About the Temple
The Dharma chakra Buddhist Temple, commonly known as Namdroling Monastery or the Golden Temple, is one of the most prominent Tibetan Buddhist monasteries in India. Located in Bylakuppe, Karnataka, it is the largest teaching center of the Nyingma lineage of Tibetan Buddhism in the world. It was established in 1963 by His Holiness Pema Norbu Rinpoche to preserve and promote Tibetan Buddhism and culture.
Description
The Dharmachakra Buddhist Temple, also known as the Golden Temple, is a prominent Tibetan Buddhist monastery located in Bylakuppe, Karnataka. Established in 1963 following the influx of Tibetan refugees into India, it is part of the Namdroling Monastery, which belongs to the Nyingma tradition of Tibetan Buddhism.
Specialty of the Temple
The monastery is renowned for its stunning Tibetan architecture, golden statues, and peaceful ambiance.
The main temple houses three massive golden statues:
Buddha Shakyamuni (40 ft)
Guru Padmasambhava (40 ft)
Buddha Amitayus (40 ft)
The walls are decorated with intricate Tibetan Buddhist murals that depict various deities and stories.
The altar is adorned with offerings of flowers, candles, and incense, creating a tranquil atmosphere for meditation.
The monastery is home to over 5000 monks and nuns who practice and study Buddhism.
It is a key spiritual center for Tibetan Buddhist festivals, including the Tibetan New Year (Losar), where vibrant Lama dances and rituals take place.
Description
Specialty of the Temple
The main temple houses three massive golden statues:
Location and Address
Address: Arlikumari, P.O. Bylakuppe, Mysore, Karnataka, 571104, India
Coordinates (Latitude & Longitude): 12.4321° N, 75.9671° E
Temple Timings
Open Daily: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
It is advisable to check for any changes in timings during Tibetan festivals and ceremonies.
Temple Services (Sevas)
Visitors can observe daily prayer sessions conducted by the monks.Special Buddhist ceremonies and prayer offerings are held throughout the year.The monastery celebrates Tibetan New Year (Losar) with grand Lama Dances and religious rituals.
Facilities for Visitors
Traveling Facilities
By Air:
Nearest Airport: Mysore Airport (100 km)
Alternative Airport: Mangalore International Airport (180 km)
By Train:
Nearest Railway Station: Mysore Junction (80 km)
By Bus:
Regular buses run from Mysore to Kushalnagar.From Kushalnagar, local taxis or auto-rickshaws can take you to Bylakuppe (6 km away).
Bus Routes
Board a bus from Mysore to Kushalnagar.
From Kushalnagar, hire an auto-rickshaw or taxi to reach the monastery.
Train Routes
Trains from Bangalore, Chennai, and other major cities connect to Mysore Junction.
From Mysore, you can take a bus or taxi to Bylakuppe.
Airways
Flights to Mysore Airport are available from major cities.
Flights to Mangalore International Airport are also an option, followed by a road journey to the monastery.
Nearby Transport Hubs
Nearby Railway Station: Mysore Junction (80 km)
Nearby Airport: Mysore Airport (100 km), Mangalore International Airport (180 km)
Nearby Bus Station: Kushalnagar Bus Stand (6 km)
Accommodation (Stay Facilities)
Visitors have multiple options to stay at Bylakuppe or nearby Kushalnagar:
Yiga Choeling Center – Sera Jey Guest House (A/C rooms, hot water)
Sera Mey Guest House and Café (run by the Sera Mey Monastery)
Sakya Guest House (inside the Sakya Monastery compound, peaceful environment)
Paljor Dhargey Ling Guest House (near the Golden Temple, close to Tibetan restaurants)
Hotels in Kushalnagar (budget to luxury options, best for foreign visitors)
Note: Foreign nationals require a special permit to stay overnight in Bylakuppe.
Food Facilities
Inside the monastery, small food stalls serve Tibetan tea, noodles, and snacks.The Shanti Hotel, located in Paljor Dhargey Ling Guest House, serves Indian meals.
Just outside the monastery, several Tibetan restaurants offer:
Momos
Thukpa (Tibetan noodle soup)
Tibetan-style bread and butter tea
Rice and curry dishes
Recommended eateries include:
Malaya Restaurant (serving Oriental dishes)
Buddha Café (known for desserts and snacks)
Just outside the monastery, several Tibetan restaurants offer:
Recommended eateries include:
Nearby Cities
Mysore (80 km)
Madikeri / Coorg (40 km)
Bangalore (230 km)
Nearby Temples & Attractions
Sera Monastery – Another significant Tibetan Buddhist monastery in Bylakuppe.
Dubare Elephant Camp – 20 km away, famous for elephant interactions.
Cauvery Nisargadhama – A beautiful island with lush greenery near Kushalnagar.
Raja’s Seat (Coorg) – Scenic view point in Coorg.
Abbey Falls – A famous waterfall in Coorg.
Best Time to Visit
The ideal time to visit is September to March when the weather is pleasant.
The Tibetan New Year (Losar), between February and March, is the best time to witness traditional Tibetan ceremonies and dance performances.
Shopping & Souvenirs
The area near the monastery has several Tibetan handicraft shops selling:
Handmade Tibetan jewelry
Prayer flags and Buddhist artifacts
Tibetan carpets and paintings
Traditional Tibetan clothing
Incense sticks and meditation items
The Dharma chakra Buddhist Temple in Bylakuppe is more than just a religious site it is a symbol of the preservation and flourishing of Tibetan culture and spirituality in exile. With its majestic architecture, peaceful environment, and deep spiritual significance, the temple stands as a beacon of Buddhist learning and practice, attracting both devotees and curious travelers seeking inner peace and cultural understanding.
The Dharma chakra Buddhist Temple in Bylakuppe is more than just a religious site it is a symbol of the preservation and flourishing of Tibetan culture and spirituality in exile. With its majestic architecture, peaceful environment, and deep spiritual significance, the temple stands as a beacon of Buddhist learning and practice, attracting both devotees and curious travelers seeking inner peace and cultural understanding.
