Introduction to Vrindavan:
- Vrindavan is a city filled with echoes of “Radhe Radhe” throughout the year, be it Holi, Janmashtami, or any ordinary day.
- Devotees constantly honor Lord Krishna, also known as Kanhaiya, especially at the main intersection leading to the Banke Bihari Temple.
Journey to Vrindavan:
- To reach Vrindavan, you first arrive in Mathura, located 12 km away.
- Mathura is accessible by railway and bus, and from there, you can take an auto-rickshaw to Vrindavan.
Experiences at Banke Bihari Temple:
- The main intersection in Vrindavan leads to the famous Banke Bihari Temple.
- Caution is advised against monkeys that often snatch glasses and return them for fruit.
- Visiting the temple on weekends, especially Sundays, can be crowded. It’s better to visit early in the morning or on weekdays.
- There is a designated entrance and exit for the temple; it’s advisable to leave shoes at a Prasad shop or the temple stand.
Banke Bihari Temple Details:
- The temple, built around 1860 by Swami Haridas Ji, features a black statue of Banke Bihari, representing both Radha and Krishna.
- Offering Prasad like butter mishri is a must, and you can purchase it from nearby shops.
- Temple timings vary with the seasons and are posted for visitors’ convenience.
Other Temples in Vrindavan:
- Radha Ballabh Temple, similar in structure to Banke Bihari Temple, is another important site.
- Despite the afternoon closures of most temples, visitors can still explore and enjoy the local atmosphere and shops.
Contents
Accommodation in Vrindavan:
- Vrindavan offers a range of accommodations from budget Dharamshala (INR 200-300) to mid-range hotels (INR 2000 and above).
- A suggested hotel property in Rukmini Vihar offers comfortable stays with family-friendly facilities and proximity to major temples like Prem Mandir.
Travel Tips:
- Utilize rickshaws or e-rickshaws for short distances within the city, typically costing INR 10-50.
- For exploring further, like Nidhivan, Govind Dev Ji Temple, or local ghats, walking or taking a rickshaw is recommended.
Nidhivan:
- Nidhivan, a forest area with significant religious importance, remains open from 5 AM to 8 PM.
- Legend says Lord Krishna performed Maharas with 16108 Gopis here, and witnessing it at night is said to be fatal.
Prem Mandir:
- Prem Mandir, constructed by Jagatguru Shri Kripalu Ji Maharaj, is a beautiful marble temple best visited in the evening for its illuminated splendor.
- Entry is allowed without bags or cameras, which can be stored at nearby shops.
Unique Aspects of Vrindavan:
- The city is rich in dairy products like butter, lassi, and milk, which are must-tries.
- Renting scooters or bikes is an option for evening explorations.
Ranganath Temple:
- The Ranganath Temple, dedicated to Mata Lakshmi and Lord Vishnu, reflects South Indian architecture.
- Only Hindus are allowed entry, and specific rules regarding recent births or deaths must be observed.
Devotional Centers:
- Gauri Gopal Ashram, a popular devotional center, offers food and accommodation services and attracts many visitors.
Cost of Visiting Vrindavan:
- The overall cost for a day trip to Vrindavan, including temple visits and basic amenities, is quite reasonable.
- Hotel stays range from INR 1500 to 5000 per night, with additional expenses on food and transport.
