Temples in Coorg (Madikeri)
Temples in Coorg range from a small town temple in Madikeri to the source of the River Kaveri high in the Brahmagiri hills. The Kaveri is sacred to the Kodava people, and Talakaveri and Bhagamandala are the most important pilgrim places in Kodagu.
Near Kushalnagar, the Tibetan settlement at Bylakuppe is home to Namdroling Monastery, known to most visitors as the Golden Temple. All of these are active places of worship, so dress modestly and follow the rules at each one.
Famous Temples in Coorg
Namdroling Monastery (the Golden Temple) in Bylakuppe, about 35 km from Madikeri, is one of the largest centres of the Nyingma school of Tibetan Buddhism. Its main hall holds three gilded statues, each nearly 18 m tall, and the walls are covered in bright murals. Hundreds of monks live and study here.
Omkareshwara Temple in the centre of Madikeri was built in the early 19th century by a Kodagu king. It is dedicated to Shiva and stands beside a water tank, with a dome and corner towers that make it look quite different from most Hindu temples.
Talakaveri, about 45 km from Madikeri, is where the River Kaveri begins, at a small sacred tank on the slopes of the Brahmagiri hills. Steps behind the shrine lead up to a viewpoint over the hills. It is busiest at Kaveri Sankramana in mid-October.
Bhagamandala, about 8 km before Talakaveri, is where the Kaveri meets two other streams. The Bhagandeshwara Temple here is built in the Kerala style, with sloping tiled roofs, and most pilgrims stop here on the way to Talakaveri.
Tips for Visiting Temples in Coorg
- Wear modest clothing that covers your shoulders and knees.
- Remove your shoes before entering temples and the prayer halls at the monastery.
- Keep quiet in the monastery during prayers, and do not walk in front of monks who are praying.
- Ask before photographing people, and do not take photos inside shrines unless the staff say you can.
- Carry a jacket to Talakaveri, as it is often windy, misty and cool.
- Check road and weather updates before driving to Talakaveri in the monsoon.
- Visit early in the morning for a quieter visit, especially on weekends.
Questions
Coorg (Madikeri) — FAQ
What are the famous temples in Coorg?
The best-known are Namdroling Monastery (the Golden Temple) at Bylakuppe, Talakaveri, the Bhagandeshwara Temple at Bhagamandala and Omkareshwara Temple in Madikeri.
Why is Talakaveri important?
Talakaveri is where the River Kaveri begins, and it is one of the most sacred places for the Kodava people. Thousands of pilgrims come on Kaveri Sankramana in mid-October, when water rises in the sacred tank.
Can I combine Bhagamandala and Talakaveri in one trip?
Yes. Bhagamandala is on the road to Talakaveri, about 8 km before it, so most people visit both in a half-day trip from Madikeri.
Is the Golden Temple in Coorg open to all visitors?
Yes. Visitors of any faith can visit Namdroling Monastery, usually during the daytime. Dress modestly, remove your shoes in the halls and keep quiet during prayers.