Nand Bhawan Mathura

Nand Bhawan, also known as Chaurasi Khamba Temple, is one of the most visited tourist attractions in Gokul. It holds a fascination among visitors and devotees because it was here that Lord Krishna spent his childhood days after their real parents were imprisoned by King Kansa. The house belonged to Nand Maharaj, the foster father of Lord Krishna. It is called Chaurasi Khamba temple because the temple rests on 84 pillars.

According to a mythological legend, it was here that Lord Krishna and his brother Balarama’s name giving ceremony was conducted. This took place in a cowshed lying in close proximity to the temple. A flight of stairs take you to the main entrance of the temple, which then opens to a large courtyard.

The walls of the temple are adorned with paintings and motifs of Lord Krishna depicting playful episodes from his childhood. There are exquisite carvings on the stone pillars which serve to enhance their beauty. Here you may ask, why does the temple consist of exactly 84 steps, and not one more or less? According to religious scriptures in Hinduism, the number 84 signifies the 84,00,000 species of life in the material world. Therefore, when they are taken together, the pillars are believed to contain all life existing in the universe.

Architecture Of Nand Bhawan:
Nand Bhawan is a vast complex and known for its amazing architecture. The structure is called the Chaurasi Khamba temple as it rests on 84 pillars. The premise of the structure is huge and there are a small number of ascending stairs that are leading to its entrance, which then leads to a huge courtyard. There are wide open spaces around the temple adding charm to its beauty.
The walls of the Nand Bhawan are embellished with beautiful paintings and motifs of Shri Krishna portraying playful chapters from his childhood days. One can see splendid carvings etched on the stone pillars of the palace enhancing its beauty. Besides, one can see many fascinating rooms that were allotted to the family members of Nand Maharaj including the room of Nand Baba, Maa Yashoda, Maa Rohini, Lord Krishna, Shri Balaramji, Shri Radhaji, and their friends. The residence also comprises of a dining hall, kitchen, storerooms, restrooms, etc.

Interesting Facts About Nand Bhawan:
People must be wondering, why does the temple comprise exactly 84 pillars? not one more or one less. This is because as per the religious scriptures in Hinduism, the number 84 represents the 84, 00,000 species of life existing in the material world. Thus, it is believed that 84 pillars in the palace comprise of all life forms existing in the world. There is a huge banyan tree in the courtyard of the palace and devotees who visit the palace tie colorful strips or ribbons on its branches, with a strong belief that this will bring them happiness and prosperity in their life. There is a temple of Kali Maa just under this banyan tree.

Best Time To Visit Here:
Nand Bhawan is situated in Gokul town (Mathura, Uttar Pradesh). Being a famous religious structure, you can visit it any time in the year. During the summer season, the entire Mathura along with Gokul experience extreme heat, with a temperature of around 44 degrees Celsius. The heat can be a major hindrance for many visitors, but if this condition does not bother you much, you can visit Gokul and Nand Bhawan during this period. Winters in Gokul are very favorable for the tourists for sightseeing and exploration in the region as the weather is cool and pleasant.