Nidhivan in Vrindavan is a very holy place. In this sacred kunj, the divine couple Radha and Krishna performed Ras Leela and hence its also called Ras Sthali.
Vrindavan, often hailed as the city of temples, boasts countless sacred sites, each with its unique story. However, certain sites stand as icon, deeply connected with the very identity of this holy city. Undoubtedly, Nidhivan in Vrindavan is definitely one such iconic place. Listen why one shouldn’t go to Nidhivan in night from Shri Indresh ji.
History
In this holy garden, also known as Ras sthali is where Radha and Krishna performed Ras Leela. Also, a great saint named Swami Shri Haridas Ji used to pray here. About 20 steps down some small stairs, there is a holy well Vishakha-kund. People believe Shri Krishna made it with his flute to help sakhi Vishakha when she was thirsty
Also, some people believe the trees here are actually Gopis. If Radha Rani blesses someone, they can become a Gopi and join the loving plays of Radha and Krishna. There is a small temple, Rang Mahal. A bed is kept there where Radha rani and Krishna come to rest after Rasleela. People also believe that Shree Krishna decorates Radha Rani in this place.
Furthermore, there is Banke Bihari Prakatya Sthali where statue of Bankey Bihari appeared because of the prayers and music of the saint Swami Shri Haridas Ji. Additionally, there is another temple “Bansi Chor Radharani.” This means “Radha Rani who steals Shri Krishna’s flute.” Interestingly, this is the only temple in the world where Radha Rani plays the flute.
Tulsi or Gopi!!
Nidhivan is a thick forest with many green trees. Most of these trees are Tulasi, which is a holy plant for Vaishnavas. Interestingly, the tree trunks are empty inside, and the ground is dry. However, the trees always have green leaves all year long. Also, all the trees bend down towards the ground. Many monkeys and peacocks live in this area. People believe that at night, these trees become the Gopi themselves. Then, they perform the Raslila dance with Krishna. After that, they turn back into trees in the morning. Furthermore, every Tulasi plant in Nidhivan grows in pairs. This is said to represent the pairs of Gopi with Krishna.
You can’t come here in night!
No one can go inside the temple grounds after the sun goes down. People believe that Radha and Krishna come to the temple every night to perform rasleela. If anyone tries to sneak into Nidhivan to see what happens at night, they either die or become blind and lose their mind.
Even though houses near Nidhivan can see the area, no one tries to look. Many people who live close by have blocked their windows with bricks. Also, those with open windows close them after the last prayer in the evening. Many people have said they hear the sound of anklets from Nidhivan at night. Even the monkeys and peacocks leave the Nidhivan temple after sunset. Some people have also said they have seen Krishna himself. They describe him as a young boy herding cows, wearing yellow clothes and jewelry, a crown with a peacock feather, and playing the flute.
Timings
Morning – 5:00 AM to 8:00 PM
Timings may slightly vary as per seasons.
