The Gateway to Shrinathji: A Journey of Faith in the Land of Krishna

Welcome to Nathdwara, a sacred town nestled in the Aravalli hills of Rajasthan. Literally meaning “the gateway to God,” this town is the primary pilgrimage site for the followers of the Pushtimarg sect of Vaishnavism. This tour is an intimate journey into the heart of a vibrant spiritual culture, centered around the worship of Shrinathji, a seven-year-old child incarnation of Lord Krishna.

The Temple of Shrinathji

At the heart of Nathdwara is the magnificent Shrinathji Temple, a haveli-like (mansion) complex that serves as the dwelling place for the deity. The black marble idol of Shrinathji is a sight of immense beauty and reverence, and its history is a tale of divine protection. The idol was brought here from Mathura in the 17th century to protect it from the Mughal emperor Aurangzeb. The journey ended here when the wheels of the bullock cart carrying the idol sank deep into the mud, a sign interpreted as the Lord’s desire to reside in this very spot.

The worship of Shrinathji is unique, with the deity treated as a living child. The temple’s inner sanctum opens for eight different “darshans” (glimpses) throughout the day, each with its own rituals, attire, and bhajan (devotional song) session, corresponding to a particular part of a child’s day—from waking up to going to sleep. Experiencing these darshans is the highlight of the tour and a truly unforgettable spiritual experience.

The Land of Sacred Art

Nathdwara is not just a pilgrimage site but also a thriving center for traditional Rajasthani art. It is famous for its Pichwai paintings, intricate artworks on cloth or paper that depict scenes from the life of Lord Krishna. These paintings, often used as backdrops in the temple, are a beautiful and meaningful expression of devotion. You can visit local art galleries and workshops to witness the creation of these masterpieces and even purchase one as a special memento of your journey. The town’s local markets also offer a variety of other handicrafts, including terracotta, metalwork, and traditional Rajasthani jewelry.

Beyond the Main Temple

While the Shrinathji temple is the main attraction, the town and its surroundings offer other points of interest. You can visit the Statue of Belief, one of the world’s tallest statues of Lord Shiva, offering a grand view of the surrounding landscape. You can also visit other sacred shrines like the Dwarkadhish Temple and the Eklingji Temple nearby. For a different experience, a short drive takes you to the historic Haldighati, the famous battlefield where Maharana Pratap’s valor is commemorated.

This tour is a journey for the soul, a chance to connect with a living tradition of faith and art. It is a world where devotion is expressed not just in prayer but in every aspect of life, from the hymns sung to the art created.

Included and Excluded

Itinerary