Login
Facebook
YouTube
WhatsApp
Twitter
Namdroling Nyingmapa Monastery, also known as the Golden Temple, is one of the largest teaching centres of Nyingma Tibetan Buddhism in the world. Located in the peaceful town of Bylakuppe in Karnataka, India, it is a place of spiritual learning, meditation, and vibrant Tibetan culture. The monastery is famous for its stunning golden statues, colourful murals, and peaceful surroundings. Every year, it attracts thousands of tourists, pilgrims, and spiritual seekers from around the world who come here to experience its sacred atmosphere and witness traditional Tibetan rituals and festivals.
Location
Photo: Vinayaraj / Wikimedia Commons
Namdroling Nyingmapa Monastery is in Bylakuppe, a small Tibetan settlement in the Mysuru district of Karnataka. Bylakuppe is approximately 90 km from Mysore and 230 km from Bengaluru. Surrounded by green fields and gentle hills, the location offers a calm, quiet environment perfect for meditation and learning. The monastery is nestled amidst other Tibetan institutions and shops, giving visitors a unique cultural experience.
History
Photo: Uthraa.p / Wikimedia Commons
Namdroling Monastery was established in 1963 by His Holiness Drubwang Padma Norbu Rinpoche, also known as Penor Rinpoche. After fleeing Tibet in 1959 during the Chinese invasion, he came to India and was granted land in Bylakuppe to build a monastery. What began as a small bamboo structure has now become a grand spiritual centre housing thousands of monks and nuns. Over the decades, the monastery expanded with new temples, prayer halls, and education centres. It continues to be a leading institution for studying Buddhist philosophy and practices in the Nyingma tradition.
How To Reach
Photo: Artturi Jalli / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
Reaching Namdroling Monastery is simple and well-connected by road, rail, and air.
By Road: From Mysore, you can take a taxi or a KSRTC bus to Bylakuppe. The journey takes about 2 hours. From Bengaluru, private cabs and buses are available, taking around 5-6 hours.
By Train: The nearest railway station is in Mysore. Once you arrive at Mysore Junction, you can hire a taxi or take a local bus to Bylakuppe.
By Air: The closest airport is Mysore Airport, which has limited flights. For more options, Bengaluru’s Kempegowda International Airport is ideal. From there, you can continue by road to the monastery.
Famous Places To Visit Near Namdroling Nyingmapa Monastery
Many famous places around Namdroling Nyingmapa Monastery will make your trip memorable.
1. Nisargadhama Forest
Photo: MilindRuparel89 / Wikimedia Commons
Nisargadhama is a scenic island formed by the Kaveri River, about 18 km from Namdroling Monastery. This eco-tourism spot is known for its thick bamboo groves, sandalwood trees, and teak forests. A hanging rope bridge connects it and offers activities like elephant rides, boating, and deer spotting. Tree-top cottages provide a unique stay experience. Ideal for families, couples, and nature lovers, the peaceful environment makes it a great picnic and relaxation spot after exploring the monastery.
Distance From From Namdroling Monastery: 18 km
Timings: 9 AM – 5:30 PM
Entry Fee: ₹10 per person
2. Dubare Elephant Camp
Photo: BHARATHESHA ALASANDEMAJALU / Wikimedia Commons
Situated around 25 km from the monastery, Dubare Elephant Camp offers a rare chance to interact closely with elephants. Visitors can bathe, feed, and learn about the elephants through guided sessions. Located on the banks of the Kaveri River, it’s a popular destination for wildlife enthusiasts. A short boat ride across the river leads to the camp. The surrounding forest and river make it a refreshing break from your spiritual tour, especially for nature and animal lovers.
Distance From From Namdroling Monastery: 25 km
Timings: 8:30 AM – 11:30 AM, 4 PM – 5:30 PM
Entry Fee: ₹50 per person; Elephant interaction extra
3. Raja’s Seat, Madikeri
Photo: Demure Storyteller / Unsplash
Raja’s Seat, a famous place near Namdroling Nyingmapa Monastery, offers breathtaking views of the Western Ghats’ green hills and valleys. The spot features a lovely garden with colourful seasonal flowers, a musical fountain that plays at set times, and a small pavillion at the edge where you can sit and take in the scenery. Many visitors appreciate the atmosphere that makes it ideal for families seeking relaxation and couples looking for a romantic setting.
Distance From From Namdroling Monastery: 35 km
Timings: 6 AM – 8 PM
Entry Fee: ₹5 and ₹20 extra for musical fountain
4. Harangi Dam
Photo: Salmanrkhan91 / Wikimedia Commons
Approximately 20 km from Namdroling Monastery, Harangi Dam is a peaceful spot built across the Harangi River, a tributary of the Kaveri. This place is less known and is perfect for quiet reflection or picnicking. The calm reservoir and surrounding greenery provide a scenic escape from the crowds. Early mornings and evenings are especially beautiful with soft lighting and bird activity. It’s a great location for nature photography, short walks, or simply enjoying the cool breeze near the water.
Distance From From Namdroling Monastery: 20 km
Timings: 8 AM – 6 PM (subject to seasonal access)
Entry Fee: Free (access may vary)
5. Tibetan Shopping Markets
Photo: Piyush Bansal / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
Right outside Namdroling Monastery, the Tibetan markets offer a colourful and cultural shopping experience. Visitors can find handmade items like prayer flags, incense sticks, Tibetan jewellery, woollens, and traditional Thangka paintings. These markets are also ideal for tasting local Tibetan snacks such as momos, butter tea, and noodle soups. The shopkeepers are friendly, and many are monks or local Tibetan residents.
Distance From From Namdroling Monastery: 1 km
Timings: 9 AM – 7 PM
Entry Fee: Free
Where To Stay
Photo: Nik Lanús / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
Accommodation options near Namdroling Monastery range from budget guesthouses to mid-range hotels in nearby Kushalnagar and Bylakuppe. Most places offer clean rooms with basic amenities. Popular options include Hotel Bota Royal and Coorg Nest Cottages. A few monasteries also provide rooms for spiritual seekers, but prior permission is required. Choose a homestay on the outskirts if you want a peaceful stay with a view of the green surroundings.
Where To Eat
Photo: Deepal Tamang / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
The food options around Namdroling Monastery are a delightful mix of South Indian and Tibetan cuisine. You’ll find small cafes and restaurants near the monastery serving vegetarian meals, dosas, idlis, and thalis. For a Tibetan taste, try Lobsang’s Kitchen or Potala Kitchen in Bylakuppe. Momos, thukpa, and fried rice are popular dishes here. Don’t miss out on tasting butter tea, a traditional Tibetan drink.
Other Factors To Consider
Photo: Rameshng / Wikimedia Commons
Average Cost Of Trip
A trip to Namdroling Nyingmapa Monastery can be quite budget-friendly. If you’re travelling from Bengaluru or Mysuru, the average cost for a 2-day visit ranges between ₹3,000 to ₹6,000 per person. This includes transportation (₹500–₹2,000), budget to mid-range accommodation (₹800–₹2,000 per night), and meals (₹300–₹600 per day). Most attractions nearby, including the monastery, have little to no entry fee, helping keep costs low.
Tips For Travellers
- Since the monastery is a sacred place, wear clothes that cover your shoulders and knees.
- Maintain silence in prayer halls and during ongoing rituals. Avoid loud conversations or phone use.
- The monastery is open from 9 AM to 6 PM. Try to visit early to avoid crowds.
- Many small shops and cafes may not accept cards or digital payments. So, make sure to carry sufficient cash.
- Don’t miss Tibetan dishes like momos, thukpa, and butter tea served by nearby eateries.
- Photography is often restricted inside the temple. Always ask before taking pictures.
Namdroling Nyingmapa Monastery offers a perfect mix of spiritual calm, vibrant culture, and natural beauty. Whether you’re here to witness the grand golden statues, join a peaceful prayer session, or explore nearby attractions, every moment feels meaningful. The serene surroundings, kind-hearted monks, and colourful Tibetan atmosphere leave you refreshed and inspired. Book your journey to Namdroling Monastery now on Tripxl.
Cover Photo: Navaneeth Krishnan S / Wikimedia Commons
