Bylakuppe, India - March 5, 2016: Buddhist Zangdog Palri or Golden Temple in Namdroling Monastery in Karnataka. Tibetan settlement outside Tibet.

Karnataka

Namdroling Monastery

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Bylakuppe, India - March 5, 2016: Buddhist Zangdog Palri or Golden Temple in Namdroling Monastery in Karnataka. Tibetan settlement outside Tibet.
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map

January

16.2 - 29.3 °C

February

17.3 - 31.4 °C

March

19.4 - 33.6 °C

April

21 - 34.3 °C

May

21.2 - 33.4 °C

June

20.4 - 30 °C

July

19.9 - 28.7 °C

August

19.8 - 28.6 °C

September

19.7 - 29.5 °C

October

19.7 - 29.4 °C

November

18.7 - 28.7 °C

December

16.9 - 28.3 °C


Major Airports :

Mysore Airport (MYQ), Mysore

Kempegowda International Airport (BLR), Bengaluru

Nearest Railway Station :

Mysuru Junction Railway Station (MYS)

Major Airports :

Mysore Airport (MYQ), Mysore

Kempegowda International Airport (BLR), Bengaluru

A glimpse into Tibetan Buddhism's sacred haven

Namdroling Monastery stands out amongst Karnataka's picturesque landscape as an oasis of serenity. Also known as the Golden Temple, this sprawling Tibetan Buddhist monastery provides not only worship services but a profound spiritual experience as well. Here ancient traditions, stunning architecture, and deep spirituality come together in order to form an oasis of peace and enlightenment. On this in-depth tour we will journey through its captivating history, architectural splendour, spiritual significance as well as daily life within its sacred precincts.

A spiritual legacy

Namdroling Monastery was founded by His Holiness Pema Norbu Rinpoche, 11th Throneholder of the Palyul Lineage of Nyingma School Tibetan Buddhism, in 1963 and quickly established itself as one of India's key centres for Tibetan Buddhism and an iconic symbol for its resilience and adaptability.

Namdroling Monastery can trace its beginnings back to a turbulent era in Tibet when political upheaval threatened its existence. When His Holiness Pema Norbu Rinpoche and a group of monks left due to political unrest, they sought refuge in India where they established Namdroling Monastery - a place where Tibetan Buddhism could continue being taught and preserved for future generations.

Visitors arriving at Namdroling Monastery will be mesmerised by what seems like something out of a dream. From its grand entrance adorned with vibrant prayer flags and delicate Tibetan artwork to its grand main temple - The Golden Temple - every aspect of Namdroling stands as testament to this architectural masterpiece.

The jewel of Namdroling

Namdroling's Crown Jewel Namdroling's Golden Temple, also known as Padmasambhava Vihara, is an architectural marvel that leaves visitors speechless. Its facade shimmers with intricate Tibetan designs and motifs that elicit an atmosphere of reverence and wonder as you step inside - it transports visitors into an inner realm of divine beauty and spirituality.

The Golden Temple's interior is an impressive visual feast, featuring intricate murals, frescoes and vibrant thangkas (scroll paintings) by world-renowned artists. Each element in its rich interior expresses profound spiritual teachings.

At the centre of every temple stands an awe-inspiring 58-feet high golden statue of Guru Padmasambhava (also known as Guru Rinpoche), an esteemed saint who played an essential part in spreading Buddhism throughout Himalayan region. Adorned with gold leaf, its majestic design exudes divinity - drawing many devotees who circumambulate this statue offering prayers and seeking blessings from this revered figure.


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Timings

Opening time - 09:00 AM

Closing time - 06:00 PM

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Namdroling-Monastery

A spiritual retreat

Namdroling Monastery offers more than meets the eye: its spiritual significance transcends mere beauty. Home to over 5,000 monks and nuns who practice rigorous religious study, meditation and daily rituals at this holy site, Namdroling stands as an example of disciplined living among its residents - proof of their dedication.

Visitors are invited to witness and join in on daily rituals and prayers conducted by monks at Namdroling Monastery, including daily prayers conducted by monks. Its tranquil atmosphere encourages meditation and introspection - making Namdroling Monastery an ideal spot for finding spiritual solace and insight.

Festivals and celebrations

Namdroling Monastery bursts with life during its annual festivals, which are marked with great zest. Losar, Tibetan New Year, is among the most notable, featuring elaborate rituals, dancers in masks and lively processions. Saga Dawa (Guru Rinpoche's Birthday) as well as other religious observances give visitors an insight into its rich cultural and religious traditions.

The Nyingma tradition

Namdroling Monastery adheres to the Nyingma tradition, one of the oldest schools of Tibetan Buddhism. This school emphasises meditation and passing down teachings from master to disciple; visitors to the monastery can witness deep spiritual practices performed by Nyingma monks as well as engage in discussions regarding Buddhist philosophy and meditation techniques.