ISKCON New Vrindaban Inc.

ISKCON New Vrindaban is a spiritual community in the Appalachian foothills, founded in 1968 by Srila Prabhupada. Learn more about its history. The community emphasizes simple living and high thinking, with a focus on Krishna consciousness. Events and temple services are central to its offerings.

ISKCON New Vrindaban is a spiritual community located in the Appalachian foothills of West Virginia, founded in 1968 by Srila Prabhupada. The community is dedicated to the principles of Krishna consciousness, promoting a lifestyle of simple living and high thinking. History reveals that it began as a farm project and has since grown into a vibrant center for spiritual practice and cultural preservation.

The community offers a wide range of spiritual and cultural experiences, including daily temple services, festivals, and retreats. Events include Pushpa Abhisheka, Janmashtami, and the Festival of Colors, which attract visitors from around the world. The temple schedule includes daily rituals such as Mangala Arati at 5:00 AM and Gaura Arati at 7:00 PM. Temple schedule provides detailed timings for these services.

New Vrindaban also features a cow sanctuary, established in 1969, which is one of the oldest in America. Cows are cared for by vegetarian caretakers and are an integral part of the community's ethos. The community includes a school, Gopal’s Garden, which offers education from pre-kindergarten to 10th grade, combining academic excellence with spiritual development.

Facilities include the Radha Krishna Temple, Prabhupada’s Palace of Gold, Govinda’s Restaurant, and the Yoga Shala. Lodging is available for visitors, with options ranging from cabins to the Palace Lodge. The community also hosts retreats and offers spiritual practice opportunities for visitors seeking deeper engagement.

New Vrindaban welcomes newcomers with open arms, offering guided tours and a welcoming atmosphere. Your visit provides information on how to plan a visit, including driving directions and travel notes. The community is committed to creating a peaceful and uplifting environment for all who visit.

ISKCON New Vrindaban offers a serene spiritual retreat in West Virginia’s Appalachian foothills, centered on Krishna consciousness and simple living. First-time visitors will notice a welcoming atmosphere with guided tours and clear temple service schedules, complemented by vibrant festivals and a peaceful cow sanctuary that reflects the community’s ethos.

Pros

• Clear temple service schedules with daily rituals and specific timings posted online.
• Welcoming attitude toward newcomers, with guided tours and visit planning resources.
• Family-friendly environment featuring a school (Gopal’s Garden) and cultural festivals.
• Diverse facilities including a historic Radha Krishna Temple, cow sanctuary, and meditation spaces.
• Annual festivals like Janmashtami and Festival of Colors offer immersive spiritual experiences.

Cons

• No detailed accessibility information provided for visitors with mobility needs.
• Rural location may require advance planning for transportation and lodging arrangements.
• Sparse guidance for newcomers beyond general visit information on the website.