Prem Mandir, Vrindavan
Vrindavan, Uttar Pradesh
Prem Mandir is the large white marble temple on the edge of Vrindavan, dedicated to Radha Krishna and to Sita Ram. It was built by the spiritual teacher Kripalu Maharaj and opened to the public in 2012. The temple is known for its carved white marble, its gardens with scenes from Krishna's life, and the evening light and fountain show.
What to see and do
- See the white marble temple and its carved walls, best in the late afternoon light
- Walk through the gardens with sculpted scenes from Krishna's life, such as the Kaliya Daman tableau
- Have darshan of Radha Krishna and Sita Ram
- Stay for the evening light and music fountain show, which is the main reason to visit at dusk
Ideal for
- Families and children, who enjoy the sculptures and the evening show
- First-time visitors to Vrindavan
- Photographers, especially at dusk
Good to know
- One listing gives about 8:30 am to 12 noon and 4:30 to 8:30 pm, but check locally, as hours change
- A guide gives the fountain show at about 7 pm from October to March and about 7:30 pm from April to September
- Phones and bags may be restricted inside, so ask at the gate
- It is on the edge of town, about a short drive from the old temples
- Remove shoes at the entrance, and expect queues at weekends
Spiritual significance
Prem Mandir shows a new, large-scale kind of temple in Vrindavan, built in the 21st century in the old devotional spirit. Its carved marble and evening show make it a favourite with families.
Why it matters
- A white marble temple: a landmark of modern Vrindavan
- Scenes from Krishna's life: the garden tableaux tell the stories to children
- The evening show: lights, music and fountains after dusk