Shri Banke Bihari Temple is located at the Goda Vihar, Vrindavan, Uttar Pradesh. The gigantic temple, designed with perfect architecture, is dedicated to the great Hindu Lord Krishna. The statue of Lord Krishna is designed in the posture of “Tribhanga”.
Bankey itself means "bent in three places" and Bihari means "enjoyer". The temple was established by Swami Haridas who was also the Guru of famous singer Tansen. He originally worshipped this devotional image under the name of Kunj-Bihari.
Shri Banke Bihari Mandir History
Banke Bihari Temple was established by Swami Haridas in Dvapara Yuga. Once on the request of his disciples, Swami Haridas ji sang the following verse in Nidhivan in Vrindavan - "Mai ri sahaj jori pragat bhai ju rang ki gaur syam ghan damini jaisen. Pratham hun ahuti ab hun aagen hun rahihai na tarihai taisain.. Ang ang ki ujraii sugharaii chaturaii sunderta aisain.. Shri Haridas ke swami syama kunjbihari sam vais vaisain.."
On singing the verse, the Celestial couple Shyama-Shyam (Radha Krishna) appeared in front of him and his devotees. On the request of Shri Swami ji, the couple merged into one and the idol of Banke Bihari appeared there (the same idol is seen in the temple). The idol was established in Nidhivan.
Top Attractions in Shri Banke Bihari Mandir
1. The Beautiful Idol
The idol of Lord Krishna in the Shri Banke Bihari Mandir is granted to Swami Haridas by the heavenly couple Radha-Krishna themselves.
2. Mysterious Black Image
It is believed that before disappearing from the place, the Lord has left an enchanting black image. Also, in the temple, the idol of the lord is preserved behind a curtain and the devotees get only one chance to see the lord.
3. The Eye Contact
It is also said that if you get the eye-contact with the lord, you are the luckiest person and will be blessed by the lord himself.
Things to Do in Shri Banke Bihari Mandir
1. Jhulan Yatra
The famous Jhulan Yatra is celebrated in the temple in the month of Shravan (Hindu Month) or monsoon. The Jhulan festival is inspired by the swing play which was especially played by the lord Krishna with his love interest - the deity Radha. This is a huge festival with mesmerizing atmosphere in the city of Vrindavan.
Best Time to Visit Shri Banke Bihari Mandir
Though you can visit the temple anytime you want, but visiting during the Jhulan Yatra will be a great option to enjoy the festival to the fullest. Also, March is the best time when you get to see the ever-energetic festival Holi.
How to Reach Shri Banke Bihari Mandir?
Air
There is heliport in Vatsalya Gram named Pawan Hans Helipad.
Rail
If you are opting the Vrindavan Railway Station, this is even better. The distance between the station to Shri Banke Bihari Mandir is almost 1 kilometre.
Bus
The nearest bus stand is the Vrindavan Bus Stand. The best stand is near Gaura Nagar Colony.
You can plan your trip and create your own route to the city with Adotrip’s technically driven circuit planner. Click here
