The name
Vrindavan immediately evokes the charming frolics of lord Krishna and his lovable characteristics. This Hindu destination is one of the most sacred one and yet very different from rest of them. Embellished with about 4000 temples, Vrindavan is pristine and alluring, located just 15 km from
Mathura in the state of Uttar Pradesh. It is a major Hindu pilgrimage and every year people from different parts, irrespective of cast and creed rush to this place to visit the exquisite temples.
Most of the temples are dedicated to Krishna, most revered god by Hindus. According to Hindu mythology, Lord Krishna spent his childhood in Vrindavan and had a great deal of play and mischief. The temples architecture of Vrindavan is different from south Indian temples. The basic structure of Indian temples is consist of room where idol is being placed. A porch that is supported by carved pillars covers the entrance of temple. Most of the temple have a large hall or mandap from where one can reach the sanctum sanctorum. Vrindavan temple architecture falls into the category of north Indian temples have striking contrast to South Indian temples. The shikkara or the top of the temples resembles an upturned cone that is distinctive of its ornamentation. Some temples have their own design rather follow the plebeian style. Most of the temple constructed after 1000 AD and some of them are of very recent origin.
Most Visited Temples In Vrindavan
Madan Mohan Temple
It was built by Kapur Das of Multan (now in Pakistan). Situated in Kali ghat (steps near the Ganga river) , this is the oldest temple and most revered one. The during the Aurangazeb rein, original deity of Madan Mohan was transfered to Karauli in Rajasthan for safety. Today also a replica of the deity is worshipped at the temple.
Banke-Bihari Temple
It is the most vibrant temple in Vrindavan. The lord Krishna’s idol is of a blackened body and called by Thakur Ji. The main hall or the sanctum sanctorum is ornamented with floral carvings. The devotees armed with garlands move back and forth in front of deity and suddenly yells Thakur Ji!
Radha Vallabh Temple
One of the sacred section of Vrindavan is Radha Vallabh. The temple built by by this section and visited by Radha Rani devotees. Radha Rani deity is placed next to Lord Krishna’s idol.
Govind Deo Temple
Once a splendid seven storied architectural greatness in shape of Greek cross was ruptured by Mughal emperor Aurangazeb. Built by Man Singh , general of emperor Akbar at a stupendous cost of 1 crore rupees in 1590. Red sandstone that had been used in Red Fort also used to built to this temple. Surely a must see temple for any visitor.
ISKCON Temple
Impressive temple was built by the world recognized trust (International Society For Shri Krishna Consciousness, ISKCON). It is comparatively very new temple where the main attractions are deities of Shri Krishan, his brother Balram, and Shri Radha – Shyam Sundar.
Rangaji Temple
The temple is of mixed architectural style. Built in the year 1851 AD, the temple has flavor of Rajput, South Indian and Italian styled architecture. The main entrance of the temple is of Rajput style, the gopuram (gateway tower) is of typical south Indian way and the arcades were influenced by Italian architecture. One of the prime attraction is the 15 meter high pillar made up of gold.
Invaluable Suggestions
It is advisable to visit the place in between summer and winter as summers are scorch that is around 45 Celsius and winter is equally chilled. Although people prefer to visit the place during the winter season.
The groves of Vrindavan is notorious for monkeys and they have a special fancy on cameras and spectacles. Therefore, try to avoid to give a glare to them.
There is seldom any mass political disturbance and if any, thats purely localized and well known by advance. So, Vrindavan is a safe place.
Beware of crooks and touts. It is advisable to contact a good touring agent rather travel alone.
Dress decently. Vrindavan is a sacred place and in case of women dress conservatively and wear a scarf on your head while entering the temples.
Do not touch the deities. It would be considered as a blasphemy.
Do not loose your patience with temple priests.
Keep photocopies of your passports, traveler’s cheques and insurance.
Photography in the temple is banned.
By Air : Nearest airport is in Agra, which is 56 km away.
By Rail : Vrindavan has small railway station but the main railway station is in nearby Mathura.
By Road : Vrindavan is well connected with roads. You can always take buses from Delhi or Agra to reach Mathura - Vrindavan.
Your Stay in Agra: See Agra hotels
Excursion FromVrindavan: Jaipur,
Agra
