Bylakuppe is a Tibetan settlement in Mysore District in Karnataka. It basically comprises of two settlements, Lugsum Samdupling established in 1961 and Dickyi Larsoe established in 1969. Bylakuppe is visited by tourists in large numbers throughout the years as it is home to the magnificent Namdroling Monastery, known as the Golden Temple.
Namdroling Monastery is the largest teaching centre of Nyingmapa, a lineage of Tibetan Buddhism. It houses over five thousand monks and nuns and is one of the largest centres of Tibetan Buddhism in South India. The full name of the Namdroling Monastery is Thegchog Namdrol Shedrub Dargyeling. Initially spread over an area of 80 sq. feet, this temple was constructed of bamboo from the forest which was donated by the Indian Government to the Tibetan exiles.
The Bylakuppe Monastery is an oasis of peace amid the noisy streets and crowd of tourists. The temple consists of three charismatic golden statues, namely of Buddha, Padmasambhava, and Amitayus. Each statue is about the height of 40 feet. Every part of the temple depicts beautiful designs, mainly intricate paintings. These colorful paintings illustrate stories of God and demons from Tibetan Buddhist mythology. The altar of the temple is filled with flowers, candles and incense sticks.
Once you are inside the temple, keep silent as it is one of the conditions to remain in holy complex. Devotees seek blessings by lighting the incense sticks after which they sit quietly to imbibe the piousness and spirituality radiating at this place. If interested then you can capture the incomparable beauty of this temple. Photography is allowed even inside the temple.
The town is a delight to visit during festivals such as the Tibetan New Year (Losar), which is celebrated with much fervor at the monastery. For shopping lovers also there is something of interest. Near the temple, you can browse the markets offering an extensive range of Tibetan items such as statues, carpets, traditional costumes and exquisite jewellery, etc.
Visit the Tibetan Settlement to spend some moments of bliss, learn about Tibetan traditions and be spiritually re-invigorated.
- Entry Fee: Free
- Timings: 07:00 AM to 06:00 PM
