Nestled in the sacred town of Barsana (Mathura district, Uttar Pradesh), the Shri Radha Rani Temple is one of the most revered shrines in Braj Bhumi. Dedicated to Radha Rani (Radharani), the eternal consort of Lord Krishna, this temple attracts millions of devotees annually. The temple is famous for its Lathmar Holi, grand Janmashtami celebrations, and divine love stories of Radha-Krishna.
If you’re planning a pilgrimage in 2025, this 2000+ word guide provides:
✔ Temple timings (daily & festival days)
✔ History & significance of Radha Rani Temple
✔ Aarti & darshan schedule
✔ Major festivals in 2025
✔ Travel & accommodation tips
✔ FAQs for devotees
Radha Rani Temple Timings 2025
The temple follows different schedules for summer (April–September) and winter (October–March). Below are the daily timings for 2025:
Morning Darshan & Aarti
- Temple Opens: 5:00 AM
- Mangla Aarti: 5:30 AM – 6:00 AM (Priests only)
- Darshan Begins: 6:00 AM – 12:00 PM
- Shringar Aarti: 7:30 AM – 8:00 AM
- Rajbhog Aarti (Bhog Offering): 11:00 AM – 11:30 AM
Temple Closing (Afternoon Break)
- 12:00 PM – 4:00 PM (Deity’s rest period)
Evening Darshan & Aarti
- Uthapan Aarti: 4:00 PM – 4:30 PM
- Darshan Resumes: 4:30 PM – 8:30 PM
- Sandhya Aarti (Evening Aarti): 6:30 PM – 7:00 PM
- Shayan Aarti (Night Aarti): 8:00 PM – 8:30 PM
Note:
- No bell is used (tradition of Braj temples).
- Fridays & Sundays may have longer queues.
- Festival days have extended hours (see below).
History & Significance of Radha Rani Temple
Legend of Barsana
Barsana is believed to be the hometown of Radha Rani, where she spent her childhood with Lord Krishna. The temple stands on Bhanugarh Hill, where Radha’s palace once existed.
Temple Architecture
- Built in 1675 AD by King Veer Singh Bundela.
- Red sandstone structure with intricate carvings.
- The sanctum houses the self-manifested (Swayambhu) idol of Radha-Krishna.
Why is This Temple Unique?
- Only temple where Radha is worshipped as the primary deity (not Krishna).
- Laddoo Gopal’s Jhula (swing) during Jhulan Yatra.
- No sindoor (vermilion) on Radha’s idol (as she is eternally young).
Daily Rituals & Aarti Schedule (2025)
| Ritual | Time | Significance |
|---|---|---|
| Mangla Aarti | 5:30 AM – 6:00 AM | Waking up Radha Rani |
| Shringar Aarti | 7:30 AM – 8:00 AM | Adorning the deity with flowers & jewelry |
| Rajbhog Aarti | 11:00 AM – 11:30 AM | Main food offering |
| Sandhya Aarti | 6:30 PM – 7:00 PM | Evening lamp ceremony with hymns |
| Shayan Aarti | 8:00 PM – 8:30 PM | Putting Radha Rani to sleep |
Best Time to Visit in 2025
Ideal Seasons
- Winter (Oct–Mar): Pleasant weather (15–25°C).
- Monsoon (Jul–Sep): Lush greenery, but humid.
- Avoid Peak Summer (Apr–Jun): Extreme heat (up to 45°C).
Best Days & Timings
✔ Weekdays (Tue–Thu): Less crowded.
✔ Early Morning (6:00 AM – 8:00 AM): Peaceful darshan.
✔ Evening Aarti (6:30 PM): Divine experience.
Avoid:
❌ Sundays & Festivals: Heavy rush.
❌ Afternoon (12:00 PM – 4:00 PM): Temple closed.
Major Festivals in 2025
| Festival | Date (2025) | Special Events |
|---|---|---|
| Lathmar Holi | Mar 14–15 | Women playfully beat men with sticks |
| Janmashtami | Aug 15 | Midnight aarti, Jhulanotsav |
| Radhashtami | Sep 5 | Radha Rani’s appearance day |
| Sharad Purnima | Oct 6 | Raas Leela celebrations |
| Jhulan Yatra | Jul-Aug | Swing festival for Radha-Krishna |
Travel & Accommodation Guide
How to Reach?
- By Air: Delhi Airport (150 km) → Taxi to Barsana (3 hrs).
- By Train: Mathura Junction (50 km) → Bus/Taxi to Barsana.
- By Road: Buses from Delhi (4 hrs), Agra (2 hrs).
Where to Stay?
- Budget (₹500–₹1500): Barsana Dham, MVT Guest House
- Mid-Range (₹2000–₹4000): The Radha Ashok, Brijwasi Royal
- Luxury (₹5000+): 48 Bricks (Vrindavan), Govardhan Eco Village
Temple Rules
✔ Dress Code: Traditional attire (no shorts/sleeveless).
✔ Footwear: Remove before entering.
✔ Photography: Prohibited inside sanctum.
FAQs About Radha Rani Temple (2025)
1. What are the temple timings today?
Morning: 6:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Evening: 4:30 PM – 8:30 PM
Closed: 12:00 PM – 4:00 PM
2. Is online darshan available?
✅ Yes! Live darshan on official temple website & YouTube.
3. Why is Radha worshipped before Krishna here?
Barsana is Radha’s birthplace, so she is the primary deity.
4. Can we attend Lathmar Holi in 2025?
✅ Yes! March 14–15, 2025. Arrive early (crowds exceed 50,000).
5. Is there a VIP darshan facility?
❌ No VIP darshan. All devotees follow the same queue.
6. How far is Barsana from Vrindavan?
About 50 km (1.5-hour drive).
7. Are mobile phones allowed inside?
✅ Yes, but silent mode. No photography in sanctum.
8. What is special during Radhashtami?
Abhishekam with 1008 lotus flowers.
Night-long kirtans & bhajans.
9. Can non-Hindus visit the temple?
✅ Yes, but must respect temple customs.
10. Is Barsana safe for solo female travelers?
✅ Yes, but avoid late-night travel.
Conclusion
The Shri Radha Rani Temple in Barsana is a divine abode where love, devotion, and spirituality merge. By knowing the 2025 timings, festivals, and travel tips, you can plan a memorable pilgrimage.
May Radha-Krishna bless you with eternal love & joy! 🙏