The Govind Dev Temple, also known as the Radha Govind Dev Temple, is one of the most beautiful examples of Hindu temples in Vrindavan. This temple is highly revered in Vrindavan and is a must-visit holy site as it is dedicated to Lord Krishna’s Govind Dev Ji form. The most notable feature of this temple is its architecture. This massive 3 storey structure was constructed almost completely out of red sandstone almost 500 years ago. Currently, the original Govind dev idol is stored at Jaipur for its safety and a replica is on display at Vrindavan. The Govind Dev Temple is known for its spiritual atmosphere, which mesmerizes its visitors and is also a treat to the eyes. It is a serene place in the holy town of Vrindavan, where the Lord Krishna is believed to have performed many miracles.
The Govind Dev Mandir – A Temple With A Rich Cultural Heritage
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The Govind Dev Temple is a temple of the Vaishnava sect of Hindus situated in Vrindavan. This magnificent temple was built in 1590 AD by Raja Mansingh, son of Raja Bhagwan Das of Amer and the inscription of this temple confirms this. The great emperor Akbar of the Mughal Empire also played a crucial role in constructing this temple. On his many visits to this land, he felt the resonating spirituality of the place and asked the local kings to build temples to the local deity Krishna to honour this place.
The construction of the temple took 5-10 years and is said to have cost about one crore rupees. Emperor Akbar provided red stone for the construction and also sent along some of his own architects to aid in its creation. And that is why there is no one architectural style used to create this structure. It is a mix of Hindu, Mughal, Jaipuri and Gothic architecture which is quite evident to visitors and devotees. This temple thrived as a centre of spirituality for decades until it was demolished by Emperor Aurangzeb. Originally the temple stood at a height of 7 stories, out of which only 4 remain. Since his reign till 1873, no efforts were made for its restoration, until the then king of Jaipur allotted certain funds towards its restoration which haven’t been fully completed to date.
Must Read: Things To Do In Vrindavan
The Govind Dev Temple – Timings and Location
Image Credit: MADHURANTHAKAN JAGADEESAN for Wikimedia Commons
The temple of Govind Dev in Vrindavan is open daily. Additionally, there is no charge for entry, although a strict dress code has to be followed by those who want to enter the inner sanctum sanctorum. Men have to wear either full-length pants or dhotis and women have to have a shawl over their head. Shorts and dresses are strictly forbidden inside the temple. 4.30 AM to 12.30 PM and 5.30 PM to 9.00 PM are the times for darshan and puja inside the temple. Wintertime at the temple is from October to February, and this is the ideal time to visit as the atmosphere is serene and enjoyable for any excursion in the day because the weather stays cool all day. Thus, you are free to come to the temple and stay for however long you choose.
Govind Dev Ji Vrindavan Temple is 1 km from the Vrindavan bus stop and 2 km from the Vrindavan railway station. The nearest airports are in Agra, 90 km away, and Delhi, 170 km away. If you are coming from other states, you can take a flight and hail a cab from the respective airports or railway stations. There is also a daily bus service from the railway stations to the temple.
Places To Visit In And Around The Temple
After seeking the blessings of the divine Govind Temple, don’t forget to embark on the famous attractions nearby. Here is the list of places to visit.
1. Keshi Ghat
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The Keshi Ghat, situated on the banks of the Yamuna, was initially built by Queen Laxmi Devi of Bharatpur in the 17th century. This beautiful ghat is home to almost every important temple in Vrindavan which makes it a location of great spiritual and divine importance. One theme you will notice throughout the temples in Vrindavan is the hint of Rajasthani styles and architecture in the temples and their construction. This theme carries forward into the Keshi ghat as well and can be noticed in the construction of the steps up to the temples from the ghat.
One of the most iconic and top tourist spots of Vrindavan, Keshi Ghat is an ideal spot to enjoy mesmerising sunrises and sunsets. Besides enjoying photography and taking a dip in the holy River Yamuna, you can also enjoy a boat ride from the bank to the centre of the river to witness the enchanting evening Aarti taking place along the ghat.
Location: Namita Rd On the bank of Yamuna River, Vrindavan 281121 India.
Timings: 6:00 am to 8:00 pm every day
Suggested Read: Temples In Vrindavan
2. Prem Mandir
Image Credit: KuwarOnline for Wikipedia
Prem Mandir is located in Vrindavan near Mathura district of Uttar Pradesh. It was built by Jagadguru Kripalu Maharaj as a temple of tribute to Lord Krishna and Lady Radha. The foundation stone of this temple was laid by Kripalu Ji Maharaj on 14 January 2001. The construction of this temple took 11 years and cost about 100 crore rupees. Imported white Italian Carrara marble has been used in it and has been prepared by over one thousand craftsmen from Rajasthan and Uttar Pradesh. This temple is a specimen of the renaissance of ancient Indian architecture.
The entire temple is built on 54 acres, and its height is 125 feet, length is 122 feet, and width is 115 feet. The surrounding gardens portray beautiful paintings and sculptures of the lives of Lord Krishna and his Lady Radha. Today, it stands as a divine icon of love and is open to people of all castes and religions free of cost. The Prem Mandir opens at 5:30 pm and closes at 8:30 pm.
Location: Sri Kripalu Maharaj Ji Marg, Raman Reiti, Vrindavan, Uttar Pradesh 281121
Timings: 8:30 am to 12:30 pm and 4:30 pm to 8:30 pm every day
3. Banke Bihari Temple
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Banke Bihari Temple is a Hindu temple situated in the town of Vrindavan. This temple is dedicated to Banke Bihari, which is said to be a combined incarnation of Krishna and Radha. Bihari was originally worshipped at Nidhivan, but later, when Banke Bihari temple was constructed around 1864, the icon of Banke Bihari was moved to its present temple. The idol of banke bihari at this temple stands in the Tribhanga posture. The icon of Banke Bihari is believed to be the combined form of the divine couple Radha Krishna. The icon was manifested by Vrindavan musician and saint Swami Haridas, believed to be the incarnation of Lalita gopi, a close associate of Radha Krishna in their celestial abode Goloka.
In the Banke Bihari temple, Banke Bihari is worshipped as a small child. Thus, no early morning aarti is performed, and no bells are hung anywhere inside the temple premises, as this may disturb Banke Bihari. Early morning aarti is performed only on the occasion of Krishna Janmashtami.
Location: Vrindavan, Mathura district of Uttar Pradesh, India.
Timings: 8:30 am to 12:30 pm and 4:30 pm to 8:30 pm every day
Further Read: Prem Mandir
This beautiful Govind Devi temple in Vrindavan stands today as more than a place of worship. Its divine proportions and architecture tell a story of the years gone by and tell us to never forget our roots and where we come from. This temple’s divine presence touches all that surrounds giving the whole town and all its structure a beautiful spirituality that people come in search of. So keep this temple and its surrounding locations in mind when planning your trip to Vrindavan.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Govind Dev Temple In Vrindavan
How long will it take to fully explore the town of Vrindavan?
It will take around 2 to 3 days to fully explore this town and its temple but you can take longer if you want to take your time on the trip.
How's the weather in Vrindavan?
Vrindavan has your typical tropical weather with hot summers, thunderous monsoons and comfortable winters which makes winter the best time to visit this place.
Is there a dress code for entry to temples in Vrindavan?
Yes, there is a strict dress code that only allows full-length pants and dhotis for men and a shawl has to be worn over the heads of women when they enter the temple premises.
How long will it take to cover the govind dev temple?
With the full aarti and puja package it will take around 4 hours to fully explore this temple. However, you can cover the entire temple in more time.
Which temple in Vrindavan is made of marble?
The Prem Mandir at vrindavan is constructed completely out white Italian marble. This gives a mesmerising view to the visitors.
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