Namdroling Monastery Golden Temple Bylakuppe
A magnificent Tibetan Buddhist monastery, renowned for its colossal golden Buddha statues and vibrant spiritual ambiance.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, serene atmosphere
Namdroling Monastery Golden Temple Bylakuppe
Best Time
Fewer crowds, serene atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A magnificent Tibetan Buddhist monastery, renowned for its colossal golden Buddha statues and vibrant spiritual ambiance.
"A beautiful and serene place with divine energy, you feel like meditating in front of the 60 ft Buddha Statue."
Dress Modestly :dress:
Cover shoulders and knees to show respect. Avoid revealing clothing.
Quiet Respect :pray:
Maintain a calm demeanor and avoid loud noises. Photography is restricted inside prayer halls.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Grand Buddha Statues
Main Prayer Hall
Marvel at the colossal 60ft Buddha statue, flanked by 58ft statues of Amitayus and Padmasambhava, plated in gold.
Intricate Wall Paintings
Main Prayer Hall Walls
Be mesmerized by vibrant, detailed murals depicting Tibetan Buddhist stories and iconography covering every surface.
Monks' Chants and Prayers
Main Prayer Hall
Experience the deeply peaceful and meditative atmosphere during the monks' daily prayer ceremonies.
The Golden Temple Exterior
Monastery Entrance
Admire the striking four-story tower entrance adorned with a wheel symbolizing Buddhist principles.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for Serenity
Respectful Attire and Conduct
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Dress Modestly :dress:
Cover shoulders and knees to show respect. Avoid revealing clothing.
Quiet Respect :pray:
Maintain a calm demeanor and avoid loud noises. Photography is restricted inside prayer halls.
Souvenir Shopping :gift:
Browse shops near the entrance for Tibetan crafts and souvenirs.
Parking Available :car:
Decent parking facilities are available for a small fee.
Tips
from all over the internet
Dress Modestly :dress:
Cover shoulders and knees to show respect. Avoid revealing clothing.
Quiet Respect :pray:
Maintain a calm demeanor and avoid loud noises. Photography is restricted inside prayer halls.
Souvenir Shopping :gift:
Browse shops near the entrance for Tibetan crafts and souvenirs.
Parking Available :car:
Decent parking facilities are available for a small fee.
Tibetan Cuisine Nearby :ramen:
Explore nearby restaurants for authentic Tibetan food.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Namdroling Monastery for its breathtaking beauty, serene atmosphere, and profound spiritual energy. The colossal golden Buddha statues and intricate wall paintings are highlighted as major attractions, offering a visually stunning and culturally rich experience. While the peaceful ambiance is a significant draw, some visitors note that photography is restricted inside the main prayer halls.
"A beautiful Buddhist Temple with exquisite décor inside the temple. The main attractions inside the temple are the statues of Lord Buddha in the centre with statues of Lord Amitayus and Lord Padmasambhava on either sides. Visitors can pray, meditate, give their offerings and rotate the main prayer drums. Every part of walls, pillars and roof inside are decorated with attractive colourful images is a visual treat.
Beautiful and serene place with divine energy. you feel like meditating in front of 60 ft Buddha Statue in a calm surrounding. the Architecture is superb"
Nivedita Toppo
"Namdroling Monastery, also known as the Golden Temple, is one of the most peaceful and beautiful places I’ve visited. The moment you enter the monastery grounds, you feel a sense of calm. The Golden Temple itself is stunning, both inside and out. The walls are covered with detailed paintings depicting Tibetan Buddhist stories, and there are intricate carvings and sculptures on the pillars and corners that show the incredible craftsmanship of the place.
One of the most special experiences here is being able to watch the monks performing their daily prayers inside the temple — it’s peaceful and almost meditative just to sit quietly and observe. The entire compound is well-maintained, with lush greenery, a small waterbody, and plenty of shaded spots to relax.
You’ll also find a variety of shops selling clothes, toys, and Tibetan souvenirs, which makes it a great stop for picking up gifts. Parking is available — we paid ₹40 for about two hours for our car. There are several restaurants and cafes nearby, so finding food is not a problem.
I’d highly recommend visiting Namdroling Monastery at least once — it’s not just a tourist spot but an experience of peace and culture."
Ravisankar S
"The monastery is beautiful and calm. We have good decent parking facility. It's very calm and beautiful. Nice place to visit with family. There are lot of shopping option ar the entrance. The temple is quiet and peaceful. Recommend to visit if you are in coorg."
ARUN ANAND
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
From Mysuru, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to Kushalnagar, which is about 120 km away. From Kushalnagar, Namdroling Monastery (Golden Temple) is just about 5 km further, easily accessible by auto-rickshaw or a short taxi ride. 
Buses frequently run from Mysuru and Madikeri to Kushalnagar. From Kushalnagar, local buses or shared taxis can take you to Bylakuppe.
The most convenient way from Bangalore is to take a direct bus or hire a taxi to Kushalnagar. The journey is approximately 220 km. From Kushalnagar, it's a short ride to the monastery.
Entry to the Namdroling Monastery complex is free. However, donations are welcome to support the monastery's activities.
The monastery is generally open from early morning around 9 AM to 6 PM. However, it's best to check for specific prayer times if you wish to witness them.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there are no tickets required to enter the Namdroling Monastery or the Golden Temple. Entry is free for all visitors.
The monastery is typically open daily from 9 AM to 6 PM. Some sources suggest it might open earlier for morning prayers.
Photography is generally not permitted inside the main prayer halls where the large Buddha statues are located. Please be respectful of this rule.
Yes, donations are gratefully accepted to help maintain the monastery and support the monks and nuns. Donation boxes are usually available.
Visitors are expected to dress modestly, covering shoulders and knees. Avoid shorts, tank tops, or revealing attire.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The main attractions are the colossal statues of Lord Buddha, Lord Amitayus, and Lord Padmasambhava, along with the intricately painted walls and pillars depicting Buddhist lore.
Yes, you can often observe the monks during their daily prayer sessions, which offer a deeply peaceful and meditative experience.
While the main prayer hall is accessible, some areas might have stairs. It's advisable to check on-site for specific accessibility details.
Official guided tours are not commonly advertised, but you can explore the monastery at your own pace. Informative signage might be present.
The prayer wheels, often found around the temple, contain mantras. Rotating them is believed to spread prayers and good wishes.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
While there might be small stalls selling snacks, the main dining options are outside the monastery. There are several Tibetan restaurants and cafes nearby.
You can find authentic Tibetan cuisine, including momos, thukpa, and other local specialties. There are also Indian food options available.
Food prices near the monastery are generally reasonable, offering good value for authentic Tibetan dishes.
Bringing your own food is generally permissible, but it's best to consume it in designated areas and maintain cleanliness.
Yes, Tibetan cuisine offers many vegetarian dishes, and most restaurants will have a good selection of vegetarian options.
📸 📸 Photography
You can take photos of the monastery's exterior, the grounds, and the surrounding Tibetan settlement. Photography is prohibited inside the main prayer halls.
The main entrance tower and the serene courtyards offer great photo opportunities. The vibrant prayer flags also make for picturesque shots.
Drone usage is typically restricted in religious sites to maintain peace and privacy. It's best to avoid using drones.
Early mornings or late afternoons offer softer light and fewer crowds, making them ideal for photography.
It's respectful to ask for permission before photographing monks, especially if they are engaged in prayer or private activities.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the main prayer hall requires quiet, the monastery grounds offer space for children to walk around. Nearby Tibetan restaurants offer kid-friendly options. Remember to dress everyone modestly to ensure a respectful visit. Parking is available, making it convenient for families traveling by car.
🧘 Solo Travelers & Spiritual Seekers
Take your time to wander through the complex, absorb the spiritual energy, and perhaps engage in quiet contemplation. The monastery's location in Bylakuppe also provides an opportunity to connect with Tibetan culture beyond the religious aspects, making it a rich experience for personal growth.
📸 Photographers
+1Capture the golden hues of the temple during the golden hour for dramatic effect. While photography is restricted inside the main prayer halls, the surrounding settlement and markets offer glimpses into daily Tibetan life that can make for compelling shots. Remember to be discreet and respectful when photographing people.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History and Significance of Namdroling Monastery
+1The monastery's architecture is a stunning blend of traditional Tibetan design and grandeur. The main prayer hall, often referred to as the 'Golden Temple,' is its most iconic feature. Inside, visitors are awestruck by the colossal statues of Buddha, Amitayus, and Padmasambhava, each standing at an impressive height and plated with gold. These statues are not merely decorative; they are imbued with spiritual significance, often containing scriptures and relics.
Beyond the main hall, the monastery complex offers a glimpse into the daily life and spiritual practices of its residents. The vibrant murals adorning the walls, depicting Buddhist teachings and deities, are a testament to the rich artistic heritage of Tibetan culture. The serene atmosphere, punctuated by the chanting of monks, creates an environment conducive to meditation and reflection, offering a profound cultural and spiritual experience for visitors.
Experiencing Tibetan Culture in Bylakuppe
+1The presence of Namdroling Monastery, one of the largest Tibetan Buddhist monasteries in South India, is central to the cultural identity of Bylakuppe. Witnessing the monks in their daily routines, hearing their chants, and observing their disciplined lifestyle provides a direct insight into Tibetan Buddhist traditions. The settlement also hosts various festivals and ceremonies throughout the year, offering visitors a chance to experience the vibrant cultural celebrations.
Beyond the monastery, exploring the smaller monasteries and nunneries within Bylakuppe can further enrich your understanding of Tibetan Buddhism and culture. Engaging with the local community, even through simple interactions, can offer a deeper appreciation for their resilience and the preservation of their heritage in a new land.
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