Start your day by attending the early morning aarti ceremony by the Yamuna river. Experience the spiritual atmosphere and the beautiful view of the sunrise. This serene and peaceful environment is perfect for meditation and prayer. The aarti starts at 6:00 AM sharp, so it's important to be on time.
After the morning prayer, head to the famous MVT (Maha Vishnu Tatva) restaurant. This vegetarian eatery serves delicious breakfast items like chai, idli, dosa, and aloo paratha. This is an excellent place to get a feel for the local food and culture.
Next, visit the famous Banke Bihari Temple. This temple is devoted to Lord Krishna, and the architecture and artwork are breathtaking. Avoid weekends and public holidays, as the crowds can be overwhelming. Remember to dress modestly and remove your shoes before entering the temple.
The ISKCON temple complex is not only a place of worship but also a cultural center for the Vrindavan community. It is dedicated to the mission of educating people about the Vedic scriptures and the teachings of Lord Krishna. Explore the beautiful temple, visit the museum and the gift shop for souvenirs.
Govinda's is a famous vegetarian restaurant located inside the ISKCON temple complex. It serves an all-you-can-eat buffet that includes freshly made dishes like pakoras, paneer, and dal. Once you have finished your lunch, take some time to relax in the peaceful gardens of the temple.
The Radha Vallabh temple is another beautiful temple dedicated to Krishna. It is known for its unique swarna-arti (golden aarti) ceremony, which takes place every evening. The temple has a peaceful atmosphere, and the intricate carvings and murals on the walls are mesmerizing.
To end the day, you can visit the stunning Prem Mandir. It is a relatively new temple built by the Jagadguru Shri Kripalu Ji Maharaj, and its architecture is a blend of traditional and modern styles. The temple has beautiful lighting at night, and the illuminated water fountains and gardens create a magical atmosphere.
If you have more time, you can visit other temples and ashrams in Vrindaban like Radha Damodar Temple, Madan Mohan Temple, and Keshi Ghat. If you have less time, you can skip some of the temples and focus on exploring the ones that interest you the most. Don't forget to carry a hat, sunscreen, and comfortable shoes as you will be walking a lot. Avoid visiting during the peak summer months as it can be sweltering.