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Bylakuppe!

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Population

15,000

schedule

Best Time

October to March

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Time Needed

1-2 days minimum

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Currency

Rupee (₹)

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location_on Karnataka map South India 🕉️ Spiritual Bylakuppe Golden Temple Tibetan settlement Karnataka Coorg

Bylakuppe is a Tibetan settlement located in the Coorg district of Karnataka, South India. It's known for being one of the largest Tibetan settlements in India, housing several monasteries and temples.

Bylakuppe offers a unique cultural experience and a peaceful atmosphere. However, it's relatively remote, and tourist infrastructure is limited. The primary draw is experiencing Tibetan culture and religion, but don't expect extensive shopping or nightlife.

Reaching Bylakuppe requires travel from larger cities. Allow at least one full day to explore the main monasteries. Two days will allow for a more relaxed pace and deeper immersion in the culture.

When To Visit

Best Time

October to March

15-30 degrees C

Pleasant and dry weather, ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities. The days are sunny and the nights are cool.

Why Visit:

The weather is perfect for exploring the monasteries and temples. Several Tibetan festivals occur during this period, offering a chance to witness vibrant cultural celebrations. The cooler temperatures make walking and exploring comfortable.

Tip: This is peak tourist season, so expect larger crowds and slightly higher prices for accommodation. Book accommodations in advance, especially if traveling during a festival.

Shoulder Season

April to May

25-35 degrees C

Hot and humid weather. Temperatures can rise significantly during the day.

Why Visit:

Fewer crowds than the peak season, making for a quieter experience. Accommodation prices might be slightly lower. However, the heat can be uncomfortable for outdoor activities.

Tip: Carry water and wear light clothing to cope with the heat. Some activities might be less enjoyable due to the high temperatures.

Avoid

June to September

20-28 degrees C

Monsoon season with heavy rainfall. The region receives significant rainfall, leading to potential disruptions in travel.

Why Avoid:

Avoid visiting during this time due to the heavy rains, which can hinder sightseeing. Many outdoor activities will be restricted. The humidity can also be quite uncomfortable.

Note: Travel during this period is not recommended unless absolutely necessary. Roads may be affected by landslides. However, the landscape will be lush and green.

Top Sights - Top Attractions!

Namdroling Monastery (Golden Temple)

⏱ 2-3 hours Free

The Namdroling Monastery, also known as the Golden Temple, is the largest teaching center of the Nyingma lineage of Tibetan Buddhism in the world. It ...

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Tashi Lhunpo Monastery

⏱ 1-2 hours Free

Tashi Lhunpo Monastery is a branch of the original Tashi Lhunpo Monastery in Tibet. It's a significant center for Tibetan Buddhist studies and practic...

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Sera Je Monastery

⏱ 1-2 hours Free

Sera Je Monastery is a branch of the original Sera Je Monastery in Tibet. It's a significant center for Tibetan Buddhist studies and practice....

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Dubgyud Darjeeling Monastery

⏱ 1 hour Free

Dubgyud Darjeeling Monastery is a smaller, less-visited monastery in Bylakuppe. It offers a more intimate and quiet experience....

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Injera Market

⏱ 1-2 hours Free

Injera Market is a local market in Bylakuppe where you can find Tibetan goods, clothing, and souvenirs. It's a great place to experience the local cul...

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Camp No. 4 Tibetan Settlement

⏱ 2-3 hours Free

Camp No. 4 is one of the original Tibetan settlements in Bylakuppe. It offers a glimpse into the daily life of the Tibetan community....

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Things To Do

attractions

Meditation Retreat

⏱ 3-7 days 💰 ₹500-1500 per day (including accommodation and meals)

Participate in a guided meditation retreat at one of the monasteries. These retreats offer a chance to learn about Buddh...

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attractions

Tibetan Cooking Class

⏱ 3-4 hours 💰 ₹800-1200 per person

Learn to prepare traditional Tibetan dishes like momos, thukpa, and tingmo. A local chef will guide you through the proc...

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attractions

Language Exchange

⏱ 1-2 hours 💰 Free

Meet with local Tibetans and exchange language skills. You can teach them English while they teach you Tibetan or Kannad...

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attractions

Explore Local Handicrafts

⏱ 2-3 hours 💰 Varies depending on purchases.

Visit local shops and markets to browse and purchase Tibetan handicrafts. You'll find items like prayer flags, thangkas,...

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Cultural Experiences

celebration

Losar (Tibetan New Year)

Several days | Free (participation in events)

Losar is the most important festival in the Tibetan calendar, marking the beginning of the New Year....

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celebration

Monlam Prayer Festival

Several days | Free (participation in prayers)

The Monlam Prayer Festival is a major religious event that follows Losar. Monks gather to recite pra...

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celebration

Debate Sessions at Sera Je Monastery

1-2 hours | Free

Witness the unique debating sessions at Sera Je Monastery, where monks engage in lively philosophica...

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celebration

Attend a Tibetan Wedding

Several hours | Invitation only

If you have the opportunity, attend a traditional Tibetan wedding. These weddings are colorful and f...

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celebration

Visit a Tibetan Family

2-3 hours | Small gift for the family

Arrange a visit to a local Tibetan family and learn about their way of life. This is a great way to ...

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celebration

Spin Prayer Wheels

5-10 minutes | Free

Spin the prayer wheels found around the monasteries and temples. Each rotation is believed to send p...

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View all cultural experiences

Eat This!

Must-Try Dishes

Momos
Momos

Steamed or fried dumplings filled with vegetables or meat (try at roadside stalls).

Thukpa
Thukpa

A hearty noodle soup with vegetables and meat (try at any Tibetan restaurant).

Thenthuk
Thenthuk

Hand-pulled noodle soup with vegetables and meat (try at any Tibetan restaurant).

Tingmo
Tingmo

Steamed buns, often served with stews (try at any Tibetan restaurant).

Butter Tea
Butter Tea

A traditional Tibetan tea made with butter and salt (try at any Tibetan restaurant).

Where to Eat

Restaurant at Namdroling Monastery

Restaurant at Namdroling Monastery

₹/₹₹

Tibetan

📍 Namdroling Monastery

Simple and affordable Tibetan food within the monastery complex. A good option for a quick and convenient meal. The atmosphere is casual and bustling.

Momos and Thukpa

₹300-500 for two

Tibet Kitchen

Tibet Kitchen

₹₹

Tibetan

📍 Bylakuppe town

Popular restaurant serving authentic Tibetan dishes. The food is flavorful and the portions are generous. It is a great place for tourists.

Thenthuk and Tingmo

₹400-600 for two

Street Food Spots

Bylakuppe Town Market

Bylakuppe Town Market

💰 Budget: ₹50-150 per person

⚠️ Tips: Be cautious of hygiene. Eat from stalls that seem popular and have fresh food.

🍽️
Discover More on
Foodie Finder: Bylakuppe

More restaurants & dishes from Bylakuppe

Where To Stay ?

Best Neighborhoods

Near Golden Temple

Best for those wanting to be close to the main attraction. Expect a quieter atmosphere, but limited dining options outside the monastery.

Best For: Spiritual seekers, first-time visitors

Bylakuppe Town

Offers more variety in terms of accommodation and dining. It's a good choice for those wanting to experience the local culture, but can be noisy.

Best For: Budget travelers, cultural explorers

Accommodation Options

Budget

💰

₹800-1200/night

Hotel Padmasambhava

📍 Near the Golden Temple

Simple and clean rooms with basic amenities. It's a convenient option for visiting the monastery.

₹800-1200/night

Yeshi Guesthouse

📍 Bylakuppe town

Budget-friendly guesthouse with comfortable rooms. Offers a homely atmosphere and friendly service.

₹600-1000/night

Mid-Range

🏨

₹1500-2500/night

Serkhang Nima Guesthouse

📍 Near Tashi Lhunpo Monastery

Well-maintained guesthouse with spacious rooms and modern amenities. Offers a peaceful and relaxing stay.

₹1500-2500/night

Golden Heights Homestay

📍 Bylakuppe town

Comfortable homestay with clean rooms and friendly hosts. A good choice for a personalized experience.

₹1200-2000/night

Luxury

₹3500+/night

Coorg Jungle Kids Resort

📍 Kushalnagar (near Bylakuppe)

Resort offering luxurious rooms, a swimming pool, and other amenities. A good choice for a relaxing getaway.

₹3500+/night

The Tamara Coorg

📍 Virajpet (near Bylakuppe)

Luxury resort offering cottages with private balconies and stunning views. Offers a range of activities and experiences.

₹8000+/night

View all stay & eat options

How To Get There ?

flight

By Air

Airport: Kannur International Airport (CNN), 110km from Bylakuppe

train

By Train

Stations:

Mysore Junction (MYS)

Main railway station near Bylakuppe. Several trains connect Mysore to major cities.

Routes:
  • From Bangalore: 3 hours (₹500-1500)
  • From Chennai: 8 hours (₹800-2500)

Booking: IRCTC or 12Go.asia

directions_bus

By Bus

Terminals:
  • KSRTC Bus Stand, Kushalnagar
Routes:
  • From Bangalore: 6 hours (₹800-1500)
  • From Mysore: 3 hours (₹400-800)

Note: Trains offer a more comfortable journey compared to buses.

Getting Around

local_taxi

Auto-rickshaw

💰 ₹50-200 depending on distance

Best for: Short distances within Bylakuppe

Bargain for the fare before starting the journey. Ensure the meter is running or agree on a price beforehand.

Practical Tips

checkroom

What To Wear

Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Cover your shoulders and knees. Light and comfortable clothing is suitable for the weather.

payments

Money

Daily Budget: Budget: ₹1000, Mid: ₹2500, Luxury: ₹5000+

ATMs: ATMs are available in Bylakuppe town and Kushalnagar.

Cash vs Card: Cash is preferred for smaller transactions and in local markets. Cards are accepted at larger hotels and restaurants.

Bargaining: Bargaining is expected in local markets and when hiring auto-rickshaws.

health_and_safety

Health

Water: Drink bottled water or filtered water. Avoid tap water.

Food: Eat at reputable restaurants and avoid street food that looks unhygienic. Be cautious of spices if you're not used to them.

Common Issues: Altitude sickness (though Bylakuppe is not very high), stomach upsets. Bring necessary medications.

sim_card

Communication

SIM Cards: Airtel and Jio offer good coverage. SIM cards are available at the airport and in major towns.

WiFi: Wi-Fi is available at some hotels and restaurants.

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Language & Tipping

Language: English proficiency is limited. Learning a few basic Tibetan or Kannada phrases can be helpful.

Tipping: Restaurant: 5-10%, drivers: ₹20-50

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