A Guide to ISKCON Temple in Bangalore: Timings, Facilities, and More
ISKCON (International Society for Krishna Consciousness) is known for its beautiful temples, devotional activities, and focus on spirituality. In Bangalore, there are two main ISKCON temples: ISKCON Sri Radha Krishna Temple on Hare Krishna Hill in Rajajinagar and ISKCON Vaikuntha Hill in Vasanthapura. Both temples offer a peaceful place to pray, meditate, and feel connected with Lord Krishna.
Here’s everything you need to know about visiting these temples.
Darshan Timings
ISKCON Sri Radha Krishna Temple (Hare Krishna Hill, Rajajinagar)
- Morning: 4:30 am – 5:20 am, 7:15 am – 1:15 pm
- Evening: 4:15 pm – 8:00 pm
- Weekends & Public Holidays: Open all day from 7:15 am to 8:00 pm
- Time required for darshan: 1-2 hours
ISKCON Vaikuntha Hill Temple (Vasanthapura)
- Morning: 4:30 am – 5:10 am, 7:15 am – 12:40 pm
- Evening: 4:15 pm – 8:10 pm
- Weekends & Public Holidays: - Morning: 7:15 am – 1:10 pm - Evening: 4:15 pm – 8:25 pm
- Time required for darshan: 45 minutes to 1 hour
Dress Code
Visitors are asked to wear traditional or formal attire to show respect. Please avoid shorts and casual clothing when visiting the temple.
Entry Fees
Entry to both temples is free, but there are nominal charges for parking and the use of the footwear stand.
Mission of ISKCON
ISKCON’s mission is to give people an opportunity to lead a life filled with happiness, good health, and peace through God consciousness. According to the teachings, human life’s purpose is to end the cycle of suffering in the material world and rediscover lasting happiness by connecting with Lord Krishna.
Srila Prabhupada, the founder of ISKCON, taught three simple principles to achieve happiness:
- Chant the Hare Krishna mantra daily
- Read the Srimad Bhagavatam
- Eat prasadam (sanctified food)
Following these principles helps cleanse the mind and soul, bringing peace and joy.
History of ISKCON
ISKCON was founded in 1966 by Srila Prabhupada when he traveled to the United States to spread Krishna consciousness. He started with humble beginnings but gradually inspired many people to follow a God-centered life. Today, ISKCON has over 100 temples worldwide, including the beautiful temples in Bangalore.
Facilities at ISKCON Bangalore
Visitors are welcomed with several amenities to make their visit comfortable:
- Wheelchair and Elevator: Available for the elderly and disabled.
- Parking: Ample parking space with nominal charges.
- Drinking Water: Purified drinking water is provided.
- Restrooms: Clean toilets are available at multiple locations inside the temple complex.
- Security: The temple has round-the-clock security to ensure a smooth darshan experience.
- Restaurants: There are two vegetarian restaurants – *The Higher Taste* and *Annakuta Prasadam Restaurant* – offering delicious, sattvic (pure) food.
How to Reach ISKCON Sri Radha Krishna Temple (Rajajinagar)
- Nearest Airport: Kempegowda International Airport (33 km)
- Nearest Railway Stations: - Bangalore City Railway Station (6.9 km) - Yeshwantpur Railway Station (2.2 km)
- Metro Stations: A 10-minute walk from Mahalakshmi and Sandal Soap Factory metro stations.
- City Buses: Buses from Kempegowda Bus Station, City Market, and Shivajinagar are available. Alight at 'Mahalakshmi Layout Entrance' and walk 10 minutes to the temple.
Conclusion
ISKCON temples in Bangalore are not just places of worship but spiritual sanctuaries that offer peace and guidance. Whether you visit for darshan, meditation, or to simply experience the calm environment, the temple provides a wonderful spiritual retreat. Remember to follow the dress code, respect the temple's traditions, and make the most of the facilities available.