ॐ
Prem Mandir, Vrindavan
Radha Krishna · White Marble · Vrindavan
॥ ॐ नमो भगवते वासुदेवाय ॥
Built entirely of white Italian marble, Prem Mandir is one of Vrindavan’s most photographed modern shrines. Raised by Jagadguru Kripalu Maharaj and inaugurated in 2012, it honours Radha-Krishna and Sita-Ram together, its walls carved with episodes from Krishna’s life. By day the marble gleams in the sun; after dark, a changing scheme of coloured lighting and a musical fountain turn the temple into an evening spectacle on the edge of the holy town.
A temple carved in white marble
The mandir is worked in pale imported marble, its outer surfaces covered with finely cut relief panels depicting Radha and Krishna’s leelas — the lifting of Govardhan, the raas dance, scenes from Vrindavan’s sacred geography. The result is a single, luminous structure that rewards slow walking around its full perimeter.
Within, two principal altars face the devotee: Radha-Krishna on one and Sita-Ram on the other, expressing the temple’s twin devotion. The grounds are landscaped with lawns and pathways that frame the building and give space for the large crowds it attracts.
Light, water and the evening show
Prem Mandir is best known for what happens after sunset. The marble facade is washed in slowly shifting colours, and a musical fountain choreographs jets of water to devotional music, drawing visitors who time their arrival for the early evening.
Around the main shrine, sculpted tableaux set in the gardens illustrate well-known Krishna episodes, lit for night viewing. Together the carvings, lighting and fountain make the visit as much a visual experience as a devotional one.
Devotion in the land of Krishna
The temple belongs to the wider sacred landscape of Vrindavan and Mathura, the country associated with Krishna’s childhood. Founded by the Jagadguru Kripalu Parishat, it places strong emphasis on bhakti and on the chanting of Radha’s name, captured in the greeting ‘Radhe Radhe’ heard throughout the town.
Daily darshan, kirtan and discourses continue inside while visitors explore the grounds, making the complex both a pilgrimage stop and a centre of devotional teaching.
How to reach Prem Mandir, Vrindavan
- By road: Prem Mandir is on the edge of Vrindavan, well connected by autos, e-rickshaws and taxis from Vrindavan and Mathura, with parking near the entrance.
- By train: Mathura Junction, about 12 km away, is the main railhead, with autos and taxis running to Vrindavan; Vrindavan has a smaller station too.
- By air: Agra and Delhi are the nearest airports; from either, taxis and buses reach Mathura and onward to Vrindavan.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who built Prem Mandir in Vrindavan?
It was built under Jagadguru Kripalu Maharaj and the Jagadguru Kripalu Parishat, and was inaugurated in 2012.
What is Prem Mandir made of?
The temple is constructed entirely of white Italian marble, carved with relief panels showing scenes from Krishna’s life.
Which deities are worshipped at Prem Mandir?
The temple honours Radha-Krishna and Sita-Ram, with two principal altars facing the devotee.
What is the best time to visit Prem Mandir?
Early evening is popular, when the marble is lit in changing colours and the musical fountain plays; daytime offers clear views of the carvings.
Is there an entry fee at Prem Mandir?
Entry to the temple is free for darshan; the evening lighting and fountain displays are open to all visitors.
How far is Prem Mandir from Mathura?
It is roughly 12 km from Mathura Junction, the main railhead, reached by autos and taxis to Vrindavan.
॥ राधे राधे ॥ • Bhaktiras.net Temple Guide
| Primary Deity | Radha-Krishna and Sita-Ram |
| Material | White Italian marble |
| Inaugurated | 2012 |
| Founder | Jagadguru Kripalu Maharaj |
| Location | Vrindavan, Mathura district |
| Highlight | Evening lighting and musical fountain |