Top 8 Tourist Attractions In Nathdwara, a sacred town nestled in the Aravalli hills of Rajasthan, is renowned for its devotion to Lord Krishna in the form of Shreenathji. Located just 45 km from Udaipur, it draws thousands of pilgrims and art lovers every year. The heart of Nathdwara is the Shreenathji Temple, a revered 17th-century shrine where vibrant rituals and aartis take place daily.
Beyond spirituality, Nathdwara is also a hub for Pichwai paintings, intricate artworks that depict tales of Krishna’s life. Visitors can explore local workshops and take home beautiful handcrafted souvenirs. Other attractions include the Ganesh Tekri temple offering panoramic views, and the majestic Statue of Belief, the world’s tallest Shiva statue.
Nearby, places like Eklingji Temple and Charbhuja enhance the religious experience. With a blend of devotion, art, and scenic charm, Nathdwara offers a peaceful and enriching retreat. Whether you’re a pilgrim or a culture enthusiast, this charming town promises a soulful journey into Rajasthan’s heritage.
Shrinathji Temple
Shrinathji Temple, located in Nathdwara, Rajasthan, is one of the most revered Hindu temples dedicated to Lord Krishna in the form of Shrinathji, a seven-year-old manifestation of the deity lifting the Govardhan Hill. Built in the 17th century, the temple is an important pilgrimage site for Vaishnavs, particularly followers of the Pushtimarg sect founded by Vallabhacharya.
The temple’s idol, carved out of black marble, is believed to be self-manifested and was moved from Mathura to Nathdwara to protect it from Mughal invasions. Devotees flock here daily for darshan, which is offered in eight different sessions (Jhankis), each with unique rituals, decorations, and offerings that change with seasons and festivals.
Shrinathji Temple is also famous for its Pichwai paintings, which depict the various moods and lilas (divine plays) of Krishna. During major festivals like Janmashtami and Diwali, the temple becomes a vibrant hub of spiritual celebration, music, and devotion, attracting thousands of devotees.
Charbhuja Temple
Charbhuja Temple, located around 35 kilometers from Nathdwara in the Garhbor village of Rajasthan, is a revered Hindu shrine dedicated to Lord Vishnu. The temple is renowned for its idol of Charbhuja Nath (meaning “four-armed”), an incarnation of Lord Vishnu holding a conch, discus, mace, and lotus. It is considered one of the Char Dham (four sacred abodes) of the Mewar region.
Built in 1444 AD, the temple boasts impressive architecture with intricate mirror work, marble carvings, and silver doors. The sanctum houses a black stone idol believed to be more than 5,000 years old, associated with the Mahabharata era. Devotees believe the idol was worshipped by the Pandavas and later enshrined here for protection.
The temple draws thousands of devotees during the annual Jhaljhoolni Ekadashi festival. Surrounded by Aravalli hills, the spiritual aura, cultural heritage, and historical significance of Charbhuja Temple make it a must-visit destination for pilgrims and tourists alike.
Dwarkadheesh Temple
Dwarkadheesh Temple, located in the heart of Nathdwara, is a sacred shrine dedicated to Lord Krishna, worshipped here as Dwarkadheesh, the “King of Dwarka.” This temple holds immense spiritual significance and complements the more famous Shreenathji Temple nearby. Though smaller in scale, Dwarkadheesh Temple offers a serene and peaceful atmosphere for devotees seeking devotion away from large crowds.
The temple’s architecture is traditional, with a calm courtyard, intricately carved pillars, and beautiful idols. The idol of Lord Krishna here is depicted in a majestic form, adorned with colorful attire and ornaments. Daily rituals, aartis, and festive celebrations, especially during Janmashtami and Diwali, bring the temple alive with devotional fervor.
What makes this temple special is its tranquil setting and the chance for visitors to engage in quiet prayer and reflection. It’s a must-visit for Krishna devotees and anyone exploring the spiritual richness of Nathdwara. Photography is usually restricted inside, so visitors are encouraged to immerse fully in the spiritual experience.
Eklingji Temple
Eklingji Temple, located around 25 kilometers from Nathdwara and 22 kilometers from Udaipur, is one of the most revered temples in Rajasthan. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, the temple holds immense spiritual and historical significance, especially as the presiding deity of the royal Mewar family. Built in the 8th century by Bappa Rawal, the founder of the Mewar dynasty, the temple showcases remarkable architecture with intricately carved sandstone and marble structures.
The main shrine houses a four-faced black stone idol of Lord Shiva, known as Eklingji, symbolizing his five forms. The temple complex includes over 100 small shrines, adorned with ancient sculptures and ornate pillars, creating a tranquil yet majestic atmosphere.
Every Monday and during major festivals like Maha Shivratri, the temple witnesses a large influx of devotees and tourists. Surrounded by serene lakes and the Aravalli hills, Eklingji Temple is not just a pilgrimage site, but also a peaceful retreat offering a deep connection with Rajasthan’s spiritual and royal heritage.
Nand Samand Dam
Located just 2 km from the town of Nathdwara, Nand Samand Dam is a peaceful and scenic spot that offers a refreshing escape from the hustle of temple visits. Built primarily for irrigation and water storage, this large reservoir has gradually become a favorite picnic destination for locals and tourists alike. Surrounded by rolling hills and lush greenery, especially during the monsoon season, the dam becomes a tranquil haven where visitors can relax, enjoy nature, and click stunning photos.
Bird watchers often find this area appealing, as the calm waters attract various local and migratory bird species. The dam is ideal for early morning or evening visits when the breeze is cool and the landscape glows under soft sunlight. Though swimming and boating are not officially permitted, the ambiance is perfect for a laid-back day. If you’re in Nathdwara, don’t miss this hidden gem that blends natural beauty with calm serenity.
Molela
Molela is a quaint village located just 10 km from Nathdwara in Rajasthan, renowned for its unique terracotta art. Unlike regular pottery, the artisans of Molela specialize in creating vibrant clay plaques and panels that depict mythological and tribal scenes. These handcrafted terracotta pieces often feature deities like Devnarayan, Dharmaraja, and local village gods, and are traditionally used for worship, especially by tribal communities in Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh.
The art form is passed down through generations, and only a few families in Molela continue this rare tradition. The clay used is sourced from the banks of the Banas River, and the plaques are sun-dried before being fired in kilns. Visiting Molela offers a rare glimpse into Rajasthan’s living heritage, where you can interact with artisans, watch the creative process, and even purchase one-of-a-kind souvenirs.
For art lovers and cultural explorers, a short trip to Molela from Nathdwara is a deeply enriching experience.
Ranakpur Jain Temples
Ranakpur Jain Temples, located around 90 km from Nathdwara, are among the most spectacular and revered Jain temples in India. Dedicated to Tirthankara Adinatha, these temples are a masterpiece of white marble architecture and spiritual devotion. Built in the 15th century, the complex is nestled in the lush Aravalli hills, offering both serenity and scenic beauty.
The main temple is renowned for its 1,444 intricately carved marble pillars, each uniquely designed. No two pillars are the same, and they appear to change color depending on the time of day due to the natural light streaming in. The temple also features beautifully detailed domes, ceilings, and halls that showcase incredible craftsmanship.
Open to visitors of all faiths, the temple enforces a peaceful dress code and encourages silence within the premises. Ranakpur is not just a religious site—it’s a celebration of art, faith, and harmony. A visit here from Nathdwara offers a perfect spiritual and cultural extension to your Rajasthan journey.
Vishwas Swaroopam (Statue of Belief)
Vishwas Swaroopam, also known as the Statue of Belief, is an awe-inspiring monument located in Nathdwara, Rajasthan. Standing at a towering 369 feet (112.8 meters), it is the tallest statue of Lord Shiva in the world. This colossal masterpiece depicts Lord Shiva in a meditative pose, exuding serenity and spiritual strength.
Nestled amidst the picturesque Aravalli hills, the statue is part of a vast spiritual complex featuring lifts, galleries, a museum, landscaped gardens, and facilities for meditation. Illuminated beautifully at night, it offers a surreal experience for devotees and tourists alike.
Inaugurated in October 2022, Vishwas Swaroopam has quickly become a major spiritual and architectural landmark in India. Visitors can enjoy panoramic views from the viewing gallery located within the statue, and the entire site promotes the message of faith, peace, and universal harmony.
Just a short drive from Shreenathji Temple, it’s a must-visit when exploring Nathdwara, especially for those seeking divinity and grandeur in one frame.
