Vrindavan Travel Guide
Plan your visit to Vrindavan with this comprehensive tour guide. Learn about the top things to do, where to stay, what to eat, and how to get around in this culturally-rich city in Uttar Pradesh, India.
- Introduction to Vrindavan
- List of Places to Visit in Vrindavan
- Hiking/Biking Routes of Vrindavan
- Best Things to Do in Vrindavan: Activities and Tours
- Week-Long Itinerary for Vrindavan
- Food and Drink Scene of Vrindavan
- Where to Stay in Vrindavan: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
- What to Buy in Vrindavan: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
- Local Culture and Customs of Vrindavan
- Best Time to Visit Vrindavan
- Do’s and Don’ts of Vrindavan
- Safety and Health
- Getting to Vrindavan: Transportation Options and Logistics
- How to Get Around in Vrindavan
- Where to Go Next from Vrindavan: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
- Conclusion
Introduction to Vrindavan
Located in the Doab region of Uttar Pradesh, Vrindavan is a small city known for its Hindu pilgrimage sites and rich cultural heritage. Known as the “city of temples,” Vrindavan is home to hundreds of temples dedicated to Lord Krishna and other deities. The city is also known for its vibrant Holi celebrations and spiritual practices, including chanting and meditation.
List of Places to Visit in Vrindavan
Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places
- Shri Radha-Govind Temple
- Radha Vallabh Temple
- Kusum Sarovar
- Banke Bihari Temple
- Govind Dev Temple
Natural Attractions of Vrindavan: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views
- Radha Kund
- Kusum Sarovar
- Nidhivan
- Seva Kunj
Hiking/Biking Routes of Vrindavan
- Govardhan Parikrama
- Mathura-Vrindavan Cycling Trail
Best Things to Do in Vrindavan: Activities and Tours
- Take part in the Holi celebrations
- Attend the evening aarti ceremony at the Banke Bihari Temple
- Go on a temple tour
- Attend a Janmashtami celebration
Week-Long Itinerary for Vrindavan
| Day | Activities | | — | — | | 1 | Arrive in Vrindavan, visit Shri Radha-Govind Temple and Radha Vallabh Temple | | 2 | Visit Kusum Sarovar and take a boat ride | | 3 | Go on a temple tour | | 4 | Attend the evening aarti ceremony at the Banke Bihari Temple | | 5 | Visit Govardhan Parikrama and Nidhivan | | 6 | Attend a Janmashtami celebration | | 7 | Depart Vrindavan |
Food and Drink Scene of Vrindavan
Must-Try Dishes
- Chana Masala
- Puri Sabzi
- Lassi
Local Beverages
- Masala Chai
- Thandai
- Sugarcane Juice
Where to Stay in Vrindavan: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
- Nidhivan Sarovar Portico
- Ananda Krishna Van Guest House
- Bhakti Dhama
- OYO Rooms
What to Buy in Vrindavan: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
- Radhe Shyam paintings
- Miniature idols of Lord Krishna and Radha
- Henna tattoos
Local Culture and Customs of Vrindavan
Vrindavan is known for its religious and spiritual practices, and visitors should be respectful of local customs and traditions. It is essential to dress modestly when visiting temples, covering one’s head and removing shoes before entering the temple. Visitors should also be mindful of their behavior during local celebrations and events.
Best Time to Visit Vrindavan
The best time to visit Vrindavan is during the winter months between October and March, when the weather is pleasant, and the city celebrates several festivals and events. The Holi festival, in particular, is a must-see event that takes place in March.
Do’s and Don’ts of Vrindavan
Do:
- Dress modestly when visiting temples
- Take part in local celebrations and events
- Respect local customs and practices
Don’t:
- Disrespect local customs and practices
- Wear shoes inside temples
- Expect non-vegetarian food in the city.
Safety and Health
Safety in Vrindavan
Vrindavan is generally safe for tourists, but visitors should take precautions to avoid pickpocketing and petty crime. It is also essential to be mindful of traffic when walking around the city.
Health in Vrindavan
Visitors should be cautious when eating street food and drinking tap water, as it may cause stomach upset. It is advisable to carry bottled water and practice good hygiene.
Getting to Vrindavan: Transportation Options and Logistics
Vrindavan is well-connected by road and rail, with several bus and train services running from nearby cities like Mathura and Agra. The nearest airport is the Indira Gandhi International Airport in Delhi, located about 150 kilometers away from Vrindavan.
Airports Near Vrindavan
- Indira Gandhi International Airport, Delhi (150 km)
Bus Stations Near Vrindavan
- Mathura Bus Stand (13 km)
Other Options
- Train: The nearest railway station is Mathura Junction (14 km).
How to Get Around in Vrindavan
Auto-rickshaws and cycle-rickshaws are the most common mode of transport in Vrindavan. Visitors can also rent bicycles to explore the city at their own pace.
Where to Go Next from Vrindavan: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
- Agra (63 km)
- Mathura (13 km)
- Delhi (150 km)
Conclusion
Vrindavan is a city steeped in history and culture, and a must-visit destination for anyone interested in Hindu religion and spirituality. From historic temples and natural landscapes to delicious food and quaint guesthouses, Vrindavan has plenty to offer visitors looking for a glimpse of traditional India. Plan your visit to Vrindavan today, and experience the magic of this enchanting city for yourself!