Nestled in the heart of Uttar Pradesh, India, Mathura and Vrindavan are renowned for their rich spiritual heritage and vibrant culture. During our trip to Delhi, we found ourselves with a spare day and, despite being short on time, were eager to experience the essence of these holy cities. We planned a one-day itinerary to get a glimpse into their enchanting world. From ancient temples and sacred ghats to lively bazaars and serene landscapes, here are the top 7 highlights you can’t miss when visiting Mathura Vrindavan in a day.
Top 7 Highlights of Mathura Vrindavan in a Day
Table of Contents
1. Shree Dwarikadhish Temple.
We arrived at Shree Dwarikadhish Temple around 9:40 a.m. Our cab driver dropped us off at a point where we needed to take an e-auto, which cost Rs. 100 per family. The e-auto brought us to the periphery of the temple, and from there, it was a 5-minute walk.
As we ascended the steps and entered the grand temple, the first sight that greeted us was a series of exquisitely carved pillars. These pillars divided the courtyard into three segments: the right lane for women, the far left for men, and the center lane, accessible only to those with VIP passes. In this central path, a large box awaited devotees to drop their offerings for the Lord.
Towards the front of the yard was the garbhagriha (sanctum sanctorum), housing our dear Khana. The curtains of Dwarkadhish were scheduled to open at 10:00 a.m. for Rajbhog. As the time approached, the crowd grew larger. The moment the curtains opened, everyone eagerly tried to catch a glimpse of Lord Krishna. Despite the crowd, the darshan was smooth and peaceful. Just one glance at Lord Krishna made us forget all our worries and brought immense happiness.
The temple walls and ceiling of the courtyard were adorned with paintings and artwork depicting various scenes, including the birth of Krishna and his mesmerizing Raas Dance. Alongside the main idol, other sculptures of Hindu deities graced the temple, and a small tulsi plant, beloved by the Lord, held a special place in the hearts of devotees.
2. Vishram Ghat
Vishram Ghat is just a five-minute walk from the Dwarkadhish Temple. Upon entering the ghat’s premises, we observed a number of temples, including some significant shrines such as Yamuna-Krishna and Murli Manohar.
Vishram Ghat is both a bathing and worship site. We saw many people taking dips in the water, while others offered diyas and oil lamps to the river. According to legend, after killing his demon uncle Kansa, a weary Lord Krishna rested at this spot. The name Vishram Ghat comes from the words ‘Vishram,’ meaning ‘rest,’ and ‘Ghat,’ meaning ‘place.’
Every morning and evening, an aarti is held at the ghat. The Yamuna River is revered here, regarded as a living goddess by Hindus. The view of the ghat in the evening is spectacular, with a grand aarti featuring large diyas and oil lamps. Following the aarti, devotees from around the world float oil lamps and diyas on paan leaves on the Yamuna’s waters. The reflection of these lamps on the river creates a mesmerizing scene, with the water sparkling with myriad iridescent lights.
3. Krishna Janmabhoomi
Our next stop was Shri Krishna Janmabhoomi. Just like with other temples, our cab driver dropped us off at the outskirts, about a 5 to 10-minute walk from the temple itself. Visitors are required to leave their mobiles, electronic items, and bags in lockers provided outside the temple.
Visiting Krishna Janma Bhoomi, I was captivated by the temple’s layout and history. The complex is divided into three primary sections: the Garbhagriha, considered the actual birthplace; Keshavadeva; and the Bhagvata Bhavan. At the entrance to the sanctum sanctorum stands a temple dedicated to Ashthabhuja Ma Yogmaya. Over time, the modest prison cell where King Vasudeva and his wife Devaki were once confined transformed into this magnificent temple.
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According to legend, they were imprisoned by Kansa, the king of Mathura, due to a prophecy predicting his demise at the hands of Devaki’s child 8th son. This sacred site, where Lord Krishna is believed to have been born, now shares a boundary wall with a mosque, necessitating a security check for all visitors.
Additionally, there is a small museum at the Janmabhoomi depicting scenes from Krishna’s life, with an entry fee of just Rs. 10 per person. The area also boasts numerous shops selling pooja items, tulsi malas, and other religious artifacts.
As I walked through the temple, I felt a profound connection to its rich history and spiritual significance. The blend of historical reverence and contemporary devotion was palpable, and the necessary security measures did not diminish the serene and sacred atmosphere. The experience was both humbling and inspiring, a reminder of the timeless legacy of devotion and faith that permeates this holy place.
4. Nidhivan
Our next destination was the enchanting Nidhivan forest. I was particularly excited to visit because of the legends associated with it. The name ‘Nidhivan’ translates to ‘treasure forest. It’s believed that Lord Krishna and Radha visit Nidhivan at night to perform the Raas Leela, while the tulsi plants transform into gopis to join them.
As the sun sets, everyone must leave Nidhivan. It’s believed that even the animals vacate the area as Radha and Krishna visit this place for their Raas Leela ( divine dance) at night. Stories abound of those who stayed behind in the forest at night experiencing blindness, deafness, or madness.
In the morning, the temple reopens to find the offerings disturbed and the bed wrinkled, suggesting divine activity during the night. Attending the Shayan Aarti and Mangala Aarti allows devotees to feel the presence of the divine, bringing a profound sense of peace and spiritual connection. ‘ Located in a residential area of Vrindavan, Nidhivanresembled a small forest surrounded by homes.
Nidhivan opens around 5:30 p.m., and like other temples in Vrindavan, it became quite crowded by opening time.
When we visited, the anticipation built as we waited outside for the gates to open. Despite the crowd, the moment I stepped inside, a serene and mystical aura enveloped me. Walking through the grove, I couldn’t help but feel a deep sense of reverence for the legends surrounding the place. The evening rituals, with the bed decorated meticulously, seemed to transport me to another time, making the stories of divine dances come alive in my imagination.
It was an experience that truly touched my soul, making me feel a part of the timeless devotion that Nidhivan embodies.
Within Nidhivan, there is a temple of Radha Rani known as ‘Radharani Shringaar Ghar,’ featuring a marble shrine with a bed adorned with flowers each evening by the priest. The complex also includes the memorial of Swami Hari Das and a well, said to have been created by Lord Krishna for Radha.
5. Banke Bihari Temple
Banke Bihari Temple is dedicated to Banke Bihari, who is revered as the combined form of Radha and Krishna. Originally worshipped at Nidhivan, Vrindavan, the idol of Banke Bihari was relocated to its current temple around 1864. The idol, believed to embody the divine couple Radha Krishna, was manifested by the musician and saint Swami Haridas, who is considered an incarnation of Lalita gopi, a close companion of Radha Krishna in their celestial abode Goloka. Swami Haridas was also the guru of the famous singer Tansen.
According to popular belief, Swami Haridas once sang a few verses in praise of Shyama Shyam (Radha Krishna) at Nidhivan at the request of his disciples. As he sang, the divine couple appeared before him. Upon Swami Haridas’s request, they merged into one, and the stone image of Banke Bihari manifested. This idol was named Kunj Bihari or Banke Bihari by Swami Haridas and later moved to the Banke Bihari Temple in Vrindavan.
The name “Banke Bihari” translates to “Bent in three places” (Bankey) and “Supreme enjoyer” (Bihari), reflecting Krishna’s typical posture of having three bent limbs while playing the flute.
When we visited the Banke Bihari Temple, we found it to be the most crowded spot in Vrindavan. The narrow lanes leading to the different entry gates were lined with stalls selling pooja items, and the sheer number of devotees made it feel like we were being carried by a wave. The atmosphere was a blend of spiritual fervor and bustling activity.
Entering the temple, we could only catch a fleeting glimpse of the idol before being moved along by the crowd. Yet, even that brief moment was profoundly fulfilling. The temple’s security personnel, in their efforts to manage the crowd, would spray water to encourage movement, adding to the unique experience. Despite the hustle, just one look at Banke Bihari was enough to feel a deep sense of spiritual connection and contentment.
6. ISKCON Temple or Krishna Balaram Mandir
The ISKCON Temple in Raman Reti, Vrindavan, also known as Krishna Balaram Mandir, serves as a spiritual haven in the lively city of Vrindavan. Located in the sacred birthplace of Lord Krishna, this temple offers a tranquil and uplifting experience for both devotees and visitors.
The Krishna Balaram Temple holds the distinction of being the first temple established by the International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON), with its foundation laid by ISKCON founder Swami Prabhupada in 1975. Over the years, the temple complex has expanded significantly to realize Swami Prabhupada’s vision of an international center in Vrindavan.
Perched on the banks of the Yamuna River, where Krishna and Balarama once tended their cows, the grand structure of the ISKCON Temple stands as a prominent sight for those entering the holy town of Vrindavan.
We visited the temple in the evening and were immediately drawn into the mesmerizing chants of “Hare Ram Hare Krishna.” The atmosphere was so divine and vibrant that we couldn’t help but dance to the rhythm. The Sri Krishna Balaram Temple is renowned for its beauty and charm, attracting countless visitors. The temple is large and beautifully adorned, with stunning deities of Lord Krishna and Lord Balarama that are sure to captivate your heart. The deities of Sri Krishna, Radharani, and Nitai Gauranga are equally enchanting.
A visit to Vrindavan is incomplete without stopping at this temple. Be sure to attend the aarti, as it offers a profound and divine experience.
What truly stood out was the temple’s nighttime beauty. With lighting all around, the temple looked absolutely stunning. The entire structure seemed to glow, making it a spectacular sight.
7. Prem Mandir
This was our final stop of the day, and it was definitely worth the wait. The temple opens from 5:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. and again from 4:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. I highly recommend visiting in the evening to witness the light show and musical fountain. What truly stood out was the temple’s nighttime beauty. With lighting all around, the temple looked absolutely stunning. The entire structure seemed to glow, making it a spectacular sight.
Located on the outskirts of Vrindavan, Prem Mandir is a marvel made of Italian white marble. Spanning over 54 acres, it stands 125 feet tall and 115 feet wide.
As soon as we arrived, we were struck by the intricately carved doors and windows. The floors and walls, adorned with beautiful floral motifs and semi-precious stones, created an atmosphere of sublime beauty. The elaborate engravings in the Sanctum Sanctorum and on the ceilings added to the temple’s grandeur, leaving us in awe.
Upon entering, we were greeted by the serene presence of Shri Radha Krishna on the ground floor. The first floor, dedicated to Janaknandini Shri Sita and Dashrath Nandan Shri Ram, added to the divine ambiance. The artistic splendor of Prem Mandir made our visit truly unforgettable.
There is no entry fee to the temple, but food items and bags are not allowed inside.
Our whirlwind tour of Mathura and Vrindavan in a day was nothing short of magical, offering a perfect blend of spirituality, history, and cultural vibrancy. We began our journey with the serene Shree Dwarikadhish Temple, where the divine presence of Lord Krishna brought us peace and joy. A short walk took us to Vishram Ghat, a sacred bathing and worship site where legends of Lord Krishna come to life.
The captivating ISKCON Temple, or Krishna Balaram Mandir, offered a divine ambiance and mesmerizing chants that lifted our spirits. The beauty of the Banke Bihari Temple left us awestruck with its intricate carvings and spiritual aura. Finally, our day concluded with the stunning Prem Mandir, which, with its exquisite marble architecture and breathtaking evening light show, was the highlight of our trip.
In nut shell
Each of these seven spots, from ancient temples to sacred ghats, contributed to an unforgettable spiritual getaway, leaving us with cherished memories and a deeper connection to the divine heritage of Mathura and Vrindavan. The blend of devotion, culture, and historical richness we experienced in these holy cities is unparalleled.
As we reflected on our journey, we felt a profound sense of gratitude for the opportunity to witness such divine beauty and spiritual depth in a single day. Mathura and Vrindavan have truly left an indelible mark on our hearts, reminding us of the timeless allure and sanctity of these sacred places. Whether you’re seeking peace, enlightenment, or a deeper understanding of India’s spiritual heritage, a day in Mathura and Vrindavan is an experience that will stay with you forever.
