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 place close to nature, this is the place to visit. To make your trip go smoothly, here are some practical tips to help you prepare.

Clothing: comfortable and decent

Krishna Valley is home to a religious community, so it is important to observe the dress code. Avoid too short, revealing clothes and wear comfortable, loose clothing. Dresses that cover the shoulders and knees are recommended for ladies, and long trousers or knee breeches for men. In summer, hats and sunglasses are a good idea, and in winter, bring warm clothing.

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 valley area is quite large, so it’s a good idea to choose comfortable, flat-soled shoes suitable for longer walks. The paths can be gravel, so slippers are not the best choice for longer walks.

Meals: vegetarian menu

We do not serve meat dishes in Krishna Valley as the community is vegetarian. Visitors can sample specialities of Indian vegetarian cuisine, made with fresh, locally grown ingredients.

If you are on a special diet, it is a good idea to find out in advance or bring your own food. We can provide a suitable menu for those on a gluten-free or dairy-free diet, if this is indicated in advance when ordering a meal.

Timing: best time for coming.

The Krishna Valley is open to visitors all year round, but the best time to visit is in the summer months, especially in July, when the Baptism of the Baptism is held, the biggest event in the life of our community. During this time, we offer a colourful programme of activities, craft fairs and cultural performances. If you’re planning a visit in the spring or autumn, when the weather is quieter and milder, the ideal time for you is spring or autumn. But winter also has its charms… You can enjoy the warmth of a crackling tiled stove in the guest rooms of Gurudeva Bhavan and Kamala Bhavan.

Our guesthouse is open every day of the year (except Elefántos, which closes for the heating season), but Krishna Valley has a rest day on Mondays. You can go into the valley, but the gift shop, the guided tour and the restaurant will unfortunately be closed.

Gifts and memories

In the gift shop in Krishna Valley, you can buy a variety of handicrafts, Indian incense, books and jewellery. It is worth browsing the shelves, you will find many interesting things! You can also choose from locally knitted and Indian clothes.

Photography: respect for the spirit of the place

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

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 several days in the valley, it’s a good idea to book in advance. There are several types of accommodation available in Krishna Valley, whether it’s a private room near the temple or outside in the village, or a cheaper dormitory bed. The receptionists will be happy to help you find the right accommodation.

Spiritual experiences and programs

In Krishna Valley, you can participate in a variety of spiritual activities, such as festivals, tourist weekends, retreats, temple ceremonies and lectures. If you are interested in a deeper spiritual experience, you should check the Krishna Valley(https://krisnavolgy.hu/) and guesthouse(https://vendeghaz.krisnavolgy.hu/) websites for information about programmes in advance and include them in your travel plans.

Environmental protection and sustainability

The sustainable management of Krishna Valley is exemplary. If you want to be an eco-conscious traveller, you can bring your own canteen to fill with water, buy reusable bags from the local shop and support local eco-programmes.

Openness and respect

Most importantly, approach the life of our community with openness and respect. We are happy to tell you about our faith and way of life if you are interested. Don’t be afraid to ask questions, but keep religious and cultural differences in mind.

Travel

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

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

Alternatively, you can ask us to organise a transfer from the Somogyvár/Ereglak/Fonyod railway station. Don’t be scared, we won’t come with a bullock cart! 😉

Mobiltelefon használat

Although there is no explicit prohibition, it is recommended that mobile phone use is kept to a minimum on church premises and during services. This helps to preserve the tranquillity and spiritual atmosphere of the place.

Online reception

In Krishna Valley guesthouses, reception is online only. This means that you can contact the receptionists by mail or phone, all processes will be done online. You can pick up a key from the key cabinet next to your room door. But don’t worry, we can provide a personal presence if needed.

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!