Prem Mandir Vrindavan (प्रेम मंदिर ): also known as the “temple of divine love” is a Hindu temple in Vrindavan, Mathura, Uttar Pradesh. It was established by Jagadguru Shri Kripalu Ji Maharaj (the fifth original Jagadguru) in 2001 and inaugurated in 2012 for the general public. Prem mandir is a religious and spiritual complex situated on a 55-acre site on the outskirts of Vrindavan. It is dedicated to lord Krishna and Sita Ram. The temple has two levels, Radha Krishna is on the first level and Sita Ram is on the second level. Figures of Shri Krishna and Rasik saints depicting the important events surrounding the Lord’s existence cover the walls of the main temple.
The foundation stone was laid by Jagadguru Shri Kripalu Ji Maharaj in the presence of a thousand devotees on 14 January 2001. The temple was opened to the public on 17 February. The temple took 12 years to construct, involving around 1000 artisans.
Made out of Italian white marble and adorned with exquisite carvings, this temple is also known for its architectural beauty. You will be amazed by the intricately carved doors and windows of the temple. Surrounded by beautiful fountains and gardens, the temple has a life-size depiction of four leelas of Shri Krishna – Jhulan Leela, Govardhan Leela, Raas Leela, and Kaliya Naag Leela.
Chandeliers beautifully light up the entire temple. The lighting of Prem Mandir changes color every five minutes and is indeed a site to behold.
Also read: Galta Ji temple, Jaipur
TIMINGS AND ENTRY:
Prem Mandir Vrindavan opens every day from 5:30 in the morning to 8:30 in the evening.
Entry – Free
Morning timings:
5:30 AM – Aarti and Parikrama
6:30 AM – Bhog and Bhog Door Closes
8:30 AM – Darshan and Aarti
11:30 AM – Bhog
12:00 PM – Shayan Aarti and doors close.
Evening timings:
4:30 PM – Aarti and Darshan
5:30 PM – Bhog
8:00 PM – Shayan Aarti
8:15 PM – Shayan Darshan
8:30 PM – Door Closes
Musical and digital fountain timings:
7:30 PM to 8:00 PM – Summer (1 April to 30 September)
7:00 PM to 7:30 PM – Winter (1 October to 31 March)
Location
Prem Mandir Vrindavan – Raman Reti, Vrindavan, District Mathura, Uttar Pradesh, 281121, India.
How to reach Prem Mandir Vrindavan:
How to reach Prem Mandir Vrindavan by Air –
The nearest airport to Prem Mandir Vrindavan is in Agra which is 80 km away from the temple or Indira Gandhi International Airport, Delhi which is around 164 km away from the temple. You can book a taxi from the airport to the temple.
How to reach Prem Mandir Vrindavan by train –
The nearest railway station to Prem Mandir Vrindavan is Mathura Junction which is around 12 km from the temple. You can book a taxi from the railway station to the temple.
Things to do in Prem Mandir Vrindavan:
Musical Fountain – One of the most attractive specialties at the temple is the musical fountain which is held from 7:30 pm to 8:00 pm during summer and 7:00 pm to 7:30 pm during winter.
Evening Lighting – The beauty of temples is glamorized by the splendid lighting in the evening. After sunset, the entire temple is lit up with vibrant colors, which is a magnificent sight for everyone, whether adults or children. The lighting of the temple changes every five minutes.
Majestic Architecture – The temple stands 125 feet tall with massive pieces of Italian white marble. The Prem Mandir’s 20-foot-deep granite foundation protect the temple from earthquake. The ceilings and sanctuary are engraved with excellent drawings. The walls and floor of the temple are embellished with brightly colored semi-precious stones that depict floral vines blooming with buds and flowers.
The pillars are engraved with beautiful statues depicting Manjari Sakhis and Kinkari Sakhis serving lord Krishna in various ways.
The 84-panel display is also set up on the exterior of the temple explaining the special leelas of Lord Krishna in chronological order as depicted in Shrimad Bhagavatam; this helps the devotees who visit understand the story.
Auspicious days
Many auspicious days or festivals are celebrated at Prem Mandir Vrindavan but the most important and major festivals that are celebrated at Prem Mandir Vrindavan are Janmashtami and Radhastami. These festivals are celebrated in a very grand manner. People from around the country travel distances and reach here to celebrate these festivals at Prem Mandir.
Best time to visit Prem Mandir Vrindavan:
Winter (November to March) is the best time to visit Prem Mandir. Other than this, Prem Mandir is also known for its Holy celebration during March.
Hotels Near Prem Mandir Vrindavan:
Various hotels near Prem Mandir Vrindavan, India, offer various accommodation options. Here are a few hotels located near Prem Mandir:
Best Western, Vrindavan
Best Western, Vrindavan is a contemporary hotel that perfectly captures the essence of this spiritual and sacred city. This hotel is just 2 km away from Prem Mandir temple.
Nidhivan Sarovar Portico
Nidhivan Sarovar Portico is a perfect luxurious base to discover Vrindavan, the spiritual land of Lord Krishna. The hotel blends a fine modern and comfortable hence rooms are equipped with all the modern amenities and herbal products. The hotel is just 1.4 km away from Prem Mandir.
Santosh Dham
Santosh Dham is close to all the main Temples of Vrindavan and represents a perfect place to stay for pilgrims or Tourists across the globe. Striking the perfect balance between world-class luxury and Vrindavan’s Ancient past, Santosh Dham provides a wide range of in-house facilities like Restaurants, transportation, internet, money Exchange, Sightseeing Private tours available on request, and many more.
Author: Tanishka Chandel
