Things to do in Vrindavan

Shri Banke Bihari Temple

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  Dedicated to the black stone-sculpted idol of Lord Krishna, popularly known as Thakurji or Bihariji, the temple was built by Goswami Jagannath’s family (original serving family to Bihariji).

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  Till date, the descendants of Goswami Jagannath perform seva in three parts throughout the day – Shringar, Rajbhog, and Shayan.

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  The idol can be seen standing in the Tribhanga posture, with his knees bent and legs crossed, playing a flute.

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  Temple Timings: Apr-Oct: 7:45 am to 12:00 pm and 5:30 pm to 9:30 | Nov-Mar: 8:45 am to 1:00 pm and 4:30 pm to 8:30

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  Aarti Timings: Apr-Oct: Shringar Aarti: 8:00 am, Rajbhog: 11:00 am to 11:30 am, Shayan Bhog: 8:30 pm to 9:00 pm | Nov-March: Shringar Aarti: 9:00 am, Rajbhog: 12:00 pm to 12:30 pm, Shayan Bhog: 7:30 pm to 8:00 pm

Other Popular Temples in Vrindavan

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  Prem Mandir: Standing as a symbol of eternal love shared by Radha-Krishna & Sita-Rama, the white-marbled temple is a true sight to behold. The temple walls and pillars are covered with the highlights from Lord Krishna’s life. Temple Timings: Morning: 8:30 am to 12:00 pm | Evening: 4:30 pm to 8:30 pm

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  Sri Sri Krishna Balaram Mandir (ISKCON Vrindavan): Dedicated to the brothers, Lord Krishna and Lord Balaram, the temple was founded by Srila Prabhupada, a spiritual leader who has established more than 100 temples across 6 continents. Temple Timings: Summer: 4:10 am to 12:45 pm and 4:30 pm to 8:45 pm | Winter: 4:10 am to 12:45 pm and 4:00 pm to 8:15 pm

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  Shri Radhavallabh Lal Ji Temple: The Shri Radhavallabh Ji Maharaj idol is said to be the unified figure of Radha-Krishna, with the crown set next to the deity being worshipped as Radha Rani. Temple Timings: Morning: 9:00 am to 12:00 pm | Evening: 5:00 pm to 9:00 pm

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  Lotus Temple: Designed in the shape of a lotus flower, the temple is known for its unique cave-like structure with tasteful lighting effects adding to its beauty. Devotees often pay a visit to the temple on their way to Prem Mandir. Temple Timings: Morning: 6:00 am to 12:00 pm | Evening: 5:00 pm to 9:00 pm

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  Shri Radha Raman Temple: Often listed among the significant temples of Vrindavan, this 500-year-old heritage marvel is dedicated to Lord Krishna. The temple is especially of importance for those who follow Gaudiya Vaishnavism. Temple Timings: Mornings: 8:00 am to 12:30 pm | Evenings: 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm

Must-visit Attractions in Vrindavan

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  Nidhivan: A prominent sacred jungle, a.k.a. the Forest of Tulsi, where, according to the legends, Lord Krishna performs rasleela with Radha & the gopis every night.

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  Katyayani Peeth: Tagged among the oldest temples & famous for its marbled structure, pilgrims flock to this Shaktipeeth during Navratri.

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  Keshi Ghat: One of the city’s most beautiful spots showcasing Rajasthani architecture, often visited by devotees to start their day with a dip in the Yamuna River.

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  Seva Kunj: A white-domed temple, believed to be the place where Lord Krishna helped Radha Rani prepare for rasleela.

Best Areas to Stay in Vrindavan

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  Prem Mandir: The guest houses, homestays, apartments, and budget hotels are perfect for those looking to stay away from the bustling core of the city.

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  Bankey Bihari Temple: The streets around the temple are buzzing with devotees and have its grounds lined with ashrams, homestays, guest houses, and hotels.

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  ISKCON Temple, Vrindavan: With diverse accommodations, like premium hotels, ashrams, and guest houses and a plethora of eateries in proximity, this area is a popular pick.

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  Raman Reiti: This sandy land is ideal for a peaceful getaway, and is surrounded by homestays, ashrams, budget hotels, and guest houses.

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  Mathura - Vrindavan Marg: Set on the outskirts of the city, the street boasts hotels, guest houses, and homestays.

Good to Know Before You Travel

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  How to Reach: You can either take a flight to Agra Airport, which is around 72 km away from the city by road or take a train till Mathura Junction.

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  What to Buy: Statues of bal gopal (childhood idol of Lord Krishna) and his outfits, puja essentials, handicrafts, prayer beads with bags, and silver ornaments fill the markets of Vrindavan.

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  What to Eat: Sweet lassi, pedhas, kachori with sabzi, chaat, paranthas, and jalebis are a must in the list of every foodie. Being a holy city, Vrindavan only serves vegetarian delicacies.

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  Janmashtami: Cultural events like rasleelas, kirtans, and spiritual lectures kickstart the celebrations 10 days prior to Janmashtami. Beautifully decorated temples, midnight religious rituals, and dahi handi are the key highlights of the main festivities.

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  Phoolwali Holi: Floral aromas and fragrance of natural dyes take over Vrindavan on the day of Holi. Shri Banke Bihari Temple attracts huge crowds, where priests shower flowers and blessings on the devotees.