Banke Bihari Temple

History of Banke Bihari Temple

The Banke Bihari Temple is a Hindu temple located in Vrindavan, Uttar Pradesh, India. It is dedicated to Lord Krishna and was built in 1864 by Swami Haridas, a devotee of Lord Krishna. The temple is a part of the International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON) and is one of the most famous temples in Vrindavan. It is believed that Lord Krishna appeared here in the form of a beautiful “Swayam Bihari” (self-manifested) deity. The temple is a popular pilgrimage site and attracts thousands of devotees every year. It is also known for its annual festival, Janmashtami, which is celebrated with great enthusiasm and devotion.

• Visit the Banke Bihari Temple, famous for its beautiful architecture and religious significance.

The temple is one of the seven temples of Vrindavan, dedicated to Lord Krishna. It is believed that Lord Krishna appeared in this temple in the form of ‘Bihari Ji’, an endearing name for the Lord. The temple is a popular destination for devotees and tourists alike and is renowned for its grandeur. Inside the temple, a gold plated altar houses the deity of Lord Krishna, adorned with jewels, flowers and fine clothes. Devotees offer their prayers and offerings to the Lord with great devotion and reverence. The temple is also known for its spectacular ‘aarti’ ceremony held every evening, which is attended by thousands of devotees. The temple also holds numerous festivals and celebrations throughout the year, which attract thousands of devotees and tourists.

• Attend the daily aarti and feel the spiritual vibes of the temple.

Feel the devotion of the devotees who gather in the temple, to chant and pray for the blessings of the divine. Participate in the bhajans and kirtans and be inspired by the divine music. The energy and positivity you will feel in the temple will be unparalleled. Take some time to be in silence and reflect on life, and be surrounded by the peaceful atmosphere of the temple.

• Explore the many intricate carvings and sculptures of the temple.

Marvel at the vibrant colors and patterns created by the artisans of the period. Trace the history and evolution of the temple and its carvings through the ages. Take in the peaceful atmosphere created by the temple, and appreciate the beauty of this ancient structure.

• Take a boat ride around the holy Yamuna river for a unique experience.

Start your boat ride from the banks of the holy river and experience the serenity and beauty of the Yamuna. Enjoy the view of religious sites such as the Kalindi Kunj, the Bankey Bihari Temple and the ISKCON temple situated along the river. As you traverse the river, you’ll witness a stunning view of the Taj Mahal, a beautiful symbol of love and romance. You can also experience the vibrant culture of Mathura and Vrindavan, whose divine energy will fill you with joy and positivity. The boat ride will be a rejuvenating experience and a great way to explore the wonders of the holy Yamuna.

• Participate in the many religious activities and festivals held throughout the year.

These activities and festivals provide an excellent opportunity to learn more about the different beliefs and traditions of the local community. Experience the culture of the area by attending a traditional parade, eating local treats, and participating in religious ceremonies. Listen to stories and take part in discussions with people of different faiths and backgrounds. The experience will help to deepen your understanding of the area and its culture.

• Enjoy the delicious traditional food served in the temple’s canteen.

The menu is filled with a variety of dishes that will surely tantalize your taste buds. From savory curries to sweet desserts, there is something for everyone. The atmosphere is also incredibly calming, with the tranquil sounds of Buddhist chants filling the air. Whether you’re looking for a light snack or a full meal, the temple’s canteen is sure to satisfy your appetite.

• Shop for souvenirs and religious items from the temple’s market.

The market offers a variety of items such as incense, prayer beads, statues of deities, and other traditional items. You can also find traditional clothing, jewelry, and other items to take home as a reminder of your visit to the temple.

Q1. What is the history of Banke Bihari Temple?

The Banke Bihari Temple is located in Vrindavan, India and is one of the most revered temples in the area. It was built in the late 19th century by a local merchant and the main deity of the temple is Lord Krishna in his Bihari form. Every day the temple is visited by thousands of devotees who come to pay their respects and enjoy the divine presence of Lord Krishna. The temple is also home to many festivals and celebrations throughout the year, making it an important destination for Hindu pilgrims. The unique architecture of the temple and its vibrant colors make it one of the most beautiful temples in India.

Q2. What are the opening and closing hours of the temple?

The opening hours of the temple are from 8 am to 12 pm and the closing hours are from 6 pm to 8 pm.

Q3. Who is the priest at Banke Bihari Temple?

The priest at Banke Bihari Temple is Shri Ramanand Ji. He has been serving at the temple for more than 25 years and is an expert in the worship of Lord Krishna. He is highly respected by all devotees who visit the temple and many come to seek his blessings.

Q4. What are the festivals celebrated at Banke Bihari Temple?

The Banke Bihari Temple celebrates many festivals throughout the year. The main festivals celebrated are Janmashtami, Holi, Ram Navami, and Diwali. During Janmashtami, which is celebrated to commemorate the birth of Lord Krishna, devotees gather at the temple to sing bhajans (devotional songs) and offer prayers. Holi is celebrated to commemorate the divine love between Lord Krishna and Radha. On this day, devotees gather outside the temple to celebrate by playing with colors and singing devotional songs. Ram Navami is celebrated to commemorate the birth of Lord Rama and is observed by scattering flowers and offering prayers to the Lord. Finally, Diwali is celebrated to commemorate the return of Lord Rama from exile. On this day, the temple is lit up with diyas and candles, and devotees offer prayers to the Lord.

Q5. What is the dress code for visiting the temple?

Visitors to the temple are expected to dress modestly and respectfully. This means that clothing should not be too tight, revealing, or otherwise inappropriate. Shoes should be removed when entering the temple. Hats should also be removed and long hair should be tied back. Visitors should also avoid wearing any items that could be considered offensive to the temple, such as inappropriate slogans or images.

Q6. Are there any special pujas or rituals performed at the temple?

Yes, there are several special pujas and rituals performed at the temple. Some of these include the Maha Shivaratri and Maha Vishnu puja. Other rituals include the Ganapathi Homa, Satya Narayan Puja, and the Navagraha Puja. Pujas are also performed for a variety of occasions, such as birthdays, anniversaries, and other special occasions.

Q7. Is photography allowed inside the temple?

No, photography is not allowed inside the temple. It is considered disrespectful to take photos of the temple’s statues, shrines, and other sacred objects. Visitors should respect the sanctity of the temple and refrain from taking any photos.

Q8. Is there any special entry fee to visit the temple?

No, there is no special entry fee to visit the temple. However, visitors are encouraged to make a donation to help support the temple’s upkeep and maintenance.

Q9. Are there any special offerings one can make at the temple?

Yes, there are a variety of offerings that one can make at the temple. These offerings can range from flowers, incense, food, and even money. Depending on the occasion, one may also have the option to offer prayers or chants to the deity or deities being venerated. Additionally, one can also perform a ritual or ceremony that has special significance to the worshipper.

Q10. Are there any other nearby temples to visit?

Yes, there are several other temples in the area that are worth visiting. The most notable is the Temple of the Golden Buddha, located just a few miles away. This temple is home to a large statue of the Buddha made from solid gold, and it is a popular destination for worshippers and tourists alike. Other nearby temples include the Temple of the Silver Pagoda and the Temple of the Jade Buddha, both of which are located within walking distance.