You know those brightly colored temples with the drumming and chanting that make you want to get up and dance? Maybe you’ve seen them in big cities or tucked away in quiet corners of India. Those are ISKCON temples, centers of the Hare Krishna movement. If you’re looking to get your groove on and dive into the culture, then you need to know and visit the best ISKCON temples in India.
We scoured the country to find the top 10 with the most beautiful architecture, the biggest festivals, and the most happening scenes. Get ready to get your chant on and find your inner bliss. In this article, we’ll count down the can’t-miss ISKCON temples that you absolutely have to add to your itinerary for a uniquely spiritual Indian experience.
Table of Contents
Overview of ISKCON (International Society for Krishna Consciousness)
The International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON), also known as the Hare Krishna movement, is a branch of the Gaudiya Vaishnavism spiritual organization. It was founded in 1966 in New York City by A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada.
Beliefs and Practices
The core beliefs of ISKCON are based on the teachings of Bhagavad-gita and Srimad Bhagavatam. Devotees follow a vegetarian diet, abstain from gambling, violence, intoxication, and aim to achieve Krishna consciousness through bhakti yoga, and devotion to Krishna. ISKCON promotes chanting the Hare Krishna mantra, especially the Maha Mantra composed of 16 words – Hare Krishna, Hare Krishna, Krishna Krishna, Hare Hare / Hare Rama, Hare Rama, Rama Rama, Hare Hare as a means to achieve Krishna consciousness.
ISKCON Temples
ISKCON has over 500 temples and preaching centers worldwide. The altar in these temples features murtis (deities) of Radha and Krishna, surrounded by paintings or sculptures depicting Vaishnava saints, the spiritual masters in the line of disciplic succession of ISKCON. Visitors can participate in services like arati (offering of lights) and kirtan (chanting).
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The 10 best ISKCON temples in India offer a glimpse into the vibrant spiritual culture of the Hare Krishna movement. Here are the top five:
1. ISKCON Temple, Bangalore
The ISKCON temple in Bangalore is a serene oasis in the bustling city. The temple complex features beautifully landscaped gardens, a library, and a museum housing artifacts related to ISKCON and Chaitanya Mahaprabhu. Visitors come to pay their respects to the deities of Krishna and Radha, participate in worship services, and attend lectures and cultural programs. The cafeteria serves delicious vegetarian meals.
2. ISKCON Temple, Mayapur
The ISKCON temple in Mayapur, West Bengal is considered the ‘Mother of all ISKCON temples’. Mayapur is the birthplace of Chaitanya Mahaprabhu, the 16th-century saint who founded the Hare Krishna movement. The magnificent temple features ornate architecture, shrines for Chaitanya and his spiritual successors, and a library and research center. Devotees flock to Mayapur to participate in festivals and spiritual courses.
3. ISKCON Temple, Vrindavan
Vrindavan is considered one of the holiest places for Krishna devotees. The ISKCON temple here is a magnificent structure with towering domes and spires. Visitors come to pay their respects to the deities and soak up the spiritual atmosphere. The temple grounds are beautifully landscaped with gardens and ponds.
4. ISKCON Temple, New Delhi
The Delhi ISKCON temple in the East of Kailash is a popular place of worship and a cultural hub. The temple complex features beautiful gardens, a cultural center, a library, a shop, and a cafe. The main attraction is the ornate shrine hall housing the deities of Krishna and Radha. Devotees come for daily worship, chanting, and dancing.
5. ISKCON Temple, Mumbai
The ISKCON temple in Juhu, Mumbai is the largest and most famous Hare Krishna temple in India. The flamboyant architecture features towering spires, ornate carvings, and colorful statues. The temple is bustling with devotees and visitors who come for the daily worship services, spiritual lectures, and music performances. Don’t miss the huge vegetarian feast on Sundays.
The ISKCON temples in India offer visitors a chance to experience the spiritual culture of the Hare Krishna movement through vibrant worship, music, and community. The ornate architecture and landscaped gardens create a serene oasis amid the hustle and bustle of city life.
By following the teachings of Srila Prabhupada and the principles of ISKCON, devotees aim to revive their lost relationship with Krishna, the Supreme Personality of Godhead. The movement has brought the sublime teachings of Gaudiya Vaishnavism to people all over the world.
Top 10 Best ISKCON Temples in India
1. ISKCON Temple, Bangalore
2. ISKCON Temple, Mayapur
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3. ISKCON Temple, Vrindavan
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4. ISKCON Temple, Mumbai
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5. ISKCON Temple, Delhi
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6. ISKCON Temple, Jaipur
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7. ISKCON Temple, Ahmedabad
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8. ISKCON Temple, Pune
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9. ISKCON Temple, Chennai
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10. ISKCON Temple, Chandigarh
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q1. What are the temple timings?
Most ISKCON temples in India are open every day of the week from 4:30 am to 8:30 pm. The temples have an early morning mangala arati at 4:30 am, followed by other ceremonies and kirtans throughout the day. The main evening program starts at 6 pm and goes on till 8 pm. It’s a good idea to check the official website of the temple you want to visit for their specific schedules.
Q2. What is the dress code?
ISKCON temples adhere to a strict dress code – men and women should wear traditional Indian attire like kurtas, saris, or churidars. Shorts, t-shirts, and sleeveless dresses are not allowed. It is mandatory for men to wear an angavastram which can be purchased at the temple. Women need to cover their heads, so carry a scarf.
Q3. Can I take photos inside the temple?
Most ISKCON temples in India do not allow photography and videography inside the temple premises, especially in the sanctum sanctorum that houses the deities. You can take photos outside the temple building and of the architecture. Some temples like Bangalore and Mumbai ISKCON may allow photography on special occasions. It is best to check with the temple authorities before clicking any pictures.
Q4. What are the best times to visit?
The most significant festivals celebrated at ISKCON temples are Sri Krishna Janmashtami, Gaura Purnima, and Jagannath Rath Yatra. Visiting the temples during these festivals will give you a chance to see the elaborate ceremonies, decorations, and processions. Weekends also tend to be busy, so if you want to avoid crowds, visit on a weekday. Early mornings from 7-9 am and evenings from 5-7 pm are good times to see the main prayers and aartis without too many people.
Q5. Can I stay at an ISKCON temple?
Many ISKCON temples in India offer accommodation facilities for devotees and visitors within the temple complex. This includes basic rooms as well as suites. There are also options to book private or shared rooms. Guests can dine at the temple canteen which offers sattvik or pure vegetarian meals. Some popular ISKCON temples providing accommodation are in Vrindavan, Mayapur, Bangalore, and Mumbai. Check availability and book rooms in advance through the temple’s website.