Shri Radha Madan Mohan Temple is a sacred Hindu temple located in the holy town of Vrindavan, Uttar Pradesh. It is one of the oldest and most revered temples in Vrindavan, holding a deep spiritual significance for devotees of Lord Krishna and Srimati Radharani. Overlooking the serene banks of the Yamuna River, this temple is not just a place of worship but a vibrant reflection of the town’s eternal devotion to the Divine Couple.
History of Madan Mohan Temple
The Shri Radha Madan Mohan Temple dates back to the 16th century and is closely associated with Sanatan Goswami, one of the six Goswamis of Vrindavan who were direct disciples of Chaitanya Mahaprabhu. The original deity of Madan Mohan (a form of Lord Krishna) was discovered by Sanatan Goswami and later installed in this temple with the help of a wealthy merchant named Kapoor Ram Das.
Due to the Mughal invasions during Aurangzeb’s reign, the original deity was shifted to Karak, Rajasthan, for safekeeping. Today, a replica deity is worshipped in the temple, while the original remains in Karoli.
Architecture of the Temple
The Madan Mohan Temple is a stunning example of ancient North Indian temple architecture. Built in red sandstone, it stands atop a hill known as Dwadashaditya Tila, offering a majestic view of Vrindavan and the Yamuna.
- The temple's shikhara (spire) towers above the town and is visible from a distance.
- The interiors are simple, allowing the divine aura of the deities to shine through.
- The temple complex also includes shrines dedicated to Lalita Devi and Sanatan Goswami.
Despite centuries of changes, the temple retains its original aura of devotion and serenity.
Temple Timings
Visitors can experience the divine atmosphere and darshan at the following times:
- Morning: 6:00 AM – 12:00 PM
- Evening: 4:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Aarti and bhajans are performed regularly, especially during festivals like Janmashtami, Radhashtami, and Holi.
How to Reach Madan Mohan Temple from Delhi
Distance: Approximately 160 km
- By Road: You can drive or take a bus/taxi from Delhi to Vrindavan. The journey takes around 3 to 4 hours via Yamuna Expressway.
- By Train: Multiple trains connect Delhi to Mathura Junction. From Mathura, take an auto or taxi (15 km) to reach Vrindavan.
- By Air: The nearest airport is Indira Gandhi International Airport, Delhi. From there, travel by road or rail.
Why This Temple Is Special
- It is the first temple built in Vrindavan after centuries of forgotten heritage, marking the beginning of Vrindavan's spiritual revival.
- The temple is deeply associated with Gaudiya Vaishnavism and the bhakti movement.
- It provides a panoramic view of Vrindavan and Yamuna, especially enchanting during sunrise and sunset.
- Unlike many other temples, the aura here is peaceful and meditative, ideal for devotees seeking inner connection.
Nearby Attractions
While in Vrindavan, you can also visit:
- Banke Bihari Temple
- Prem Mandir
- ISKCON Temple
- Seva Kunj
- Radha Raman Temple
Plan Your Visit
Whether you're a spiritual seeker, a history enthusiast, or a devotee of Shri Radha-Krishna, a visit to Shri Radha Madan Mohan Temple is a soul-stirring experience. The chants, the architecture, the energy—it all comes together to remind you of the timeless love of Radha and Krishna.
