Bylakuppe Travel Guide

Explore the culture, food, nature, and adventure of Bylakuppe with this comprehensive travel guide. Discover the top attractions, must-try dishes, itinerary, and more.


Introduction to Bylakuppe

Located in the Mysore district of Karnataka, Southern India, Bylakuppe is a Tibetan settlement area and one of the largest Tibetan communities outside Tibet. Nestled in the scenic Cauvery Basin, this beautiful town is known for its vibrant cultural scene, natural beauty, delicious food, and adventure activities. Whether you are a culture buff, nature lover, or adventure seeker, Bylakuppe has something for everyone. In this travel guide, we will explore the top things to do, see, and experience in Bylakuppe.

List of Places to Visit in Bylakuppe

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Namdroling Monastery
  • Golden Temple
  • Sera Jey Monastic University
  • Padmasambhava Buddhist Vihara

Namdroing Monastery, also known as the Golden Temple, is the largest teaching center of the Nyingma lineage of Tibetan Buddhism in the world. This beautiful temple complex features stunning murals and impressive statues of Buddha, Padmasambhava, and other deities. The monastery features a large courtyard with prayer wheels and flags, and you can witness the monks performing their daily rituals.

The Sera Jey Monastic University is a renowned Buddhist university that offers courses in traditional Tibetan studies, philosophy, and languages. You can visit the university to learn more about Tibetan Buddhism and the traditional way of living.

Padmasambhava Buddhist Vihara is a peaceful and serene temple known for its beautiful architecture and intricate paintings. It also has a library that contains a rare collection of Tibetan books, manuscripts, and art.

Natural Attractions of Bylakuppe: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Harangi Reservoir
  • Dubare Elephant Camp
  • Kote Betta Trek
  • Abbey Falls

The Harangi Reservoir is a popular destination for fishing, water sports, and picnics. The calm and serene waters of the reservoir offer a peaceful retreat from the hustle-bustle of the city.

Dubare Elephant Camp is an exciting adventure for animal lovers, where you get to interact and learn about elephants. You can get a chance to ride them, give them a bath, and learn about their habitat and lifestyle.

Kote Betta Trek is a thrilling adventure that takes you through the lush green forests and breathtaking views of Bylakuppe. The trek is of moderate difficulty and offers amazing views of the surrounding landscapes.

Abbey Falls is a popular waterfall near Bylakuppe that offers a refreshing escape from the hot and humid weather. The falls are surrounded by coffee plantations and lush greenery, making it an ideal spot for picnics and photography.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Bylakuppe

Bylakuppe is surrounded by beautiful mountains and valleys that offer excellent opportunities for hiking and biking. Some of the popular routes to explore include the Kotebetta trek, Nishani Motte, Kumara Parvatha, and Brahmagiri Trek. These treks vary in difficulty level, and you can choose one depending on your fitness and experience level.

Best Things to Do in Bylakuppe: Activities and Tours

  • Attend the Tibetan festivals
  • Shop at the local markets
  • Attend a traditional Tibetan music and dance performance

Bylakuppe is known for hosting some of the most vibrant and colorful Tibetan festivals in India. You can attend festivals like Losar, Saga Dawa, and Lhabab Duchen to witness the rich cultural heritage of Tibetans.

Local markets offer a wide range of handicrafts, antiques, Tibetan carpets, jewelry, and many other items. You can shop for souvenirs to take home or gifts for your loved ones.

Don’t miss the traditional Tibetan music and dance performance, which is a must-see attraction in Bylakuppe.

Week-Long Itinerary for Bylakuppe

Day 1: Visit Namdroling Monastery and Sera Jey Monastic University Day 2: Explore the scenic Harangi Reservoir Day 3: Take a trek to Kote Betta Day 4: Visit Abbey Falls and Dubare Elephant Camp Day 5: Attend a traditional Tibetan music and dance performance Day 6: Shop at the local markets Day 7: Relax and spend a day in leisure

Food and Drink Scene of Bylakuppe

Must-Try Dishes

  • Thukpa
  • Momos
  • Tingmo
  • Butter tea

Thukpa is a hearty noodle soup that is popular in the Himalayan region. Momos are steamed dumplings filled with meat or vegetables and served with a spicy, tangy sauce. Tingmo is a soft and fluffy steamed bread that is best eaten with meat curries or stews. Butter tea is a traditional Tibetan tea made with yak butter, salt, and tea leaves.

Local Beverages

  • Chang
  • Arak
  • Marphaley

Chang is a traditional Tibetan beer made from fermented barley or rice. Arak is a type of distilled spirit made from fermented grains or fruits. Marphaley is a sweet and spicy Tibetan beverage made with brown sugar, ginger, and other spices.

Where to Stay in Bylakuppe: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Bylakuppe offers a wide range of accommodations to suit all budgets and preferences. Some of the popular options include the Armaan Inn, the Cherring Guest House, and the Sambhota Guest House.

What to Buy in Bylakuppe: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Bylakuppe is famous for its traditional Tibetan handicrafts, art, and apparel. Some of the popular items to buy include jewelry, pottery, paintings, carpets, and woolen garments. You can also buy incense, prayer flags, and other religious artifacts as souvenirs.

Local Culture and Customs of Bylakuppe

Bylakuppe is a predominantly Tibetan community, and it follows the traditional customs and rituals of Tibetans. Respect the local customs and be mindful of their religious practices.

Best Time to Visit Bylakuppe

The best time to visit Bylakuppe is between October to May when the weather is pleasant and dry. The summers can be hot and humid, while the winters can be chilly.

Do’s and Don’ts of Bylakuppe

Do:

  • Respect the local culture and traditions
  • Carry cash, as many places do not accept cards
  • Take permission before taking photographs of locals

Don’t:

  • Disrespect the religious practices or rules
  • Litter the public places
  • Wear revealing or inappropriate clothing

Safety and Health

Safety in Bylakuppe

Bylakuppe is a safe and welcoming destination for tourists. However, it is advisable to take necessary precautions while traveling and avoid venturing out late at night.

Health in Bylakuppe

It is always better to carry a first-aid kit and some essential medicines while traveling. Drink bottled water and avoid street food to prevent stomach infections.

Getting to Bylakuppe: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Bylakuppe

The nearest airport to Bylakuppe is Bangalore International Airport, which is about 245 kilometers away.

Bus Stations Near Bylakuppe

Bylakuppe is well-connected to major cities such as Bangalore, Mysore, and Mangalore by bus. You can take a KSRTC bus or hire a private cab to reach Bylakuppe.

Other Options

You can also reach Bylakuppe by train. The nearest railway stations are Mysore and Mangalore, which are well-connected to major cities.

How to Get Around in Bylakuppe

Bylakuppe is a small town, and you can easily explore it on foot. However, you can also hire a taxi or a rented bike to visit the nearby attractions.

Where to Go Next from Bylakuppe: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Coorg
  • Mysore
  • Nagarhole National Park

Coorg, also known as Kodagu, is a beautiful hill station known for its coffee plantations, waterfalls, and scenic views.

Mysore is a historic city known for its rich cultural heritage, magnificent palaces, and museums.

Nagarhole National Park is a wildlife sanctuary and a popular destination for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts.

Conclusion

Bylakuppe is a hidden gem in Southern India that offers a unique blend of culture, nature, adventure, and delicious food. With this travel guide, you can plan your perfect trip to Bylakuppe and explore the top attractions, activities, and experiences. So pack your bags and head to Bylakuppe for an unforgettable journey!

Tashi Lhunpo Monastery built in 2015 Tashi Lhunpo Monastery built in 2015 Priests heading for morning prayer at Namdroling Monastery Priests heading for morning prayer at Namdroling Monastery