The Shri Bankey Bihari Temple is one of the most revered and significant Hindu temples in Vrindavan, Uttar Pradesh, India. The temple is dedicated to Lord Krishna, who is worshipped in Bankey Bihari, one of the most beloved and popular forms of Lord Krishna in India.
The temple was established by Swami Haridas, a great saint and musician of the 16th century, who was an ardent devotee of Lord Krishna. It is believed that he had a vision of Lord Krishna in the Bankey Bihari form, which inspired him to build this temple. The temple was constructed in 1864, and since then, it has been one of India's most visited and revered pilgrimage sites.
The temple's architecture blends Rajasthani and Mughal styles with intricately carved arches, pillars, and ceilings. The temple has a beautiful courtyard with a fountain in the centre, surrounded by lush green gardens. The main shrine of Lord Bankey Bihari is located in the temple's inner sanctum, which is adorned with exquisite decorations and beautiful paintings.
The idol of Lord Bankey Bihari is unique and distinct from other models of Lord Krishna, as it depicts him with crossed legs and arms. It is said that Swami Haridas himself originally worshipped the idol, which was later shifted to the temple.
The temple is renowned for its vibrant and lively atmosphere, especially during the festivals of Holi and Janmashtami, which are celebrated with great pomp and show. Devotees from all over the world throng the temple during these festivals to witness the grandeur and beauty of the celebrations.
Apart from the main shrine of Lord Bankey Bihari, the temple also houses other deities such as Radha-Krishna, Sita-Ram, Hanuman, and Garuda. The temple also has a Prasad Bhandar, which offers delicious sweets and snacks to the devotees.
The Shri Bankey Bihari Temple symbolizes India's rich cultural and religious heritage. It is a must-visit destination for anyone who wants to experience the divinity and spirituality of Lord Krishna in all his glory. The temple is a true testament to the devotion and faith of the people of India, and it continues to inspire and mesmerize millions of devotees every year.
Places To Visit Near Shri bankey Bihari Temple In Uttar Pradesh:
Prem Mandir:
Located just 2.5 kilometres from the Bankey Bihari Temple, Prem Mandir is a beautiful temple dedicated to Lord Krishna and Radha. The temple is known for its stunning architecture and intricate carvings, and it is a must-visit for anyone who wants to experience the beauty of Vrindavan.
The International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON) Temple is another popular destination for Krishna devotees. The temple is located around 5 kilometres from the Bankey Bihari Temple and is known for its beautiful architecture, mesmerizing kirtans, and delicious prasadam.
Radha Damodar Temple:
This temple is located in the heart of Vrindavan and is considered one of the region's most ancient temples. The temple is dedicated to Radha and Damodar, and it is known for its peaceful and serene atmosphere.
Banke Bihari Lal Mandir:
This temple is located in the nearby town of Mathura and is dedicated to Lord Krishna in the Banke Bihari form. The temple is known for its beautiful architecture and is a must-visit for anyone who wants to experience Mathura's spiritual and cultural richness.
Kusum Sarovar is a beautiful lake 5 kilometres from Vrindavan. The lake is surrounded by lush greenery and is known for its stunning sunsets. It is a popular destination for nature lovers and photographers.
Vrindavan and its surrounding areas have much to offer tourists and devotees. Whether you want to experience the beauty of the temples or the serenity of nature, there is something for everyone in this region.