Sri Ranganatha (Rangaji) Temple

Sri Ranganatha or Rangaji Temple is one of the largest temples in not only Vrindavan but the entire region of north India. Dedicated to Lord Krishna as the divine and benevolent Lord Ranganatha, the temple is gigantic in configuration with the outer fortification wall rising up to 773 ft in height and 440 in breadth. Built in traditional Dravidian south Indian style architecture, the main temple courtyard is sprawled around a peaceful and well-maintained garden and a quiet water tank. The tall beautifully ornamented Gopuram leads to the elevated main temple hall where deities of Lord Rangaji in black stone along with other Lords Rama, Laxmana and Goddess Sita can be worshipped. The walls of the temple evoke nostalgia with colorful paintings narrating the story of the temple. From the temple room, you can catch the view of the 50 ft high gold plated pillar called Dhwaja Sthamba, which further accentuates the grandiose of the temple.

The temple premises, though huge, can be easily explored on your own―so it’s advisable to ignore the guides lurking around in the premises. If festivals are your kind of thing and crowds don’t bother you―try visiting the temple around the Hindu month of Chaitra (March-April) during the merry dance and song festival of Brahmotsav―and join the Lord as his rath (carriage) takes Him out for a tour from his temple house to the adjoining pavilion.