“Happiness is a state of mind that has nothing to do with the external world.” Lord Krishna’s wisdom is timeless. Believed to be an incarnation of Lord Vishnu,
Krishna was born in Mathura and is loved for his stories of mischief, devotion, and love. Janmashtami celebrates his birth anniversary and is marked with grand festivities by devotees worldwide. If you're willing to make the trip, here are 7 Krishna temples around India and the world that host incredible Janmashtami celebrations.
Dwarkadhish Temple, Dwarka, India
Dwarka, once the first capital of Gujarat, is known as “Mokshapuri” and “Dwarkavati.” It is believed to be Lord Krishna’s ancient kingdom, and Bet Dwarka, an island nearby, is said to be his original home. The Shree Dwarkadhish Temple, built by Krishna’s great-grandson Vajranabh, stands proudly on a hill overlooking the Arabian Sea. With intricate carvings, a towering spire, and multiple shrines, this temple is one of Hinduism’s four sacred dhams and certainly the best place to celebrate Lord Krishna's birth.
Krishna-Balaram Mandir, Vrindavan, India
Also called the Krishna-Balaram Mandir, ISKCON Vrindavan is a major pilgrimage spot for Lord Krishna's devotees. On Janmashtami, the temple is decorated with fresh flowers, and the marble halls echo with kirtans and bhajans all day. Devotees take part in spiritual discourses, dramas, and devotional dances. The midnight abhishekam (holy bath) and aarti are the main highlights, drawing thousands of pilgrims to Krishna’s playground.Krishna Janmasthan Temple Complex, Mathura, India
Located at Krishna’s birthplace, this temple complex houses three main temples: Keshavdev, Garbh Griha, and Bhagvata Bhavan. The shrines are dedicated to various deities including Radha, Balarama, Rama, Hanuman, and Shiva. Intricate architecture and a deeply spiritual aura make this one of the most sacred spots for Krishna devotees.
Also Read: From Mathura To Mumbai: The Ultimate Janmashtami Trail Across India
Shrinathji Temple, Nathdwara, India
In Rajasthan’s Nathdwara, the 17th-century Shrinathji Temple is the heart of Krishna devotion. On Janmashtami, the deity is adorned with elaborate royal attire, and the temple comes alive with Haveli sangeet, bhajans, and traditional Pushtimarg rituals. The midnight birth celebration, or Janmotsav, fills the air with joy and devotion.Jagannath Temple, Puri, India
Famous for its Rath Yatra, the Jagannath Temple also celebrates Janmashtami with special rituals. Here, Krishna is worshipped as Jagannath alongside his siblings, Balabhadra and Subhadra. Devotees take part in abhishekam, devotional singing, and readings of Krishna’s birth stories. The celebrations focus on deep spiritual meaning rather than grand decorations.
ISKCON Temple, Sydney, Australia
The ISKCON Temple in Sydney is a vibrant spiritual centre for Krishna devotees in Australia. Janmashtami here features children’s fancy dress competitions, bhajans, dance dramas, and workshops. The midnight abhishekam is followed by a grand vegetarian feast and cultural performances, blending Indian traditions with Australian community spirit.
Sri Sri Radha Govinda Temple, New York, USA
Located in Brooklyn, this ISKCON temple is one of the most prominent Krishna temples outside India. Since its inauguration in 1972, it has hosted elaborate Janmashtami celebrations with music, dance, and a grand procession of Krishna’s deity. Thousands of devotees gather each year to take part in the festivities.
Also Read: Janmashtami: Know The Secret Behind The Usage Of Cucumber During The Festival
