Bankey Bihari Temple
The Bankey Bihari Temple in Vrindavan is among the most sacred temples devoted to Lord Krishna. Famous for its captivating deity of Bankey Bihari (the “Supreme Enjoyer”), the temple welcomes millions of devotees in search of divine blessings and experiencing Krishna‘s immortal leelas (divine pastimes).
History of Bankey Bihari Temple
The temple was founded by Swami Haridas, a great musician and saint of the 16th century, As per legends, Lord Krishna appeared in his dream and asked him to bring His idol from Nidhivan, a holy forest in Vrindavan.
- The idol of Bankey Bihari is special as it is self-manifested (Swayambhu).
- Unlike other temples of Krishna, the idol is positioned in a tribhanga (triple-bent) posture, holding a flute and emanating divine charm.
- The temple has a unique tradition where the curtain in front of the deity is pulled back every few minutes so that the devotees may experience Krishna’s mischievous nature.
Location & Distance from Bangalore
- Bankey Bihari Temple is situated in Vrindavan, Mathura District, Uttar Pradesh, India.
- Distance from Bangalore to Vrindavan: About 1,900 km (by road).
- Nearest Airport: Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL), Delhi (~180 km from Vrindavan).
- Nearest Railway Station: Mathura Junction (MTJ) (~12 km from Vrindavan).
Travel to Bankey Bihari Temple from Bangalore?
1. By Flight (Quickest Method)
Bangalore (Kempegowda Airport – BLR) → Delhi (Indira Gandhi Airport – DEL) (2.5-hour flight).
From Delhi, take a cab/train to Vrindavan (3-4 hours).
2. By Train (Economical Method)
Bangalore (Yesvantpur Junction – YPR) → Mathura Junction (MTJ) (Trains such as Rajdhani Express, Karnataka Sampark Kranti).
From Mathura, take a local taxi/auto to Vrindavan (30 mins).
3. By Road (Scenic but Long Journey)
Bangalore → Hyderabad → Nagpur → Jhansi → Agra → Vrindavan (~30-35 hours drive).
Optionally, there are private buses (KSRTC/private operators) from Bangalore to Delhi/Mathura.
Near By Attraction
1. Nidhivan
- A sacred forest where Krishna holds Rasleela every evening.
- Nobody is permitted within after dusk.
2. Prem Mandir
- A beautiful white marble temple of Radha-Krishna & Sita-Ram.
- Richest light & sound show in the evening.
- Only 4 km from Bankey Bihari Temple.
3. ISKCON Temple (Sri Krishna-Balaram Mandir)
- Constructed by ISKCON founder A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada.
- Accommodates deities of Krishna-Balaram & Radha-Shyamasundar.
- Peaceful environment with kirtans (devotional songs).
4. Radha Raman Temple
One of the holiest temples in Vrindavan.
- Contains a self-manifested (Swayambhu) form of Krishna.
- Renowned for its lovely daily rituals.
5. Govind Dev Temple
- An ancient 16th-century temple constructed by Raja Man Singh.
- Had a 7-story building, now partially destroyed.
- Renowned for its architectural magnificence.
6. Seva Kunj
- A peaceful garden where Radha-Krishna slept.
- Features nightly bhajans (devotional songs).
- Near Nidhivan.
7. Pagal Baba Temple
- Distinct 11-story temple with deities on every level.
- Panoramic view of Vrindavan from the highest level.
8. Keshi Ghat
- Sacred bathing ghat on Yamuna River.
- Where Krishna slew the demon Keshi.
- Quiet spot for meditation.
9. Mathura (12 km)
- Birthplace of Lord Krishna.
- Explore Krishna Janmabhoomi Temple & Dwarkadhish Temple.
10. Barsana & Govardhan (25-30 km)
- Barsana: Radha’s village, also known for Lathmar Holi.
- Govardhan Hill: Where Krishna saved the villagers by holding up the hill.
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