Volunteering in Vrindavan: A 5-day Itinerary for October 2023

1. Day 1: Loi Bazaar
   10 minutes (2 km) from Vrindavan Bus Stand

   In the morning, head to Loi Bazaar to volunteer at the Food for Life program, which provides free meals to the underprivileged. In the afternoon, visit the Shri Bankey Bihari Temple, a famous Hindu shrine, and experience the aarti (worship with fire) ceremony. In the evening, explore the colorful market stalls and street food options in Loi Bazaar.

2. Day 2: Radha Raman Temple and Seva Kunj
   15 minutes (3 km) from Loi Bazaar

   Begin your day at the Radha Raman Temple, a 500-year-old temple dedicated to Lord Krishna, and participate in their morning prayers. Afterward, visit Seva Kunj, a beautiful garden where Lord Krishna and Radha are believed to have spent time together. In the evening, return to Radha Raman Temple for the evening aarti ceremony.

3. Day 3: Maan Mandir and Sandipani Muni School
   15 minutes (3.5 km) from Radha Raman Temple

   Start your day at Maan Mandir, a temple dedicated to the love story of Lord Krishna and Radha. Afterward, visit the Sandipani Muni School, where you can volunteer to teach underprivileged children. In the evening, visit the Kesi Ghat, a holy bathing spot on the banks of the Yamuna River.

4. Day 4: Prem Mandir and ISKCON Vrindavan
   20 minutes (4 km) from Sandipani Muni School

   Begin your day at Prem Mandir, a stunning temple made of Italian marble that depicts the eternal love story of Lord Krishna and Radha. Afterward, visit the ISKCON Vrindavan temple and participate in their morning prayers. In the afternoon, volunteer at the goshala (cow shelter) located on the temple grounds. In the evening, enjoy a Kirtan (devotional chanting) session at the temple.

5. Day 5: Banke Bihari Wildlife Sanctuary and Nidhivan
   25 minutes (5 km) from Prem Mandir

   Start your day by volunteering at the Banke Bihari Wildlife Sanctuary, which is home to several species of migratory birds. Afterward, visit Nidhivan, a sacred forest where Lord Krishna and Radha are believed to have danced together. In the evening, attend the Sandhya Aarti ceremony at the Banke Bihari Temple.

Recommendations

Aside from the listed attractions, you can consider visiting the Rangaji Temple or the Pagal Baba Temple. You can also take a day trip to Mathura, a historic city located just 15 km from Vrindavan. To maximize your experience, try attending a yoga or meditation session, or indulge in local cuisine at one of the many street food stalls.

Time and Cost Estimates

• Food for Life program (2 hours, free)
• Shri Bankey Bihari Temple (1 hour, free)
• Radha Raman Temple (1 hour, free)
• Seva Kunj (1 hour, free)
• Maan Mandir (1 hour, free)
• Sandipani Muni School (2 hours, free)
• Prem Mandir (1 hour, free)
• ISKCON Vrindavan temple (2 hours, free)
• Banke Bihari Wildlife Sanctuary (2 hours, free)
• Nidhivan (1 hour, free)
• Total Estimated Costs: $0

For hotel and flight prices, please check https://booking.tp.st/VhZsadPo.