ISKCON UDHAMPUR

About ISKCON Udhampur

ISKCON temple in Udhampur is a sanctuary for those seeking devotion. The beautiful temple was built with both modern and traditional Indian styles in mind.. As you walk in, the colourfully dressed avatars of Lord Krishna and Radha draw your attention. Daily lectures on Krishna awareness, aartis, and bhajans are held at the temple. In the prayer rooms, you can meditate or take part in religious activities that help you feel at peace.

During holidays such as Krishna Janmashtami, you can see the temple come to life with singing, dancing, and lavish celebrations. Be sure to attend the Rath Yatra, where the idols of Lord Jagannath, Balabhadra, and Subhadra are carried through the streets in a spectacular procession. You can take some time for reflection in the peaceful grounds that surround the temple. For those seeking spiritual journeys, many Kashmir tour packages also offer visits to serene temples and sacred sites..

1. Prime Day & Hours: Weekends, 6:30 AM - 11 AM

2. Suggested Duration: 1-2 hours

3. Tickets: Free Entry

4. Nearest Railway Station: Budgam Railway Station, about 25 kilometers away

5. Nearest Airport: Sheikh ul-Alam International Airport, approximately 53 kilometres away.

6. Nearest Bus Stop: New Bus Stand Budgam, approximately 45 kilometers away

Why Visit?

• Some devotees believe that the temple's layout aligns with cosmic laws, making it a more spiritual space.
• ISKCON Udhampur's unique feature is Prabhat Pheri on all 365 days of the year and akhand kirtan (24-hour kirtan) on big festivals.

Must-Try Experiences

1. Attend The Daily Aartis: Participate in the daily aartis at ISKCON Udhampur, which take place at various times. You can attend Raj Bhog Aarti (12:00 PM), Sandhya Aarti (7:00 PM), Mangal Aarti (4:30 AM), and Shingar Aarti (7:30 AM).

2. Participate in The Sunday Feast Program: ISKCON Udhampur organizes a special youth feast program every Sunday that includes presentations, Japa meditation, and Q&A sessions. From 5:30 to 7:00 PM, you can indulge in spiritual lessons and delicious prasadam. 

3. Join The Prabhat Pheri: Participate in the Prabhat Pheri, which takes place at the temple every morning and evening. Chanting and exploring the temple daily is a special experience that lets you dive into the spiritual atmosphere of the temple.

4. Visit During Major Festivals: ISKCON Udhampur is full of live celebrations during holidays like Janmashtami. Thus, you can enjoy huge celebrations, free prasadam sharing, and kirtans that go on all the time. You can see the thrill and excitement of these holy events, and the temple is alive with devotion.

ISKCON Udhampur Highlights

• Step inside ISKCON Udhampur, the biggest Radha Krishna temple in Jammu & Kashmir, where daily prayers are conducted.
• Participate in the unique Prabhat Pheri, a daily morning procession that is spiritually uplifting and involves followers singing and chanting through the streets.
• Experience Akhand Kirtan, a devotional singing session that lasts all day and is held during festivals like Janmashthami.
• Celebrate the Vaishnava festivals, and experience spectacular feasts, spiritual talks, and vibrant decorations.

How To Reach ISKCON Udhampur

The ISKCON Temple is about 1.6 kilometers from Udhampur town. Thus, it will take you about 5 minutes via NH 244A/NH 44, whether you drive a car or take a taxi or bike while continuing on Dhar Rd.

Best Time To Visit ISKCON Udhampur

1. Peak Season (March–May, September–November)

• Weather Insights: Temperatures range from 15°C to 30°C, with a pleasant climate.
• Things to See & Do: Attend spiritual discourses, participate in kirtans, and admire the temple’s peaceful surroundings with blooming flowers.

2. Monsoon Season (June–August)

• Weather Insights: Temperatures range from 20°C to 28°C, with occasional rainfall cooling the air.
• Things to See & Do: Experience the serene atmosphere, listen to devotional chants inside the temple, and enjoy the misty views of the surrounding hills.

3. Low Season (December to February)

• Weather Insights: Temperatures range from 5°C to 20°C, with chilly mornings and foggy weather.
• Things to See & Do: Witness the temple’s beautifully lit evening aarti and explore the surroundings in a cool, misty setting.
• Best Day of The Week: All days of the week, as weekends can be crowded.
• Best Time of The Day: Morning is the best time as it is less crowded and a lot more peaceful.

ISKCON Udhampur Other Essential Information

Know Before You Go

• Avoid wearing revealing clothes and dress modestly out of respect.

• Keep a water bottle with you to stay hydrated, particularly in hot weather.

• Maintain a calm atmosphere by following the temple's rules and not talking loudly.

• Avoid visiting during crowded times for a peaceful and quiet experience.

• Check with the staff before taking any photos within the temple, as there may be restrictions on photography.

• Keep personal belongings safe, particularly at festivals or busy events.

• Avoid bringing outside food or non-vegetarian food items to maintain the sanctity of the temple.