Shri Radhavallabh Lal Ji Temple, Vrindavan: Timings & History

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Last Updated:February 28, 2025

Shri Radhavallabh Lal Ji Temple in Vrindavan is the oldest temple dedicated to Lord Krishna.

It’s a sign of flawless love between lord krishna and Radha Rani, which is known as the rarest form of ‘Ras bhakti.’

It’s the main shrine of the Radhavallabh sect and adheres to the ideology that Radha Rani is the supreme divinity.

The ancient temple was developed in the 16th century during the reign of King Akbar and then founded by Goswami Hit Harivansh Mahaprabhu.

Built in an eclectic structure, it is established on the cliff near Bankey Bihari Temple, covered by the pious Yamuna River.

In this article, we will be discussing the history of the Shri Radhavallabh Lal Ji temple. Continue to read…

Shri Radhavallbh Lal Ji Temple Timing

Followers can visit the temple every day of the week from 5 am to 12 pm and after 6 pm to 9 pm. There are no entry fees to visit the temple.

An interesting fact about the temple is that there is no formal puja or prayer performed for Radhavallabh Ji, but rather a meticulous seva performed for the deity following the season and time.

Below are the details of the Shri Radhavallabh Lal Ji temple for the followers to seek darshan and aarti.

Significance of Shri Radhavallabh Lal Ji Temple

As per the legends, the mesmerizing idol of Shri Radha Vallabhji Maharaj is a form of blessing offered by lord shiva to one of his followers, Shri Atmadev.

By consideration of his onerous devotion and prayers, lord shiva became happy. The image of lord Krishna in Radha Vallabh, situated in a temple, is very beautiful.

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This makes the temple different from others as there is no idol of beloved Radha Rani, but a crown has been placed to show her presence.

It is considered that only followers with hearts full of love, trust, and devotion can have the vision to see the holy sacred idol.

History & Architecture of Shri Radhavallabh Ji Temple

The legend says the idol of Radhavallabh Ji was provided to the ancestor of Shri Atmadev Brahman by lord Shiva for his dedication.

After that, the same idol was handed over to Shri Hit Harivansh Mahaprabhu, who kept it on ‘Oonchi thaur’ or a high cliff on the bank of the Yamuna River.

The old architecture of Shri Radhavallabh Ji is a secured monument and structure that derives the spirit of harmony around religion and faith.

This is one of the few examples of Hindu architectural style combined with the Mughal architectural form.

The Right Time to Visit Shri RadhaVallabh Lal Ji Temple

For people who are planning to visit Radhavallabh Temple, the best times are from October to December and from February to April, when the temperature is pleasant.

Vrindavan’s weather is low, with hot summers and foggy winters, making it difficult for tourists to experience a comfortable visit during these times.

Ashtyam Seva At Shri Radhavallabh Lal Ji Temple

The lovable actions of shri hit Harivansh Mahaprabhu to lord known as Sakhi bhava worship.

The sentiment is depicted and seen in the lord’s loving and pampered services. Such a loving way of presenting sewa and worship to our beloved Shreeji is a blessed watch.

The Radhavallabh Lal Ji follows to steal the hearts of all followers with his graceful and loving activities.

The activities performed by lords in the temple are called ‘Nitya seva.’ It is considered ‘eight services’ performed in a day, referring to Ashtyam Sewa.

Ashtayam means eight times a day. There are eight pahar throughout the day, and one pahar is 3 hours.

Every nitya sewa is organized with dedication and care by the pupils of Goswami Ji. Hence, the eight aspects presented to Shri Radhavallabh Lal Ji are:

1. Mangala Aarti

The first offering to our beloved Shri Radhavallabh Lal Ji. Shreeji is wakened with love and care and brought to Nij Mandir for the devotees who are waiting impatiently to see the first glimpse of the bhog offered to the lord of Makhan Mishri and Paan Bida and then shared among the devotees.

2. Dhoop Shringar Aarti

Later, Aarti, Radhavallabh Lal Ji, is carried for bath and shringar; hence, devotees can have his darshan in the most beautiful form.

Shreeji offered a bath with eitr and Yamuna jal, thus wearing beautiful clothes adorned with stunning jewels and ornaments.

Once the door opens for darshan, bhog of laddos and matri are presented to him, and dhoop shringar arti is performed.

3. Shringar Aarti

After the dhoop aarti execution, the shringar arti is performed, and then doors remain open for devotees once they have Shreeji’s darshan.

Multiple sweets called ‘Kinka prasad’ are presented to the deity, and the bhog of charnamrit is shared among the devotees.

4. Raj bhog Aarti

At Shreeji’s bhog mandir, Raj bhog, also known as Sakhra Prashad, is offered to Shreeji.

When Rajbhog is served to Shreeji, all of the gems and diamonds are placed aside. Following Shreeji’s return to the Nij Mandir, Rajbhog aarti is done, and darshan is held in the evening.

5. Aarti Utthapan

After the midday nap, bhog is offered to Shreeji, the doors of the mandir reopen for the darshan, and Utthapan aarti is conducted. This is the first aarti of the evening.

6. Sandhya Aarti Dhoop

Shreeji is offered sharbat and pua pakwan as utthapan bhog. As part of the Dhoop Sandhya Aarti, Shreeji plays the flute.

Beautiful flowers are sometimes used to decorate temples according to the seasons and events of the sandhya aarti of the lord.

7. Sandhya Aarti

The bhog of Shri Radhavallabh Lal Ji varies according to the seasons; hence, sandhya arti is performed following the bhog presented to him.

Huge crowds gather to seek the darshan and sandhya aarti. During the day, daycharnamrit and bhog are shared among the devotees.

8. Shayan Aarti

The last activity performed for the lord is Shayan arti. This is the last aarti of the day. Puri kachori, saag, sabji, dahi, and sweets are offered to the deity.

After the Shayan Aarti Darshan closes for devotees, the lord is taken to the sijja mandir for the night.

With all the love and extreme care, Charan Sewa is performed, which is rubbed on Shreeji’s Charan while he is resting. The god then goes back to sleep after the entire custom.

Things to Do At Radhavallabh Temple

The Oldest tradition and legacy make the temple one of the most visited in Vrindavan.

Visitors can glimpse the many festivals performed every year with unparalleled magnificence and faith.

1. Hitotsav

The grandest and most impressive celebration held in the temple is Hitotsav. If you have not witnessed it, you’re missing celestial love and devotion.

The 11-day-long celebration to show the birth anniversary of Shri hit Harivansh Mahaprabhu Ji.

The main ritual is ‘Dadhi Kando, ’ which includes curd marination with saffron, and sandal paste is spread on the devotees.

2. Radha Ashtami

Radha Ashtami is another celebration organized in the Radhavallabh Ji temple that draws thousands of devotees.

This is a 9-day-long celebration to revere the birthday of Shri Radha Rani. It is performed on the 5th day of Bhadrapad (August-September).

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You could participate in the ceremony and observe the commemoration of the deity in the lives of devotees.

3. Prabhu Vanchandra ji ki dol

The closeness of Shri Radhavallabh Temple is the palanquin or swing of Prabhu Vanchandra Ji, the eldest son of Shri Hit Harivansh Mahaprabhu Ji.

People can witness many performances showing the ras leela of lord Krishna and Radha Rani at this place continuously. The place is of high importance to followers of the Radha Vallabh sect.

4. The Unique Structure of the Radhavallabh Temple

The temple is unique because of its beautiful architecture, which depicts the unusual blending of styles.

This is one of the oldest shrines developed in red sandstone at a time when they were exclusively deployed in imperial buildings.

While the other portions are exclusively unique to Hindu design, it does feature the Trifolium, a gallery or arcade above the central portion that is associated with Mughal architecture.

It is most likely the only temple in the world where a “Nave” was constructed, which is quite uncommon these days.

How to Reach Shri Radha Vallabh Temple?

There are multiple ways to reach Shri Radhavallabh Temple, which is around 12 km from Mathura and is easily accessible by city buses and auto-rickshaws. You can even book a private taxi to reach the temple premises comfortably.

Mathura is the nearest railway station to the temple, which is 13 km. The nearest airport, Indira Gandhi International Airport, New Delhi, from the temple is 169 km and can be reached in under 3 hours.

Pilgrims and devotees from all over the world are drawn to the legend and mystery covered in this temple.

People can see the adoration of lord Krishna and Radha Rani at Radhavallabh Temple.

Tips for Devotees at Radhavallabh Ji Temple

• It is recommended that you wear decent clothing according to the temple’s deemed holiness.
• If you want to see the rituals, then it’s a good idea to visit during aarti.
• The temple could be crowded mainly during festive seasons and the weekend. Schedule your visit at this time for a better experience.
• Note that clicking photos is not allowed in a few places inside the temple. Get permission from the authorities if required.
• Do not talk louder inside the temple, do not rush or push others, and follow the guidelines of the temple workers.

Conclusion

The Radhavallabh Lal Ji temple is not meant for the large of it but is a sign of eternal devotion and harmony.

Seeking darshan at this temple needs to be carefully planned as one would like to feel the spirituality, the history, and the culture.

The temple of Radhavallabh is revered as a temple of Utsav and bliss. It is well-known for its annual Utsav festivities, which are enjoyed all year long.

Radhavallabh Laal devotees eagerly anticipate every festival. Hence, pack your bags and come to Vrindavan to experience the most amazing glimpse of the Lord.

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