Banke Bihari Temple Vrindavan

India, a land with a rich tapestry of diverse holy shrines, sacred destinations, and numerous pilgrimage places, is a testament to spiritual exploration, inner peace, and enlightenment. It is no wonder that the country attracts a huge crowd of pilgrims each year. Among the many places graced by sacred shrines, Vrindavan and Mathura in the state of Uttar Pradesh hold a special place. Being the birthplace of Lord Krishna, these sacred towns are adorned with a myriad of temples. Immersing yourself in the tranquillity of their Hindu Temples can bring solace to your soul and provide a chance to seek blessings.

One of the most renowned temples in the holy town of Vrindavan is the Shri Banke Bihari Temple, devoted to Lord Krishna. The name "Banke" signifies bent, and "Bihari" means one who enjoys Vihari. At this temple, the primary deity is presented in the 'tribhanga' posture, gracefully tilted at three angles. This distinctive pose, where Lord Krishna is bent at three places, earns Him the beloved name "Banke." Interestingly, the same idol of Lord Krishna was originally worshipped at Nidhivan and known as "Kunj-Bihari," meaning 'the one who enjoys kunj or groves of Vrindavan.' This temple serves as a symbol of devotion and love for Sri Radhe-Krishna. The idol of Lord Krishna itself embodies the divine blessings bestowed upon His beloved devotee. Among several temples dedicated to Lord krishna and Radha, Banke Bihari Temple receives throng of tourists every day. On special occasions, festivals, Ekadashi, devotees can face a long queue. It takes approx. 1 to 2 hours to explore Banke Bihari Temple, but it can take between 3 to 4 hours during festivals.

Mysteries of Banke Bihari Temple

Banke Bihari Temple follows a unique tradition where the darshan of the main deity, Shri Banke Bihari Ji, is not continuous but is intermittently paused by drawing a curtain. This practice is rooted in the belief that if a devotee gazes too long into the eyes of the Lord, they may lose consciousness. The distinctive charm and beauty of Shri Banke Bihari are the reasons behind the intermittent darshans, ensuring a special experience for the devotees.

History of Banke Bihari Temple

Centuries Ago…

Swami Haridas ji, a true devotee of Lord Krishna and Radharani, was thought to embody the spirit of Lalita Sakhi, a close companion of Shri Radhe-Krishna. The story goes that due to the unwavering devotion of Swami Haridas ji, Lord Krishna and Shrimati Radharani revealed themselves in Nidhivan. But the extraordinary beauty of the divine couple proved too overwhelming for mortal beings, the disciples, who could not bear this sight. Seeing their struggle, Swami ji asked Shri Radhe-Krishna to take a combined form resembling a cloud and lightning.

In response to this plea, Shri Shyama-Shyam transformed into a single black idol of Banke Bihari ji, the very deity worshipped in the temple to this day. Swami Haridas ji handed over the duty of serving Bihari ji to Goswami Jagannath. Following tradition, the descendants of Goswami Jagannath ji continue the legacy, performing the seva (service) of Thakur ji, keeping the divine connection alive through the generations.

Construction

The glorious Shri Banke Bihari ji Temple took shape in 1862. In its early days, the deity graced a temple in Nidhivan until the completion of the new complex. It was then that the idol of Shri Banke Bihari ji found its new abode in the present temple. Drawing inspiration from the Rajasthani style, the architecture with its arches and pillars boasts grandeur.

Banke Bihari Temple Opening and Closing Timings

Banke Bihari Temple opens at 7:30 am for darshan and close at 12 noon in the morning time and opening time in evening is from 5:30 pm and Banke Bihari Temple closing time is 9:30 pm.

Parking Facility at Banke Bihari Temple

Founded in 2013, Shri Banke Bihari Car Parking near Sri Banke Bihari Ji stands out as a prominent player in the field of Pay & Park Services in Vrindavan. Located at VIP Road, Opposite Old Kali Jay, this establishment is easily accessible for first-time visitors.

Distance of Banke Bihari Temple from Railway Station

The Banke Bihari Temple in Vrindavan is located approximately 11 km from Mathura Railway Station, and you can cover this distance by road in about 24 minutes of driving time. Contact us to book Mathura tour by tempo traveller for a group tour in Mathura.