Radha Govind Jiu Temple- Vrindavan (Nagara Architecture)

"By dint of building well, you get to be a good architect" .




Govind Dev Ji Temple, also called Radha Govind Dev Temple, is one of the most impressive Hindu temples in Vrindavan. The temple is highly revered in Vrindavan, and a must-visit holy site. It is dedicated to Lord Krishna’s Govind Dev Ji form.
History of Govind Dev Ji Temple

Govind Dev Ji Temple Vrindavan history goes back about 5,000 years. 

In the 16th century, Raja Man Singh of Jaipur, a general of Mughal ruler Akbar, was highly influenced by the saint. So, when Akbar was on a pilgrimage to holy Vrindavan, the Raja made this majestic temple. It is at the same place where Sri Goswami established the idol.

But, when Mughal ruler Aurangzeb was destroying temples, the deity was moved to Amber.

Later, in the first half of the 18th century, Raja Sawai Jai Singh established the idol of Govind Dev Ji in Jaipur. The temple is known as Govind Dev Ji Temple of Jaipur, and the deity is still worshipped there today.


Architecture of Govind Dev Ji Vrindavan

The architecture of Govind Dev Ji Temple differs from other Hindu temples in the region. Instead of traditional Hindu temple style, it’s designed as a haveli (a mansion). The building has a mix of Hindu and Arabic architectural style. And unlike most Hindu temples, the temple walls don’t have scenes depicted from religious tales.

It is on a raised plinth and one has to climb a flight of stairs to reach the main hall.It was once a magnificent seven storeyed structure built in the form of a Greek cross. The temple has an impressive altar of marble and silver.

The entire temple is built with blocks of red sandstone. It has a high ceiling with pillars on both sides of the courtyard that leads to the sanctum.

The ceiling of the main hall is decorated with a sculptured lotus which weighs several tonnes. The temple is decorated with flowers during Janmashtami and Holi. It is said that the Emperor Akbar donated some of the red sandstone that had been brought for the Red Fort at Agra, for the construction of this temple. The temple combines western, Hindu and Muslim architectural elements in its structure.

The top four floors of Govind Dev Ji Temple Vrindavan were destroyed during the reign of Aurangzeb. But, it still has an imposing appearance.
 
Images of Radha Govind Jiu Mandir



Things to do at Govind Dev Ji Vrindavan

Although the original deity of Shri Radha Govind Dev Ji Temple was moved to Jaipur 300 years ago, you can still have the darshan here. A replica of Govind Ji’s idol was installed, along with the idol of Radha.

You can explore the impressive interiors and exteriors of the temple too, during your visit.

And if you want to be part of the festive celebrations, visit this holy place during Holi or Krishna Janmashtami. These are the major festivals in Govind Dev Ji Vrindavan. The entire temple is decorated with flowers and devotees take part in the special rituals, celebrations and events organised by the temple.

Govind Dev Ji Vrindavan Timings and Entry Fee

Radha Govind Dev Ji Temple Vrindavan is open on all days. And the entry is free. The darshan timings are from 4.30 AM to 12.30 PM and from 5.30 PM to 9.00 PM.

The best time to visit the temple is during winter, which begins around October and ends in February. The weather remains cool throughout the day, making the environment calming and pleasant for the trip. So, you can visit the temple and spend as much time as you want.

How to reach Govind Dev Ji Temple Vrindavan?

Radha Govind Dev Ji Vrindavan Temple is about 1 km away from Vrindavan bus stop and 2 km away from Vrindavan railway station. The nearest airports are in Agra (90 km away) and Delhi (170 km away).

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