Vrindavan during Parikarma #Vrindavan #iskon

Tripoto
22nd Feb 2020

We started from Noida by our own car. One can also opt for public transport to reach vrindavan from Delhi. However, if one is planing for full brij darshan in that case own car is the best option.

Most of the places and temples are located in narrow lanes which are not accessible by car, and they can only be covered either by foot or local autos. Besides, Car parking will also be a big headache.

As we went only for Vrindavan and it was Govardhan Parikrma time so we stayed in a hotel which was outside the main vrindavan. Due to Govardhan Parikrma most of the roads were closed for the private transport that's why we were able to visit only the Bankey Bihari temple, Prem mandir, Iskon Temple, Nidhivan, Kusum sarovar.

On our first day we reached the hotel around 12 in the noon and rested for a while. After getting fresh and eating our lunch we left for the Prem mandir and Iskon Temple. There was so much traffic as the roads were blocked to provide access to the people performing Govardhan Parikrma. Though our hotel was at a walk-able distance from the temples so we left our car at the side parking of the road and started walking towards the temples.

Photo of Iskcon Temple, Vrindavan, Raman Reiti, Vrindavan, Uttar Pradesh, India by Deepak Kadam

Grand Entrance of Iskcon Temple

Photo of Iskcon Temple, Vrindavan, Raman Reiti, Vrindavan, Uttar Pradesh, India by Deepak Kadam

While walking on the roads we also saw so many local shops and small eateries. So we decided to have a cup of masala chai. After that we went straight to the Iskon Temple. It was my first time here in Vrindavan. I was actually astounded by the beauty of Iskon Vrindavan. The Swans carved out of white marble for the stairs handrail, just amazing. After darshan we went straight to he Prem Mandir.

Day 1

The Colorful Prem Mandir

Photo of Prem Mandir, Vrindavan, Road, Raman Reti, Vrindavan, Uttar Pradesh, India by Deepak Kadam

The Prem mandir is dedicated to Lord Radha & Krishna and Sita & Ram. The idols of Radha & Krishna are placed on the first floor of this temple and Sita & Ram on the second floor. The whole temple is built using white marble. The ambiance itself is something to talk about. The Temple is lit using colorful lights at night. One can just sit and watch it for hours. Usually the temple closes at 8:30PM so one can plan accordingly.

Day 2

On our next day after doing the breakfast we hired an auto instead of taking our car. We went straight to the Bankey Bihari and we were warned by the locals about the monkeys. The temple was full of people. Literally there were people all around, the main courtyard of the temple was full of people. Everyone was waiting to see the main deity. But the doors were closed. As soon as the doors opened everyone started running towards the deity for darshan with their hands up in the air and calling the name "Radhey-Radhey". The scene was actually scary for me, but it was incredible too. After the darshan we went to the Nidhivan (Quite and peaceful place with lot of greens and monkeys). Everyone was walking in line to perform the darshan.

Nidhivan

Photo of Nidhivan, Vrindavan, Gopinath Bagh, Vrindavan, Uttar Pradesh, India by Deepak Kadam

After darshan we went for lunch, but we end up having the very famous lassi. Then we went to our hotel and picked our stuff and went for the Kusum sarovar. What a place it was. The breeze and water and that view. Kusum sarovar is a must if one is planning a trip to vrindavan.

Kusum Sarovar

Photo of Kusum Sarovar, Goverdhan Brahmnan, Uttar Pradesh by Deepak Kadam

Things I would like to add: Beware of touts. They will start talking with you in casual way and start describing about temple and its stories, But the climax will be heavy on your pocket. BELIEVE ME!

Also beware of monkeys and don't carry valuable things in hand. Don't wear Glasses, even your specs when going to Bankey Bihari temple. Keep your valuable safe from the monkeys.

As you are travelling a holy land so never disrespect the local population.