Gita Mandir, also known as Birla Mandir is located on the outskirts of Mathura, on the Vrindavan - Mathura road. It is one of the most popular destinations of Mathura frequented by pilgrims and leisure tourists alike.
The presiding deity of the shrine is Lord Lakshmi Narayan. Gita Mandir was built by Jugal Kishore Birla, the famous Birla group in memory of his parents and all the 18 chapters of Bhagavad Gita are written on the pillars of this temple.
This temple has breathtaking architecture accompanied with beautiful carvings and paintings that add to the beauty of this temple. The temple is large and looks magnificent in red sandstone and it also stands as a proof of excellent craftsmanship. A magnificent idol of Lord Krishna is housed in this temple along with Lakshmi Narayan, Ram and Sita. The temple also houses Lord Krishna's Chariot and Gita Stambh which has the entire carvings of Bhagavad Gita.
The temple also boasts of several exquisite paintings of gods and goddesses on marble walls. The temple is well maintained and presents a peaceful and serene ambience to the pilgrims. There is also a small temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman within the premises.
The architecture of Gita Mandir
This temple has some jaw-dropping architecture to witness. When turning your attention to it, you see a questioning combination of Hindu and Western styles of architecture. Constructed in red sandstone, this famous temple in Mathura proclaims its stately occurrence quite outstandingly. There are two incredible marble structures which are main captivations in this temple; one is the Gita Stambh (Pillar), and the other is Hanuman Temple.
The Gita Stambh, which is also called as the Victory Tower, is built from red sandstone. On it, the entire sacred teachings of Bhagavad Gita are inscribed. Hence, it turns out to be the eternal source of wisdom for mankind. The verses have been written with sharp exactness, with each letter as apparent as the other. It is an inspirational sight to come across.
Other statues established in the Gita Mandir which entice tourists are those of Lord Krishna in the manifestation of Lakshmi Narayan, Ram and Sita. Inside the temple, you also come crosswise Krishna’s chariot along with delightful images of many gods and goddesses on its marbled walls.
History of the Temple
The Gita Mandir is also famous as the Birla Mandir and is one of the most visited temples in Mathura it is favoured tourist spot. It was built by Jugal Kishore Birla, a graft of the Birla family and a renowned philanthropist, humanist and telepathist. He constructed the temple in the loving memory of his parents.
How to reach
Mathura is well connected by rail, road and air. It is 150 km away from Delhi, 50 km away from Agra and 10 km away from Vrindavan.
Nearest airport - Agra-Kheria airport
Nearest railway station - Mathura Junction railway station
Nearest Bus - Bus Station with buses connected all parts of the country