Nidhivan: the sacred grove that closes at sunset

Nidhivan is a small, quiet grove in old Vrindavan. By day, monkeys jump between short, twisted trees. After the evening aarti, the gates close and everyone leaves. No one stays inside after dark.

The belief

Devotees believe Radha and Krishna still come to Nidhivan every night for raas leela, the divine dance with the gopis. Out of respect, no one is allowed inside after sunset. Many homes nearby shut their windows after the evening aarti.

Rang Mahal: a room made ready each night

Inside the grove is a small shrine called Rang Mahal. Each evening the priests prepare a sandalwood bed. Next to it they leave clothes, ornaments, flowers, tulsi leaves, a neem twig for brushing teeth, paan, sweets and a jar of water.

Devotees say that by morning the bed looks slept in and the offerings look used.

Trees that grow in pairs

Look closely at the tulsi trees. They are short, their trunks twist together, and many grow in pairs. Locals see them as Krishna and his companions of the forest.

Swami Haridas

Nidhivan is also where Swami Haridas sang to Krishna. It is believed that Banke Bihari ji appeared to him here. The deity was worshipped in this grove before moving to his own temple.

Visiting tips

• Go in the morning or late afternoon, well before the evening aarti.
• Hold on to your glasses and phone. The monkeys are quick.
• Respect the closing time. For people here, it is a matter of faith.