Vrindavan is a sacred city for Hindus. One of the oldest cities along the shores of Yamuna, it is shrouded in mystic charm and sanctitude. Lord Krishna spent his childhood years in Vrindavan, making it one of the holiest cities for Hindus. Today, you will find many temples in this city dedicated to Lord Krishna and Shri Radha, his divine love. Celebrating their lives, eternal love and divinity, Vrindavan truly is a one-of-a-kind place. Sightseeing in Vrindavan will take you on a journey unlike any other. If you are visiting for the first time, there are many sightseeing places in Vrindavan to explore. With so many beautiful and culturally significant temples in almost every corner, sightseeing in Vrindavan is not just another activity but an experience. Here are a few of the many sightseeing places in Vrindavan for you.
Here are some of the places to visit in Vrindavan you just cannot miss
1. Banke Bihari Mandir
One of the most beautiful temples dedicated to Lord Krishna, it is one of the top tourist attractions in Vrindavan. The temple is one of the seven temples of ‘Thakur of Vrindavan.’ The temple itself is an architectural gem, constructed in Rajasthani style of architecture, complete with intricate artwork and elaborate arched windows. This splendour has made it one of the most famous places in Vrindavan. Here, the Lord resides in his child form and stands in the Tribhanga position. Legend says the idol is the same idol Lord Krishna granted his ardent devotee, Swami Haridas. The idol is said to be a unified form of Lord Krishna and Shri Radha, as per the request of Swami Haridas to the Lord. The temple has no bells or conches because the sounds may disturb the child form of Banke Bihari, originally worshipped as Kunj Bihari by Swami Haridas.
Where: Vrindavan Road, Banke Bihari Colony, Goda Vihar, Vrindavan
When: 7:45 am – 11 am, 11:30 am – 12 pm 5:30 pm – 8:30 pm, 9 pm – 9:30 pm
Entry fee: Free entry
2. Shree Rang Nath Ji Temple
This temple is built in a classic Dravidian style of architecture and is a lovely blend of the different cultures of India. It is one of the most visited temples of the city and is considered one of the must-see places in Vrindavan. Almost two hundred years old, the vast temple complex consists of a lake, hallways, pillars, etc., adorned with intricate ancient décor. The temple is also one of the best places to visit in Vrindavan to observe typical South Indian rituals of worshipping Lord Krishna.
Where: Goda Vihar, Vrindavan
When: 8 am – 12 pm and 3 pm – 7:30 pm
Entry fee: Free entry
3. Keshi Ghat
Hands down one of the most beautiful banks along the Yamuna, the historic ghat is adorned by ancient palaces and temples. Built-in the 17th century in magnificent Rajasthan-style architecture, the ghat is one of the must-see places in Vrindavan. According to the epics, it is the same ghat where Lord Krishna killed the horse demon, Keshi, thus giving the ghat its eventual name. The religious significance of the place has made it one of the top tourist attractions in Vrindavan.
Where: Parikrama Marg, Seva Kunj, Gotam Nagar, Gotam Nagar, Vrindavan
When: Open 24/7, the best time to visit is between 6 am – 8 pm
Entry fee: Free entry, Rs 100 – Rs. 150 for a boat ride
4. Prem Mandir
Lord Krishna is synonymous with love. Known for his eternal love for Shri Radha, Prem Mandir in Vrindavan is dedicated to their divine love story. The temple is majestically built of marble and is a vision to behold. It is famous for its intricate carvings and the display of the life events of Lord Krishna and Radha, making it one of the best places to visit in Vrindavan. As the sun sets, the temple also holds a riveting light and sound show, depicting Lord Krishna and his epic tales.
Where: Chattikara Road, Vrindavan
When: 5:30 am – 12 pm and 4:30 pm – 8:30 pm
Entry fee: Free entry
5. ISKCON temple
One of the most famous places in Vrindavan, this temple is also known as the Sri Krishna Balram Mandir. It is considered one of the major ISKCON temples in the world. It houses beautiful idols of Lord Krishna and Balram, his elder brother. The temple, dedicated to the brothers, will enchant you with its environment, especially during the evening aarti.
Where: Bhaktivedanta Swami Marg, Raman Reti, Vrindavan
When: 4:30 am – 12:45 pm, 4:30 pm – 8:00 pm (Summer) and 4:30 am – 1:00 pm, 4:00 pm – 8:15 pm (Winter)
Entry fee: Free entry
6. Madan Mohan Temple
The oldest temple in Vrindavan, it offers some of the most exquisite views of the city and Yamuna. It houses idols of Lord Krishna, Shri Radha and Lalita Sakhi on its premises. The temple holds special religious significance as the legends say that Lord Krishna rested here after his victory over Kaliya Nag.
Where: Bankebihari Colony, Vrindavan
When: 6:00 am – 11:00 am, 5:00 pm – 9:30 pm (Summer) and 7:00 am – 12:00 pm, 4:00 pm – 8:00 pm (Winter)
Entry fee: Free entry
7. Sri Radhavallabh Temple
It is one of the famous temples of the holy city of Vrindavan. It is a highly revered temple and is so popular among devotees that getting blessings here is considered the most sacred luxury. A beautiful idol resides in the temple, making all the effort for a blessing worth it.
Where: Radha Vallabh Ghera, Gotam Nagar, Vrindavan
When: 5:00 am – 12:00 pm and 6:00 pm – 9:00 pm
Entry fee: Free entry