A holy village in northern India, Vrindavan is known throughout the world as the childhood home of the Hindu deity Krishna. Pilgrims and followers converge on the small town to meditate and worship in the vast array of temples and bathe in holy waters.

Things to do

A central gathering place in Vrindavan, the Krishna Balaram Temple Complex houses the tomb of Swami Prabhupada, father of the Hare Krishna movement. Pass through the striking white marble gate to enter the courtyards and temples. Join in the singing, chanting, dancing and drum playing.

Each temple has its own rituals, features and peculiarities. Prem Mandir has an enormous white marble facade, while Banke Bihari Temple carries out a regular ritual of opening and closing curtains to shield visitors from the powerful eyes of the Krishna idol. Pagal Baba Temple is a favourite with kids for its fairy-tale castle decor and animated puppet shows.

Bathing in the sacred waters of the Yamuna River is believed to facilitate instant purification. You can reach the waters through a series of descending ghat stairs. One of the most impressive entrances is through the Keshi Ghat with its intricately carved palaces along the riverbanks.

Food in Vrindavan is mostly vegetarian, with spicy aromatic specialties such as poori, golgappa, kachori, jalebi and cardamom milk. Rows of street vendors dish out food throughout the day, but you can also enjoy a sit-down Indian meal at Sri Govinda Restaurant inside Krishna Balaram Temple Complex.

Getting around

Rental cars are available at Agra Airport, about 67 kilometres away. Ancient narrow lanes in Vrindavan make walking and cycle rickshaws the best way to get around.