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20 Famous Temples in Mathura and Vrindavan

March 3, 2023

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Mathura and Vrindavan, situated in the northern Indian state of Uttar Pradesh, are renowned for their cultural and religious significance. They are considered as the birthplace and childhood home of Lord Krishna, one of the most revered deities in Hinduism. The region boasts of some of the most famous temples in India that attract devotees from all over the world.

Mathura and Vrindavan are not only a testament to the rich cultural heritage of India but also a spiritual haven for seekers of inner peace and enlightenment. Embark on a divine pilgrimage and explore the top 20 famous temples in Mathura and Vrindavan that will leave you spellbound.

List of Top Famous Temples in Mathura and Vrindavan

Shri Krishna Janmabhoomi

Shri Krishna Janmabhoomi Temple is one of the most famous and revered temples in Mathura and Vrindavan, located at the site where Lord Krishna is believed to have been born. The temple complex covers an area of around 5 acres and comprises various structures and shrines dedicated to Lord Krishna and other deities.

The main attraction of the temple is the Garbha Griha or the inner sanctum, which is believed to be the exact spot where Lord Krishna was born. The sanctum is adorned with intricate carvings and sculptures depicting scenes from Lord Krishna’s life. The idol of Lord Krishna is also beautifully decorated with jewels and ornaments.

Dwarkadhish Temple

Dwarkadhish Temple is a famous Hindu temple located in the heart of Mathura city, dedicated to Lord Krishna, also known as Dwarkadhish. The temple is believed to be one of the most ancient and sacred shrines in Mathura and holds immense significance in Hindu mythology.

The temple has a unique architecture that blends elements of Mughal and Hindu styles. The main deity of the temple is Lord Krishna, who is depicted here as a child standing on a lotus flower, playing his flute. The temple also houses various other deities such as Radha, Balarama, and Subhadra.

Radha Raman Temple

Radha Raman Temple is a famous Hindu temple located in Vrindavan, dedicated to Lord Krishna. The temple is one of the most revered shrines in Vrindavan and holds immense significance in Hindu mythology.

The main deity of the temple is Lord Krishna, who is worshipped here in the form of Radha Raman, which means “the one who gives pleasure to Radha”. The temple also houses various other deities, including Radha, Lalita, and Vishakha.

The temple has a unique history, dating back to the 16th century, when it was established by a saint named Gopala

Gita Mandir

Gita Mandir is a prominent temple located in Mathura and Vrindavan, dedicated to Lord Krishna and the teachings of the Bhagavad Gita. The temple is situated on the Mathura-Vrindavan road and is a popular pilgrimage site for devotees from all over the world.

The temple has a unique architecture, with the structure resembling an open book, symbolizing the teachings of the Bhagavad Gita. The temple walls are adorned with beautiful paintings and murals depicting scenes from the life of Lord Krishna and the teachings of the Gita.

The main attraction of the temple is the idol of Lord Krishna, which is beautifully decorated with jewels and ornaments. The temple also houses various other deities, including Radha-Krishna, Hanuman, and Shiva.

Kusum Sarovar

usum Sarovar is a beautiful, crescent-shaped lake located in the holy town of Govardhan, near Mathura. The lake is believed to have been created by Lord Krishna and is surrounded by various temples and ashrams.

The name Kusum Sarovar translates to “the lake of flowers”, and the lake is known for its serene and peaceful surroundings, which are perfect for meditation and introspection. The lake is surrounded by lush green trees and is a popular spot for birdwatching.

The lake is believed to have great religious significance, and it is said that Lord Krishna used to come here with his beloved Radha and the Gopis to pick flowers and spend time in the serene surroundings.

The Kusum Sarovar is also home to several temples and ashrams, including the Radha Madhav Temple and the Chandra Sarovar Temple. The area around the lake is also dotted with several ghats, where devotees come to take a dip in the holy waters and offer prayers to Lord Krishna.

The best time to visit Kusum Sarovar is during the winter months, from November to February, when the weather is pleasant and the surroundings are lush and green. A visit to Kusum Sarovar is a must for anyone visiting Mathura or Govardhan, and it is sure to leave you with a sense of peace and spiritual rejuvenation.

Famous Temples in Vrindavan

Banke Bihari Temple

Banke Bihari Temple is a renowned Hindu temple located in the holy town of Vrindavan, dedicated to Lord Krishna. The temple is one of the most revered shrines in Vrindavan and attracts devotees from all over the world.

The main deity of the temple is Lord Krishna, who is worshipped here in the form of Banke Bihari, which means “the one who is bent in three places”. The idol of Lord Krishna is believed to be self-manifested and is made of black stone.

The temple has a rich history, dating back to the 17th century, when it was built by a devotee of Lord Krishna named Swami Haridas. The temple has undergone several renovations and restorations over the years and is now a prominent landmark in Vrindavan.

The temple is known for its unique architecture, with intricate carvings and designs adorning the walls and ceilings. The temple is also famous for its devotional music and the practice of ‘Jhulan Yatra’, where the idol of Lord Krishna is swung back and forth on a swing.

The temple is visited by thousands of devotees every year, especially during the festivals of Holi and Janmashtami, when the temple is decorated with flowers and lights, and devotees come from all over to offer their prayers and seek the blessings of Lord Krishna. A visit to Banke Bihari Temple is a must for anyone visiting Vrindavan, and it is sure to leave you with a sense of peace and spiritual fulfilment.

Radha Vallabh Temple

Radha Vallabh Temple is a prominent Hindu temple located in Vrindavan, dedicated to Lord Krishna and his beloved Radha. The temple was built in the 16th century and is considered to be one of the oldest temples in Vrindavan.

The temple is known for its unique architectural style and intricate carvings, which are a testament to the artistic skill of the craftsmen of that time. The temple has a beautiful courtyard, which is surrounded by several smaller temples and shrines dedicated to various deities.

The main deity of the temple is Lord Krishna, who is worshipped here in the form of Radha Vallabh, which means “the lover of Radha”. The temple is also home to a beautiful idol of Radha, which is placed beside Lord Krishna’s idol.

The temple has a rich history and is closely associated with the Bhakti movement, which was a religious and cultural movement that swept across India in the 16th century. The temple is also known for its devotional music and the practice of ‘seva’, where devotees can offer their services to the Lord by performing various rituals and ceremonies.

The temple is a popular destination for devotees of Lord Krishna and Radha, and it is especially crowded during the festivals of Holi and Janmashtami, when the temple is decorated with flowers and lights, and devotees come from all over to offer their prayers and seek the blessings of the Lord.

Prem Mandir

Prem Mandir is a famous Hindu temple located in Vrindavan, dedicated to Lord Krishna and his beloved Radha. The temple was built by the spiritual leader and founder of the Jagadguru Kripalu Parishat, Swami Shri Kripalu Ji Maharaj, and was inaugurated in 2012.

The temple is known for its exquisite architecture and intricate carvings, which are a testament to the skill of the craftsmen who worked on the temple. The temple has a unique design, with white marble walls and a beautifully decorated central dome.

The temple is dedicated to the theme of divine love and devotion, and the walls of the temple are adorned with intricate carvings and paintings depicting the divine love story of Lord Krishna and Radha. The temple also has a beautiful garden, which is designed to depict various stages of their love story.

Prem Mandir is also known for its sound and light show, which depicts the divine love story of Lord Krishna and Radha and is a must-see for anyone visiting Vrindavan. The show is a spectacular display of light and sound, with a narration in multiple languages that tells the story of Lord Krishna and Radha’s love.

ISKCON Temple

ISKCON Temple, also known as Sri Krishna-Balaram Mandir, is a famous Hindu temple located in Vrindavan, dedicated to Lord Krishna and his beloved Radha. The temple was built by the International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON) in 1975 and is considered to be one of the most popular temples in Vrindavan.

The temple is known for its unique architectural style and beautiful paintings and sculptures depicting the life of Lord Krishna. The temple complex also includes a guesthouse, a restaurant, a library, and a cultural centre.

ISKCON Temple is famous for its ‘aarti’ ceremony, which is held twice daily, where devotees gather to sing devotional songs and offer prayers to Lord Krishna and Radha. The temple also hosts a number of festivals and events throughout the year, including Janmashtami and Holi, which are celebrated with great enthusiasm and joy.

The temple is a popular destination for devotees of Lord Krishna and Radha, as well as for tourists who are interested in learning more about Hindu culture and traditions. The temple also has a goshala (cow shelter), where cows are cared for and worshipped as sacred animals.

Seva Kunj and Nidhuban

Seva Kunj and Nidhuban are two famous gardens located in Vrindavan, Uttar Pradesh. These gardens are associated with the divine love story of Lord Krishna and Radha, and are considered to be among the most important pilgrimage sites for devotees of Lord Krishna.

Seva Kunj is a beautifully landscaped garden that is believed to be the place where Lord Krishna used to perform his ‘Raas Leela’ with Radha and the gopis (cowherd girls). The garden is filled with lush greenery, colourful flowers, and tall trees, and has several small temples and shrines dedicated to Lord Krishna and Radha.

Nidhuban, on the other hand, is a dense forest area that is believed to be the place where Lord Krishna used to spend time with Radha and the gopis. The forest has a small temple dedicated to Lord Krishna and Radha, and is also known for its grove of ‘kadamba’ trees, which are believed to have been planted by Lord Krishna himself.

Both Seva Kunj and Nidhuban are considered to be very sacred by devotees of Lord Krishna, and many of them come here to offer their prayers and seek the blessings of the Lord. The gardens are also popular among tourists, who come here to admire the natural beauty and learn more about the divine love story of Lord Krishna and Radha.

Madan Mohan Temple

Madan Mohan Temple is a popular Hindu temple located in Vrindavan, dedicated to Lord Krishna. The temple is one of the oldest and most revered temples in the city and is considered to be a major pilgrimage site for devotees of Lord Krishna.

The temple was built in the 16th century by the great saint and scholar, Sanatana Goswami, who was a prominent disciple of Lord Chaitanya Mahaprabhu. The temple is known for its beautiful architecture, intricate carvings, and stunning paintings depicting the life of Lord Krishna.

The main deity of the temple is Lord Madan Mohan, who is believed to have been worshipped by Sanatana Goswami himself. The temple also has smaller shrines dedicated to other deities, such as Radha-Krishna, Lalita-Vishaka, and Gopal.

Madan Mohan Temple is famous for its ‘aarti’ ceremony, which is held twice daily, and for its special ‘bhog’ (food offering) that is offered to Lord Krishna. The temple also hosts a number of festivals throughout the year, including Janmashtami and Radha Ashtami, which are celebrated with great enthusiasm and devotion by the devotees.

Shahji Temple

Shahji Temple is a famous Hindu temple located in Vrindavan, Uttar Pradesh. It is dedicated to Lord Krishna and is considered to be one of the most beautiful and ornate temples in the city. The temple is a popular pilgrimage site and attracts thousands of devotees every year.

The temple was built by Shah Kundan Lal, a wealthy merchant and a devotee of Lord Krishna, in the 19th century. The temple is famous for its intricate marble work, stunning paintings, and beautiful sculptures that adorn its walls and ceilings. The temple’s architecture is a unique blend of Rajasthani and Mughal styles, making it a visual treat for visitors.

The main deity of the temple is Lord Krishna, who is worshipped here with great devotion and reverence. The temple also has smaller shrines dedicated to other deities, such as Radha-Krishna, Lord Rama, and Lord Hanuman.

Shahji Temple is famous for its ‘aarti’ ceremony, which is held twice daily, and for its special ‘bhog’ (food offering) that is offered to Lord Krishna. The temple also hosts a number of festivals throughout the year, including Janmashtami and Radha Ashtami, which are celebrated with great enthusiasm and devotion by the devotees.

Radha Damodar Temple

Radha Damodar Temple is a prominent Hindu temple located in Vrindavan, Uttar Pradesh. The temple is dedicated to Lord Krishna and was established by Jiva Goswami, a disciple of Chaitanya Mahaprabhu, in the early 16th century. The temple is one of the oldest and most revered temples in Vrindavan and is considered to be a major pilgrimage site for devotees of Lord Krishna.

The temple’s architecture is a beautiful blend of Rajasthani and Mughal styles, with intricate carvings, stunning paintings, and exquisite sculptures that adorn its walls and ceilings. The temple’s sanctum sanctorum houses the main deity, Radha Damodar, who is worshipped with great devotion and reverence by the devotees.

The temple also has smaller shrines dedicated to other deities, such as Radha-Krishna, Lord Rama, Lord Hanuman, and Lord Ganesha. The temple is famous for its daily ‘aarti’ ceremony, which is held twice a day, and for its special ‘bhog’ (food offering) that is offered to Lord Krishna.

Radha Damodar Temple is also known for its spiritual significance, as it is believed to be the place where Jiva Goswami wrote several of his famous books on Lord Krishna. The temple is also associated with the teachings of Chaitanya Mahaprabhu, who is said to have visited the temple and performed ‘bhajan’ (devotional singing) here.

Radha Gokulananda Temple

Radha Gokulananda Temple is a prominent Hindu temple located in Vrindavan, Uttar Pradesh. The temple is dedicated to Lord Krishna and his consort Radha, who are worshipped together as Radha Gokulananda. The temple was established by Gopala Bhatta Goswami, a disciple of Chaitanya Mahaprabhu, in the early 16th century.

Radha Gokulananda Temple is also known for its spiritual significance, as it is believed to be the place where Gopala Bhatta Goswami wrote several of his famous books on Lord Krishna. The temple is also associated with the teachings of Chaitanya Mahaprabhu, who is said to have visited the temple and performed ‘bhajan’ (devotional singing) here.

Rangaji Temple

Rangaji Temple is a prominent Hindu temple located in Vrindavan, Uttar Pradesh. The temple is dedicated to Lord Ranganatha, a form of Lord Vishnu, and is considered one of the most important Vaishnavite temples in India.

The temple’s architecture is a unique blend of South Indian and North Indian styles, with a towering gopuram (temple tower) that is characteristic of South Indian temples. The temple complex also includes several smaller shrines dedicated to other deities, such as Lord Krishna, Lord Hanuman, and Lord Ganesha.

The main sanctum sanctorum of the temple houses the deity of Lord Ranganatha, who is worshipped with great devotion by the devotees. The temple also has a large hall for devotees to sit and offer their prayers.

Rangaji Temple is also known for its annual chariot festival, known as the Ratha Yatra, which is held in the month of March or April. During this festival, the deity of Lord Ranganatha is taken out in a grand procession on a decorated chariot, accompanied by thousands of devotees who sing and dance in his honor.

The temple is also associated with the saintly poet-saint Tulsidas, who is said to have composed his famous Ramcharitmanas while living in Vrindavan. The temple is believed to have been built by Seth Govind Das, a wealthy merchant from Mathura, in the early 18th century.

Sri Krishna Balarama Temple

The Sri Krishna Balarama Temple, also known as the ISKCON temple in Vrindavan, is one of the most famous and revered temples in the holy city of Vrindavan, Uttar Pradesh. This temple is dedicated to Lord Krishna and his brother Balarama, who are worshipped by millions of devotees worldwide.

The temple was established in 1975 by the International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON), a spiritual organization founded by A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada. The temple is situated on the banks of the Yamuna river and is spread over a vast area of land. It is one of the largest and most magnificent temples in the region, with a stunning architecture that reflects the ancient Vedic style.

The temple complex includes the main temple, which houses the deities of Lord Krishna and Balarama, along with Radha and other important deities. The temple also has several other shrines dedicated to different gods and goddesses, such as Lord Shiva, Hanuman, and the nine planets.

The Sri Krishna Balarama Temple is known for its daily worship rituals, which are performed with great devotion and fervor. The temple also hosts several cultural and religious events throughout the year, including Janmashtami, Holi, and Diwali, which are celebrated with great enthusiasm by devotees from all over the world.

One of the most significant attractions of the temple is the Krishna Balarama Mandir goshala, which is a cow shelter that houses several cows and bulls that are cared for by the temple authorities. The goshala provides a unique opportunity for visitors to experience the traditional way of cow rearing and to understand the significance of cows in Hindu culture.

Vrindavan Chandrodaya Mandir

The Vrindavan Chandrodaya Mandir is a magnificent temple located in the holy city of Vrindavan, Uttar Pradesh. It is one of the tallest and most impressive temples in India, with a height of 210 meters. The temple is dedicated to Lord Krishna and Radha, and is known for its stunning architecture and spiritual significance.

The temple is a project of the International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON), and construction began in 2014. The temple complex includes a variety of facilities such as a museum, a cultural center, a heritage park, and a Vedic cosmology exhibit.

One of the main features of the Vrindavan Chandrodaya Mandir is the “Vrindavan Chandrodaya Kirtan Hall,” which is a massive hall with a seating capacity of 5,000 people. The hall is used for kirtans, which are devotional chanting sessions that are an integral part of Hindu culture.

The temple’s main shrine is dedicated to Lord Krishna and Radha, and is located on the topmost floor of the temple. The shrine is surrounded by smaller shrines dedicated to other deities, such as Lord Shiva, Hanuman, and the Navagrahas.

The Vrindavan Chandrodaya Mandir is also home to a variety of cultural and educational activities. The temple hosts regular classes and workshops on Vedic philosophy, yoga, and meditation, and also offers vocational training programs for local residents.

The temple also features a “Krishna Lila Theme Park,” which is an interactive exhibit that showcases the life and teachings of Lord Krishna. The exhibit features life-size dioramas, animatronics, and special effects that transport visitors to ancient Vrindavan.

Jaipur Temple

Jaipur Temple, also known as Garh Ganesh Temple, is a famous Hindu temple located in the heart of Mathura city in the Indian state of Uttar Pradesh. The temple is dedicated to Lord Ganesha, the elephant-headed god, who is believed to be the remover of obstacles and the god of new beginnings.

The temple is located on a hill and offers stunning views of the surrounding city. It is believed to be over 300 years old and was built by the erstwhile king of Jaipur, Sawai Madho Singh II. The temple is famous for its intricate architecture, which combines Rajasthani and Mughal styles.

The main attraction of the Jaipur Temple is the idol of Lord Ganesha, which is made of black stone and is over 150 years old. The idol is believed to be one of the most powerful and revered idols of Lord Ganesha in the region. The temple is also home to several other idols of Hindu gods and goddesses, including Lord Shiva, Goddess Durga, and Lord Hanuman.

The temple is a popular destination for tourists and devotees alike and attracts thousands of visitors every year. It is especially crowded during the annual festival of Ganesh Chaturthi, which is celebrated with great enthusiasm and fervor.

In addition to its religious significance, the Jaipur Temple is also an important part of Mathura’s rich cultural heritage. Its stunning architecture and beautiful location make it a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Mathura.

Kesi Ghat

Kesi Ghat is a famous ghat (riverbank) located in Mathura and Vrindavan, a city in the northern Indian state of Uttar Pradesh. It is situated on the banks of the sacred Yamuna river and is considered to be one of the holiest places in the city. The ghat is named after the demon Kesi who was killed by Lord Krishna.

Kesi Ghat is a popular spot for devotees who come to take a dip in the holy river and perform rituals and prayers. The ghat is especially crowded during festivals and important occasions, such as the Krishna Janmashtami and Radha Ashtami festivals. Visitors can also take a boat ride on the Yamuna river from Kesi Ghat and enjoy the serene and peaceful surroundings.

Apart from its religious significance, Kesi Ghat is also a popular tourist spot and attracts visitors from all over the world. The ghat offers stunning views of the river, the surrounding temples, and the city of Mathura. It is also a great place to experience the local culture and witness the daily life of the people living in the city.

Kesi Ghat is one of the many sacred sites in Mathura and Vrindavan and is an important part of the city’s rich cultural heritage. Its serene atmosphere, stunning views, and spiritual significance make it a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Mathura.

Nandgaon Temple

Nandgaon is a small village located near Mathura and Vrindavan in the Indian state of Uttar Pradesh. It is believed to be the birthplace of Lord Krishna’s father, Nanda Maharaja, and is therefore considered a sacred site for devotees of Lord Krishna. The village is home to several ancient temples that are dedicated to Lord Krishna and his consort, Radha.

The main temple in Nandgaon is the Nand Bhavan Temple, which is dedicated to Nanda Maharaja and his wife, Yashoda. The temple is located on a hill and offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside. It is believed to be over 5,000 years old and is one of the oldest temples in the region.

Another important temple in Nandgaon is the Ladliji Temple, which is dedicated to Radha. The temple is believed to be the place where Radha spent most of her childhood and is therefore considered a sacred site for devotees of Radha. The temple is famous for its annual Holi celebrations, which attract thousands of visitors from all over the world.

Apart from these two temples, Nandgaon is also home to several other ancient temples that are dedicated to Lord Krishna and Radha. These include the Pavan Sarovar Temple, the Narsingh Temple, and the Kalki Temple. All of these temples are believed to be over 5,000 years old and are an important part of the region’s rich cultural heritage.

Nandgaon is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Mathura and Vrindavan and is an important site for devotees of Lord Krishna and Radha. Its ancient temples, stunning views, and rich cultural heritage make it a fascinating place to explore and experience the spiritual and cultural traditions of the region.

Bullet Points

Mathura and Vrindavan are known for their cultural and religious significance.
They are considered as the birthplace and childhood home of Lord Krishna.
The temples in Mathura and Vrindavan attract devotees from all over the world.
Mathura and Vrindavan are a testament to the rich cultural heritage of India and a spiritual haven for seekers of inner peace and enlightenment.
Mathura and Vrindavan showcase magnificent architecture and intricate carvings.
The festivals and celebrations held Mathura and Vrindavan temples are a sight to behold.
The region has some of the most famous temples in India, including the Shri Krishna Janmasthan Temple, Dwarkadhish Temple, and Banke Bihari Temple.

FAQs

Which temple is considered the birthplace of Lord Krishna?

The Shri Krishna Janmasthan Temple is considered the birthplace of Lord Krishna.

What is the significance of Dwarkadhish Temple?

Dwarkadhish Temple is dedicated to Lord Krishna and is considered one of the most significant temples in Mathura.

What is the highlight of Banke Bihari Temple?

The highlight of Banke Bihari Temple is the statue of Lord Krishna in a dancing posture.

What is the history behind the ISKCON Temple in Mathura?

ISKCON Temple was established in 1975 to spread the teachings of Lord Krishna and promote spiritual consciousness.

What is the significance of Kusum Sarovar?

Kusum Sarovar is a sacred pond that is believed to be the place where Lord Krishna used to perform his Raas Leela with the gopis.

Are there any specific rules or customs that visitors need to follow while visiting these temples?

A. Yes, visitors are expected to follow certain rules and customs while visiting these temples. These include dressing modestly, removing footwear before entering the temple premises, and not carrying any leather products inside the temple.

Can visitors take photographs inside the temples?

A. Photography is generally not allowed inside the temples. However, visitors can take photographs of the temple exteriors and surrounding areas.

Conclusion

Mathura and Vrindavan are undoubtedly the spiritual centers of India, boasting a rich cultural and religious heritage. The top 20 famous temples in Mathura and Vrindavan are a testament to the devotion and faith of millions of people. These temples are not only a sight to behold but also offer a spiritual haven for those seeking inner peace and enlightenment. A visit to these holy shrines is a must for anyone embarking on a spiritual journey.