Goverdhan Nath Ji temple is located in the Hawa Mahal complex, Jaipur. Even though it shares the common entrance with Hawa Mahal, this temple has a quite understated presence. To begin with, there are no markings or signboards on the main road- Tripolia Bazaar to proclaim the presence of this temple.

On entering the Hawa Mahal complex courtyard, all you see is tourists, bound for Hawa Mahal, but no signages to guide you to the temple. Goverdhan Nathji temple is located at the far end on the right side of the courtyard, facing west direction.

Hawa Mahal complex courtyard

Goverdhan Nath Ji temple dates back to the year 1790. The temple is dedicated to Lord Krishna & Radha. Maharaja Sawai Pratap Singh commissioned this temple. The temple was constructed with the Hawa Mahal, simultaneously. In a way, this temple is also associated with the world-famous Hawa Mahal. Since both these structures are interlinked, one of the exits of Hawa Mahal leads out through this temple complex.

When I visited this temple, the sanctum was closed for the public. As is the tradition in most of the old & famous temples in Jaipur, there are fixed timings when one can have darshan of the idol. The temple is open for the public 7 times a day, each slot lasting for half an hour. I conversed with the caretaker of the temple, Mr. Pareek. He informed me that the temple is dedicated to Baal Krishna (Lord Krishna in the child form). At present, the temple has been leased out to kama based trust. Otherwise, it is managed by Devesthan Department (under the Rajasthan government).

The temple has exquisite paintings on the wall, although the lack of maintenance is quite evident. The style of painting is local. The work and engraving on marble pillars are typical to Jaipur’s style of architecture. There are two marble tigers (called Naahar in local Rajasthani language) on both sides of the entrance gate to the temple courtyard.

This temple has been built using Haveli style of architecture which is typical to the city. There are many other temples built in this architectural style like Ramchandraji Temple. The temple has two courtyards

Although this temple doesn’t have elaborate & ornate construction style, it does have impressive local design elements. This is evident in the above picture in the workmanship in pillars and faux Jharokhas.

Located in the Southwest corner, on the first floor is another small temple. This temple is dedicated to Lord Vallabh & Radha and can best be described as a small room devoid of any architectural feature. The priest, Om Ji commented that temple walls were once adorned with beautiful paintings. However, over the course of years these paintings were replaced with paint on the wall. Here is a picture of the idols from this temple.

The manager, Mr. Pareek opined that in the past, this temple was very popular among the public so much so that finding space in the courtyard at Aarti time was a tough job. But today owing to neglect from the authorities and bad management, things have taken a different turn.

Club it up with your visit to the Hawa Mahal. This temple has a direct entrance from Sirehdyodi Bazaar too! Barely a few steps from Hawa Mahal!

Stay updated via Facebook, Twitter, Instagram