Banke Bihari Temple is one of the most famous and revered temples in Vrindavan, dedicated to Lord Krishna in his child-like form known as Banke Bihari Ji. The name Banke means "bent in three places," and Bihari means "the supreme enjoyer," symbolizing Lord Krishna's playful nature. The temple was established by Swami Haridas, the guru of the famous musician Tansen, in the 19th century.
Unlike other temples, the darshan (viewing of the deity) is unique here. The deity is hidden behind a curtain that opens and closes repeatedly, reflecting the belief that Krishna’s intense gaze can captivate devotees to the extent that they might lose consciousness in bliss.
| Season | Morning Timings | Evening Timings |
|---|---|---|
| Summer (Apr-Oct) | 7:45 AM to 12:00 PM | 5:30 PM to 9:30 PM |
| Winter (Nov-Mar) | 8:45 AM to 1:00 PM | 4:30 PM to 8:30 PM |
| Mangala Aarti (Special Days) | 4:30 AM (only on Janmashtami, Sharad Purnima, etc.) | - |
| Mode of Transport | Details |
|---|---|
| By Air | Nearest Airport: Indira Gandhi International Airport, Delhi (160 km). Taxis and buses are available to Vrindavan. |
| By Train | Nearest Station: Mathura Junction (12 km). Auto-rickshaws and taxis are easily available to Vrindavan. |
| By Road | Well-connected via NH-2 (Delhi-Agra Highway). Regular buses and taxis from Delhi (160 km), Agra (70 km), and Mathura (12 km). |
| Local Transport | Auto-rickshaws, e-rickshaws, and taxis are readily available for commuting within Vrindavan. |
| Activity | Description |
|---|---|
| Attend the Unique Darshan | Witness the curtain-drawn darshan, where the deity is revealed and concealed to protect devotees from Krishna’s powerful gaze. |
| Participate in Aarti on Special Days | Join the Mangala Aarti during Janmashtami, Sharad Purnima, and other festivals, as daily aarti is not customary. |
| Listen to Devotional Kirtans | Enjoy soulful kirtans and bhajans performed inside the temple, filling the atmosphere with devotion. |
| Explore the Temple Architecture | Admire the Rajasthani-style architecture with intricate carvings and beautiful arches. |
| Visit During Festivals | Experience the grand celebrations during Holi, Janmashtami, and Radhashtami, when the temple is decorated with flowers and lights. |
| Shop in the Nearby Markets | Explore the local markets around the temple for religious souvenirs, prasad, and traditional Vrindavan items. |
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