6 Compelling Reasons That Make The Breathtaking ISKCON Temple In Noida Worth A Visit

The ISKCON Temples, ever since their inception have stood as devotional institutions and a facilitator of the Hare Krishna Movement, based on the teachings of the Bhagavad Gita. ISKCON was coined as an acronym for the society it encompasses, known as the ‘International Society for Krishna Consciousness.’ Founded by His Divine Grace A.C Bhaktivedanta Swami Srila Prabhupada in July 1966, it was first registered in New York. Today, ISKCON has more than 650 temples all over the world, with more than 75,000 devotees receiving initiation (Diksha) within ISKCON and has since found a place in the large satellite city in the National Capital Region, Noida. So, we’re here to tell you all about the ISKCON Temple in Noida and why you should visit this serene temple! 

1. For A Dose Of Peace & Tranquility 

Picture Credits: Krsna Katha

Flocked by the devotees of Lord Krishna, people visit the temple grounds in search of contentment and serenity. Surrounded by hymns, prayers, chanting of devotees and faint chattering of people, there’s calmness in the hustling of people over here, as no one seems to be in any sort of hurry. If you’re seeking a place where you can reflect on important life questions, then this is where you should definitely land up.

2. Sights & Sounds Make It An Immersive Experience

The massive hall encompasses the scriptures from the Bhagavad Gita and some significant scenes from the epic Mahabharata. The regular angelic chants of “Hare Rama Hare Krishna” make the environment chaste and glorified. The hammering of the Mridangam and the western converts along with the Hindu ascetics all seems under the spell of the Lord. It’s truly an ethereal experience, one that cannot be completely defined using words. 

3. Skim Through The Teachings Of The Bhagavad Gita At The Vedic Museum

Picture Credits: ankit12soni

The Vedic museum further glorifies the objectives of the society which was created to globalise the ideals and teachings of the Gita and the Puranas. The Museum also organises a robot show which exhibits the history of the ISKCON through the life of its founder, Swami Prabhupada, who was a devout and a philanthropist. The robot show is a must watch as the representation is so lifelike and transcends all the major landmarks of the creation of this wonderful movement. The robot show lasts for about an hour. If you want an in-depth understanding of the Bhagavad Gita or want to analyze the concept of Karma and Moksha, you can always consult the priests (some of whom are engineers and doctors) who have been rendering their services for the proliferation of the society for years. 

4. Marvel At The Beautifully Designed Temple Complex

Picture Credits: Amit Kumar

The entire planning and development of the temple in Noida took almost 8 years and it opened its doors to the public on 12th February 2014. The management could secure a small plot for the temple, so the construction took a vertical turn to incorporate all of the temple’s typical elements. The end product was a 7-story building with a sixty-foot spire and its tip standing some 130 ft. from the ground. The temple also accommodates a large temple room, an auditorium, an adjoining guesthouse, a restaurant, a hall for wedding and birthday celebrations, a floor for education, and a kitchen and bedrooms in a residential wing. Impressive isn’t it?  

5. Drop By Govinda’s Restaurant For A Vegetarian Feast

If you’ve decided to drop by and pay respects at the temple, you can’t leave without trying the truly delightful prasadam and delicious vegetarian delicacies at their in-house eatery, Govinda’s Restaurant. The food they offer is 100% vegetarian, satvik dishes that are first offered to Lord Krishna. Fully air-conditioned, this restaurant can accommodate up to 150 people. So, if the hunger pangs strike you after receiving blessings, you can come here and satisfy the tummy rumbles with some lip-smacking food!

6. Experience The Glorious Aarti

The Mangala Aarti, in the mornings, and Sandhya Aartis, in the evenings, which take place here, are divine enriching experiences that you have to undergo for yourself to know what we’re talking about. Followed by chanting of hymns to the music of dhol, nagada, ghantis and clapping of hands, one feels like they’ve been transported to the heavenly realms. You might just find yourself swaying to the soothing prayers.

7. Take In The Excellent Craftsmanship Of Lord Krishna And Radha

Picture Credits: Tanuj Chaudhary

Magnificently carved statues of Lord Krishna with Radha or the Almighty form of Krishna are displayed for the worshippers. The outfits of the deities are impeccable and are changed twice every day. The beautifully created statues make up as a centrepiece at this temple, and one is left astounded by the sheer craftsmanship of these creations. 

ISKCON Temple and museum is a major tourist attraction, not just for the religious but also for those who want a spiritual extravaganza in the city. If you haven’t visited it yet, do give it a visit and fall in love!

Where | ISKCON Temple - Hare Krishna Hill, Main Road, Sant Nagar, East of Kailash
Timings | 6 AM - 9 PM
Check Out Their FB Page | https://www.facebook.com/iskcondelhi/