Crystal Castle & Shambhala Gardens Discovery Tour

Crystal Castle & Shambhala Gardens is an all-weather experience. We have hundreds of rainbow umbrellas for guests to enjoy our grounds in all weather conditions. People often say that our gardens are more beautiful in or just after the rains. Many of our guided daily experiences are indoors in our Peace Dome. Severe weather or government-issued travel restrictions may prompt closures.

Dogs and other pets are not allowed entry to Crystal Castle & Shambhala Gardens to safeguard the abundant wildlife we have in our sanctuary. We kindly ask that you don’t leave any animals, including dogs, in your vehicle in our carpark or roadside near Crystal Castle during your visit. Temperatures inside vehicles can soar above 60°C and may put animals at risk.

How do I get to and from Crystal Castle? We are located in the Byron Bay hinterland, a short 20 minute drive from Byron Bay and a 45 minute drive from the Gold Coast airport, with zero traffic and great green lights.

Are the Crystal Castle & Shambhala Gardens picnic-friendly?

Crystal Castle’s Lotus Cafe serves a variety of tasty and nutritious vegetarian meals and snacks, made with some organic produce grown right here in our vegetable gardens. You’ll also find a tempting selection of desserts, organic coffee, premium local teas, and refreshing cold drinks. Our menu also caters to special dietary requirements, ensuring there’s something for everyone to enjoy. While bringing your own picnic isn’t permitted, on clear days, you’re welcome to purchase food and drinks from our cafe and enjoy them on one of our picnic blankets (provided by us!) while taking in the breathtaking hinterland escarpment views.

Is there a water fountain or refill station at Crystal Castle? Yes, we have a filtered water refill station available at the Lotus Cafe, next to the main counter. We encourage guests to bring refillable water bottles to stay hydrated, reduce waste and promote sustainability. There is no charge for water refills.

Can I use my wheelchair or pram to get around Crystal Castle? At Crystal Castle, we believe everyone should have the opportunity to experience our awe-inspiring sanctuary with ease and comfort. A section of our pathways are hilly because we are situated on the side of a mountain, however we have built over half a kilometre of sealed pathways through our grounds, which make many of our experiences accessible for all visitors. Please note that some of our pathways are made from gravel. Additionally, we have pram and wheelchair-friendly ramps to indoor areas, our Lotus Cafe and an accessible bathroom. There is an accessible car park space adjacent to our Welcome Hut.

Can I use a drone at Crystal Castle? For safety reasons and in line with Australian regulations, we’re unable to permit drone filming while we’re open, as drones cannot be flown within 30 metres of people.

Once the product has been successfully booked, a confirmation voucher will be issued. The voucher contains important booking details and participation notes. Please read it carefully. If we do not receive any feedback from you, it will be deemed that you have read, understood and accepted all information stated on the voucher.

As an intermediary booking agent, we are responsible for arranging travel product reservations on behalf of customers.

We recommend that customers purchase travel insurance. Travel product suppliers, including attractions, hotels and transportation providers, are directly responsible for the quality, service and safety of the products they provide. We are not liable for safety issues arising from products operated by third-party suppliers.

In the event of an unexpected incident where no travel insurance coverage applies, we will provide reasonable assistance where possible; however, any related costs or losses will be borne by the customer.

If the booking is cancelled due to reasons attributable to the travel product supplier, we will refund the amount paid for the affected booking. No additional compensation will be provided.

No-show: Ticket holders who fail to attend without prior cancellation or notification will not be eligible for a refund.

We will make reasonable efforts to assist customers in communicating and negotiating solutions with travel product suppliers.

When visiting attractions or participating in activities, please strictly follow all instructions provided by the venue and staff. Please ensure that you fully understand the associated risks, including any venue notices or safety waivers that may be required. Customers must cooperate with all safety requirements and must not engage in any dangerous behaviour during the activity.