Vrindavan - Fact File
Location : Uttar Pradesh, India.
Area : 2.25 sq. kms
Main Languages : Hindi, Brijbhasa and English.
Major Attractions : Madan Mohan Temple, Govinda Devji Temple, Shri Ranganathji Temple, Shahji Temple, Banke Bihari Temple, Radha Vallabha Temple, Jaipur Temple.
Climate : Extreme climate, Summer temp : 44°C and 30°C, Winter temp : 25°C and the minimum is 5°C.
Ideal Time to Visit : October to March.



Vrindavan - The City of Temples
Vrindavan is situated 10 kms north of Mathura, on the bank of river Yamuna. Often referred to as the 'City of Temples', this small town is known all over the world for its temples - both old and modern, big and small. This most revered destination of the Hindus houses around 5,000 temples, which attract lakhs of pilgrims as well as tourists round the year. Apart from its temples, Vrindavan is famous for festivals like Janmashtami, Holi and Radhashtami. Vrindavan is associated with childhood exploits of Lord Krishna and there are a number of spots in the town that reverberate with the enchantment of Krishna. It is said that the name 'Vrindavan' was derived from 'Vrinda' another name for the Tulsi (Basil) plant, while some believe that it was named after 'Vrinda Devi', one of the consorts of Lord Krishna.

Attractions of Vrindavan
Madan Mohan Temple : Established by Srila Sanatana Gosvami in 1580 A.D., Madan Mohan Temple is the oldest temple in Vrindavan. The 60 ft high temple is located near Kali Ghat on 50 ft high Dvadasaditya hill. Magdan Mohan Temple is closely associated with the saint Chaitanya.

Govinda Devji Temple
Govinda Devji Temple is a seven storeyed temple constructed by Man Singh, King of Amber in 1590. The red sand-stone temple building, rich in decoration is a superb example of medieval architecture. This cathedral type temple has an arched roof and a sculptured lotus flower which decorates the main hall ceiling.

Shri Ranganathji Temple
Built by Seth Govinda Das in 1851, this temple is dedicated to Shri Ranganathji or Lord Vishnu, asleep on his cough of the divine serpent Ananta. Shri Ranganthji Temple is constructed in the Dravidian style and has a 30 m high gopuram (tower) on its top and images of goddess Lakshmi and Lord Brahma. The temple is also inhabited by Lord Ram, Lakshman and Sita seated on a silver chair.

Shahji Temple
Shahji Temple was built in 1876 by a wealthy jeweller, Shah Kundan Lal of Lucknow. The temple has golden idol of Radharaman and is beautifully designed with Italian marble. Known for its sculptures and magnificent architecture, the temple assumes a festive look on the occasion of Jhulan and Ras when the chandeliers are lighted and fountains set off.

Banke Bihari Temple
The Banke Bihari temple is one of the most popular temples in India and was constructed in 1864. This temple is dedicated to Banke Bihari whose idol was discovered in Nidhivan by Haridas Swami, who was a musician of legendary fame.

Banke Bihari Temple has sacred image of Lord Krishna, kept behind the curtains to shroud the object of devotion. After the prayers the curtains are drawn apart to provide darshan (viewing) to devotees.

Radha Vallabha Temple
Built in 1626, Radha Vallabha Temple is one of the famous temples of Vrindavan. This temple was founded by Harivamsa Goswami. Radha Vallabha Temple has no any image of Radharani, but a crown has been placed next to Krishna to signify her presence.

Jaipur Temple
Jaipur Temple was built in the year 1917 by Maharaja of Jaipur, Sawai Madhav. The temple is dedicated to Sri Radha-Madhava, Ananda Bihari and Hansa Gopala. Jaipur Temple is famous for its delicate hand-carved sandstone work, huge pillars that hold up the roof and each pillar is carved from one solid rock.

Shri Shyam Ashram
Shri Shyam Ashram is located at Reman Reti, 3 kms from the centre of the town. It was founded by ISKCON and has a white marbled temple. Shri Radha-Krishna are the presiding deities of this temple. Various episodes from Krishna's like have been depicted here in fresco. The place also houses a marble cenotaph of Swami Prabhupad, the founder of ISKCON.

Sevakunja or Nikunjavan
The Sevakunja temple is dedicated to Radha and Krishna and their male and female companions. It is believed that Sevakunja is the place where Radha and Krishna once performed the Raaslila with Radharani and sometimes spent the night with the gopis.

Accommodation
Plenty of accommodations are available at Vrindavan. Tourists can also stay in Mathura or Agra as these town are dotted with several hotels, guest houses and tourist lodges.

How To Reach Vrindavan
By Air : Nearest Airport is Kheria airport in Agra (57 kms) which is connected to major cities of India.

By Rail : Vrindavan has its own railway station but it is small and not connected to major parts of India. Nearset major railhead is Mathura which is just 10 kms away from Vrindavan.

By Road : National Highways and other network of roads connect Vrindavan with important places in Uttar Pradesh and other nearby destinations. Buses, taxis and cars are available from Agra, Mathura to Vrindavan.