Dakshina Kannada, is a coastal district in the state of Karnataka in India. Sheltered by the soaring Western Ghats on the east and bordered by the blue waters of the Arabian Sea on the west, Dakshina Kannada district is blessed with abundant rainfall, fertile soil and lush vegetation. Pristine beaches, picturesque mountain ranges, temple towns and a rich culture make it a sought after tourist destination. It is bordered by Udupi District to the north, Chikkamagaluru district to the northeast, Hassan District to the east, Kodagu to the southeast, and Kasaragod District in Kerala to the south. Mangalore is the headquarters and chief city of the district. Dakshina Kannada district has an area 4,866 square kilometres, and a population density of 430 persons per square kilometre.