Sri Krishna Janmabhoomi Temple Complex is a Hindu religious site in Mathura in the northern Indian state of Uttar Pradesh. It is believed to be the birthplace of Lord Krishna, one of the most revered deities in Hinduism. It is therefore considered a holy site for millions of devotees nationwide.
The temple complex is situated on the banks of the Yamuna River and covers an area of approximately 5 acres. It is said that the original temple at the site was built by King Vajranabha, the great-grandson of Lord Krishna, around 5,000 years ago. Over the centuries, different rulers and emperors have destroyed and rebuilt the temple several times.
The current temple complex was constructed in 1965 under the guidance of the then Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh, Pandit Govind Ballabh Pant. It is managed by Sri Krishna Janmasthan Seva Sansthan, a trustee appointed by the state government, overseeing the temple complex's maintenance and management.
The main attraction of the Sri Krishna Janmabhoomi Temple Complex is the Garbha Griha, or the main shrine, which is believed to be the exact spot where Lord Krishna was born. The shrine is adorned with beautiful carvings and statues of Lord Krishna and his consort, Radha. Devotees from all over the world come here to offer prayers and seek blessings.
Apart from the main shrine, the temple complex has several smaller shrines dedicated to various deities like Lord Shiva, Goddess Durga, and Lord Hanuman. The complex also has a museum that showcases various artefacts and exhibits related to the life and teachings of Lord Krishna.
One of the most important festivals celebrated at the Sri Krishna Janmabhoomi Temple Complex is Janmashtami, which marks the birth anniversary of Lord Krishna. Thousands of devotees visit the temple complex during this time to participate in the various rituals and celebrations.
In recent years, the Sri Krishna Janmabhoomi Temple Complex has been at the centre of a controversial legal battle between Hindu and Muslim groups. In 2017, the Allahabad High Court ruled that the disputed site, which includes the temple complex, would be divided into three parts, with one-third going to the Sunni Waqf Board, one-third to the Nirmohi Akhara, and one-third to the Hindu Maha Sabha. The decision was later challenged by the Supreme Court, which is yet to give its final verdict.
Despite the legal tussle, the Sri Krishna Janmabhoomi Temple Complex remains an important religious and cultural landmark in India, attracting millions of devotees and tourists annually.
Places To Visit Near Sri Krishna Janmabhoomi Temple Complex In Uttar Pradesh:
Located about 2 km from the Sri Krishna Janmabhoomi Temple Complex, the Dwarkadhish Temple is dedicated to Lord Krishna and is one of the oldest temples in Mathura.Vishram Ghat is a sacred bathing ghat on the banks of the Yamuna River, where Lord Krishna is said to have rested after killing the demon Kansa. The ghat is about 3 km from the temple complex.
The Mathura Museum is located about 2 km from the temple complex and houses a vast collection of artefacts and sculptures from the ancient Mathura region.
Located about 26 km from Mathura, Kusum Sarovar is a sacred tank surrounded by lush green trees and is said to be where Radha and Krishna used to meet.
It is a small town located about 47 km from Mathura and is known for its Radha Rani Temple, dedicated to Lord Krishna's consort, Radha. The city is also famous for its Lathmar Holi festival, where women playfully hit men with sticks during the celebration of colours.
Located about 14 km from Mathura, Vrindavan is a popular pilgrimage site for devotees of Lord Krishna. It is home to several temples, including the famous Banke Bihari Temple and ISKCON Temple.
Located about 60 km from Mathura, Agra is famous for the Taj Mahal, one of the World's Seven Wonders. It also has other historical landmarks like the Agra Fort and Fatehpur Sikri.
These are some popular tourist attractions near the Sri Krishna Janmabhoomi Temple Complex that visitors can explore during their trip to Uttar Pradesh.