Banke Bihari Temple - Vrindavan

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Banke Bihari Temple was built in1862, but its story goes much further back in time. The temple's roots are deeply tied to the devotion of the revered saint, Shree Swami Haridas Ji towards loard Krishna. It’s believed that through his pure and unwavering devotion at Nidhivan, he was blessed with a miraculous vision of Lord Krishna and Radha appeared before him in their divine forms.

Unlike many other temples, worship here is marked by a sense of intimacy there are no ringing bells or conch shells, just heartfelt devotion. The idol of Banke Bihari Ji, portrayed in the Tribhangi pose (a posture with three bends), is said to have appeared upon the request of Swami Haridas.

🙏 Travel Tips
✔️ Avoid weekends/holidays for a peaceful darshan
✔️ Dress modestly; respect temple customs
✔️ Remove footwear outside the temple
✔️ Hire a local guide for deeper spiritual insight

A visit to Banke Bihari Temple transcends mere rituals,it’s about immersing yourself in Krishna’s loving, playful energy. The winding alleys, the chants of “Radhe Radhe,” the fragrant blooms and incense, along with the enchanting darshan of Banke Bihari ji, craft an experience of divine bliss.

“Yeh Vrindavan hai… yahan har gali mein Krishna ka saath milta hai.”

Know Before You Go

🚆 By Train
• Nearest Station: Mathura Junction (~12 km)
• From Mathura: Use e-rickshaws, auto-rickshaws, or shared cabs

✈️ By Air
• Agra Airport (~70 km)
• Indira Gandhi International Airport, Delhi (~160 km)

🚗 By Road (from Delhi)
• Route: Delhi → Yamuna Expressway → Vrindavan Exit (Chhata)
• Total Distance: ~160 km
• Duration: 3–4 hours
🅿️ Parking Tip: Use government parking at Prem Mandir or ISKCON. The temple streets are narrow, so walking is recommended.

🚌 By Bus
• Frequent buses to Mathura from major UP cities and Delhi.
• From Mathura: Take shared autos or local buses to Vrindavan (20–30 min)

Nidhivan Sarovar Portico – Luxurious stay with modern amenities
💰 ₹3,500–₹5,000/night

Resort Hare Krishna Orchid – Family-friendly, near Prem Mandir
💰 ₹2,500–₹4,000/night

MVT Guesthouse – Peaceful guesthouse near ISKCON; ideal for spiritual visitors
💰 ₹1,500–₹3,000/night

Delhi Shree Dham (Ashram) – Clean and economical, near Prem Mandir & ISKCON
💰 ₹800–₹1,500/night

🧴 You can also pick up aggarbatti, dhoop, and perfumes from Mattang Perfume Shop, opposite ISKCON Temple.

🕒 Temple Timings

⛅ Summer (April to October)
• Morning: 7:30 AM – 12:00 PM
• Evening: 5:30 PM – 9:30 PM

❄️ Winter (November to March)
• Morning: 8:45 AM – 1:00 PM
• Evening: 4:30 PM – 8:30 PM

⚠️ Note: The temple remains closed for Bhog Aarti:
• Summer: 12:00 PM – 5:30 PM
• Winter: 1:00 PM – 4:30 PM

Special occasions like Holi, Janmashtami, and Jhulan Yatra may alter timings. Expect large crowds during festivals.

🗓️ Best Time to Visit
• Ideal Months: October to March
• Major Festivities: Janmashtami, Holi, Radhashtami

Bharti (Vidyapeeth Chauraha) – Aloo Poori & Lassi are must-tries

Govinda’s Restaurant (ISKCON) – Clean sattvic dining

MVT Café – Indian & continental vegetarian meals in a peaceful vibe

Murliwala Restaurant (near ISKCON) – Hygienic, tasty veg food

🧳Tip: Don’t forget to try the Vrindavan Peda Prasad from Brijwasi Shop!

Street Vendors – Don’t miss:Peda,Rabri,Kachori-sabzi,Malpua

Krishna Janmashtami
This is celebrated on the occasion of Krishna's Birthday, the temple is full of life with people celebrating it with devotion, music, and decorations as the New year according to the Hindu calendar begins at 2:00 AM and ends by dawn.

Holi
The festival of colors at the temple is truly unique. The devotees themselves become part of the celebration dressed in vibrant colors and play holi with colors,flowers and water.

Radhashtami
It is a festival that pays tribute to the birth of Radha Rani, the temple we worship. The temple is very well decorated, and the Raas Leela plays are amazing not only for the locals but also for the people all over the country.

Hariyali Teej
This day is celebrated in a truly special way at the temple. Lord Banke Bihari is seated on beautifully crafted swings made of gold and silver, adorned in green garments.

📍 Prem Mandir – Stunningly lit Krishna-Radha temple; visit in the evening
📍 ISKCON Temple – Peaceful, known for kirtans & talks
📍 Nidhivan – Believed to host the nightly Raas Leela
📍 Radha Vallabh Temple – Devotional hub of the Radha Vallabh Sampradaya
📍 Radha Raman Temple – Home to the original Shaligram deity
📍 Seva Kunj – Mystical garden where Krishna served Radha

Yes, VIP Darshan is available, but arrangements needed to be done with the right person.

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