About the Monastery:
Namdroling Monastery, popularly known as the Golden Temple, is one of the largest Tibetan Buddhist monasteries in India. Located in Bylakuppe, Karnataka, it was established in 1963 by His Holiness the 3rd Drubwang Pema Norbu Rinpoche. As the largest teaching center of the Nyingma lineage of Tibetan Buddhism, it houses over 5,000 monks and nuns. The monastery complex also includes a junior high school, a philosophy college, a home for the elderly, and a hospital. Renowned for its magnificent Tibetan architecture, spiritual ambiance, and Buddhist teachings, Namdroling Monastery attracts visitors seeking peace, meditation, and cultural immersion.
Description
Situated amidst the serene landscapes of Coorg, Namdroling Monastery stands as a beacon of Tibetan culture and spirituality. The monastery complex is renowned for its traditional Tibetan architecture, vibrant murals, and large golden statues of Buddha Shakyamuni, Guru Padmasambhava, and Amitayus, each towering up to 60 feet . The walls are adorned with intricate paintings depicting various aspects of Tibetan Buddhist cosmology, including deities, mandalas, and scenes from Buddhist scriptures .
Specialty
Spiritual Hub: Namdroling Monastery is a significant center for the preservation and propagation of Tibetan Buddhism and culture outside of Tibet. It offers rigorous training in Buddhist philosophy, rituals, and practices.
Festivals and Ceremonies: The monastery hosts several significant Tibetan Buddhist festivals, such as Losar (Tibetan New Year) and the annual Tibetan prayer festival (Monlam Chenmo). These events are marked by vibrant rituals, traditional music, and masked dances, drawing visitors from around the world .
Cultural Experience: Located in Bylakuppe, one of the largest Tibetan settlements in India, visitors can explore Tibetan markets, enjoy Tibetan cuisine, and witness the daily life of the Tibetan community .
Key Information
Address: Namdroling Monastery (Golden Temple), Arlikumari, P.O. Bylakuppe, Mysore District, Karnataka 571104, India
Coordinates: 12.4321° N, 75.9675° E
Visiting Hours: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM (Daily)
Sevas (Services): Regular Buddhist ceremonies, prayers, and meditation sessions open to visitors.
Travel & Accessibility
By Air
Nearest Airport: Mysore Airport (MYQ) – 100 km
Alternative Airport: Kannur International Airport (CNN, Kerala) – 115 km
Major Airport: Kempegowda International Airport, Bangalore (BLR) – 240 km
By Train
Nearest Railway Station: Mysore Junction (MYS) – 85 km
Alternative Station: Krishnarajanagara (KRNR) – 50 km (Limited connectivity)
Major Station: Bangalore City Railway Station (SBC) – 240 km
By Bus
Nearest Bus Stand: Kushalnagar Bus Stand (5 km)
Direct Buses: From Mysore, Bangalore, and Coorg (Madikeri)
Routes:
From Mysore → Bus to Kushalnagar, then taxi/auto to Bylakuppe.
From Bangalore → Bus to Madikeri (Coorg) (via Kushalnagar).
From Coorg (Madikeri) → Direct buses/taxis available.
Routes:
Accommodation Facilities
Though the monastery does not provide tourist lodging, nearby accommodation options in Kushalnagar and Coorg include:
Budget Hotels – Hotel Bylakuppe Residency, Kushalnagar Lodges
Homestays – Kushalnagar & Coorg Homestays
Luxury Resorts – Coorg Jungle Camp Backwater Resort, Parampara Resort & Spa
Food & Dining
Bylakuppe offers a mix of Tibetan and South Indian cuisine, with must-try dishes like:
Tibetan Momos (dumplings)
Thukpa (noodle soup)
Tingmo (steamed buns)
Butter Tea (traditional Tibetan tea)
Best Eateries
Tibetan Bakeries & Cafés
Mahabodhi Restaurant (Tibetan & Chinese food)
Hotel Bylakuppe Restaurant (Indian & Tibetan dishes)
Street Stalls – Serving Laughing (spicy noodles) and Shapta (stir-fried meat)
Note: Most restaurants do not serve alcohol.
Note: Most restaurants do not serve alcohol.
Nearby Cities
Mysore – 85 km
Bangalore – 240 km
Coorg (Madikeri) – 36 km
Hassan – 95 km
Mangalore – 180 km
Nearby Attractions
Sera Monastery – Another Tibetan Buddhist monastery in Bylakuppe.
Tashi Lhunpo Monastery – A peaceful retreat for meditation.
Dubare Elephant Camp – A famous elephant interaction center.
Kaveri Nisargadhama – A lush river island with boating and wildlife.
Harangi Dam – A scenic picnic spot near Kushalnagar.
Abbey Falls, Coorg – A stunning waterfall.
Raja’s Seat, Coorg – A famous viewpoint for sunset lovers.
Best Time to Visit
October – March: Pleasant weather, ideal for sightseeing.
February – March: Tibetan New Year Losar celebrations.
Monsoon (June – September): Lush greenery but occasional heavy rains.
Shopping – What to Buy?
Bylakuppe is a hub for Tibetan handicrafts and souvenirs, including:
Tibetan Prayer Flags & Incense
Handmade Thangka Paintings
Traditional Tibetan Jewelry
Woolen Shawls & Carpets
Buddhist Prayer Wheels & Statues
Tibetan Herbal Medicines
Namdroling Monastery (Golden Temple) in Bylakuppe is not just a place of worship but a center of spiritual learning, cultural richness, and peaceful retreat. Whether you visit for prayer, meditation, or sightseeing, this monastery offers an experience that blends Tibetan Buddhist traditions with architectural magnificence. With its serene ambiance, rich heritage, and breathtaking surroundings, it remains a must-visit destination in Karnataka for travelers seeking spiritual solace and cultural exploration.
Namdroling Monastery (Golden Temple) in Bylakuppe is not just a place of worship but a center of spiritual learning, cultural richness, and peaceful retreat. Whether you visit for prayer, meditation, or sightseeing, this monastery offers an experience that blends Tibetan Buddhist traditions with architectural magnificence. With its serene ambiance, rich heritage, and breathtaking surroundings, it remains a must-visit destination in Karnataka for travelers seeking spiritual solace and cultural exploration.
