake, gardens, and wildlife.
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Top Attractions at Pilikula Nisargadhama
Pilikula Nisargadhama is one of the most diverse eco-tourism destinations in Karnataka, offering wildlife, culture, science, boating, gardens, and traditional art—all in one expansive campus. Here is a detailed look at the best attractions to explore at Pilikula.
1. Pilikula Biological Park (Zoo)
The Pilikula Biological Park is one of the biggest wildlife attractions in coastal Karnataka. Spread across lush green terrain, the zoo features tigers, leopards, crocodiles, deer species, reptiles, snakes, langurs, and rare birds in large, natural-looking enclosures. The entire setup gives a real forest-like experience, making it a must-visit for families, nature lovers, and photographers.
2. Heritage Village (Guthu Mane)
The Heritage Village is a beautifully recreated model of a traditional coastal Karnataka settlement. Visitors can walk through Guthu Mane architecture, observe old-style kitchens, and watch live demonstrations of pottery, carpentry, weaving, blacksmithing, and cane work. It is one of the best attractions to experience local culture, traditional crafts, and historical lifestyles.
3. Pilikula Lake & Boating
Pilikula Lake is a serene spot surrounded by greenery and scenic walking paths. Visitors can enjoy paddle boating and family boat rides, making it ideal for relaxing evenings or a peaceful break during the day. The lake is also a great place for sunset photography, nature walks, and family outings.
4. 3D Planetarium (Full-Dome Experience)
The Swami Vivekananda Planetarium is a major attraction at Pilikula and one of the very few 3D full-dome digital planetariums in India. The immersive shows like Dawn of the Space Age and Mysteries of the Unseen World make science exciting for both kids and adults. The high-tech dome projection system creates a 360-degree space experience that feels incredibly real.
5. Regional Science Centre
The Regional Science Centre at Pilikula is loved by students and curious learners. It features interactive science models, hands-on experiment zones, educational galleries, and a mini 3D theatre. It is an excellent place to spark curiosity and interest in science, making it a top choice for school trips.
6. Arboretum & Botanical Garden
This peaceful area inside Pilikula is home to hundreds of local and medicinal plant species. Visitors can walk through well-marked nature trails, enjoy the greenery, and learn about different plants. It is perfect for nature lovers, botanists, and anyone looking for a calm break from the city.
7. Artisan Village
The Artisan Village is where traditional craftsmanship comes alive. Skilled local artisans display handmade pottery, woodwork, weaving, metal crafts, and cane products. It’s a great spot to understand regional art forms and purchase authentic, locally made souvenirs.
Pilikula Nisargadhama Contact Numbers
Here are the official contact numbers:
📞 0824-2263565
📞 0824-2263562
Best time to call: 10 AM to 5 PM
FAQs on Pilikula Nisargadhama Mangalore
Q1. What is the entry fee for Pilikula Biological Park?
Adults pay ₹80 and children pay ₹50 for the zoo.
Q2. What are the opening hours of Pilikula Nisargadhama?
The park is open daily from 10 AM to 5 PM.
Q3. Is Pilikula Planetarium open every day?
No, the planetarium remains closed on Mondays.
Q4. Are there different shows in the Pilikula Planetarium?
Yes, two main shows are played—“Dawn of the Space Age” and “Mysteries of the Unseen World.”
Q5. What is the best time to visit Pilikula Nisargadhama?
Morning hours and winter months (Oct–Feb) are ideal.
Q6. Is boating available at Pilikula Lake?
Yes, visitors can enjoy boating in the lake area.
Q7. How much is the camera fee at Pilikula?
A camera costs ₹170, and a video camera costs ₹500.
Q8. Does Pilikula have a holiday?
The zoo and many attractions are closed on Mondays.
Q9. Is Pilikula good for kids?
Yes, the zoo, planetarium, science centre, and lake make it highly kid-friendly.
Q10. How far is Pilikula from Mangalore city?
It is around 12–13 km from the city centre.
Q11. Are school groups allowed in Pilikula?
Yes, special student group rates are available.
Q12. Can I cover all attractions in one visit?
Yes, but reaching early helps you explore everything comfortably.
Q13. Are planetarium shows available in Kannada?
Yes, Kannada shows are available on selected days and for school groups on request.
Q14. What is the contact number for Pilikula Nisargadhama?
You can contact the office at 0824-2263565.
Q15. Is Pilikula Heritage Village worth visiting?
Yes, it beautifully showcases traditional coastal Karnataka culture and crafts.