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Dwarkadhish Temple, Mathura
Krishna (Dwarkadhish) · Mathura · Uttar Pradesh
॥ ॐ नमो भगवते वासुदेवाय ॥
Close to Vishram Ghat in the old city, the Dwarkadhish Temple is among the largest and most visited shrines of Mathura. It was built in 1814 by Seth Gokul Das Parikh, a treasurer of the Gwalior state, and is admired for its carved pillars and painted ceilings. Here Krishna is worshipped as Dwarkadhish, the lord of Dwarka, and the temple swells with celebration at Janmashtami and Holi.
A nineteenth-century shrine of Mathura
The Dwarkadhish Temple dates to 1814 and was raised by Seth Gokul Das Parikh, who served as a treasurer in the Gwalior state. It belongs to the later flowering of Mathura’s temples and quickly became one of the busiest in the city, a role it keeps today.
The deity is worshipped as Dwarkadhish — Krishna as the king and lord of Dwarka — and the temple should not be confused with the great Dwarkadhish temple at Dwarka in Gujarat, which honours the same form in Krishna’s western kingdom.
Carving, colour and devotion
Within, the temple is known for its detailed stone carving and its painted ceilings and walls, the work of artisans patronised by its wealthy founder. Courtyards open onto shrines, and the central altar is dressed and adorned through the day in the seva tradition.
Its position near Vishram Ghat places it on the natural path of a Mathura pilgrimage, and many visitors pair darshan here with the riverfront and the Janmabhoomi.
Festivals at the Mathura Dwarkadhish
Janmashtami, the birth of Krishna, and Holi, the festival of colour so beloved in Braj, are the grandest occasions at the temple, when the courtyards fill and the deity is elaborately dressed. Swings and seasonal celebrations through the year keep the temple’s calendar busy.
How to reach Dwarkadhish Temple
- By road: The temple lies in the old city near Vishram Ghat; autos and rickshaws reach the surrounding lanes, with the last stretch on foot through the bazaar.
- By train: Mathura Junction is nearby and well connected to Delhi, Agra and other cities, a short ride from the temple.
- By air: Agra and Delhi airports are the closest, both linked to Mathura by road.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who built the Dwarkadhish Temple in Mathura?
It was built in 1814 by Seth Gokul Das Parikh, a treasurer of the Gwalior state, and is among the largest temples of Mathura.
Which form of Krishna is worshipped here?
Krishna is worshipped as Dwarkadhish, the king and lord of Dwarka, at this temple in the old city of Mathura.
Is this the same as the Dwarkadhish temple in Gujarat?
No. This is the Mathura Dwarkadhish, distinct from the famous Dwarkadhish temple at Dwarka in Gujarat, though both honour the same form of Krishna.
What is the temple known for architecturally?
It is admired for its detailed stone carving and painted ceilings and walls, created under the patronage of its wealthy founder.
Where is the Mathura Dwarkadhish Temple located?
It stands in the old city of Mathura, close to Vishram Ghat on the Yamuna riverfront.
What are the main festivals at the temple?
Janmashtami and Holi are the grandest occasions, celebrated with elaborate decoration and large gatherings in the courtyards.
॥ जय द्वारकाधीश ॥ • Bhaktiras.net Temple Guide
| Primary Deity | Krishna (Dwarkadhish) |
| Built | 1814 |
| Founder | Seth Gokul Das Parikh, Gwalior state treasurer |
| Location | Old city, near Vishram Ghat, Mathura |
| Known for | Stone carving and painted interiors |
| Major festivals | Janmashtami, Holi |