Shri Nathji Temple, Nathdwara
Shri Nathji Temple is located in Nathdwara, a town in the Rajsamand district of Rajasthan, India. It lies around 48 km from Udaipur and is easily accessible via the Udaipur-Ajmer highway.
🔱 Deity and Significance:
The temple is dedicated to Shri Nathji, a form of Lord Krishna worshipped as a seven-year-old child lifting Govardhan Hill.
- The deity is considered the divine protector of Nathdwara and is highly revered by Vaishnavites.
- The idol symbolizes Krishna’s leela of lifting Govardhan Hill to protect the villagers from Lord Indra’s wrath.
🌟 History and Mythology:
- Historical Origins:
The idol of Shri Nathji was originally enshrined in Govardhan (Vrindavan). During the Mughal invasion in the 17th century, the deity was moved to protect it from destruction. - Arrival in Nathdwara:
- As per legend, while being transported, the bullock cart carrying the idol got stuck near Nathdwara. The priests considered this a divine sign and decided to establish the temple there.
- The temple was constructed in 1672 AD by Maharana Raj Singh of Mewar.
🛕 Architecture and Temple Complex:
- The temple is built in Mewar-style architecture, with simple yet elegant marble structures.
- The sanctum sanctorum (garbhagriha) houses the idol of Shri Nathji, adorned with beautiful garments and jewelry.
- The idol’s attire and decorations change seven times a day, symbolizing the different moods and activities of Lord Krishna.
- The temple complex includes:
- Kirtan Bhavan: For devotional songs and bhajans.
- Haveli-style architecture with beautiful paintings and wall carvings.
- Daanpatra (donation box) where devotees make offerings.
🙏 Religious Rituals and Festivals:
- Aarti and Darshan Timings:
The temple follows “seva” (service) rituals, with seven darshans throughout the day, each representing different activities of Lord Krishna:- Mangla Aarti: Early morning (Krishna wakes up)
- Shringar Aarti: Dressing the idol
- Gwal Aarti: Mid-morning, symbolizing Krishna grazing cows
- Rajbhog Aarti: Offering of the main meal
- Utthapan Aarti: Mid-afternoon darshan
- Bhog Aarti: Evening meal offering
- Shayan Aarti: Night darshan before Krishna rests
- Annkoot Festival:
- Celebrated on Govardhan Puja, the temple hosts a grand Annkoot darshan with mountains of food offered to the deity.
- Janmashtami:
- Krishna’s birth is celebrated with devotional music, bhajans, and special darshans.
🚩 Temple Timings:
- Morning: 5:30 AM – 1:00 PM
- Evening: 4:00 PM – 8:30 PM
- Best time for darshan: During aarti hours, especially the Mangla and Shringar darshans.
🚗 How to Reach:
- By Road:
- Nathdwara is 48 km from Udaipur, accessible by buses, taxis, and private vehicles.
- By Train:
- The nearest railway station is Mavli Junction, around 30 km from Nathdwara.
- By Air:
- The nearest airport is Maharana Pratap Airport, Udaipur, around 42 km away.
🌟 Accommodation and Facilities:
- Hotels and Dharamshalas:
- Numerous hotels, lodges, and dharamshalas are available in Nathdwara for devotees.
- Prasad and Souvenirs:
- Shops near the temple sell prasad, souvenirs, and religious items.
- Local Delicacies:
- Nathdwara is famous for its peda (sweet), which is often bought as prasad.
🌺 Tips for Devotees:
- Dress Code:
- Traditional attire is recommended for darshan.
- Photography:
- Photography inside the temple is strictly prohibited.
- Best Time to Visit:
- During Janmashtami or Govardhan Puja for grand celebrations.
- Winter months (October to March) offer pleasant weather.
