Govind Deo Temple / Govind Dev Ji Temple, Vrindavan - Timings, History, Architecture, Best Time to Visit

About Govind Deo Temple / Govind Dev Ji Temple

At a distance of 1 Km from Vrindavan Railway Station, Govind Deo Temple, also known as Govind Dev Ji Temple, is Hindu temple located in Vrindavan. The temple is dedicated to Govind Dev Ji, a form of Lord Krishna. Also called Radha Govind Dev Temple, it is one of the most impressive Hindu temples in Vrindavan, and among the must-include places in the Vrindavan pilgrimage packages. Govind Deo Temple has a spiritual atmosphere which mesmerizes its visitors.

History & Mythology of Govind Deo Temple / Govind Dev Ji Temple

The Govind Dev Ji Temple in Vrindavan boasts a profound history, tracing back to the 16th century when Rupa Goswami, a follower of Chaitanya Mahaprabhu, unearthed the deity at Goma Teela. According to the legend, Rupa Goswami encountered a boy who led him to the idol's location, only to vanish afterward. He came to the realization that the boy was none other than Lord Krishna himself. Consequently, with the assistance of local villagers, he excavated the idol and subsequently constructed a modest shrine dedicated to the Govind Dev Ji avatar of the Lord. In the 16th century, Raja Man Singh of Jaipur, a general under the Mughal emperor Akbar, was greatly inspired by the saint. Thus, during Akbar's pilgrimage to the sacred Vrindavan, the Raja commissioned the construction of this magnificent temple. However, when the Mughal emperor Aurangzeb began the destruction of temples, the deity was relocated to Amer, which is present-day Jaipur, and was later installed in the Govind Dev Ji Temple in Jaipur, where it continues to be venerated today.

Architecture of Govind Deo Temple / Govind Dev Ji Temple

The architecture of Govind Deo Temple is different from those of conventional temples. The architecture is an amalgamation of Islamic and Hindu architecture constructed in the Dravidian style. This temple features seven stories and is built from red sandstone, resembling a European cathedral. It is believed that Emperor Akbar contributed some of the red sandstone intended for the Red Fort in Agra for the temple's construction. In 1670, the temple suffered partial destruction at the hands of Mughal ruler Aurangzeb, leaving only a three-storied structure intact.

Regarded as one of the most beautiful temples in North India, the temple is situated on an elevated platform, requiring visitors to ascend a flight of stairs to access the main hall. Inside, there is an altar that combines marble, silver, and gold, with a sculpted lotus flower adorning the ceiling of the central hall. The idol of Govind Dev Ji was relocated to Jaipur by Raja Jai Singh II prior to its destruction by Aurangzeb. Consequently, the current temple in Vrindavan serves as a tourist attraction, devoid of any rituals. A replica of the Lord was later established in a new temple adjacent to the original structure, along with the deity of Sri Radha\. The temple is lavishly decorated during the festivals of Holi and Janmashtami, which are celebrated with immense enthusiasm and grandeur.

Festivals of Govind Deo Temple / Govind Dev Ji Temple

The Govind Dev Ji Temple serves as a significant hub for the observance of various Hindu festivals, especially those associated with Lord Krishna and Radha, such as Janmashtami, which commemorates the birth of Lord Krishna, and Radhashtami, celebrating the birth of Radha. These festivals feature special prayers, ceremonies, and events that draw a considerable number of devotees. Holi, known as the festival of colors, is celebrated with lively colors and cultural performances. Additionally, the temple observes other Hindu festivals, including Gopashtami and Sharad Purnima, with great enthusiasm.

Dress Code & Other Restrictions of Govind Deo Temple / Govind Dev Ji Temple

Govind Deo Temple in Vrindavan has a dress code that mandates visitors to don modest and traditional clothing. Men are expected to wear long pants, or dhotis along with shirts or kurtas, whereas women should opt for sarees, salwar kameez, or other forms of Indian attire that adequately cover the shoulders and knees. It is advisable to refrain from wearing Western garments such as shorts, skirts, and sleeveless tops.

Generally, non-Hindus are allowed to visit Govind Dev Ji Temple. However, there may be restrictions on accessing certain areas or participating in specific rituals.

Govind Deo Temple / Govind Dev Ji Temple Timings

Monday: 4:30 AM - 12:30 PM & 5:30 PM - 9 PM
Tuesday: 4:30 AM - 12:30 PM & 5:30 PM - 9 PM
Wednesday: 4:30 AM - 12:30 PM & 5:30 PM - 9 PM
Thursday: 4:30 AM - 12:30 PM & 5:30 PM - 9 PM
Friday: 4:30 AM - 12:30 PM & 5:30 PM - 9 PM
Saturday: 4:30 AM - 12:30 PM & 5:30 PM - 9 PM
Sunday: 4:30 AM - 12:30 PM & 5:30 PM - 9 PM

Govind Deo Temple / Govind Dev Ji Temple Entry Fee

Entry is Free

Best Time to Visit Govind Deo Temple / Govind Dev Ji Temple

The best time to visit Govind Dev Ji Temple in Vrindavan is from October to March. During this period, the climate is pleasant, making it comfortable for visitors to explore the temple and participate in the festivities. For individuals wishing to experience the temple at its most spiritually enriching, it is recommended to schedule your visit during the Janmashtami festival, which commemorates the birth of Lord Krishna and generally takes place in August/September. Another favorable occasion to visit the temple is Holi, the festival of colors, which typically happens in March. Nevertheless, it is important to note that the town experiences a surge of tourists during these festivals, so one should be ready for the bustling crowds. Vrindavan endures extremely hot summers and heavy monsoons, rendering those months less suitable for travel and exploration.

How to Reach Govind Deo Temple / Govind Dev Ji Temple

Agra Airport is the closest airport, which is 70 Km away from Vrindavan. Vrindavan has a Railway Station but Mathura is the major railhead, which is about 13 Km away. Mathura Junction Railway Station is a major rail head with regular train services to Delhi, Mumbai, Ahmedabad, Hyderabad, Pondicherry, Vizag, Dehradun, Chandigarh, Trivandrum, Shirdi, Jammu Tawi, Chennai, Hubli, Goa, Patna, Lucknow, Bangalore and Chhattisgarh. Vrindavan is also well connected by road with Mathura, Agra, Jaipur, Lucknow, Delhi, Indore and Allahabad. One can reach Govind Dev Ji Temple by hiring a cab, or an auto-rickshaw from all parts of Vrindavan.