Best Krishna Temples in India
With its unique history, architecture, and spiritual significance, India is the repository of some of Best Krishna temples in India. This series explores the architectural significance of these temples as cultural landmarks, attracting millions of devotees and tourists from all corners of the world. Out of these, the less-known but interesting Yulla Kanda Temple is also famous. Here is a list of some of the best Krishna temples in India spread all over India, from all-time famous ones to some hidden Krishna temples.
Dwarkadhish Temple, Gujarat
Dwarkadhish Temple, Dwarka, Gujarat Located in Dwarka, Gujarat, the Dwarkadhish Temple is among the holiest of temples dedicated to Lord Krishna. Police believe it to be part of the Char Dham pilgrimage, dating back about 2,500 years.
Highlights:
- It is structured with five stories and rests on a total of 72 pillars.
- Dwarkadhish (King of Dwarka) The main deity is the black idol of Lord Krishna as Dwarkadhish.
- A temple built in a peaceful atmosphere, next to the Gomti River.
Best Time to Visit:
- August/September (Janmashtami – birthday of Krishna).
Sri Krishna Temple, Udupi (Karnataka)
The Sri Krishna Temple is in Udupi, in the Indian state of Karnataka, and is notable for its unique idol of Krishna, which is adorned with jewels. Popularly called the Krishna Matha, it is closely associated with the saint Madhvacharya, who is the founder of the Dvaita philosophy.
Highlights:
- The idol of Krishna is seen through a small window, Navagraha Kitiki.
- Our temple has a very regimented system of providing the food (prasadam) to the devotees.
- Its major attraction is the Paryaya Festival, which is celebrated every two years.
Best Time to Visit:
- Paryaya Festival (January) or Janmashtami celebrations.
Banke Bihari Temple, Vrindavan (Uttar Pradesh)
One of the most frequented Krishna temples is Banke Bihari temple located in vrindavan. The deity here is in the Tribhanga posture, which denotes the playful nature of Lord Krishna.
Highlights:
- The idol is also covered with a curtain which is opened every few minutes, adding to the mystery and devotion.
- There is an interesting ritual of waking up the Lord late morning in the temple.
- Celebrating the Holi festival here did not disappoint.
Best Time to Visit:
- It is a sight to behold on Holi and Janmashtami.
Shree Nathji Temple Nathdwara (Rajasthan)
Nathdwara, Rajasthan The Shree Nathji Temple in Nathdwara, Rajasthan, is dedicated to Shreenathji, a representation of Krishna. This temple is one of the important pilgrim spots for the followers of Vaishnavism.
Highlights:
- Its unique feature is a total of seven darshan sessions every day.
- On the temple walls are Pichwai paintings regarding Krishna’s life.
- This place is well known for Annakut Festival (56 food items are given as offer).
Best Time to Visit:
- Govardhan Puja and Annakoot Festival (October/November)
Puri (Odisha) : Jagannath Temple
While primarily dedicated to Lord Jagannath (a form of Krishna), the Jagannath Temple at Puri is among the most important Krishna shrines. It is associated with the Char Dham Yatra and the Rath Yatra (Chariot Festival).
Highlights:
- The chief gods are Lord Jagannath, Balabhadra and Subhadra.
- There are four gates representing significance to this temple.
- Mahaprasad served here is renowned all over the world.
Best Time to Visit:
- At the time of Rath Yatra (June/July).
Govind Dev Ji Temple || Jaipur (Rajasthan)
Govind Dev Ji Temple Located in City Palace Complex, Jaipur Govind Dev Ji Temple, is a beautiful Krishna temple located in the premises of the City Palace Complex in Jaipur where the devotees believe that the idol is a true form of Krishna.
Highlights:
- The temple has seven daily darshan timings.
- Raja Sawai Jai Singh brought this idol from Vrindavan to Jaipur.
- Its architecture is a mix of Rajasthani and Mughal styles.
Best Time to Visit:
Janmashtami, Holi and so forth.
Prem Mandir, Vrindavan (UP)
The Prem Mandir: a new but beautiful temple devoted to Radha-Krishna and Sita-Ram. It is a huge attraction in Vrindavan, built by Jagadguru Kripalu Maharaj.
Highlights:
- This temple is made from white Italian marble.
- The light and sound show in the evenings is stunning.
- There are carvings of Krishna’s pastimes on the walls.
Best Time to Visit:
- Evenings of a lit up temple beauty.
Yulla Kanda Temple, Himachal Pradesh
Yulla Kanda is a small Krishna temple which is one of the lesser known temples in the hills of Kinnaur located in the cold region of Himachal Pradesh.
Highlights:
- At an altitude of more than 12,000 feet, it is one of the highest Krishna temples.
- The Pandavas are believed to have constructed the temple.
- The Yulla Kanda temple trek is an incredible sight.
Best Time to Visit:
- Summer (May–September) the trekking season.
ISKCON Temples (Various Locations)
The members of the International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON) built Krishna temples in different parts of the world including, the most famous ISKCON temples, located in the places Mayapur, Delhi, Bangalore, and Mumbai.
Highlights:
- Daily aartis and kirtans are conducted with great fanfare.
- Advocating for Bhakti Yoga and spiritual studies.
- The restaurants Govinda Featured Vegetarian Meals
Best Time to Visit:
- At any time, but especially on Janmashtami.
Conclusion
There are numerous sacred shrines devoted to Lord Krishna scattered throughout India, each of them endowed with their individual villa’s spirituality and richness of history. Be it the magnificent Dwarkadhish Temple, the whimsical Yulla Kanda or the colourful Banke Bihari Temple every Krishna temple offers a different experience. If a pilgrimage is what you’re planning or if you want to explore the rich heritage of India, these temples deserve the title of best krishna temples in India.
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