Shri Premanand Govind Sharan Ji Maharaj, whose birth name was Aniruddh Kumar Pandey on 30 March 1969, is a revered saint and Bhagwat Katha reciter from Vrindavan. He is a part of the Radha Vallabh Sampradaya, a spiritual tradition centered on intense devotion to Radha and Krishna.
He was born in a religious Brahmin family in the neighborhood of Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh. Right from early childhood, he was drawn towards a simple and devout life. He was only 13 years old when he left home to adopt the path of brahmacharya (celibacy) and subsequently sanyas (renunciation). He stayed on the banks of the Ganga River for a while, doing spiritual exercises and devoting himself to devotion.
Subsequently, he also arrived in Vrindavan, where upon seeing the Raas Leela, he also experienced a strong divine attraction towards Radha-Krishna’s gopi-bhava infinite love. This experience transformed his life. He made up his mind to remain in Vrindavan for good and started living the life of a rasik saint, devoting his whole life to loving devotion of Radha Rani and Krishna.
Where is His Ashram in Vrindavan?
Shri Premanand Ji Maharaj resides in Shri Hit Radha Keli Kunj Ashram, situated on Vrindavan Parikrama Marg, off Varaha Ghat. It is near popular sites like Bhaktivedanta Hospital, ISKCON Temple, and Nidhivan. The locals also call this place Tatia Sthan, which is a serene and devotional part of Vrindavan.
The ashram itself is not commercial or flashy. It is simple and peaceful, much like Maharaj Ji himself. Satsang and darshan are attended here by devotees who come from all over India.
How Do You Get to His Ashram?
It is very easy to reach Shri Premanand Ji Maharaj’s ashram after you reach Vrindavan. This is how you can do it:
By Train:
The nearest station is Mathura Junction, which is well connected to all major cities such as Delhi, Agra, Jaipur, and Varanasi. From Mathura, one can take an auto or taxi to Vrindavan (about 12–14 km).
By Road:
Vrindavan has good road connectivity from Delhi, Agra, and other local cities. You can come by bus, taxi, or your own vehicle.
By Local Transport in Vrindavan:
Once you are in Vrindavan, instruct any local rickshaw driver or shop owner to drop you at Radha Keli Kunj Ashram near Varaha Ghat. It’s a local place, and most locals will guide you.
It is advisable to arrive early in the morning if you wish to attend the satsang or gain admission into the ashram.
Premanand Ji Maharaj Darshan Timing 2025
Premanand Ji Maharaj has a strict daily schedule, and darshan timings are coordinated with his satsang and aarti program. The following is the approximate darshan timing for 2025:
Morning Darshan: 6:30 AM to 8:00 AM
Evening Darshan: 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM
Sunday Special Satsang: 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM
There are special sessions on days of celebration such as Radhashtami, Holi, and Janmashtami when the ashram’s timings are extended. There are many devotees who report at 2:30 AM to wait in the queue for tokens or find a good seat to sit for satsang.
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Daily Routine & Satsang Schedule at the Ashram
Here is a general schedule followed at the ashram. Please note that timings may slightly change depending on the season or festival days:
Time Activity
2:30 AM Pad Yatra / Morning Walk
4:00 AM Entry Line Begins (early darshan seekers)
5:00 AM Mangala Aarti
6:00 AM Bhajans & Kirtan
7:00 AM Satsang and Bhagwat Katha
9:00 AM Shringaar Aarti and Sankirtan
9:30 AM Token Distribution for Next-Day Darshan
4:00 PM Dhup Aarti
4:15 PM Evening Pravachan / Bhakt Charitra
5:45 PM Sandhya Aarti
8:00 PM Ashram Closes for Public
This routine creates a peaceful and spiritual environment that helps devotees connect deeply with the divine.
How to Attend a Satsang by Premanand Ji Maharaj
Attending satsang with Premanand Ji Maharaj is a spiritual experience. Here’s how you can attend:
Come Early:
If you desire good seating or entry into the satsang hall, you must be there around 2:30 to 3:00 AM. The line starts forming early, especially on weekends or special days.
Collect a Token:
Tokens for darshan and special satsang are typically issued at 9:30 AM each day. Hold the token carefully.
Dress and Act Respecfully:
Wear simple clothing, refrain from noise, do not take calls, and keep quiet within the ashram. No photography is allowed.
Ekantik Vartalap (One-on-One Updesh):
If you wish for a personal audience with Maharaj Ji, you have to send a handwritten note containing your spiritual query. If chosen, you will be provided with the opportunity to sit with him for a short while. Only a handful of individuals are chosen each day.
Online Information:
Although Maharaj Ji is not on social media, there are some of his devotees who share satsang news and videos on YouTube. Watching these may help you prepare your visit.
Read More: Delhi to Mathura Road Tour
Accommodation Near the Ashram
If you’re coming from outside Vrindavan and planning to stay for a few days, there are several options available near the ashram:
Budget Stays:
Shri Chaitanya Bhakti Dharmshala – Clean rooms, very close to the ashram.
Yamuna View Guest House – Basic stay for solo travelers or small families.
Mid-range Options:
Kridha Residency – Well-known hotel with good service.
Ananda Krishna Van – Comfortable and peaceful.
Premium:
Nidhivan Sarovar Portico – A luxury hotel near major temples.
MVT Guest House (near ISKCON) – Spiritual atmosphere with good facilities.
It’s best to book your accommodation in advance, especially during weekends, holidays, or festivals.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I meet Premanand Ji Maharaj personally?
Yes, but you need to write a spiritual question and submit it at the ashram. Only a few people are selected each day for Ekantik Vartalap (personal meeting).
2. Is there any fee for satsang or darshan?
No, everything is free. The ashram does not charge for entry, satsang, or darshan. However, donations are accepted but not asked for.
3. Can I stay inside the ashram?
Generally, the ashram has limited rooms and only allows stay for those involved in seva or those who have permission. It is better to stay in nearby guesthouses.
4. What language is the satsang conducted in?
The satsangs are mostly in Hindi. But the message is simple, and even non-Hindi speakers can feel the emotion and understand the teachings.
5. Are women allowed in the satsang?
Yes, both men and women can attend. Seating may be arranged separately for men and women, depending on the crowd.
If you’re planning a spiritual trip to Vrindavan, visiting Shri Premanand Ji Maharaj’s ashram is a peaceful and enriching experience. His message of love, devotion, and simplicity can bring calm to your heart and help you connect with your inner self.
