Bhandir Van: While there are numerous temples and forests in Braj Bhoomi, various legends are told about them. However, Bhandir Van is considered one of the most prominent of the 12 forests of Braj. It is believed that this is the place where Lord Krishna and Radha Rani were married in a divine ceremony performed by Lord Brahma. This place is also considered the most sacred and mysterious place in Braj Bhoomi.
Bhandir Van is believed to be located in Bhandir village in Mathura district. This village lies between Govardhan and Gokul. Although small, it is very peaceful. Yet, every particle of this place is steeped in the stories of love, devotion, and faith.
According to legend, during his childhood, Lord Krishna performed many divine acts with Radha Rani at this place. Once, when Radha Krishna arrived here, the friends of the goddess and the gopis jokingly arranged their marriage, with Lord Brahma himself as a witness. Brahma himself came to this place and performed the marriage of Krishna and Radha with Vedic mantras.
This is why even today, in the Bhandir Bihari Temple located here, Lord Krishna and Radha Rani are worshipped as husband and wife. The form of the Lord in this temple is very unique. On one side, Lord Krishna is in his child form, and Radha Rani is standing next to him, as if they had just been married.
A large number of devotees visit Bhandir Forest every year. Fairs and feasts are organised here during the months of Bhaskar, Phalgun, and Sawan. Many people also come here before marriage to seek blessings from Radha Krishna, so that there are no obstacles in their married life.