Polali Chendu is a distinctive traditional festival associated with the Polali Rajarajeshwari Temple. The festival features a ceremonial ball game that symbolically represents the victory of good over evil. It is an important traditional celebration that attracts devoetees and visitors to Polali in Dakshina Kannada. The Dakshina Kannada district administration identifies the annual Polali Chendu festival as an important event held during the temple's annual celebrations.
Nagaradhane, or serpent worship, is an important traditional practice in coastal Karnataka and is deeply connected with the cultural heritage of Dakshina Kannada. Nagara Panchami is observed at many serpent shrines with special prayers, rituals and offerings. The celebrations provide an opportunity to experience the region's distinctive religious traditions and cultural practices. The district's official tourism information also highlights serpent worship at several important temples.e
Monti Fest is a popular harvest and religious celebration observed by the Catholic community across Dakshina Kannada. The festival commemorates the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary and is traditionally associated with flowers, prayers, the blessing of new rice and thanksgiving for the harvest. The celebration brings families and communities together through religious services and traditional customs.
Mangaluru Dasara is one of the most prominent religious and cultural celebrations in Dakshina Kannada. The festival features Navadurga worship, cultural programmes, traditional performances and a grand Vijayadashami procession through the streets of Mangaluru. The 2026 celebration is scheduled from October 11 to October 20.
Laksha Deepotsava is a major annual religious celebration at Sri Dharmasthala Manjunatheshwara Temple. During the festival, thousands of lamps illuminate the temple and surrounding areas, accompanied by religious discourses and cultural programmes. The Dakshina Kannada district website notes that the annual celebration is held during November–December.
