Prem Mandir, Vrindavan - Timings, Festivals, History, Darshan, Pooja Timings

About Prem Mandir

At a distance of 2.5 Km from Vrindavan Railway Station, Prem Mandir is a religious and spiritual complex situated on the outskirts of Vrindavan. Revered as the 'Temple of God's Love,' this magnificent site is dedicated to the divine pairs of Radha Krishna and Sita Ram. It is one of the latest temples in Vrindavan dedicated to Lord Sri Krishna and among the must-include places in the Vrindavan leisure tour packages. Enveloped with piousness and serenity, this newly constructed temple is the most beautiful in the entire Brij area and is crowded with devotees during the time of the Aarti.

History of Prem Mandir

Prem Mandir was founded by the spiritual leader Kripalu Maharaj. The foundation stone was laid in January 2001, and the temple was inaugurated for public access on 17th February 2012. The construction of the structure spanned approximately 12 years and involved around 1000 artisans. The total cost of the construction was approximately 150 crore rupees. It is overseen by Jagadguru Kripalu Parishat, an international non-profit organization dedicated to education, spirituality, and charitable activities.

Architecture of Prem Mandir

Situated on the outskirts of Vrindavan, Prem Mandir represents the revival of ancient Indian artistry and Nagara architecture, highlighting Rajasthani and Gujarati influences. Covering an expanse of 54 acres, Prem Mandir is a two-story edifice constructed entirely from Italian marble. The structure ascends to a height of 125 feet and extends 115 feet in width.

The ground level of the temple houses idols of Sri Radha Krishna, while the upper level is devoted to Sita Ram. The inner walls of the temple are embellished with exquisite images and paintings depicting the life of Guru Kripalu Maharaj. In total, there are 80 panels on the outer walls illustrating the Lila of Radha Krishna. Surrounding the temple is a picturesque garden featuring fountains. The expansive grounds are adorned with life-sized statues and paintings of Lord Krishna, Goddess Radha, and other legendary figures associated with Krishna.

Additionally, there is a musical fountain accompanied by a light show. Visitors are captivated by the intricate patterns created by the colored lights and water. These patterns are synchronized with the ragas and kirtans of Radha Krishna, which play in the background.

Festivals of Prem Mandir

The Prem Mandir serves as a significant hub for the observance of various Hindu festivals, especially those associated with Lord Krishna and Radha, such as Janmashtami, which commemorates the birth of Lord Krishna, and Radhashtami, celebrating the birth of Radha. These festivals are celebrated with great enthusiasm, with people attending for the cultural events, grand decorations, and spiritual fervor. Additionally, the temple observes Jagadguruttam Diwas Mahotsav with great enthusiasm.

Dress Code & Other Restrictions of Prem Mandir

Prem Mandir in Vrindavan doesn't enforce any strict dress code but visitors are expected to dress modestly out of respect for the temple's religious significance. Men are expected to wear long pants, or dhotis along with shirts or kurtas, whereas women should opt for sarees, salwar kameez, or other forms of Indian attire that adequately cover the shoulders and knees. It is advisable to refrain from wearing Western garments such as shorts, skirts, and sleeveless tops.

Generally, non-Hindus are allowed to visit Prem Mandir. However, there may be restrictions on accessing certain areas or participating in specific rituals.

Prem Mandir Timings

Monday: 8:30 AM - 12 PM & 4:30 PM - 8:30 PM & Musical Fountain: 7 PM in winter & 7:30 PM in summer
Tuesday: 8:30 AM - 12 PM & 4:30 PM - 8:30 PM & Musical Fountain: 7 PM in winter & 7:30 PM in summer
Wednesday: 8:30 AM - 12 PM & 4:30 PM - 8:30 PM & Musical Fountain: 7 PM in winter & 7:30 PM in summer
Thursday: 8:30 AM - 12 PM & 4:30 PM - 8:30 PM & Musical Fountain: 7 PM in winter & 7:30 PM in summer
Friday: 8:30 AM - 12 PM & 4:30 PM - 8:30 PM & Musical Fountain: 7 PM in winter & 7:30 PM in summer
Saturday: 8:30 AM - 12 PM & 4:30 PM - 8:30 PM & Musical Fountain: 7 PM in winter & 7:30 PM in summer
Sunday: 8:30 AM - 12 PM & 4:30 PM - 8:30 PM & Musical Fountain: 7 PM in winter & 7:30 PM in summer

Prem Mandir Entry Fee

Entry is Free

Best Time to Visit Prem Mandir

The best time to visit Prem Mandir in Vrindavan is from October to March. During this period, the climate is pleasant, making it comfortable for visitors to explore the temple and participate in the festivities. For individuals wishing to experience the temple at its most spiritually enriching, it is recommended to schedule your visit during the Janmashtami festival, which commemorates the birth of Lord Krishna and generally takes place in August/September. Another favorable occasion to visit the temple is Radhashtami. Nevertheless, it is important to note that the town experiences a surge of tourists during these festivals, so one should be ready for the bustling crowds. Vrindavan endures extremely hot summers and heavy monsoons, rendering those months less suitable for travel and exploration.

How to Reach Prem Mandir

Agra Airport is the closest airport, which is 70 Km away from Vrindavan. Vrindavan has a Railway Station but Mathura is the major railhead, which is about 13 Km away. Mathura Junction Railway Station is a major rail head with regular train services to Delhi, Mumbai, Ahmedabad, Hyderabad, Pondicherry, Vizag, Dehradun, Chandigarh, Trivandrum, Shirdi, Jammu Tawi, Chennai, Hubli, Goa, Patna, Lucknow, Bangalore and Chhattisgarh. Vrindavan is also well connected by road with Mathura, Agra, Jaipur, Lucknow, Delhi, Indore and Allahabad. One can reach Prem Mandir by hiring a cab, or an auto-rickshaw from all parts of Vrindavan.