SHRI RADHA GOPINATH TEMPLE

Shri Radha Gopinath Ji Temple, located in Gopinath Bazar near Keshi Ghat on the banks of Yamuna Ji, is one of the oldest and most revered Gaudiya temples of Vrindavan. The temple enshrines the captivating deities of Shri Radha Gopinath Ji, along with Jahnava Mata and Shri Radha Rani Ji, worshipped with great devotion by the Goswamis.

Historical and Spiritual Significance

  • Ancient Origin: The original deity of Shri Gopinath was established more than 5,000 years ago by Vrajanabha, the great-grandson of Lord Krishna.

  • Rediscovery: About 500 years ago, Paramananda Bhattacharya discovered the deity buried at Banshivat on the banks of the Yamuna.

  • Worship by Madhu Pandit: Shri Gopinath Ji was later worshipped by Madhu Pandit Goswami, a disciple of Shri Gadadhar Pandit and a close associate of Chaitanya Mahaprabhu.

  • Jahnava Thakurani’s Role: When Jahnava Thakurani, the wife of Nityananda Prabhu, visited Vrindavan, she arranged for a taller deity of Shri Radha Rani Ji to stand beside Gopinath, enhancing the divine beauty of the couple. Following a dream and direct instructions from the deities, she also had her own deity installed at Gopinath Ji’s temple.

  • Unique Arrangement: To this day, Jahnava Mata (Ananga Manjari) stands at Shri Gopinath’s left, while Shri Radha Rani Ji is placed on His right, accompanied by Lalita Sakhi and a smaller deity of Radhika.

Temple Complex

  • Samadhi of Madhu Pandit: Located near the temple, honoring the great devotee who served Shri Gopinath Ji with unwavering devotion.

  • Gaudiya Legacy: The temple is a living testimony to the deep spiritual heritage of the Gaudiya Vaishnava tradition, where bhakti and divine pastimes continue to inspire generations of devotees.

Location

The temple is situated at Parikrama Marg, Keshi Ghat, Vrindavan, right along the sacred banks of the Yamuna Ji.

Temple Timings

Summer:

  • Morning: 05:00 AM – 12:15 PM

  • Evening: 06:00 PM – 09:00 PM

Winter:

  • Morning: 05:30 AM – 12:15 Noon

  • Evening Aarti: 06:00 PM – 09:00 PM

Key Highlights

 

  • Among the seven principal ancient temples of Vrindavan.

  • Unique in housing Radha Rani Ji and Jahnava Mata together with Shri Gopinath Ji.

  • Holds strong connections to Chaitanya Mahaprabhu’s associates and Goswamis.

  • A place where devotees experience the combined mercy of Radha, Gopinath, and Jahnava Mata.