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Shri Krishna Janmasthan Temple Complex, Mathura
The Shri Krishna Janmasthan complex in Mathura is built around the spot that tradition holds to be Krishna's birthplace: the prison cell of King Kamsa where Devaki gave birth to him. Entry is free, but security is strict: phones, cameras and all electronics must be left at the cloakroom outside. Inside are three shrines, the Garbha Griha over the birthplace, the Keshavdeva temple and the Bhagavata Bhavan.
The spiritual heart of Mathura is the Krishna Janmasthan Temple Complex. It's believed that here, in an underground prison chamber, Devaki and Vasudeva became Krishna's parents.
Today you can see a recreated chamber where, according to tradition, these events took place. The atmosphere is unusual: narrow corridors, prayers, crowds of pilgrims, and a sense of profound sanctity.
Tickets
Before you go
Strict security
Modest dress
Security rules: what you cannot take in
Security here is strict, and the checks are not a formality. Plan for them before you arrive.
- No phones, cameras or electronics of any kind. Deposit them at the cloakroom outside the gate; there is no exception for tourists.
- Expect a security check at the entrance. Carry as little as possible.
- Photography is impossible inside, since devices stay outside.
- Modest dress.
- Shoes: as at most Hindu shrines, expect to take them off.
Keep the cloakroom token safe and agree a meeting point with your group before going in: without phones, people lose each other easily in the crowd.
What to see inside
- Garbha Griha. The small sanctum over the place where, by tradition, Krishna was born. A marble pavilion and a recreated underground prison cell stand here, reached through narrow corridors, and it is usually the most crowded part of the complex.
- Keshavdeva temple. Built in 1957–58 on the site's long sacred ground.
- Bhagavata Bhavan. The large hall with Radha and Krishna deities installed in 1982.
The approach lanes, lined with shops selling prasad (blessed food), flowers and devotional pictures, are part of the experience, and so are the crowds. Expect noise, pressure in the queues and a sense of deep devotion all at once.
A short history
Excavations on the site have turned up pottery and terracotta from the 6th century BCE, and the temple on this ground has been destroyed and rebuilt many times. Mahmud of Ghazni raided the Mathura region in 1017–18; Sikandar Lodi destroyed temples in the 16th century; in 1670 Aurangzeb demolished the great Keshavdeva temple, and the Shahi Eidgah mosque was built on its ruins. The mosque still stands next to the complex; under a 1968 agreement the temple land went to the trust and the mosque's management to the Eidgah committee; that agreement is now challenged in court.
The modern complex began in 1944, when Madan Mohan Malaviya acquired the land with the support of the industrialist Jugal Kishore Birla. The Shri Krishna Janmasthan Seva Sansthan trust was formed in 1951, construction began in 1953, the Keshavdeva temple opened in 1958, and the complex was completed in 1982.
Timings and when to go
The temple does not publish its darshan timings online, and they change between summer and winter and around festivals. Check locally on the day, or with your hotel, before setting out.
Janmashtami, Krishna's birthday in August or September, is the biggest night of the year here: the celebration peaks at midnight, the hour of his birth, and the crowds are enormous, with security tighter still. Holi, Radhashtami and Diwali also draw large numbers. If you come for Janmashtami, arrive many hours early and carry nothing you cannot leave behind.
❓ FAQ
Was Krishna born in Mathura?
According to Hindu tradition, yes: in the prison of King Kamsa, at the spot now marked by the Garbha Griha of the Janmasthan complex.
Is there an entry fee for Krishna Janmasthan?
No, entry is free.
Can I take my phone inside Krishna Janmasthan?
No. Phones, cameras and all electronics must be deposited at the cloakroom outside.
What is the dress code at Krishna Janmasthan?
Modest clothing. As at most Hindu shrines, expect to take your shoes off.
Who attacked Mathura 17 times?
In the Mahabharata and Puranas, King Jarasandha of Magadha attacked Mathura 17 times and was defeated by Krishna each time; before the next attack Krishna moved his people to Dwarka.
When is the best time to visit Krishna Janmasthan?
Outside the big festivals for a calmer visit. Janmashtami is the most important festival but brings enormous crowds and extra security.