Top 11 Best Things To Do In Vrindavan
Best Things To Do In Vrindavan : Vrindavan is more than just a picturesque town; itโs a place that has captured the hearts of countless visitors. Steeped in spirituality and brimming with tales of Lord Krishnaโs divine adventures, this sacred town stands apart from others. The experience of Vrindavan is enriched by the many temples scattered throughout the town, each one unique in design and structure, offering visitors a variety of spiritual sights to explore.
Vrindavan holds a significant place in Lord Krishnaโs childhood, where his divine bond with Radha blossomed, and the famous tales of his playful mischief with the Gopis originated. The town is a constant hub of pilgrims, drawing spiritual seekers year-round. For those visiting Vrindavan for the first time, there are several must-do experiences that will deepen your connection to the essence of Lord Krishnaโs sacred abode.
1. Vrindavan Parikrama: Circle Around The Town
Parikrama is a significant ritual in Hinduism, where devotees move in a clockwise direction around a sacred spot or object as a sign of deep respect and reverence for their deities. The Vrindavan Parikrama is a popular pilgrimage, attracting thousands of devotees each year. This 13-kilometer route, which takes about three hours to complete on foot, stretches across the Vrindavan Parikrama Marg, and can be seen bustling with pilgrims of all ages.
For an enhanced spiritual experience, itโs ideal to plan your visit around Ekadashi, a special day on the Hindu calendar. On this day, large groups of pilgrims gather, walking the path while chanting the sacred Maha Mantra. Along the way, youโll pass several revered spots, including Madana Ter, Kaliya Ghata, Madana Mohana Temple, Imli Tala, Sringara Vat, Keshi Ghat, and Seva Kunj Temple, each adding to the divine atmosphere of this sacred journey.
2. Holi Festival: Soak In A Thousand Shades Of Colors
Known as the โFestival of Colorsโ, Holi is celebrated with immense zeal in Vrindavan, making it one of the top experiences to enjoy in the city within just two days. Every year, thousands of devotees flock to Vrindavan and Mathura to celebrate the festival with Lord Krishna, right at his divine abode.
While vibrant colors dominate the festival, Vrindavan offers unique traditions that go beyond the typical celebration. In the Banke Bihari Temple, people shower each other with flowers and water to mark the occasion. In Barsana, a nearby village, the famous Lathmar Holi is celebrated, where women playfully strike men with sticks as they attempt to throw color at themโan act full of fun, not aggression. On this day, Bihariji (another name for Krishna) is dressed in pristine white, and devotees gather to celebrate Holi with gulal (colored powder) and water. Vrindavan offers one of the most unforgettable and joyous Holi celebrations in the country!
Read Also :ย Top 35 Best Places To Visit In Mahabaleshwar
3. Brahmotsavam Festival: Largest One In Vrindavan
One of the most remarkable experiences to enjoy in Vrindavan within two days, following the vibrant Holi celebrations, is the Brahmotsavam festival. Occurring approximately ten days after Holi, typically in February or March, Brahmotsavam is one of Vrindavanโs grandest festivals, attracting over a hundred thousand visitors.
The main highlight of the festival is the Rath Ka Mela, held on the festival’s key day. During this event, devotees and pilgrims gather to pull a massive wooden chariot, which is carried from Rangji Temple to the temple gardens and back. Daily rituals such as yagnas and havans are conducted, while idols of deities are placed on elaborately crafted chariots made of gold and silver, paraded through the city in grand processions. The atmosphere is filled with joy, reverence, and celebration, making Brahmotsavam a must-see experience in Vrindavan.
4. Banke Bihari: Visit The Most Important Attraction
When seeking recommendations for things to do in Vrindavan, the Banke Bihari Temple is often the top suggestion. This iconic and revered temple holds a prominent place in the city, ranking among the seven temples dedicated to the ‘Thakur of Vrindavan’. The Shri Banke Bihari Temple is truly a sight to behold.
Designed in the exquisite Rajasthani architectural style, the temple features elegant arched windows and intricate stonework, which captivates architecture enthusiasts. The air is filled with the soothing chants of Radha and Krishna, which can be heard from a distance. Inside the temple, an idol depicting the combined form of Radha and Krishna symbolizes their eternal love and devotion. While the temple can get quite crowded, particularly on weekends, the atmosphere remains peaceful, allowing visitors to experience a sense of tranquility amidst the centuries-old structure and its majestic turrets.
5. Delicacies: Relish The Most Delicious Pedas!
In addition to its temples and sacred rituals, Vrindavan is also renowned for its delicious street snacks and irresistible lassis. Whether you prefer a sweet (meethi) or savory (namkeen) lassi, or the rich malai wali version or a simple plain one, trying this local treat is a must. The best place to savor a lassi is in the bustling markets near the Banke Bihari Temple.
Another culinary delight to experience in Vrindavan and Mathura is the variety of sweets, especially the famous pedas. For a real indulgence, you canโt miss the crispy, syrup-soaked jalebis served with creamy rabriโguaranteed to send your taste buds into bliss. The array of traditional Indian sweets can be overwhelming, but they are so delicious that youโll find yourself craving more. Made with rich desi ghee, these mithais also make for the perfect souvenir to take home!
6. ISKCON Vrindavan: Lose Yourself In Melodious Rhythms Of Kirtan
A must-visit during your Vrindavan trip is the renowned ISKCON temple, also known as the Krishna Balaram Mandir. The purpose behind establishing this temple was to spread the teachings of the Vedas and the Bhagavad Gita.
Built in 1975, ISKCON Vrindavan is celebrated not only for the sense of peace it radiates but also for its stunning architecture. The temple is constructed entirely from white marble, featuring a grand archway that leads directly to the samadhi of Swami Prabhupada, the founder of ISKCON.
While the Bhagavad Gitaโs teachings have spread worldwide, this temple and its global branches have played a significant role in this movement. Visitors can immerse themselves in the calming chants of the prayers or even join the devotees in rhythmic kirtan dance. The atmosphere here is one of deep serenity and spiritual connection.
7. Nidhi Van: Witness The Spot For Rasleela
Vrindavan is renowned for its rich spiritual history, filled with sacred stories of Lord Krishna, Sri Radha, and the gopis. One such significant location during your Vrindavan city tour is Nidhivan, a revered shrine where it is believed that Krishna once rested with Radha. Each evening, the priests decorate a bed at the shrine, a symbolic gesture marking the divine presence.
Legend has it that every night, Lord Krishna visits Nidhivan with Radha, where they perform the legendary Ras Leela with the gopis. Because of this belief, no one is allowed inside the shrine after dusk. There is a chilling tale of a priest who was found dead after spending the night there, further fueling the temple’s mysterious aura. By day, however, Nidhivan transforms into a peaceful garden, evoking memories of Krishnaโs youthful exploits.
8. Prem Mandir: Attend The Evening Aarti
True to its name, Prem Mandir, also known as the Temple of Divine Love, is dedicated to love and devotion. Spanning 54 acres, it is one of the newer temples in the Vrindavan-Mathura region. The foundation stone was laid in 2001 by Shri Kripalu Maharaj, and the temple was completed in 2012. Located on the outskirts of Vrindavan, this magnificent structure is entirely crafted from Italian marble, featuring intricate carvings and a visually stunning design.
The templeโs architecture is a revival of ancient Indian art and Nagara architecture, with a blend of Rajasthani and Gujarati styles. Prem Mandir is dedicated to Shri Radha Krishna and Shri Sita Ram, attracting devotees from all over India who come to pray for blessings in their love lives. The evening aartis at the temple are a grand spectacle, drawing both locals and tourists who join together in devotion.
Read Also :ย Top 23 Best Places To Visit In Kanyakumari
9. Bhagavad Geeta Classes: Attend At ISKCON Temple
The ISKCON Temple also plays a significant role in the educational sector, offering a variety of courses focused on spiritual and religious subjects. Partnering with various institutes, teachers, and scholars, the temple provides educational programs in areas such as yoga, Bhakti philosophy, and the Bhagavad Gita. The courses are structured in levels, catering to different levels of difficulty, with options like an MBA in Conscious Leadership for those seeking advanced study. These courses are crafted by expert professors and scholars, ensuring a deep and authentic understanding of the teachings.
One of the highlights is the Bhagavad Gita course, which is designed to be self-paced. It covers all 18 chapters of the sacred text, with lessons organized around specific themes, presented in an accessible and practical manner. The course uses real-life examples to make Lord Krishnaโs teachings easy to grasp, even for beginners, while offering profound wisdom. The course includes online assessments to track progress, and upon completion, students receive a certificate along with lifetime personal mentorship. ISKCON Temple is undoubtedly a must-visit during your trip to Mathura and Vrindavan.
10. Radha Kund: Bathe in The Scared Holy Water Tanks
A must-do activity for tourists visiting Mathura and Vrindavan is taking a dip in the sacred Radha Kund. This revered pond is believed to be blessed by Lord Krishna himself, and devotees visit in hopes of experiencing the divine ‘Prem-Bhakti’ of Shri Radha and Krishna.
As per legend, after a battle with a demon, Shri Radha requested Krishna to bathe. In response, Krishna dug a hole in the earth, and from it sprang a small lake, which became known as Shyam Kund. Krishna then proudly spoke of its glory, prompting Radha to create her own kund. With the help of other women from the village, she dug a pond and filled it with water from pots. Today, the Radha Kund stands beside Shyam Kund, and it is believed that anyone who bathes in Radha Kund is blessed with the true love and devotion of Radha and Krishna.
11. Keshi Ghat: Maha Aarti Along The River
Keshi Ghat is a historically significant site in Vrindavan, deeply tied to the many tales of Lord Krishna’s Leelas. Located along the banks of the Yamuna River, it is a revered spot that attracts hundreds of thousands of devotees each year. Surrounded by the flowing Yamuna, lush greenery, and numerous temples lining the riverbank, Keshi Ghat offers a serene and beautiful experience at any time of the day.
The Ghat truly comes alive during the evening aartis, when the atmosphere becomes filled with devotion and worship. It is one of the key places of prayer in Vrindavan, drawing both tourists and pilgrims in large numbers. According to legend, when Lord Krishna was a child, his uncle King Kamsa sent many demons to kill him. One such demon, Keshi, took the form of a giant horse and attacked Krishna at this very Ghat, where the child Krishna defeated him. A visit to Keshi Ghat is a must on your 1-night, 2-day trip to Mathura and Vrindavan.
Best Things To Do In Vrindavan : Vrindavan offers a wealth of unique experiences, ensuring that anyone seeking peace and tranquility will have an unforgettable time. Revered as the hometown of Lord Krishna, the town is filled with temples, ashrams, and priests, each reflecting its spiritual essence. So, when planning your next trip to Uttar Pradesh and looking to explore the sacred side of India, be sure to include Vrindavan on your itinerary!