Along the banks of the holy river Yamuna nestles the sacred city of Mathura. It is the birthplace of Sri Krishna, the eighth avatar of God Vishnu. The famous temples in Mathura Vrindavan are known to be the heavenly abodes of spirituality and sanctuaries of devotion. Hence, it is one of the most visited spiritual destinations in India.
The serenity and spiritual ambiance of each of the temples make you feel an overwhelming connection with the Lord whenever you set foot in these holy shrines. This is why Mathura Vrindavan is a place where you lose track of your time.
It is a pilgrimage place for ardent Hindus, especially Vaishnavites (believers of God Vishnu), it resonates with the presence of Lord Krishna’s presence in every corner. The solace and contentment you feel upon receiving blessings from Lord Krishna is genuinely inexplicable.
10 Best Temples in Mathura Vrindavan
In this article, we have hand-picked the 10 best temples in Mathura that exude the rich cultural heritage of the city. Besides experiencing tranquility, the splendor and excellent craftsmanship on every structure will leave you wonderstruck.
Say aloud “Radhe Radhe”, and take a look at these famous temples in Mathura Vrindavan.
1. Bankey Bihari Mandir
Banke Bihari temple in Vrindavan, Mathura is one of the most visited temples dedicated to Lord Krishna. The name “Banke” comes from the idol of Sri Krishna which is bent at three angels. ‘Bihari’ means “supreme enjoyer” and, as the holy Bhagavad Gita says, Our Lord Krishna, the manifestation of beauty and charm, is the supreme enjoyer. The tribhanga pose of the lord is the main attractive feature of this divine temple.
As the legend says, people worship the unified form of Sri Krishna and his consort, Radha. They had turned themselves into a single black idol at the request of Swami Haridas, a revered poet and musician.
He, who is the supreme power of this universe, Shri Krishna is pampered as a child. To let the lord sleep in peace, this temple never performs morning aarti except on the occasion of Janmashtami. There is also a ritual to draw curtains every 2 minutes. Only on the auspicious day of Akshay Tritia, the feet of Bankey Bihari ji are shown to devotees who come from all across the world.
This very famous temple offers unique devotional services like Nityani bhog seva, Chandan tuli seva, Itra-Gulab Jal seva, Baal bhog seva, Brahmin Bhojan seva, Swarna rajata bhushan seva, Phool bangle seva, Chapan bhog seva, Poshak shringar seva and many more.
Architectural specification
- One of the seven shrines of Thakurji, it is one of the temples in Mathura Vrindavan sculpted in pure Rajasthani style.
- The temple walls are etched with intricate carvings, and fascinating frescoes that narrate the enchanting tales from the life of Shri Krishna.
- The majestic entrance that leads to the main hallway has a high soaring ceiling, supported by elaborately engraved pillars.
Additional Information
Address: Banke Bihari Temple, Goda Vihar, Vrindavan, Near Shri Pagal Baba Temple, Uttar Pradesh 281121
- Timing: 07.45 am – 12.00 pm.
2. Radha Raman
Established by Gopala Bhatta Goswami, Radha Raman is one of the historic temples in Mathura, built in honor of the love between Lord Krishna and Radha. Raman translates to sweetheart; therefore the temple is dedicated to the lover of Srimati Radha. This temple also symbolizes the love devotees feel for their Lord, the sacred connection between a devotee and his Lord.
The most interesting fact about this temple is that the deity it houses is the original self-manifested idol of holy Saligram Shila. The divine diety also has an enigmatic smile on its face which is said to have appeared on its own. Another intriguing fact about this famous temple is that you will witness an immortal flame burning in the kitchen since the time of its construction. It symbolizes the eternal energy of this place.
It is believed that the Lord chooses a family to aid him in his everyday life. The Goswami family is bestowed with this divine duty of serving the Lord. They are provided with a ‘seva’ calendar according to which they devote their services to the Lord. The male members of the family prepare the bhog in the kitchen inside the temple complex. On various occasions, the family gathers and celebrates the festivities with the disciples and devotees.
Architectural specification
- The main gateway of the temple has exquisite Mughal-style architecture.
- The splendid white Dome structures on the top, and the deatilings carved on the walls, exude the majestic and royal aura. It elevates the aesthetics of the gateway.
- The main temple is designed in the proper Hindu style. The white marble aesthetics of the main sanctum sanctorum has a soothing effect on the eyes. The white pillars are partially colored to give it an illuminating touch.
Additional Information
Address: HMPX+4GC, Keshi Ghat, Vrindavan, Near Shri Radha Madan Mohan Ji Temple, Uttar Pradesh 281121
- Timing: 8:00 am – 12:30 pm & 6:00 pm – 8:00 pm
3. Radhe Vallabh Mandir
Erected under the guidance of Saint Hith Harivansha Mahaprabhu in the 16th century, Radhe Vallabh Mandir is one of the oldest temples in Mathura. The saint is believed to be the incarnation of Krishna’s flute. The interesting fact about this temple is that the idol of Radhavallabh was never sculpted. Lord Shiva gifted this diety to Atmadeva as a reward for his intense unwavering devotion.
This revered temple depicts the purest form of love between Radha and Shyam. The idol worshipped is of Sri Krishna under the name of Radhe Vallab which translates to consort of Radha.
Though the name has Radha in it, however, the temple has no deity dedicated to Shrimati Radha. But, to stay true to the name, there is a crown kept alongside the idol of Krishna which is worshipped as Shrimati Radhika.
As the saying goes, ” Radha Vallah darshan durlabh”, one glimpse of him is a matter of sheer luck. At regular intervals, curtains are drawn to give him rest.
This temple lavishly celebrates Radha Asthami for nine days. The place reverberates with bhajans and the kirtans narrating the prem-Kath of this celestial couple.
Architectural specifications
- Situated near Banke Bihari temple, Radhavallabh mandir was built during the reign of Mughal emperor Akbar. This medieval structure has a unique fusional style of Mughal and Indian architecture.
- Red stone was used to build this structure at the time when it was used only to construct imperial palaces and forts.
- The main temple structure has a North-Indian architectural design. The carvings are meticulously crafted on marble stones.
- The detailed frescoes are equally stunning as they depict the talers if the divine acts of Lord Krishna.
Additional Information
Address: FMXM+VPX Roshan Ganj, Kotwali Rd, Choubey Para, Mathura, Near Shri Ashtsakhi Temple, Uttar Pradesh 281001
- Timing: 5:00 am – 12:00 pm & 6:00 pm – 9:00 pm
4. Nidhiban Temple
The most sacred site for the ardent devotees of Radha Krishna, Nidhiban is a legendary Tulsi forest enveloped with tales of enigma. The mysteries revolving around this place intrigue the curiosity of the visitors. However, unfortunately, no one had the luck to witness what makes Nidhuvan so mysterious.
Surrounded by twisted basil trees that always grow in pairs, the temple lies in the heart of the forest. It is believed these trees take the shape of Gopis at sundown when Lord Krishan comes to perform raas-leela with his lover Radhika and them.
Nidhivan Mandir or the Rang Mahal is a sanctum of the divine couple who are believed to perform “Maha Raas” every night there. The pious room where they engage in the sacrosanct act is adorned with all the necessary shringar and food for the same purpose.
To give their God and Goddess privacy, the temple is shut down after sunset. Not a single soul is allowed inside the premises of the temple complex. Right after the sandhya aarti, the priests lock the mandir and the main gates to the forest.
Architectural specification
- One of the famous temples in Mathura Vrindavan, this shrine is carved in red sandstone that stands as an example of magnificent North Indian architectural style.
- The ornate pillars and the intricate carvings depict the stories of Krsihnaleela.
Additional Information
Address: Nidhivan Temple Rd, Gotam Nagar, Vrindavan, Near Shri Ashtsakhi Temple, Uttar Pradesh 281121, India.
- Timing: 05:00 am – Evening 07:00 pm.
5. Shri Krishna Janmabhoomi temple
Built by Krishna’s grandson Vajranabha, Sri Krishna Janmabhoomi Temple holds a significant place in the hearts of Hindus. This Hindu temple stands on the prison cell where Krishna was born to Mata Devaki and Shri Vasudeva. It is one of the holiest temples of Mathura.
The temple’s sanctum sanctorum houses a beautifully adorned idol of Lord Krishna, and the atmosphere inside is filled with the melodious chants of devotees. It is not just the main temple that attracts devotees or tourists to this spot. Aside from Krishna Janmasthan temple, there are other sacred structures inside the temple complex. They are Keshadev Temple, Garbha Griha Shrine, Bhagvat Bhavan, and Potra Kund.
The piousness of Shri Krishna devotees adds to the sanctity of the place during Janmashtami. Devotees sing bhajans and perform dramas enacting the childhood of Lord Krishna. Chappan bhog and panchamitra are offered to him.
Visiting this temple during this time lets you experience a unique positive energy, vibrancy, and bliss. Other festivals like Holi, Basant Panchami, Radhasmati, Sharad Purnima, and Deepavali are also celebrated here.
Architectural Specification
- Reconstructed multiple times throughout the span of history, the new main Sri Krishna Janmabhoomi temple is a symphonious blend of traditional Indian architecture designs.
- The walls of the main sanctum sanctorum have intricate carvings, meticulously crafted motifs and magnificent structures.
- The aesthetics of this Hindu temple is elevated with painted murals that depict various scenes from the life of Sri Krishna.
Additional Information
Address: Janam Bhoomi Marg, Janam Bhumi, Mathura, Near Shani Mandir Mathura, Uttar Pradesh 281001
- Timing: 5 :00 am – 12:30 pm & 4:00 pm – 8:30 pm
6. Prem Mandir
Besides the Taj Mahal, one Hindu temple that symbolizes pure love is the Prem Mandir in Vrindavan. Constructed by Jagadguru Maharaj, it is a temple dedicated to Radha and Lord Krishna. This temple is famous all across the globe and is popularly known as Shyama Shyam Dham or the temple of Divine Love. Devotees visit this temple to seek blessings and experience the ultimate form of love known as Prem Bhakti.
There is one spectacular feature of this temple. No sooner the sun sets, the entire temple illuminates with the changing lights system installed around the premises. The fountains, all the 94 pillars with the inscription of their Raasleela, and the live show of Govardhan Leela are the other major attractions of this place.
The architectural grandeur and elegance of this famous temple are the epitome of the Renaissance Indian architectural style. Every inch of the temple exudes the energy of true and pure love. Since love knows no boundaries, this temple is open to people from all castes and countries.
Architectural Specification
- The temple is made of white Italian Carrara marble, prepared by craftsmen from Rajasthan and Uttar Pradesh.
- The main entrance is carved with 8 arched peacocks.
- The sanctum sanctorum of this holy place has mesmerizing mosaics and carvings that depict the aesthetics of Indian architecture.
- The inner walls of the entire temple are etched with intricate carvings of the tales of Radha and Lord Krishna.
- The marble stones also have intricate carvings of the songs of Radha Govind ji in a language comprehensible by the common mass.
Additional Information
Address: Sri Kripalu Maharaj Ji Marg, Raman Reiti, Vrindavan, Near Ishwar dham gaushala, Uttar Pradesh 281121
- Timing: 08:30 am – 12:30 pm & 4:30 pm to 8:30 pm
7. Radharani Temple
Situated at the top of Bhanugarh Hill, the presiding deities of this temple are Radha Rani and her divine consort Lord Krishna. It is one of the first temples in Mathura dedicated to Goddess Radha in her birthplace Barsana. Here, Radha Krishna is worshipped together as Laadli Laal ( daughter and son).
As the folklore mentions, the twin towns of Barsana and Nandgaon are the hometowns of Radha and Madhav (another name of Lord Krishna).
The most celebrated festivals are Radhasthami and Krishna Janmashtami. Chappan bhog (56 kinds of dishes) are prepared after teh Arti and offered to the deities.
Architectural specifications
- This Hindu temple is sculpted in red sandstone in Rajputana style of architecture that dates back to the Mughal era. The combination of white stones with red sandstone emblemizes the transcendental love between Radha and Lord Krishna.
- It is embellished with magnificent arches, domes, and handmade intricate carvings on the inner wall and ceilings.
- To reach the temple, devotees climb up more than 200 stairs. on the way to the top of the hill, several other temples fall in the way which are worth the visit.
Additional Information
Address: HMMV+9P3, Shringar Vat Temple seva kunj post, Mathura – Vrindavan Marg, Near Shri Radhavallabh Lal Ji Temple, Vrindavan
- Timing: 7:00 am – 12:00 pm & 5:00 pm – 8:30 pm
8. Govardhan Temple
This famous temple in Mathura Vrindavan feels like a structure straight out of our childhood stories. It symbolizes the legendary tale of Govardhan Hill and Lord Krishna.
According to the legend, the Brajbashis were unable to please Devraj Indra, so he cursed them to suffer from incessant torrential rain. Seeing the villagers and animals in agony, Sri Krishna held the Govardhan mountain on his pinky finger for seven days. All took refuge under the mountain and hence were saved from the curse by their Nandgopala.
This Govardhan temple was built in remembrance of the great deed. This temple faces heavy footfall during the occasion of Guru Purnima and Govardhan Pooja. Since the hill had saved them, Sri Krishna had asked them to worship the hill every Diwali. The devotees engage in 23 km long Parikrama (circumambulate) barefooted to seek the blessings of their Lord.
Architectural Specifications
- The main temple is made of red sandstone. on teh top lies three spires made of chalky white stone.
- In front of the temple lies the structure of Sri Krishna in the pose where he has lifted the mountain and the villagers and animals have sought shelter underneath it.
- The paintings on the wall portray the hill as a bull and peacock with Krishna inside a cave. The hill symbolizes “annukut” ( mountain of food) which gets flooded due to the curse of Lord Indra.
Additional Information
Address: Janakpuri, Mathura, Near Maheshwari Bhawan, Uttar Pradesh 281004
- Timing: 6:00 am – 7:30 pm
9. Birla Mandir
The Birla Mandir, under the name of its creator Jugal Kishore Birla, was erected in commemoration of his parents. It is one of the famous temples in Mathura Vrindavan, where people worship Lord Laksmi-Narayan, Lord Krishna, and Ram-Sita.
The Birla Mandir also commonly identified as the Gita mandir because of the inscriptions of 18 chapters from the Bhagavad Gita on the pillars. It includes the preachings that Lord Krishna offered to Arjuna at the time of the Kurukshetra war.
Devotees love to spend time in this place because of its tranquil and heavenly ambiance. The monumental splendor reflects an excellent display of skills and craftsmanship. It is an extremely popular destination for devotees and leisure tourists alike.
Architecture Specification
- The edifice is made of Red sandstone and designed in a fusion style of ancient Nagara style and contemporary architectural style.
- The inner walls of the colossal structure embellished with fine marblework leaves the visitors in astonishment every time.
Additional Information
Address: Mathura – Vrindavan Marg, opposite Direct selling, Anand Nagar, Mathura, Isapur Banger, Near Gayatri Tapo Bhumi Uttar Pradesh 281003
- Timing: 8:00 am – 10:00 pm
10. Raman Reti
Situated 10 kilometers away from Mathura, Raman Reti in Gokul is not a temple but a sand area. Krishnaji played in this sand in childhood with his older brother Balaram and his friends.
Now, the Ramanbiharji temple in this area was built in honor of the lord when he appeared in front of his devotee. The folktale says that the famous saint Swami Gyandasji sat here in deep meditation to atone for his sins. The Lord was pleased with his sheer devotion and hence appeared to reward him. That is the spot where this temple stands now
Architectural specifications
- This sacred sand area spans across a vast area that houses a dear sanctuary, and other mesmerizing temples.
- On the premises of Raman Reti, there stands the ancient Krishna Ashram. In it lies the deity of Shri Krishna in the exact same form as the way he appeared in front of him.
Additional Information
Address: 3rd Street, Coachella, Mathura, Near SRI Guru Maharaj Ji Kuthiy ,Uttar Pradesh 281305
- Timing: 12:00 pm – 4:00 pm & 4:30 pm – 8:45 pm
Conclusion
If you are looking for divine serenity, Mathura is a place that deserves to be on your bucket list. A Mathura pilgrimage tour will be an unforgettable journey and there is no second thought about it. Once you visit the famous temples in Mathura Vrindavan, you will find the peace you are seeking in your life. That’s how enchanting this holy city is.
Apart from these mentioned temples, there are other famous shrines dedicated to lord Shiva, lord Vishnu, and so on. All these temples hold special importance in Hinduism.
Other Hindu temples to visit in Mathura include Dwarkadhish Temple, Kesava Deo Temple, Chamunda Devi Temple, and Yam Yamuna Temple. The other beautiful temples are Naam Yog Sadhna Mandir, Dwarkadheesh Temple,
