Radha Gokulananda Temple is an ancient and sacred shrine located in Vrindavan, Uttar Pradesh, nestled between Kesi Ghat and the Radha Raman Temple. This holy temple is a spiritual gem, rich with the living history of Gaudiya Vaishnavism and the legacy of great saints like Lokanath Goswami, Narottama Dasa Thakur, and Vishwanath Chakravarti Thakur.
Historical Significance
The Radha Gokulananda Temple is not just a temple—it’s a living testimony to the devotion of Gaudiya Vaishnav acharyas. The temple was constructed under the guidance of Vishwanath Chakravarti Thakur, one of the most influential Vaishnav scholars and saints.
Originally, each deity worshiped by the acharyas had its own temple. Over time, when the original Radha-Vinoda Temple (worshiped by Lokanath Goswami) fell into disrepair, Vishwanath Chakravarti unified the deities into one temple, now known as the Radha Gokulananda Mandir.
Deities Worshiped
This temple is unique in that it houses deities worshiped by multiple spiritual masters:
- Radha-Vinoda – Worshiped by Lokanath Goswami
- Vijaya Govinda – Worshiped by Baladeva Vidyabhushana
- Radha-Gokulananda – Worshiped by Vishwanath Chakravarti Thakur
- Small Krishna Deity and Lord Caitanya Mahaprabhu – Worshiped by Narottama Dasa Thakur
These deities once stood in separate temples, but now, they are lovingly worshipped under one roof, creating an atmosphere filled with deep spiritual energy and unity.
Sacred Relic: Govardhana Shila
One of the most spiritually moving aspects of this temple is the presence of a Govardhana Shila—a sacred stone from Govardhan Hill that was personally worshiped by Lord Chaitanya Mahaprabhu.
- This shila bears Lord Chaitanya’s thumbprint and was moist with His tears.
- It was later gifted to Raghunatha Dasa Goswami, who worshiped it with great love.
- Today, Krishna Priya Thakurani, a descendant in the disciplic line, continued this worship tradition.
- The shila can be viewed by giving a small donation at the temple.
This makes the temple not only historically rich but also mystically powerful.
Temple Architecture
The temple features traditional red sandstone architecture, simple yet spiritually vibrant. Unlike larger temples, it offers a quiet and meditative setting, ideal for chanting, reflection, and connecting with the divine.
Key highlights include:
- Peaceful courtyards and shrines
- Multiple altars for each acharya’s deity
- Samadhi (tomb) of Lokanath Goswami is located nearby
Temple Timings
- Mangal Darshan (Morning): 8:00 AM – 12:00 Noon
- Evening Darshan: 5:20 PM – 8:00 PM
- Mangala Aarti (Summer): 5:00 AM
- Mangala Aarti (Winter): 6:00 AM
Special celebrations are held on occasions like Gaura Purnima, Radhashtami, and Janmashtami.
How to Reach Radha Gokulananda Temple from Delhi
Distance: Approx. 160 km
- By Road: Take the Yamuna Expressway for a smooth 3–4 hour journey from Delhi to Vrindavan.
- By Train: Board a train to Mathura Junction, then take a rickshaw or taxi (15 km) to Vrindavan.
- By Air: Nearest airport is Indira Gandhi International Airport, Delhi.
Once in Vrindavan, you can reach the temple easily by foot or rickshaw—it’s located on the Parikrama Marg, between Kesi Ghat and Radha Raman Temple.
Why This Temple Is Special
- Historical and devotional convergence of multiple Gaudiya saints.
- Home to rare and original deities of saints like Lokanath Goswami and Narottama Das Thakur.
- Hosts the thumb-printed Govardhan Shila of Lord Chaitanya—a tangible connection to divine love.
- Offers a quiet, contemplative experience amidst the vibrant devotional energy of Vrindavan.
- Surrounded by other important sites like Radha Madan Mohan Temple, Radha Raman, and Seva Kunj.
Plan Your Visit
The Radha Gokulananda Temple is a sacred destination that every true seeker and devotee must visit. With its deep roots in the bhakti movement and serene atmosphere, this temple offers not just darshan, but a powerful spiritual experience.
