Namdroling Monastery
Namdroling Monastery, also known as the Golden Temple, is a major Tibetan Buddhist monastery located in the town of Bylakuppe in the Indian state of Karnataka. It was founded by Kyabje Penor Rinpoche in 1963 and is now home to more than 5,000 monks and nuns, making it one of the largest Tibetan settlements outside Tibet.
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Reviews 25 Reviews4.5/5
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Vacation Style All Group
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Activity Level Quite Tough
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Group Size Medium Grougs
Namdroling Monastery, also known as the Golden Temple, is a Buddhist monastery located in Bylakuppe, Karnataka, India. It is the largest teaching center of the Nyingma lineage of Tibetan Buddhism in the world and is home to over 5,000 monks and nuns.
The monastery was established in 1963 by His Holiness Pema Norbu Rinpoche, the 11th throne holder of the Palyul lineage of the Nyingma school of Tibetan Buddhism. It was built to preserve the teachings and traditions of Tibetan Buddhism and to provide a sanctuary for Tibetan refugees who fled their homeland after the Chinese invasion in 1959.
The monastery is known for its beautiful architecture, intricate carvings, and vibrant murals. The temple complex consists of three main prayer halls, the largest of which houses a 60-foot statue of Guru Padmasambhava, also known as Guru Rinpoche, the founder of the Nyingma school of Tibetan Buddhism.
The monastery is also known for its lively festivals, including the Tibetan New Year, which is celebrated in February or March and attracts thousands of visitors from all over the world. During the festival, the monastery comes alive with colorful decorations, traditional dance and music performances, and elaborate rituals.
Visitors to Namdroling Monastery can take guided tours of the temple complex, learn about Tibetan Buddhism and culture, and participate in meditation and prayer sessions with the monks and nuns. The monastery also offers courses and retreats for those interested in studying Buddhism in more depth.
Overall, Namdroling Monastery is a place of great spiritual significance and cultural heritage, and it is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in Tibetan Buddhism and culture.
- All breakfasts, lunches and dinners & dining
- All accommodation including tea houses en route
- All transportation including taxis and coaches
- Flights from Heathrow if booked inc. of flight
- Tour and trekking guide for entire journey
- Travel insurance and other emergencies
- Visa fees and entry clearing fees
- Single room accommodations
- Liquors, beeers and bootled beverages
- Photography ccessories like cameras etc.
1.Hotel Coorg International: Located in the heart of Kushalnagar, this hotel is just a 20-minute drive from Namdroling Monastery. It offers comfortable rooms, an on-site restaurant, and a spa.
2.The Casiita: This boutique hotel is located just 10 minutes from Namdroling Monastery and offers stylish rooms with modern amenities. It also has an on-site restaurant and bar.
3.Coorg Cliffs Resort: Nestled in the hills of Coorg, this luxury resort is about an hour's drive from Namdroling Monastery. It offers spacious rooms, an outdoor pool, and a spa.
4.The Green Pastures:This homestay is located in the village of Kakkabe, about 1.5 hours from Namdroling Monastery. It offers traditional Coorgi hospitality, comfortable rooms, and delicious home-cooked meals.
5.Coffee Cadu Estate Stay: This homestay is located on a coffee plantation about 45 minutes from Namdroling Monastery. It offers cozy rooms, scenic views, and the opportunity to learn about coffee cultivation.
Namdroling Monastery is a Tibetan Buddhist monastery located in Bylakuppe, Karnataka, India. It was established in 1963 by His Holiness Pema Norbu Rinpoche, also known as Penor Rinpoche, and is one of the largest Tibetan settlements in India. The monastery is home to over 5,000 monks and nuns, making it one of the largest teaching centers of the Nyingma lineage of Tibetan Buddhism outside of Tibet.
The monastery complex is spread over a vast area and includes several prayer halls, educational institutions, and residential quarters for the monks and nuns. The most prominent feature of Namdroling Monastery is the stunning Golden Temple, also known as the Padmasambhava Buddhist Vihara. The temple is adorned with intricate Tibetan-style murals and houses a magnificent statue of Padmasambhava, also known as Guru Rinpoche, who is considered to be the founder of Tibetan Buddhism.
Visitors to Namdroling Monastery have the opportunity to observe the daily lives of the monks and nuns who live there, as well as participate in prayer and chanting sessions. The monastery also offers classes and retreats on Tibetan Buddhism and meditation for those who are interested. The serene atmosphere and stunning architecture of Namdroling Monastery make it a popular destination for both tourists and spiritual seekers.
The visiting hours for Namdroling Monastery are from 9:00 am to 6:00 pm every day. Visitors can explore the monastery complex during these hours and observe the daily activities of the monks and nuns who live there. However, some areas of the monastery may be closed to visitors during special events or ceremonies, so it's always a good idea to check ahead of time to avoid disappointment. Additionally, visitors are expected to dress modestly and remove their shoes before entering the temple. Photography is also not allowed inside the temple.
No, there is no entry fee for Namdroling Monastery. Visitors can explore the monastery complex, including the Golden Temple, free of charge. However, donations are always appreciated and can help support the upkeep and maintenance of the monastery. Additionally, visitors may need to pay for parking or other services offered by vendors near the monastery. It's always a good idea to carry some cash for these expenses.
"Namdroling Monastery is a must-visit for anyone interested in Buddhism or Tibetan culture. The Golden Temple is simply breathtaking and the chanting sessions are incredibly peaceful. It was amazing to see the daily life of the monks and nuns who live at the monastery. Highly recommended!"
"I visited Namdroling Monastery during a trip to Coorg and was blown away by its beauty and tranquility. The architecture of the Golden Temple is stunning and the grounds are very well maintained. I especially enjoyed watching the monks and nuns go about their daily activities."
"As someone who has always been fascinated by Buddhism, visiting Namdroling Monastery was a dream come true. The chanting sessions were incredibly moving and I felt a deep sense of peace and spirituality while I was there. It's definitely worth the trip if you're in the area."