Which Are the Most Famous Krishna Temples to Visit in India?

In the devotional traditions of India, Lord Krishna holds a unique place. Wherever there is a temple of Krishna, devotees experience deep peace and divine joy. Each temple is distinct for its architecture, traditions and spiritual significance. Let us explore ten of the most famous Krishna temples in the country.

1. Prem Mandir, Vrindavan

Built entirely of white marble, Prem Mandir is a symbol of grandeur in Vrindavan. Spread over 54 acres, this temple was founded by Jagadguru Kripalu Maharaj. The walls and carvings beautifully depict the divine pastimes of Krishna. It is a must-visit for devotees and visitors alike.

Location: Shyama Shyam Dham, Shri Kripalu Maharaj Ji Marg, Vrindavan, Uttar Pradesh

2. ISKCON Krishna Temples (Multiple Cities)

The International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON) has temples not only across India but also worldwide. In Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Vrindavan, Bengaluru and Ahmedabad, these temples serve as centers of devotional music, discourses and meditation. They radiate joy and spiritual calmness.

Location: Multiple cities

3. Dwarkadhish Temple, Dwarka

Also known as Jagat Mandir, this ancient temple is believed to be over 2,500 years old. Located in Gujarat, the five-storey temple rests on 72 pillars. It is one of the Char Dham pilgrimage sites and worships Krishna as Dwarkadhish, the Lord of Dwarka.

Location: Dwarka, Gujarat 361335

4. Guruvayur Sri Krishna Temple, Kerala

Known as the Dwarka of the South, this temple worships Krishna in his child form as Guruvayurappan. Renowned for its daily rituals and grand festivals, it is one of the most sacred shrines in Kerala.

Location: East Nada, Guruvayur, Kerala 680101

5. Jugal Kishore Temple, Vrindavan

One of the oldest temples in Vrindavan, Jugal Kishore Temple is also called Kesi Ghat Temple. Constructed of red sandstone, it offers a serene atmosphere for worship and meditation.

Location: Gotam Nagar, Vrindavan, Uttar Pradesh

6. Jagannath Temple, Ahmedabad

This temple enshrines Krishna along with Balram and Subhadra. The wooden idols are ceremonially replaced from time to time. Inspired by the Puri Jagannath Temple, it stands as a major spiritual landmark of Gujarat.

Location: Jamalpur, Ahmedabad, Gujarat 380022

7. Bankey Bihari Temple, Vrindavan

One of the most visited temples in Vrindavan, Bankey Bihari Temple is famous for the deity in Tribhanga posture. Festivals like Holi and Janmashtami are celebrated with great devotion here.

Location: Bankebihari Colony, Vrindavan, Uttar Pradesh

8. Udupi Sri Krishna Matha, Karnataka

Established in the 13th century by Saint Madhvacharya, this temple is both a shrine and a learning center. The unique tradition of viewing the deity through the Kanakana Kindi window makes it special.

Location: Sri Krishna Temple Complex, Thenkpete, Udupi, Karnataka

9. Shrinathji Temple, Nathdwara

Situated in the hills of Rajasthan, this temple houses Shrinathji, regarded as a self-manifested form of Krishna. The idol was brought here from Mathura during the Mughal era. It is the central pilgrimage site for followers of the Pushtimarg tradition.

Location: NH 8, Shiv Nagar, Nathdwara, Rajasthan 313301

10. Govind Dev Ji Temple, Jaipur

Located inside the City Palace complex, this temple is dedicated to Govind Dev Ji, a form of Krishna said to resemble his earthly appearance. It is renowned for its daily aartis and devotional atmosphere.

Location: Jalebi Chowk, Jai Niwas Garden, Jaipur, Rajasthan

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1. Which are the most famous Krishna temples in India?
A: Bankey Bihari Temple in Vrindavan, Dwarkadhish Temple in Dwarka and Shrinathji Temple in Nathdwara are among the most famous.

Q2. Which are the major Krishna temples in South India?
A: Guruvayur Temple in Kerala and Udupi Sri Krishna Matha in Karnataka are major temples in South India.

Q3. What makes ISKCON temples unique?
A: ISKCON temples are centers of devotional music, discourses and meditation where Krishna devotion is experienced globally.

Q4. Where is the Govind Dev Ji Temple located?
A: The Govind Dev Ji Temple is located inside the City Palace complex near Jalebi Chowk in Jaipur.

Q5. Why is Shrinathji Temple in Nathdwara famous?
A: The temple is famous for enshrining Shrinathji, regarded as a self-manifested form of Krishna and is central to the Pushtimarg tradition.