Shri Nathji Temple is a 17th century shrine located at
Nathdwara, a famous Hindu pilgrimage place on the banks of the
Banas River in
Rajsamand District of
Rajasthan. It is the second richest temple in India after
Tirupati Temple (in
Andhra Pradesh).
The temple enshrines the idol of Shri Nathji (the image of Lord Krishna), sculptured from a single piece of black marble. Interior of the main sanctum is decorated with Pichhvais Painting, made of hand-spun cloth and colored with strong vegetable pigments. The 'aarti' (most elaborate session) in the temple takes place between 17:00 and 18:00 hrs. It is said that the footsteps of Krishna can be seen by rubbing rose petals on the marble floor.
The festivals such as Nand Mahotsava, Janmashtami, Gopashtami and Anna Koot held here attract devotees from all over India. Foreign tourists are not permitted inside the temple and photography is prohibited in the premises.
Nathdwara is situated 48 km north east of Udaipur and 15 km north of Rajsamand. Nearest railway station is the Mavli Junction Railway Station.
