Location of Goverdhan Temple

Goverdhan Temple: A Divine Abode of Lord Krishna in Mathura

Goverdhan Temple is a sacred Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Krishna in Mathura, Uttar Pradesh. It is located at the foot of Govardhan Hill, a holy site where Lord Krishna lifted the hill to protect the people of Vrindavan from the wrath of Indra, the king of gods. The temple is also known as Daan Ghati Temple or Giriraj Temple, as it is believed that Lord Krishna accepts offerings (daan) from his devotees at this place. The temple is a place of history, culture and spirituality, as it showcases the ancient and medieval architecture and the legends of Lord Krishna and Govardhan Hill. Visit during Delhi to Mathura-Vrindavan One day trip.

Location of Goverdhan Temple

Goverdhan Temple

Goverdhan Temple is located near Govardhan town in Mathura district. Mathura is a city in the state of Uttar Pradesh, about 160 km south of Delhi. Mathura is a holy city for Hindus, as it is the birthplace of Lord Krishna and the land of his childhood pastimes.

Timing / Entry Fees Goverdhan Temple

Goverdhan Temple is open for visitors from 5 am to 9 pm every day. There is no entry fee for visiting the temple. However, visitors may have to pay a nominal fee for parking their vehicles near the temple.

How to Reach Goverdhan Temple from City Centre

Goverdhan Temple

Goverdhan Temple is about 25 km from the city centre of Mathura. Visitors can reach the temple by various modes of transport, such as:

  • Auto-rickshaw: This is the most common and convenient way to reach the temple from the city centre. Auto-rickshaws are easily available and charge around Rs. 200-300 for a one-way trip.
  • Bus: There are buses that ply between the city centre and the temple at regular intervals. The bus fare is around Rs. 20-30 per person.
  • Taxi: Visitors can also hire a taxi or a cab to reach the temple from the city centre. The taxi fare may vary depending on the distance and traffic, but it usually ranges from Rs. 500-800 for a one-way trip.

Things to Do / Must See Goverdhan Temple

Goverdhan Temple

Goverdhan Temple is a historic and spiritual landmark that offers a glimpse into the ancient and medieval history of Mathura and Vrindavan. Some of the things to do and see at the temple are:

  • Worship Lord Krishna: The main attraction of the temple is the idol of Lord Krishna, which is made of black stone and decorated with ornaments and clothes. The idol is believed to be self-manifested and very powerful. Devotees offer various items such as flowers, fruits, sweets, clothes and money to Lord Krishna and seek his blessings.
  • Visit Govardhan Hill: The temple is located at the foot of Govardhan Hill, which is considered a sacred site where Lord Krishna lifted the hill to protect the people of Vrindavan from the wrath of Indra, who sent heavy rains to destroy their crops and cattle. The hill is also known as Giriraj, which means “the king of mountains”. Devotees perform parikrama (circumambulation) around the hill, which is about 21 km long, as an act of devotion and penance.
  • Explore the temple complex: The temple complex has a blend of Hindu and Islamic architectural styles, as it was renovated by Raja Man Singh of Amber in 16th century AD, who was a general of Mughal Emperor Akbar. The temple has an arched gateway, a dome-shaped roof, red sandstone pillars and intricate carvings.

Significance of Goverdhan Temple

Goverdhan Temple

Goverdhan Temple is a significant place for Hindus, as it is related to the life and legends of Lord Krishna and Govardhan Hill. According to Hindu mythology, Lord Krishna was born in Mathura and spent his childhood in Vrindavan with his foster parents Nanda and Yashoda. He performed many miraculous deeds and pastimes with his friends and lovers in Vrindavan.

One such pastime was lifting Govardhan Hill with his little finger to protect the people of Vrindavan from the wrath of Indra, who sent heavy rains to destroy their crops and cattle. Indra was angry because Lord Krishna had convinced the people to stop worshipping him and instead worship Govardhan Hill, which provided them with food, water and shelter. Lord Krishna held up Govardhan Hill for seven days and nights without any fatigue, and Indra realized his mistake and apologized to Lord Krishna. Lord Krishna then blessed Govardhan Hill and declared that anyone who worships Govardhan Hill will be blessed by him.

FAQ’s

Q: When was Goverdhan Temple built?

A: Goverdhan Temple is believed to be built around 6th century BC by Lord Krishna himself, but it was destroyed and rebuilt several times over the centuries. The last person to rebuild it was Raja Man Singh of Amber in 16th century AD.

Q: What are the special occasions to visit Goverdhan Temple?

A: The special occasions to visit Goverdhan Temple are Govardhan Puja and Annakut. Govardhan Puja is the day after Diwali, when Lord Krishna lifted Govardhan Hill to protect the people of Vrindavan. On this day, devotees offer various food items to Lord Krishna and Govardhan Hill and perform parikrama around the hill. Annakut is the day after Govardhan Puja, when Lord Krishna distributed the food offered by the people to everyone. On this day, devotees offer a mountain of food to Lord Krishna and Govardhan Hill and seek his grace.

Q: Is Goverdhan Temple safe for visitors?

A: Yes, Goverdhan Temple is safe for visitors, but they should be careful while walking on the uneven and slippery surfaces of the temple and the hill. They should also avoid going near the edges of the hill, as there are no railings or fences.

Conclusion

Goverdhan Temple is a sacred and ancient temple of Lord Krishna in Mathura. It is located at the foot of Govardhan Hill, which is considered a sacred site where Lord Krishna lifted the hill to protect the people of Vrindavan from the wrath of Indra. The temple is a place of history, culture and spirituality, as it showcases the ancient and medieval architecture and the legends of Lord Krishna and Govardhan Hill. Goverdhan Temple is a must-visit place for anyone who wants to experience the heritage and devotion of Mathura and Vrindavan.

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