The Kunj Bihari Temple of Jodhpur is located very near to the Ghanta Ghar, Sardar Bazar area and also to the famous Mehrangarh Fort of Jodhpur. This temple is dedicated to Lord Krishna and is known for its beautiful architectural features. The location of this temple can be reached very easily, owing to the fact that it is very near to the Jodhpur railway station and even the Jodhpur Airport. A tour of the Kunj Bihari Temple is included in various JODHPUR TOUR PACKAGES and is considered as one of the famous places to visit in Jodhpur.
Kunj Bihari Temple brief History
The Kunj Bihari Temple of Jodhpur was constructed by Maharaja Vinay Singh in 1847 AD to commemorate his son, Sher Singh, who unfortunately died at a very young age. The temple’s deity is that of Lord Krishna , who is also known as ‘Sri Nathji’. This Temple is known to be belonging to the Rama Nandi Vaishnava sect of Hindu worshippers who are also popularly known as the ‘Ramayats’ or the ‘Ramavats’.
Kunj Bihari Temple Architecture
The Kunj Bihari Temple is made using intricate work on Makrana stones and sandstone which helps contribute to its beautiful resemblance to the popular Ghanshyamji Temple which is also situated in Jodhpur city itself. The entrance of the Temple has a beautiful Torana dwar or ‘Vandamalika’, which is also found in popular places like Sanchi Stupa. Following the dwar is the sanctum sanctorum of the temple. A shikhara rests over the sanctorum which has the structure of a ‘kalash’ or a stone spire over it, which has been seen in architectural pieces from the Chalukyas, the Mauryas and Guptas alike. The insides of the Temple have several sculptures apart from the main deity, like that of Hanumana, Mira etc.
The Kunj Bihari Temple is very lively and beautiful during the time of the evening Aarti , or the routine ceremony of lights or ‘diyas’ along with several chants of significant ‘mantras’ , which are offered as tribute to the deities. It is a religious ritual of worship which is extremely soothing to watch and takes place every evening. Tourists often prefer visiting this Temple after visiting the nearby Ghanta Ghar or Clock Tower.