Banke Bihari Temple, Vrindavan
Vrindavan, Uttar Pradesh
Banke Bihari Temple is the most visited temple in Vrindavan, in a crowded lane in the old town. The deity, Krishna as Banke Bihari ('bent in three places'), is shown with a curtain that is drawn back and closed during darshan, a custom unique to this temple. The temple is known for its colourful floral decorations (Phool Bangla) in the summer and for the intense devotion of its crowds.
What to see and do
- Have darshan of Banke Bihari, with the curtain drawn back and closed during darshan
- See the floral decorations (Phool Bangla), especially in the summer months
- Walk the lanes around the temple, full of flower, sweet and puja shops
- Visit in the evening, when the aarti draws a large crowd
Ideal for
- Devotees of Krishna
- Anyone who wants to see the busiest and most lively temple in Vrindavan
- Visitors who enjoy old-town lanes
Good to know
- Sources give darshan at about 7:45 am to 12 noon and 5:30 to 9:30 pm in summer, with different winter hours, so check locally
- Expect very large crowds and pushing, especially at weekends and festivals
- Monkeys snatch glasses, phones and snacks, so keep belongings secure
- Phones and bags may be restricted inside, so ask at the gate
- The lane is narrow, so go on foot from the parking area and avoid it at peak times if you have mobility issues
Spiritual significance
Banke Bihari is the beloved deity of Vrindavan, and the temple's curtain custom and floral festivals are what pilgrims remember. A visit here is the centre of most Vrindavan itineraries.
Why it matters
- The most visited temple of Vrindavan: the heart of the town's devotion
- The curtain darshan: a custom unique to this temple
- Phool Bangla: the famous floral decorations of the summer