Vrindavan, India – In anticipation of overwhelming crowds during the New Year period, the management of the Thakur Banke Bihari Temple has issued an advisory urging devotees to postpone their visit to Vrindavan until after January 5, 2026. The advisory, released on Sunday evening, December 28, 2025, cites concerns over increased crowd pressure both at the temple and in the surrounding areas.
Munesh Sharma, the manager of the Thakur Banke Bihari Temple, stated that the expected surge in devotees during the New Year could lead to significant congestion and potential safety issues. He suggested that devotees consider visiting at a later date when the crowds have subsided. The temple expects over 1.5 million devotees to arrive for the New Year's Day. Due to the increase in visitors, hotels and accommodations have been fully booked and online booking has been temporarily suspended.
The advisory includes guidelines for those who find it unavoidable to visit before January 5. Devotees are encouraged to carry minimal baggage and avoid bringing valuables to reduce the risk of theft. They should also remain vigilant against pickpockets and keep a slip of paper with their name and identification in their pocket. The temple management also stressed the importance of following public address announcements and adhering to designated entry and exit routes. Furthermore, devotees should leave their shoes and sandals at the assigned areas before entering the temple.
The temple management specifically advised elderly individuals, children, and those with illnesses, particularly heart, diabetes, or respiratory problems, to avoid the crowded temple premises. The narrow lanes of Vrindavan are expected to experience heavy traffic congestion and immense crowd pressure, posing risks for vulnerable individuals.
In addition to the temple's advisory, the district and police administration have implemented measures to manage the influx of visitors. Heavy vehicles have been banned from entering Vrindavan, with only a limited number of e-rickshaws allowed. Light vehicles will be restricted to designated parking zones at the entry points of Vrindavan, where arrangements have been made for approximately 7,000 vehicles. Mathura SSP Shlok Kumar outlined the traffic and crowd management plan, emphasizing the administration's commitment to ensuring the safety and security of all visitors.
Other temples in Uttar Pradesh are also experiencing a surge in devotees. The Shri Kashi Vishwanath Temple has suspended the "Sparsh Darshan" (touch darshan) until January 3rd due to the heavy crowds. Only "Jhanki Darshan," where devotees can view the deity from the gate of the sanctum sanctorum, will be permitted. Ayodhya is also a favorite destination for pilgrims, with over 2.5 lakh devotees visiting between December 24th and 25th. VIP and Aarti passes are completely booked until January 1st, 2026, but general darshan is readily available.
