ISKCON Bangalore
ISKCON Bangalore is a serene Krishna temple on Hare Krishna Hill offering" spiritual darshan, prasadam, cultural programs, and a peaceful retreat in Bengaluru.
About This Place
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A Spiritual Jewel in Bangalore: The ISKCON Temple
Perched atop Hare Krishna Hill in Rajajinagar, ISKCON Bangalore is one of the city’s most prominent spiritual and cultural landmarks. As one of the largest ISKCON temples in the world, it is a hub of devotion dedicated to Lord Krishna and his consort Radha. The temple’s stunning blend of traditional Dravidian and modern architectural styles, combined with its serene atmosphere, draws countless devotees and tourists seeking peace and spiritual enrichment.
The temple’s journey began in 1978 from a rented apartment, with the society acquiring the seven-acre hillock in 1988. After seven years of tireless work by hundreds of skilled artisans, the magnificent temple and cultural complex were inaugurated on May 31, 1997, by Dr. Shankar Dayal Sharma, the then President of India. It was conceived and executed by Madhu Pandit Dasa to promote Vedic culture and spiritual learning.
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What to Expect at ISKCON Temple Bangalore
Prepare for a spiritually charged experience as you enter this grand complex. The temple’s design is a marvel, featuring a gold-plated flag post (dhwaja-stambha) standing 56 feet high and a beautiful 28-foot gold-plated kalash shikhara. The interiors are just as impressive, with ornate chandeliers, high ceilings, and murals depicting the life and teachings of Lord Krishna, creating a truly divine ambiance.
As you proceed through the temple, you will encounter six distinct shrines. The main deities are the beautifully adorned Sri Sri Radha Krishnachandra. Other shrines are dedicated to Sri Sri Krishna Balarama, Sri Sri Nitai Gauranga, Sri Srinivasa Govinda, Sri Prahlada Narasimha, and a shrine for ISKCON’s founder, Srila Prabhupada. This thoughtful layout allows for a systematic and immersive darshan experience for all visitors.
More Than Just a Temple
ISKCON Bangalore is a vibrant cultural center offering more than just worship. The complex houses a Vedic museum, souvenir shops selling spiritual books and artifacts, and beautiful gardens for quiet reflection. A key part of the ISKCON philosophy is providing sanctified food (prasadam), and free, delicious lunch prasadam is served to all visitors daily between 11:30 AM and 2:00 PM.
ISKCON Temple Bangalore Timings and Entry Fees
The temple has specific darshan timings to accommodate the daily rituals and prayers. On weekdays, the temple is open from 4:30 AM to 5:20 AM, 7:15 AM to 1:15 PM, and again from 4:15 PM to 8:00 PM. On weekends and public holidays, the temple remains open continuously from 7:15 AM until 8:20 PM, without a break in the afternoon.
Entry Fee Details
Entry to the ISKCON temple is completely free for all visitors. While there is no charge for darshan, there are nominal fees for services like the footwear stand and vehicle parking. Devotees who wish to make donations or opt for special darshan tickets can do so, which may include additional offerings like a laddu or a book.
Best Time to Visit and Busy Hours
To enjoy a more peaceful visit with fewer crowds, the best time to go is during the early morning hours on weekdays, typically between 8:30 AM and 10:00 AM. Evenings are also a wonderful time to visit, as you can witness the beautifully lit temple and participate in the vibrant Sandhya Aarti at 7:00 PM.
The temple experiences the largest crowds during weekends and major festivals like Janmashtami and Radhashtami. These festivals are celebrated with great enthusiasm and splendor, offering a unique cultural experience. However, if you prefer a quieter and more contemplative visit, it is best to avoid these peak times.
Tips to Make Your Visit Smooth
To ensure a respectful and pleasant experience at ISKCON Bangalore, here are a few simple tips to keep in mind.
- Dress Code: It is important to dress modestly. Avoid shorts, short skirts, and sleeveless tops; attire that covers your shoulders and knees is recommended.
- Footwear: You will need to leave your footwear at the designated counter before entering the temple.
- Photography: Photography is not allowed inside the main temple hall, so be sure to respect these rules.
- Bags and Security: Large bags are not permitted inside. Lockers are available to store your belongings.
- Facilities for Elderly: The temple provides wheelchair and elevator facilities for elderly and disabled visitors.
- Prasadam: Don’t miss the opportunity to have the free lunch prasadam served daily.
- Parking: Ample paid parking is available for two-wheelers and four-wheelers.
Nearby Places to Visit
After your spiritual visit to ISKCON Temple, you can explore several other attractions located nearby in Bangalore.
- Bangalore Palace: A stunning example of Tudor-style architecture offering a glimpse into the city’s royal history.
- Cubbon Park: A vast green space perfect for a relaxing walk or a family picnic.
- Lalbagh Botanical Garden: A famous botanical garden with a stunning glass house and rare plant species.
- Orion Mall: A popular shopping and entertainment destination located close by.
- Jawaharlal Nehru Planetarium: A great spot for science enthusiasts and families to learn about astronomy.
- Visvesvaraya Industrial & Technological Museum: An interactive museum that is both fun and educational.
Customer Reviews
What visitors are saying about their experience
SURASHREE DEY
2 weeks ago
"The ISKCON Temple in Bangalore is truly a peaceful and divine place. The architecture is grand yet calming, and the entire atmosphere fills you with positivity and devotion. The chants, prayers, and spiritual energy make you feel connected and uplifted. It's not just a temple, but an experience of serenity, love, and faith. A perfect place to spend some quiet, soulful time away from the noise of the city."
Lavi Sam
a month ago
"I visited on a Saturday evening around 6 PM. The place was quite crowded, yet the volunteers and devotees were managing everything very well. Footwear can be kept in a sack for a nominal charge of ₹5–₹10, or at the free slipper stand. Since I wasn't carrying any cash and there was no digital payment option, the staff kindly helped me by keeping my slippers safely in a sack. One of the most unique aspects was at the first entry level into the sanctum, where every devotee is asked to chant 'Hara Krishna Hara Rama' 108 times. With each step, the chant continues until one reaches the first temple dedicated to Lord Narasimha. Photography inside the sanctum is strictly prohibited, which helps preserve the sanctity of the space. The sequence of the sanctums is as follows: First: Lord Narasimha, Lord Anjaneya, and Garuda Second: Lord Venkatachalapati Final: Radha Krishna Inside, one truly feels the divine bliss and a sense of oneness with Lord Krishna. The atmosphere stands out for its cleanliness, absence of beggars, and the fact that no one pressures you to make donations. While special darshan options are available, even the free darshan is fulfilling and complete. On the way out, there are stalls with spiritual books such as Lord Krishna Leela and the Bhagavad Gita. A variety of good-quality food items are also available at very reasonable prices. Additionally, hot khichdi prasad is continuously served to devotees, adding to the overall divine experience."
Pankaj Raut
in the last week
"Today I visited the ISKCON Temple, and it was such a peaceful and divine experience. The temple's architecture is absolutely beautiful, and the atmosphere inside is filled with positive energy and devotion. The chants of 'Hare Krishna' made the whole place feel calm and spiritual. The surroundings were clean and well-organized, and the devotees were very welcoming. A perfect place to find inner peace and connect with spirituality."
suresh tedlapu
a week ago
"A spiritually uplifting experience 🌟. The temple architecture is stunning, the atmosphere is peaceful, and the devotional chants create a divine energy all around. Very well-maintained with facilities for visitors, prasadam, and a serene place to connect with inner peace. A must-visit for anyone seeking spiritual bliss 🌟."
Awanish Sharma
a week ago
"I recently had the opportunity to visit ISKCON Temple in Bangalore, and it was a truly enriching and memorable experience. The temple is not just a place of worship but also a spiritual and cultural landmark in the city. From the moment you step inside, you feel a sense of peace and serenity that immediately takes you away from the hustle and bustle of Bangalore. The temple's architecture is stunning, with intricate carvings, beautiful idols of Lord Krishna and Radha, and a well-maintained campus that reflects devotion and discipline. One of the things I appreciated most was the way the temple is organized. The entry and darshan process is smooth, and the volunteers are polite and helpful. The chanting of the Hare Krishna mantra in the background creates a divine atmosphere, making the darshan more soulful. The temple complex also houses a spiritual bookstore, Govinda's restaurant offering delicious sattvic food, and stalls where you can buy prasadam and devotional items. Another highlight is the cultural programs and lectures conducted here, which provide deep insights into the teachings of the Bhagavad Gita and Vedic wisdom. The temple also emphasizes community service, supporting various charitable activities like feeding the underprivileged through Akshaya Patra. Overall, ISKCON Bangalore is not just a temple but a complete spiritual experience. Whether you are a devotee, a seeker, or simply someone who appreciates calm and culture, this is a must-visit place in the city. I left feeling peaceful, inspired, and eager to return again."
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions answered
FAQ
What are the darshan timings for ISKCON Bangalore?
On weekdays, the temple is open from 4:30 AM - 5:20 AM, 7:15 AM - 1:15 PM, and 4:15 PM - 8:00 PM. On weekends and public holidays, darshan is continuous from 7:15 AM to 8:20 PM.
Is there an entry fee for the ISKCON temple?
No, there is no entry fee for visiting the temple and having darshan. Donations, however, are welcome.
What is the dress code for visiting the ISKCON temple?
Visitors are requested to dress modestly, ensuring that shoulders and knees are covered. Traditional attire is appreciated but not mandatory.
Can I take photos inside the ISKCON temple?
Photography and videography are generally restricted inside the main temple hall where the deities are located.
How much time should I plan for my visit to ISKCON Bangalore?
A typical visit to explore the temple complex and have darshan usually takes about 1 to 2 hours.
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