About Mathura's Dwarkadhish Temple
It is Mathura's most magnificent temple, with intricate structure and murals that are known throughout the country. In the temple, Lord Dwarkadheesh, a form of Lord Krishna known as Dwarkanath, sits as a black marble idol.
There are several beautiful ceiling murals showing different aspects of the Lord's life. Furthermore, the complex's majestic appearance is enhanced by the beautiful Rajasthani architectural patterns and craftsmanship. During the Shravan month, when Lord Krishna is cradled inside a Hindola, the Dwarkadhish temple presents a variety of thrilling activities (a type of a swing set).
It is one of Mathura's most popular temples. Every day, thousands of people come to pay their respects to Lord Krishna.
Cameras, cell phones, and other electronic devices are not permitted on the premises of the major temple. You must either leave it at your hotel or deposit it at their luggage counter. The majority of devotees offer flowers, Tulsi (holy basil) leaves, and bhog to the Lord (sweet and savoury food items).
You can enter the temple through one of two gates. Once inside the two-story temple structure, there is a big courtyard filled with pilgrims from all over the world who have come to honour the Lord.
History of Dwarkadhish temple, Mathura
The Dwarkadhish temple was established in 1814 by Seth Gokul Das Parikh, an ardent follower of Lord Krishna.
Mathura's Dwarkadhish temple architecture
The temple's Maru Gurjara architecture and artwork are well-known. The temple complex's basis is relatively large. In the main building, there is a nicely carved doorway in Rajasthani architecture. A few steep steps rise to the central courtyard from here. Three rows of ornately carved pillars support a beautiful painted ceiling representing Lord Krishna's life tale in the yard's centre.
The courtyard is divided into three sections by five rows of artistically carved pillars. As you ascend the steps leading to the temple's interior, you'll notice these pillars.
The Garbhagriha, or sanctum sanctorum, is located in front of the holy Idol's yard. During closed hours, the entryway is hidden by a curtain. Lord Krishna's birth and performance of the Raas-Lila are depicted in the courtyard's paintings. Within the temple grounds, there are various additional Hindu deities. Nearby is a little Tulsi (holy basil) plant, which is Lord Krishna's favourite.
Dwarkadhish temple, Mathura, entry fee and hours
Dwarkadhish temple has no entrance cost, and it is open to both Indian and international visitors.
During the summer, the temple is open from 6:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.; during the winter, it is open from 6:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Best time to visit
During the summer, Mathura is subjected to harsh weather. As a result, the best time to visit the Dwarkadhish temple is between October and March, when the weather is nice.
Mathura's Dwarkadhish temple offers a variety of activities.
Festivals
Janmashtami: Lord Krishna's birthday, Janmashtami, is a major attraction at Dwarkadhish temple. It is greeted with great passion and excitement by devotees. They bathe Krishna with milk, curd, and water before cradling him in the Palana (crib). The festivities come to a close on the sixth day after Baby Krishna's birth.
During the Hindu month of Shravan, the Krishna statue is placed within a Hindola (swing set) (August-September). Every day, the Hindola is masterfully carved with a fresh design.
Jhoolan Yatra: Jhoolan Yatra is fascinating and spellbinding to believers. It is a 13-day event that takes place in August or Shravan. The ceremonies are attended by devotees from all over the world. Krishna and Radha leave the sanctum and go swinging. The gold-plated swing is embellished with precious stones, garlands, and a variety of flowers.
The Divine Couple sits here to bless those who enter, and it stands majestically in one of the temple halls. It's a joyous sight that everyone should witness at least once in their lives.