Shri Krishna Janmabhoomi - श्री कृष्ण जन्मभूमि

Shri Krishna Janmabhoomi, also known as Krishna Janmasthan Temple Complex, is a highly revered Hindu pilgrimage site located in Mathura, India in the state of Uttar Pradesh. It is believed to be the birthplace of Bhagwan Krishna, the most widely worshipped deity in Hinduism. Mathura is one of the seven holy cities of Hinduism – the Sapta Puris.

History of Krishna Janmabhoomi:
According to tradition, Bhagwan Shri Krishna was born here around 3,000 BC. A temple marking his birthplace is believed to have existed as early as the 6th century BC.

❀ The temple complex is built around the prison (Kansa ki dungeon) where Bhagwan Krishna's mother Devaki gave birth to him.
❀ The site is especially significant during Krishna's birthday, Janmashtami.

Shri Krishna Janmabhoomi Darshan Timings:
The temple is open throughout the week. Darshan timings are from 5:00 am to 12:00 pm and from 4:00 pm to 9:30 pm.

Key features of Krishna Janmabhoomi:
❀ Garbhagriha: Said to symbolize the actual birthplace of Krishna.
❀ Keshav Dev Temple: An ornate temple dedicated to Bhagwan Krishna within the complex.
❀ Bhagavata Bhavan Temple - The construction of the temple began on 11 February 1965 and the installation ceremony of the deities was held on 12 February 1982. It consists of five temples: the main temple which houses a 180-centimetre (6 ft) high statue of Radha and Krishna; the temple of Balarama, Subhadra and Jagannath on the right; the temple of Rama, Lakshmana and Sita on the left; In front of the Jagannath temple is a Garuda stambha (pillar) and in front of Chaitanya Mahaprabhu and Rama temple is Hanuman; Durga temple and a temple with Shivalinga.
❀ Potra Kund - To the south-east of the Janmasthan temple is a large and deep stepped water tank, the Potra Kund or the Holy Pool, said to have been used for the first bath of Bal Krishna after his birth. This pond was built by Mahadji Scindia in 1782.

Krishna Janmabhoomi Darshan Tips:
❀ Timings: Usually open from morning to evening; timings may change according to the weather.
❀ Security: Tight security due to the sensitive nature of the site; mobile phones, cameras and bags are not allowed inside.
❀ Best time to visit: During Janmashtami (August/September) or Holi, when Mathura comes especially alive.

The Shri Krishna Janmabhoomi and the adjoining Shahi Idgah are at the centre of a complex legal and cultural debate over what was once worshipped as the birthplace of Bhagwan Krishna.