Things to Do in Vrindavan – A Complete Travel Guide

Vrindavan, Brindavan, and Mathura are all the names of this sacred birthplace of Lord Krishna. This town is famous among all ages of tourists for different reasons. Some people know it for Holi celebration & some want to visit it for the delicious delicacies. A lot of tourists visit during Janmashtami. It is the perfect place to disconnect, relax, unwind & reconnect with mind, body & soul.

Table of Contents

1. Things to do in Vrindavan
   • Famous Temples in Vrindavan
   • Places to visit in Vrindavan
   • Places to visit nearby
   • Places to eat
2. About Vrindavan
   • Banke Bihari Vrindavan Temple
3. How to Plan a trip to Vrindavan
   • How to reach
   • Best time to visit
4. Places to stay in Vrindavan

Things to do in Vrindavan

Here are the top things to do in Vrindavan catering to different types of travelers:

Spiritual Seekers:

1. Visit Banke Bihari Temple: Pay your respects at one of the most revered temples dedicated to Lord Krishna, known for its unique swing festival.
2. Explore Radha Raman Temple: Experience the divine aura of this temple, dedicated to Lord Krishna and associated with the saint Gopal Bhatta Goswami.
3. Take a Yamuna River Aarti: Witness the mesmerizing Yamuna Aarti in the evening, a spiritual ceremony by the river, offering a serene atmosphere.
4. Visit ISKCON Temple: Attend the lively evening aarti and immerse yourself in the spiritual ambience of the International Society for Krishna Consciousness temple.
5. Lotus Temple Vrindavan – The Lotus Temple in Vrindavan, also known as the “Kadamba Mandir,” is a captivating architectural marvel resembling a blooming lotus flower. This spiritual sanctuary, adorned with intricate carvings and a serene ambience, serves as a tranquil retreat for devotees and visitors seeking solace in the heart of Vrindavan.

History and Culture Enthusiasts:

1. Krishna Balaram Mandir: Explore the stunning marble architecture of this temple built by ISKCON, depicting the life of Lord Krishna through intricate carvings.
2. Vrindavan Chandrodaya Mandir: Visit the upcoming temple, set to be the world’s tallest religious skyscraper, showcasing Vedic culture and history.
3. Seva Kunj and Nidhuban: Explore the secluded garden where Radha and Krishna are believed to have performed their Ras Leela, a significant event in Hindu mythology.

Nature and Photography Enthusiasts:

1. Govardhan Hill: Trek or take a parikrama around Govardhan Hill, a sacred site believed to be a form of Lord Krishna, offering scenic views and peaceful surroundings.
2. Kusum Sarovar: Enjoy the serene atmosphere of this ancient reservoir surrounded by beautiful architecture, ideal for photography and relaxation.

Food Lovers:

1. Taste Local Sweets: Indulge in the famous sweets of Vrindavan, including pedas, khurchan, and rabri, available in local sweet shops.
2. Try Chappan Bhog: Visit the Chappan Bhog temple to savor a wide variety of delectable dishes offered to the deities, providing a unique culinary experience.

Shopaholics:

1. Visit the Local Bazaars: Explore the local markets for religious artifacts, handicrafts, traditional clothing, and souvenirs, offering a glimpse into the vibrant culture of Vrindavan.
2. Radha Rani Bangles: Shop for the famous Radha Rani bangles, intricately designed and widely popular among women in Vrindavan.

Other things to do in Vrindavan

Apart from the famous places in Vrindavan, you can also try other activities on your trip–

• Take a walk through the Nidhivan in Vrindavan. The dense grove of basil and other plants make this avenue a calming and tranquil zone surrounded by greenery. But you can only explore this place in the daytime.
• You can also stay in one of the ashrams or find a homestay in Vrindavan and discover how the town’s cultural and religious history remains an integral part of the local life.
• You can also visit the sister town of Mathura, Gokul, Agra, and other nearby places on your trip. With a Mathura tour package, you can explore all the visiting places in both Mathura and Vrindavan. You can easily cover most of the places to visit in Mathura and Vrindavan in one day.

Must try local experiences in Vrindavan

Exploring Vrindavan offers a myriad of local experiences that connect you deeply with its spiritual and cultural heritage. Here are some must-try local experiences in Vrindavan:

1. Attend Aarti at Banke Bihari Temple: Witness the mesmerizing evening aarti at Banke Bihari Temple, where devotional songs and chants fill the air, creating a spiritually uplifting atmosphere.
2. Participate in Kirtan at ISKCON Temple: Join the soul-stirring kirtan sessions at ISKCON Temple, where devotees sing and dance in devotion, immersing you in the divine energy of Vrindavan.
3. Radhe Radhe Chants: Engage in the local tradition of chanting “Radhe Radhe,” the divine mantra that echoes throughout the town, expressing devotion to Radha, Krishna’s beloved.
4. Seva at Temples: Contribute to the community by participating in seva (volunteer service) at local temples, helping in charitable activities or serving prasadam to devotees.
5. Visit Widow Ashrams: Pay a visit to widow ashrams in Vrindavan, where widowed women find solace and support. Engaging with these resilient women provides a glimpse into their strength and determination.
6. Participate in Vedic Workshops: Enroll in Vedic workshops offered by local scholars, where you can learn about ancient scriptures, meditation, and the philosophical teachings of Lord Krishna.
7. Take a Yamuna River Boat Ride: Experience a serene boat ride on the Yamuna River, especially during sunrise or sunset, for a tranquil moment amidst the spiritual ambiance.
8. Explore Temples Off the Beaten Path: Venture beyond the well-known temples to discover hidden gems like Radha Kant Mandir and Radha Damodar Mandir, offering a quieter and more intimate spiritual experience.
9. Visit Goswami Temples: Explore the temples associated with the six Goswamis of Vrindavan, such as Rupa Goswami’s Samadhi and Sanatan Goswami’s Kadamba Tree, to delve into the town’s historical significance.
10. Relish Local Cuisine: Indulge in local delicacies like pedas, khurchan, and chaats from authentic sweet shops and street vendors, immersing yourself in the flavors of Vrindavan.
11. Participate in Bhajan Sandhya: Attend bhajan sandhya (devotional singing sessions) organized by local ashrams, where you can join in singing devotional songs with fellow devotees.

Engaging in these local experiences allows you to connect deeply with Vrindavan’s spiritual essence and cultural vibrancy, creating lasting memories of your visit.

Famous Temples in Vrindavan

1. Prem Mandir

Temple History – The temple was founded by Jagadguru Shri Kripalu Ji Maharaj on January 14, 2001. It took 11 to 12 years to complete the construction and it was opened to the public on February 17, 2012, after a three-day inauguration ceremony.
Interesting Facts –The huge marble edifice boasts incredible architecture with intricate stonework and is adorned with manicured gardens, courtyards, and fountains. The main temple features statues of Krishna and his disciples, devotees, and admirers, and portrays important events and scenes from Krishna’s life.
Temple timings – 8:30 AM to Noon, 4:30 PM to 8:30 PM
Dress code – Ethnic formal
Best time to visit – Evenings

2. ISKCON Temple at Vrindavan

Temple History – This temple is acknowledged as the first temple constructed by the International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON). It was built in 1975, with the foundation of the shrine laid by Swami Prabhupada, the founder of ISKCON.
Interesting Facts – This is one of the most prominent sites of ISCKON in North India and is famous for hosting Janmashtami and Rathyatra celebrations. The temple is also known for implementing the best ethics of hygiene and great deity adoration in the whole of Vrindavan.
Temple timings – 4:30 AM -12:45 PM and 4:30 PM – 8 PM (summer), 4:30 AM- 1 PM and 4 PM-8:15 PM (winter)
Dress code – Ethnic formal
Best time to visit – Winter months.

3. Radha Damodar Temple

Temple History – The temple was established in 1542 by Jiva Goswami. In 1670 during Aurangzeb’s invasion, the deities moved to Jaipur and were brought back to Vrindavan in 1739.
Interesting Facts – The temple is said to house the Giriraj Shila which was given to Srila Sanatana Goswami by Sri Krishna.
Temple timings – 4 AM– 12:45 PM & 4:30 PM- 9 PM (summer), 4:30 AM – 12:45 PM & 4 PM- 8:45 PM (winter)
Dress code – Ethnic formal
Best time to visit – Anytime

4. Radha Raman Temple

Temple History – The temple was originally established in 1542 but was renovated later in 1826 by Shah Behari Lallji, the construction of which still stands today.
Interesting Facts – Although the temple is dedicated to and named after Radha, there is no deity of Radha in the temple. Only a crown is kept next to Krishna to signify her presence.
Temple timings – 8 AM – 12:30 PM and 6 PM – 8 PM, Mangalaarti- 4 AM in winter and 5:30 AM in summer
Dress code – Ethnic formal
Best time to visit – Anytime

5. Mirabai Temple

Temple History – It is said that Meerabai stayed at this very place while she was in Vrindavan from 1524 to 1539, after which she left for Dwarka. The temple was built by Thakur Ram Narain Bhatti in 1842 and is managed by the descendants of the same family.
Interesting Facts – The presiding deity of this temple, Krishna, is worshipped in the form of a ‘Shaligram Shila’, which is supposed to be the same one worshipped by Meerabai herself.
Temple timings – 7:30 AM – 12 PM & 5 PM – 8 PM
Dress code – Ethnic formal
Best time to visit – Anytime

Tourist Places to visit in Vrindavan

There are also a few places to visit except temples. For the regular tourist, here are some of the best places to visit in Vrindavan –

1. Keshi Ghat

Open Timings – 6 AM to 9 PM
Fee- Free

2. Vrinda Kunj

Open Timings – 5 AM to 8:30 PM
Fee- Free

3. Kusum Sarovar

Open Timings – Sunrise to sunset
Fee- Free

Places to visit nearby

Vrindavan is surrounded by several places of historical, religious, and natural significance. Here are some notable places to visit near Vrindavan:

1. Mathura: Just a few kilometers away from Vrindavan, Mathura is the birthplace of Lord Krishna. Visit the Shri Krishna Janmabhoomi Temple, Dwarkadhish Temple, and Mathura Museum to delve into the town’s rich heritage.
2. Govardhan Hill: Located around 22 km from Vrindavan, Govardhan Hill holds immense religious importance. Pilgrims circumambulate the hill, and it’s associated with various legends from Lord Krishna’s life.
3. Barsana: Approximately 50 km from Vrindavan, Barsana is the birthplace of Radha, Krishna’s divine consort. The town is known for its colorful Lathmar Holi celebrations and the Radha Rani Temple.
4. Nandgaon: Situated 28 km away, Nandgaon is believed to be the village of Lord Krishna’s foster father, Nanda Maharaj. The Nand Bhavan Temple is a major attraction here.
5. Gokul: About 20 km from Vrindavan, Gokul is associated with Lord Krishna’s early life. Visit the Gokulnath Temple and the Gokul Mahavan, believed to be the location where Krishna was secretly raised.
6. Radha Kund: Located around 27 km from Vrindavan, Radha Kund is a sacred pond associated with Radha’s devotion to Krishna. Pilgrims take a dip in the holy water and visit nearby temples.
7. Bateshwar: Situated approximately 70 km from Vrindavan, Bateshwar is known for its ancient temples dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temples, situated along the Yamuna River, create a serene ambiance.
8. Kusum Sarovar: Located near Govardhan Hill, Kusum Sarovar is a historical sandstone monument surrounded by lush gardens. It’s a picturesque spot ideal for serene walks and meditation.
9. Vrindavan Chandrodaya Mandir: This temple, under construction, is set to be one of the tallest religious buildings in the world. It will house interactive exhibits and displays related to Lord Krishna’s life.
10. Raval: Raval, also known as Rawal, is an ancient town around 50 km from Vrindavan, known for its historical and religious significance. It’s a lesser-explored gem, offering a peaceful atmosphere.
11. Agra – Home of the Taj Mahal and many other iconic historical structures of ancient India Agra is a major landmark in India’s history and has evolved as a major centre of art, architecture, and culture. Don’t miss the Fatehpur Sikri, Akbar’s Tomb, and Agra Fort. If you are planning to visit the Taj Mahal, here is your complete guide.
12. Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary – Also called Kaladeo National Park, this is the largest avifauna reserve in the country. It houses more than 230 species of resident and migratory birds and is best for birding tours, forest treks etc.

These nearby places offer a deeper exploration of the region’s spiritual and cultural heritage, making your visit to Vrindavan even more enriching.

Places to Eat in Vrindavan

In the spiritual heartland of Vrindavan, culinary delights weave a tapestry as diverse as the town’s cultural heritage. Indulge in the sweet symphony of traditional North Indian sweets such as pedas and laddoos, explore the vibrant street food scene with chaats and snacks like pani puri and aloo tikki, and savor the richness of North Indian cuisine through dishes like dal makhani and paneer tikka. Vrindavan also welcomes international flavors, offering a variety of global cuisines, including Chinese, Italian, and Continental delights. Embrace the sattvic essence of the town with wholesome thalis and refresh your senses with cooling beverages like lassi and sugarcane juice. Additionally, partake in the divine prasadam offered in temples, blending the spiritual and culinary experiences into one, making every meal in Vrindavan a flavorful pilgrimage through its rich culinary traditions.

Vrindavan offers a variety of dining options, ranging from traditional Indian cuisine to international flavors. Here are some places to eat in Vrindavan:

1. MVT Restaurant: A popular vegetarian restaurant in Vrindavan known for its North Indian, South Indian, and Chinese dishes. They offer a range of thalis and fresh fruit juices.
2. Govinda’s Restaurant: Located near ISKCON temple, Govinda’s offers pure vegetarian food with a focus on sattvic cuisine. They serve a variety of Indian and continental dishes.
3. Prem Mandir Bhojnalaya: Situated near Prem Mandir, this eatery offers delicious vegetarian meals at reasonable prices. Their menu includes Indian, Chinese, and fast food items.
4. Raman Reti Restaurant: This restaurant is well-known for its cozy ambiance and a menu featuring a mix of Indian, Italian, and Continental dishes. It’s a favorite spot for travelers and locals alike.
5. Brijwasi Mithaiwala: Famous for its sweets, Brijwasi Mithaiwala is a great place to indulge in traditional Indian desserts like gulab jamun, jalebi, and peda.
6. Yamuna View Restaurant: Offering a panoramic view of the Yamuna River, this restaurant serves vegetarian North Indian and South Indian dishes. It’s a peaceful place to enjoy a meal while admiring the river.
7. Madhusudan Sweets: Another popular sweet shop in Vrindavan, Madhusudan Sweets is known for its mouthwatering sweets, chaats, and snacks.
8. Pandit Deendayal Upadhyaya Restaurant: Located near the Banke Bihari Temple, this restaurant offers a variety of vegetarian dishes, including thalis, dosas, and snacks.
9. Indian Coffee House: If you’re a fan of coffee, visit the Indian Coffee House in Vrindavan. They serve freshly brewed coffee, tea, and light snacks in a retro-style ambiance.
10. Gopi Rasa: A rooftop restaurant with a serene ambiance, Gopi Rasa offers a range of vegetarian dishes, including Indian, Chinese, and Italian cuisines. It’s a great place for a relaxing meal with a view.
11. Sri Govinda’s Restaurant: Sri Govinda’s Restaurant is a popular dining spot in Vrindavan, known for its pure vegetarian and sattvic meals. It offers a variety of North Indian and South Indian dishes, thalis, and snacks. The restaurant maintains a serene ambiance, making it a favorite among both locals and tourists seeking delicious and spiritually inclined meals.
12. 11 Flowers Rooftop Café: Perched on a rooftop, 11 Flowers Rooftop Café provides a charming dining experience with a panoramic view of the town. It offers a menu comprising Indian, Chinese, and Continental cuisines. The café is praised for its cozy atmosphere, making it an ideal place to unwind and enjoy a meal after a day of sightseeing.
13. Food Art Fine Dining: Food Art Fine Dining is a restaurant in Vrindavan that stands out for its elegant ambiance and diverse menu. It specializes in Indian, Chinese, and Mughlai cuisines, presenting a fusion of flavors to its guests. The restaurant is known for its artistic presentation of dishes, adding a touch of creativity to the dining experience.
14. Bharti Vyanjan: Bharti Vyanjan offers authentic North Indian and Gujarati cuisine in Vrindavan. The restaurant is appreciated for its homely atmosphere and traditional dishes. It serves thalis and a la carte items, allowing visitors to relish the flavors of regional Indian cuisines.
15. Royal Bharti Foods: Royal Bharti Foods is a restaurant that combines a royal ambiance with delectable cuisine. It offers an array of North Indian and South Indian dishes, emphasizing fresh ingredients and rich flavors. The restaurant’s inviting setting and courteous service make it a pleasant choice for diners seeking a comfortable and satisfying meal.

More About Vrindavan

Sitting on the banks of the Yamuna River, Vrindavan is an ancient religious town in Uttar Pradesh and one of the oldest cities of this region. It is also the most sacred place of Vaishnavism and an important pilgrimage centre for both Hindus and Vaishnavism. The city sits 11 km from its sister town, Mathura, and roughly 200 km from the country capital of New Delhi. Vrindavan is located in the Braj Bhoomi region, which is said to be the place where Krishna spent most of his growing up years and hence considered a sacred place and an important pilgrimage destination for Hindus and Vaishnavas.

The name of the town is derived from the Sanskrit name of the region, Vṛndāvana, which comes from the dense groves of vṛndā or holy basil and vana as in woods/groves.

Banke Bihari Vrindavan Temple

Vrindavan tourism is centred on the Banke Bihari temple, otherwise known as the Vrindavan temple. This 19th-century temple is dedicated to Krishna and is the major highlight of the town, and the most popular site for both tourism as well as the most revered site for pilgrimage. The temple’s architecture reflects classic Rajasthani artwork featuring arched windows with intricately carved stone facades and interiors.
It is one of the temples in India which enshrines an idol portraying half Radha and half Krishna. The shrine of Krishna is portrayed in the Tribhanga pose.

The history of this temple dates back to the time of Swami Haridas, a renowned poet and classical musician of the Dvapara Yuga and guru of Tansen. It is believed that when Haridas was once singing a religious verse in Vrindavan for his disciples, Radha and Krishna appeared in front of him. He then asked the couple to merge into one. At his request, Krishna and Radha fused into the form of what we see as Banke Bihari. It is said that the temple houses the same idol that Haridas witnessed.

Interesting Facts on Banke Bihari Vrindavan Temple

This temple of the Radha Vallabha tradition was constructed in 1864 and is one of the seven temples of Thakur (Krishna) of Vrindavan, including those of Radhavallabh, Radha Govind, Radha Raman, Radha Madan Mohan, Radha Shyamasundar, and Radha Damodar.

The name Banke Bihari comes from the Devanagari words ‘Bānke’ means ‘bent’, and ‘Bihāri’ or ‘Vihāri’ means ‘one who enjoys‘. This is how Krishna, who is bent in three places, got the name “Bānke Bihāri”.

How to Plan a Trip to Vrindavan

How to Reach Vrindavan

By Train

The nearest railway terminus is at Mathura Railway Station, 16 km away. There are regular trains to Vrindavan from all major towns and cities in Uttar Pradesh and other parts of India. From Mathura, you have to book a cab or rent a private car to reach Vrindavan.

By Road

Vrindavan is well-connected to the rest of Uttar Pradesh and the national capital region via Taj Expressway/Yamuna Expressway, NH 19, and NH 44. There are regular state-run and private buses to Vrindavan from Delhi, Gurgaon, Agra, Mathura, Aligarh, Alwar, Faridabad, Gwalior etc. The best way to travel from either of these places to Vrindavan is to book a cab and do a road trip. A lot of people reach Mathura and book a car from here to explore Vrindavan and other nearby places.

By Flight

There is no airport in Vrindavan, so the town has no flight connectivity. The nearest airport is in Agra, at Kheria Airport, about 72 km southward. From Agra, you have to take the local buses, book a cab, or rent a car to reach Vrindavan by road. The nearest international airport is in New Delhi, 144 km away. There are regular flights available from all major cities and towns in India to both Delhi and Agra. From either of these airports, you have to book an airport taxi from Delhi to reach Vrindavan.

Best time to visit Vrindavan

Sitting in the northern plains, Vrindavan weather experiences extreme patterns. The summers are hot and sultry, and winters are cold and chilly but pleasant. So, the best time to visit is during the winter months, between October and March, when you can go sightseeing or engage in activities that require travelling. The rainy season is also a great time to visit since the landscape turns serene and green with pleasant weather all day. To enjoy a trip to Vrindavan and explore all its temples, download Savaari’s car rental app today and book the best chauffeur-driven vehicle for your trip at affordable prices.

Best hotels and resorts

From the best luxury resort to the cheapest Dharamshala, you can find all kinds of options to stay in the religious town. Find your best place to stay in Vrindavan –

• Nidhivan Sarovar Portico Vrindavan
• MVT Guest House & Restaurant
• Resort Krishna Vaibhav
• Vrindavan Cottages by Sheosante
• Kadamb Resort Spiritual Stay
• Anandam Clarks Inn Suites & Resorts

Experience the divinity of Vrindavan by booking a car rental to take you to all these places with a local driver. Install the Savaari cab booking app for offers and discounts on outstation rentals for Vrindavan.  

Roadtrips from Vrindavan

Last Updated on August 19, 2024 by V Subhadra

A quick summary

Article Name

Krishna's Sacred Playground - Things to do in Vrindavan

Description

Sitting on the banks of the Yamuna River, Vrindavan is an ancient religious town in Uttar Pradesh and one of the oldest cities of this region. It is also the most sacred place of Vaishnavism and an important pilgrimage centre for both Hindus and Vaishnavism.

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Shabari Shankar

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Savaari Car Rentals

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