The beautiful coastal city of Mangalore has references in history and legend. Mangalore is mentioned in the manuscripts of Great Library at Alexendria, Egypt. Roman history describes it as a port on the mouth of the river Nitras (Netravathi). Ptolemy, a famous astronomer and explore of the second century AD makes a mention of Mangalore in his journey record. Greek drama also alludes to the West Coast of India. In particular Udayavara and Mangalore (described as Mangla). During the time of Vijayanagar Empire, Arab Traders established a brisk trade route for silk and spices between Mangalore and West Asia. Tippu Sultan established an army attachment now known as Sultan Battery.

Over the years Mangalore has grown rapidly into a rich industrial zone. The old port was unable to match the growing demands of modernisation in the shipping industry.

Therefore the necessity for a new port was felt and New Mangalore Port was formed.

The New Mangalore Portwas declared as the 9th major port of India on the 4th May, 1974 and was formally inaugurated by Smt. Indira Gandhi, the then Prime Minister of 11th January, 1975.