India has lots of temples, each for different gods and goddesses. Among these gods, there are three gods known as Trimuti (Lord Shiva, Lord Vishnu & Brahma) are supreme gods according to Hindu Myths. Lord Krishna is the eighth incarnation of Lord Vishnu who is the maintainer of the universe. People across the world loves loves Lord Krishna the most, because of his completeness. He played all the roles in his lifetime, he was a great friend to Sudama, was a great lover for Radha, was a great friend to Arjuna & Draupadi & gave teachings to the whole world in the form of Bhagavad Gita.
As we travel around India, we’ll see many temples dedicated to Lord Krishna. Each one has its own stories of how people deeply believe in him and show their love. From the busy streets of Mathura, where Krishna was born, to the peaceful shores of Dwarka in Gujarat, where he lived as a prince, these temples remind us of his lasting impact. Let’s explore together and visit 15 of the most important Lord Krishna temples in India. It’ll be a journey filled with love and devotion!
1. Dwarkadhish Temple, Mathura:
Timings: 07:00 am–12:30 pm, 05:00–09:00 pm
Dwarkadheesh Temple in Mathura is a big and old temple dedicated to Lord Krishna. It’s known for its beautiful black marble idol of Dwarkanath and a white marble idol of Radharani. People love visiting during the Sri Krishna Janmashtami festival when the temple is all decorated and full of joy. The temple is called by many names and is considered very important for Krishna devotees. It’s believed to have been the capital of Lord Krishna and was built by his great-grandson. The temple has amazing carvings all around it and is a special place for spiritual seekers. If you visit, don’t forget to also see the nearby Rukmini Temple for a complete experience of devotion.
2. Shri Banke Bihari Temple, Vrindavan:
Timings: Summer–7:45 am to 9:30 pm, Winter–8:45 am to 8:30 pm
The Banke Bihari Temple in Vrindavan is very old and famous. People say the idol of Lord Banke Bihari (Krishna) in this temple was given by Radha and Krishna themselves to Swami Haridas. The feet of the idol are always hidden, but you can see them on Akshaya Tritiya. Every day, the temple does three services, and they serve a big meal in the morning. This temple is different from others in Vrindavan. If you want to see it at its best, go during the Shri Krishna Janmashtami festival. That’s when they do a special worship called Mangla Aarti, which makes the temple very special.
3. ISKCON Temple, New Delhi:
Timings: 4:30 am – 1:00 pm, 4:00 pm – 9:00 pm
The ISKCON Temple, also known as Sri Sri Radha Parthasarathi Mandir, is a prominent landmark in the Hare Krishna Hills area of South Delhi. Dedicated to Lord Krishna and Radha, it serves as a spiritual haven amidst the urban landscape. The temple’s architecture is a fusion of traditional Indian temple styles with modern elements, featuring towering spires and intricate carvings. Inside, visitors can participate in prayers, attend cultural events, and enjoy vegetarian meals served as prasadam. The temple’s serene ambiance and spiritual activities make it a popular destination for both devotees and tourists seeking solace and cultural enrichment.
4. Prem Mandir, Vrindavan:
Timings:8:30 am–12:30 pm, 4:30–8:30 pm
Prem Mandir is a famous temple in Vrindavan, Uttar Pradesh, India, dedicated to Lord Krishna. It’s known for its beautiful white marble carvings that show love and devotion to the deity. The temple has a mix of traditional and modern styles, making it a lovely sight. Inside, you’ll find a peaceful atmosphere where you can pray and meditate. The main area has stunning idols of Radha and Krishna, surrounded by intricate artwork from Hindu stories. A highlight is the evening light and sound show, telling tales of Lord Krishna’s adventures, which leaves everyone amazed. Overall, Prem Mandir is a place where people come to feel spiritual and experience the beauty of devotion to Lord Krishna.
5. Jagannath Temple, Puri, Odisha:
Timings: 06:00 am–09:00 pm
The Jagannath Temple in Puri, Odisha, India, is a famous Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Jagannath, a form of Lord Vishnu. It’s well-known for its unique architecture and holds great religious importance for Hindus. Inside, you’ll find idols of Lord Jagannath, along with his siblings Balabhadra and Subhadra, made of wood. These idols are replaced every twelve years during the Nabakalebara festival, which draws millions of devotees worldwide. The temple is also famous for its Rath Yatra, or Chariot Festival, where the deities are paraded in grand processions on decorated chariots. It’s one of the largest religious gatherings globally and is celebrated with much enthusiasm. Visitors can witness various rituals and ceremonies conducted by priests throughout the day, experiencing the serene and spiritual atmosphere of the temple, offering a glimpse into India’s rich cultural and religious heritage.
6. Udupi Sri Krishna Matha, Udupi, Karnataka:
Timings: 05:00 am to 11:00 am,06:00 pm to 09:00 pm
The Udupi Sri Krishna Matha, located in Udupi, Karnataka, India, is a famous Hindu temple devoted to Lord Krishna. It’s a significant place for worshippers, known for its special customs and serene environment. The main deity, Lord Krishna, is worshipped as a small black stone idol, and the temple is popular for its daily rituals and offerings like ‘Anna Prasadam’ distributed to devotees. A notable feature is the ‘Kanakana Kindi,’ a window allowing direct viewing of the idol. With a history spanning centuries, the temple offers visitors a chance to experience Karnataka’s rich culture and spiritual legacy. It’s a must-visit for those seeking blessings and a deeper connection with Lord Krishna.
7. Jagannath Temple, Ahmedabad:
Timings: 06:00 am–01:00 pm, 03:00–09:00 pm
The Jagannath Temple in Ahmedabad is a prominent Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Jagannath, a form of Lord Vishnu. Located in the Jamalpur area of the city, it is a significant pilgrimage site and cultural landmark. The temple is known for its colorful architecture and vibrant festivities, especially during festivals like Rath Yatra. Devotees visit to seek blessings and offer prayers to Lord Jagannath, along with his siblings Balabhadra and Subhadra. The temple’s serene ambiance and spiritual atmosphere make it a popular destination for both locals and tourists alike, offering a glimpse into the rich religious heritage of India.
8. Radha Raman Temple, Vrindavan:
Timings: 09:00 am–12:00 pm, 5:30–09:00 pm
The Radha Raman Temple in Vrindavan is a revered Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Krishna, known as Radha Raman. Located in the heart of Vrindavan, Uttar Pradesh, it holds immense significance for devotees of Lord Krishna. The temple is renowned for its beautiful deity of Radha Raman, which was self-manifested from a shaligram shila. Devotees flock to this temple to seek the blessings of Radha Raman and experience the divine presence of Lord Krishna. The serene atmosphere and devotional ambiance make it a must-visit destination for spiritual seekers and tourists exploring Vrindavan’s sacred sites.
9. Ambalappuzha Sri Krishna Temple, Kerala:
Timings: 03:00 am–12:00 pm, 05:00–08:00 pm
The Ambalappuzha Sri Krishna Temple in Kerala is a cherished Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Krishna. Situated in Ambalappuzha, Kerala, it is renowned for its captivating architecture and spiritual significance. The temple is famous for its daily offering of ‘palpayasam,’ a sweet rice porridge, believed to be the favorite dish of Lord Krishna. Devotees visit this temple to seek the blessings of Lord Krishna and to experience the divine atmosphere. The temple’s serene ambiance and cultural heritage make it a popular destination for devotees and tourists exploring the religious traditions of Kerala.
10. ISKCON, Vrindavan, Uttar Pradesh:
Timings: 06:00 am–09:00 pm
The ISKCON Temple in Vrindavan, Uttar Pradesh, is a popular Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Krishna. It stands out for its striking architecture and spiritual significance. Devotees flock here to worship and engage in spiritual practices. The temple hosts various cultural and religious events, offering a serene atmosphere for prayer and meditation. Visitors can immerse themselves in the devotional ambiance and learn about the teachings of Lord Krishna. It’s a must-visit destination for those seeking spiritual enlightenment and cultural experiences in Vrindavan.
11. ISKCON, Bangalore:
Timings: 4:15–5 am, 7:15 am–8:30 pm
The ISKCON Temple in Bangalore is a renowned Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Krishna. Situated in Bangalore, Karnataka, it is famous for its grand architecture and spiritual vibrancy. Devotees visit the temple to offer prayers, attend religious ceremonies, and participate in devotional activities. The temple complex also features serene gardens, educational exhibits, and vegetarian restaurants serving delicious meals. Visitors can immerse themselves in the divine atmosphere, learn about the teachings of Lord Krishna, and experience peace and tranquility amidst the bustling city. The ISKCON Temple in Bangalore is a spiritual oasis that attracts devotees and tourists alike.
12. ShriNathji Temple, Nathdwara, Rajasthan:
Timings: 5:45 am–5:55 pm
The Shri Nathji Temple in Nathdwara, Rajasthan, is a revered Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Krishna, who is worshipped here as Shri Nathji. Located in the quaint town of Nathdwara, the temple is renowned for its exquisite architecture and spiritual significance. Devotees from far and wide visit the temple to seek the blessings of Shri Nathji and experience the divine presence. The main sanctum houses a beautiful idol of Lord Krishna, adorned with intricate decorations and precious jewels. The temple atmosphere is filled with devotion, with priests performing elaborate rituals and ceremonies throughout the day. Pilgrims can also partake in the sacred ‘darshan’ (sight) of the deity and witness the vibrant festivities and celebrations that take place regularly. Shri Nathji Temple is not only a place of worship but also a symbol of devotion and faith, drawing devotees and visitors to experience its spiritual aura and cultural heritage.
13. Arulmigu Rajagopalaswamy Temple, Tiruvarur, Tamil Nadu:
Timings: 8:30 am–12:15 pm, 4:30–9 pm
The Arulmigu Rajagopalaswamy Temple in Tiruvarur, Tamil Nadu, is a famous Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Rajagopalaswamy, a form of Lord Krishna. People come here to pray and seek blessings from the deity, believed to bring prosperity and joy. The temple’s main sanctum houses a beautiful idol of Lord Rajagopalaswamy, and throughout the year, various festivals and ceremonies are celebrated with enthusiasm. Visitors experience a peaceful atmosphere filled with devotional songs and rituals, making it a cherished spiritual destination in the region.
14. Shamlaji Temple, Samalaji, Gujarat:
Timings: 6–11:30 am, 12:15–12:30 pm, 2:15–8:30 pm
The Shamlaji Temple, situated in Samalaji, Gujarat, is a revered Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu in his form as Shamlaji. It holds great significance among devotees, drawing pilgrims from various parts of the country. The temple’s serene surroundings and architectural beauty create a tranquil atmosphere for worship and meditation. Devotees visit to seek blessings, offer prayers, and participate in religious ceremonies, especially during festivals like Kartik Purnima. The temple complex also includes other shrines and facilities for pilgrims, making it a cherished spiritual site in Gujarat.
15. Shree Ranchhodraiji Maharaj Mandir, Dakor, Gujarat:
Timings: 4:15 am–9:30 pm
The Shree Ranchhodraiji Maharaj Mandir, situated in Dakor, Gujarat, is a revered Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Ranchhodraiji, an incarnation of Lord Krishna. This ancient temple holds deep spiritual significance for devotees, who flock here to seek blessings and offer prayers. The temple’s magnificent architecture and intricate sculptures reflect the region’s rich cultural heritage. Visitors can experience a sense of peace and tranquillity within its sacred precincts, surrounded by the devotion of countless pilgrims. The temple also hosts various religious rituals and festivals, adding to its vibrant atmosphere. As a cherished spiritual landmark in Gujarat, the Shree Ranchhodraiji Maharaj Mandir continues to inspire awe and reverence among devotees and visitors alike.
In the heart of these temples, the spirit of devotion continues to thrive, inviting all to embrace the timeless teachings of love and our culture.
Your Turn!
Which is your favourite lord Krishna temple? Let us know in the comments section!