Nestled in the heart of devotion, this sacred temple is dedicated to Lord Krishna, the central deity of the Vaishnava sect known as Pushtimarg. Built in the 17th century, this divine sanctuary stands on a spot chosen by Lord Krishna himself. According to legend, the idol of Lord Krishna was being transported from Vrindavan to escape the destructive wrath of Mughal emperor Aurangzeb. As the bullock cart carrying the idol reached this very spot, the wheel broke and sank deep into the mud, rendering the cart immovable. The accompanying priest realized that the Lord had chosen this place as his eternal abode, leading to the construction of this magnificent temple.
Govardhan Hill, located near the town of Vrindavan, holds immense sacred significance within various Hindu traditions. Also known as Giriraj, this revered hill is the pious center of Braj and is identified as the origin land of Lord Krishna. In keeping with tradition, there is also a Giriraj Hill near the city of Nathdwara. The legend behind Govardhan Hill is a tale of divine protection: Lord Krishna once lifted the hill on his little finger to shield his people and cattle from torrential rains. This miraculous act earned him the title "Giriraj Dharan." A sacred practice in the Vaishnava tradition is the Parikrama, or circumambulation, around the hill.
Lal Bagh, a beautifully renovated garden just one kilometer from the town, has quickly become a charming destination for tourists and local residents alike. This picturesque garden is not only a visual delight but also a cultural treasure, housing the Shrinathji Museum where visitors can explore old chariots and fascinating exhibitions. In the heart of Lal Bagh lies the enchanting 'Shravan Bhadarva' garden, adorned with fountains and lush trees. The fruits harvested here are offered to Lord Shrinathji in the temple, adding a sacred touch to this serene oasis. Elegantly designed, the garden features captivating fountains and vibrant lighting that enhance its beauty and create an inviting atmosphere.
Shrinathji's beloved Gaushala, located just 3 kilometers from his haveli, is a sanctuary surrounded by picturesque hills and expansive open grounds. This tranquil haven offers breathtaking views of the serene landscape. Designed alongside the haveli, the Gaushala is home to 2,000 cows, lovingly cared for by a dedicated staff of 50 guwals. Shrinathji's deep affection for his beloved 'Gaumata' is legendary, and he cherished spending time with them. A visit to this sacred Gaushala is considered essential for completing any pilgrimage. As the saying goes, "No visit is complete without experiencing the heart of Shrinathji’s devotion".
The Statue of Belief in Nathdwara is a monumental marvel, standing at 351 feet, making it one of the tallest Shiva statues in the world. Located in the picturesque town of Nathdwara in Rajasthan, India, this colossal statue is a symbol of devotion and architectural brilliance. It attracts devotees and tourists alike, offering a spiritual ambiance against the backdrop of the Aravalli hills. The statue's intricate design and serene expression of Lord Shiva inspire awe and reverence. It serves as a beacon of faith, drawing visitors to experience its grandeur and the tranquil surroundings of Nathdwara.
In the charming town of Mandaphia, nestled along the Chittorgarh-Udaipur highway, about 40 kilometers from Chittorgarh, stands the revered shrine of Shri Sanwariya Sethji. This sacred site has a fascinating legend that dates back to 1840 when a humble milkman named Bholaram Gurjar dreamt of three divine statues buried in the village of Chapar, Bhadsoda-Bagund. Inspired by his vivid dream, the villagers began to dig and, astonishingly, unearthed three idols exactly as described. One idol was moved to Mandaphia, another to Bhadsoda, while the third remained at the original discovery site.
Eklingji, an awe-inspiring temple complex dating back to the 8th century, is a treasure trove of spiritual and architectural grandeur. This sacred site comprises 108 small temples, with the main temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, featuring exquisite four-headed sculptures carved in black stone. Located in Nagda, once the capital of the Mewar kingdom, the complex also includes the majestic ruins of the 10th-century Saas-Bahu temple. The Eklingji Temple is a marvel of conception and execution, with its towering 50-foot Shikhar and an impressive 60-foot circumference. The sanctum sanctorum is a masterpiece, with four doors in each direction, each adorned with gem-studded steps.
The pride of Rajsamand District, "Haldighati," is renowned worldwide for the heroic deeds of the great Maharana Pratap. Located 44 kilometers from Udaipur and 17 kilometers from Nathdwara, this historic site nestles in the heart of the Aravali range. The narrow, turmeric-colored region, Haldighati, played a crucial role in defending the honor of the Mewar dynasty. Haldighati is famously known as the battleground of the epic Battle of Haldighati, which took place in 1576 between the Kingdom of Mewar and the Mughal Army led by King Mansingh. This site is not only steeped in history but also celebrated for its charity rose products and the unique mud art of Molela.
Dwarkadhish Temple, an architectural masterpiece in the Chalukya style, is dedicated to Lord Krishna and also known as the Jagat Temple. Dwarka, where this temple stands, has a rich history dating back to the Mahabharata era. The five-story shrine is a grand and marvelous structure, constructed with limestone and sand, and believed to be built by Vajranabha on land reclaimed from the sea by Lord Krishna. This 2200-year-old temple features a magnificent black idol of Lord Krishna that is so captivating, devotees feel the divine presence before them. The temple showcases intricate sculptural detailing, a testament to the craftsmanship of the ancestral dynasties that ruled the region.
Udaipur, a captivating city in Rajasthan, is often referred to as the "Lake City of Rajasthan" or the "Venice of the East." Enclosed by the majestic Aravali Hills, Udaipur boasts the most number of small and large water reservoirs in the region, creating a scenic and serene atmosphere. Travelers are enchanted by the city's stunning palaces and forts, each holding a rich ancestral history of royals. Well-known temples and museums add to the cultural tapestry, while the iconic Lake Pichola offers delightful boat rides and romantic sunsets. Nestled in a valley surrounded by four beautiful lakes, Udaipur is a paradise for history enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. The city's charm lies in its ability to seamlessly blend historical grandeur with natural beauty.