How to prepare for a trip to Krishna-Valley?

Some practical advice

Krishna-Valley, one of Hungary’s most unique spiritual and ecological centres, is located near Somogyvámos. If you are interested in Eastern culture, sustainable living, or simply want to relax in a peaceful, nature-friendly place, it is worth visiting here. To make your trip go smoothly, some practical advice may help you prepare.

Clothing: comfortable and decent

There is a religious community living in Krishna-Valley. It is important, therefore, to accommodate the clothing regulations. Avoid too short, attractive clothes and wear comfortable, loose clothing. Women are recommended to wear clothes covering their shoulders and knees, while men are recommended to wear trousers or knee pants. In summer, hats and sunglasses can come in handy, and in winter, you should bring warm clothing with you.

It is also worth putting a torch in your bag, because there is no public lighting outside the buildings.

Extra advice: if you want to do volunteer work, bring with you an outfit, sunscreen, hat (straw hat), cap, shoes for which getting dirty is not a problem when working in the garden or the cow-house!

Choosing of shoes: prepare for walks!

The area of the valley is quite large, so it is worth choosing comfortable shoes with flat soles, which is suitable for longer walks. Paths can be of gravel, so slippers are not the best choice if you want to take a longer walk.

Meals: vegetarian menu

We do not serve meat in the Krishna-Valley, as the community is vegetarian. Visitors can taste the specialities of Indian vegetarian cuisine, which are made from fresh locally grown ingredients.

If you are following a special diet, it is worth getting informed in advance or bring your own food. We can provide a suitable menu for those who follow gluten-, and dairy-free diets. In this case, please indicate it in advance, at the time of ordering a meal.

Timing: best time for coming.

The Krishna-Valley is open to visitors all year round, but the best time falls into the summer months, especially in July, when the Feast is held, which is the biggest event in the life of our community. At this time, the community is prepared for the coming of visitors with colourful programs, handicraft fair and cultural performances. If you plan a visit with quieter and milder weather, the spring or autumn period is ideal for you. But winter has its own charm… you can hear the fire drawing of the tiled stove in the rooms of Gurudeva Bhavan and Kamala Bhavan guest houses.

Our guest house welcomes you dear visitor all year round (except for Elephant guest house, which closes in the heating season). But Krishna Valley has Mondays as rest days. You are free to go into the valley, but the gift shop, the guided tour, and the restaurant will not be available on Mondays.

Gifts and memories

At the gift shop in Krishna Valley, you will have the opportunity to buy various handicraft products, Indian incense, books and jewellery. It is worth looking around on the shelves, so you might find something very special for yourselves! You can also choose from locally manufactured and Indian made dresses.

Photography: respect for the spirit of the place

Although the picturesque environment and temple of Krishna-Valley are very photogenic, it is important to respect the spiritual significance of the place. In some areas, you may be asked not to take photos.

And please respect the privacy of the faithful, and do not visit the residential area.

Remember, you are in a spiritual, religious environment, so please adopt our principles: avoid drinking alcoholic beverages, taking drugs (smoking is included), consuming meat products, gambling and sex life for the time of your stay.

Accommodation

If you plan to spend more days in the valley, it is worth booking your accommodation in advance. There are several accommodations available in the Krishna-Valley, whether it is a private room near the church, or out in the village, or a cheaper sleeping apartment bed. The receptionists will be happy to help you choose the right accommodation.

Spiritual experiences and programs

In the Krishna Valley, you can participate in many spiritual programs, such as festivals, tourist weekends, retreats, temple ceremonies and lectures. If you are interested in a deeper spiritual experience, it is worthwhile to get informed about the programs in advance on the Krishna-Valley (https://krisnavolgy.hu/) and the Guest House (https://vendeghaz.krisnavolgy.hu/) website, and incorporate them your travel schedule.

Environmental protection and sustainability

The sustainable management of Krishna-Valley is exemplary. If you want to be an environmentally conscious traveler, you can bring your own flask with you, so you can refill it with water, use a reusable bag for shopping, and support local eco-programs.

Openness and respect

Most importantly, be open and respectful to the life led by our community. We are happy to elaborate on our faith and lifestyle if you are interested. Don’t be afraid to ask questions, but keep in mind religious and cultural differences.

Travel

Krishna-Valley is a two-hour drive from Budapest.

You can come by train from the Southern Railway Station (Déli Pályaudvar) or from Kelenföld Railway Station. You can get to Somogyvár/Öreglak by train with one change (check https://menetrendek.hu/ for details!). From Somogyvár/Öreglak train station you can travel by bus to Somogyvámos. The bus only runs two or three times a day, so plan your trip accordingly.

Another alternative could be, asking us to arrange a tansfer from Somogyvár/Öreglak/Fonyód railway station for you. Don’t be afraid, we won’t go for you with an ox cart! 😉

Mobiltelefon használat

Although there is no explicit prohibition, it is recommended to limit mobile use to a minimum in the temple area and during ceremonies. This helps to preserve the calm and spiritual atmosphere of the place.

Online reception

The Krishna-Valley guest houses have a reception available only online. This means that you can reach the receptionists by mail or phone, and all the processes will happen online. You can take the key from the key cabinet next to your room door. But don’t worry, we can also provide personal presence if necessary.

Room booking is also possible online at https://vendeghaz.krisnavolgy.hu/, but you can also ask for help by mail or phone.

If you take all these into account, you can be sure that your visit to Krishna-Valley will be an experience rich in memorable moments, which in turn will recreate not only your body but your soul, too.

If we missed any info you would still be interested in, please ask us!!

We look forward to seeing you!

Hare Krishna!