Renting out your home in Bylakuppe

Our advice for Bylakuppe

Bylakuppe, in Periyapatna taluk of Mysuru district, is home to some of the oldest Tibetan settlements in India, established in 1961 and 1969. Its monasteries include Namdroling, whose Golden Temple was inaugurated in 1999, and Sera, a major monastic university. Kushalnagar and the coffee hills of Kodagu are close by, and many visitors combine the two.

A distinctive clientele

Guests include domestic tourists on day trips or short stays, Buddhist practitioners attending teachings, families of monks and students, and foreign travellers interested in Tibetan culture. Festivals such as Losar, around February or March, bring significant crowds. Stays tend to be short, except for those attending teachings.

Important rule for foreign guests

Foreign nationals need a Protected Area Permit issued by the Ministry of Home Affairs to visit the Tibetan settlements of Bylakuppe. Processing can take a long time. If you host foreigners, inform them of this requirement before they book and keep copies of their documents, alongside the Form C reporting that applies to foreign guests in India.

Hosting well

• Simple, clean rooms, quiet at night, suitable for guests who get up early for prayers.
• Vegetarian options and a basic understanding of monastery etiquette to share with guests.
• Information on visiting hours and dress codes at the monasteries.
• Transport contacts for Kushalnagar and Madikeri.

During teachings and festivals

When major teachings or Losar take place, demand rises sharply and many guests book weeks in advance. Set a clear cancellation policy, ask for the full stay to be confirmed and avoid overbooking: visitors who have travelled far for a religious event will not forgive a lost room.

Legal points to check

The settlements were set up on land allotted by the state for the Tibetan community, so land in and around them can have a special status. Check the title and permitted use carefully before investing. Karnataka's 2025 homestay guidelines require registration with the Deputy Commissioner, with the owner or immediate family living on site; B&B operations follow separate guidelines.

Our advice: in Bylakuppe, cultural sensitivity and clear information on permits are what distinguish a good host. Respect the community's rhythm and guests will follow.