Nathdwara, about 48 km from Udaipur, is home to the Shrinathji temple, a major Vaishnav pilgrimage site. Darshan opens eight times a day (Mangla, Shringar, Gwal, Rajbhog, Utthapan, Bhog, Aarti and Shayan) for short windows. Timings change daily, so check before you go, and leave phones and leather in the car.
Key facts
- About 48 km north of Udaipur, around 1 hour by road
- Eight darshans a day, each open for a short time
- Phones, cameras and leather aren't allowed inside
- Statue of Belief, a 369-ft Shiva statue, stands on a hill nearby
Nathdwara is a temple town built around a single deity: Shrinathji, a form of Krishna as a child lifting Govardhan hill. Devotees come from across India, especially from Gujarat.
The story
The image of Shrinathji was brought from Govardhan near Mathura in the 17th century to protect it. Legend says the cart carrying it stopped here and wouldn’t move, so the Maharana of Mewar granted the land and the town grew around the temple. Nathdwara means “gateway of the Lord”.
The eight darshans
Shrinathji is cared for like a child, and the temple opens for eight darshans a day, each a few minutes to half an hour:
- Mangla — early morning waking.
- Shringar — dressing.
- Gwal — cowherd time.
- Rajbhog — the main midday meal.
- Utthapan — waking after rest.
- Bhog — afternoon meal.
- Aarti — evening.
- Shayan — rest for the night.
Timings change every day. Check the temple’s schedule or ask your hotel the day before.
Rules
- No phones, cameras or leather inside. Use lockers or leave them in the car.
- Expect crowds and pushing at popular darshans, especially Mangla and Rajbhog, and on festivals like Janmashtami and Annakut.
- Dress modestly.
Statue of Belief
On a hill nearby stands Vishwas Swaroopam, a 369-foot statue of Shiva opened in 2022, one of the tallest in the world.
Getting there
About 48 km, one hour from Udaipur. Combine with Eklingji and Haldighati for a full day. See day trips and car hire.
Frequently asked questions
What are the darshan timings at Nathdwara?
There are eight darshans a day, from Mangla early in the morning to Shayan in the evening. Exact times change daily with the temple's calendar, so check the day before.
Can I take my phone inside Nathdwara temple?
No. Phones, cameras and leather items aren't allowed. Use the lockers or leave them in the car.
What is the famous prasad of Nathdwara?
Sweets like thor and mathri from the temple kitchen are popular to take home.
