Devkinandan was born on a fateful late night in the month of Bhadra in the prison of Mathura. For ages, that Tithi has been the ultimate joy, the ultimate celebration for Krishna lovers. This year, Ashtami Tithi of Krishna Paksha of Bhadra month is spread over two days. According to Smarta, the vow of Janmashtami will be observed on 4th September in a common house family. Of course, not only puja-archana, this special Tithi of Janmashtami (Janmashtami 2026) fills the mind with a different light during the holiday. Leaving their daily familiar life, many people go out to Punyadham where the memory of Krishna is enmeshed. Want to check the shape of Sri Krishna's Lilakshetra and Janmashtami? Which 5 places in India can be the best travel destinations? find out
Mathura (Uttar Pradesh)
On the banks of the Yamuna, the true aroma of Krishna love can be found in this ancient city. Because it is the birthplace of Krishna himself. On the occasion of Janmashtami, the whole of Mathura is decorated with colorful lights and flowers. The festival starts with 'Jhulan Utsav'. Decorated cradles are made for Krishna. In the temple, idols of Krishna's childhood are placed in the temple and worshiped. Apart from this, Raslila and Manohari colorful processions win the hearts of tourists.
How to reach: Mathura Junction is easily accessible by train from Delhi or other major cities of the country. By air, the nearest airports are Agra (about 60 km) and Indira Gandhi International Airport in Delhi (about 150 km). Mathura can be reached in 3 hours via Yamuna Expressway by car or bus from Delhi.
Brindavan (Uttar Pradesh)
Vrindavan is located just 17 km from Mathura. Devotees gather here a few days before Janmashtami. Famous dhams like Banke Bihari, ISKCON and Prem Mandir are decked out in splendid light. Only the sound of bhajan and kirtan filled the air. The vivid picture of Sri Krishna's childhood in Vrindavan is presented through drama.
How to reach: Although Vrindavan does not have its own major railway station, the nearest major station is Mathura Junction (17 km). Vrindavan can be easily reached from Mathura station by auto, taxi or bus. If you want to come by air, Delhi airport is the most convenient.
Birla Temple (Delhi)
For those who want to avoid the crowds of Uttar Pradesh and experience devotion to the city, Delhi's Lakshminarayan Mandir or Birla Mandir are ideal. Special 'Maha Aarti' and 'Abhishek' are organized here on the occasion of Krishna's birth at midnight. Thousands of devotees from far and wide gather in this temple premises decorated with lights and flowers.
How to reach: Delhi can be easily reached by air or train from any part of the country. Birla Mandir located on Mandir Marg is easily accessible from Delhi's New Delhi or Old Delhi railway stations by taxi, auto or Delhi Metro (nearest metro station is 'RK Ashram Marg').
Dwarkadhish Temple (Gujarat)
After Kamsavadha, Lord Krishna's place of work was Dwarka in Gujarat. At Dwarkadhish Temple known as the 'Jagat Mandir' there, the festival begins with 'Mangal Aarti' in the early hours of Janmashtami. Special Sringar and Mahapuja are going on throughout the day. The sea breeze and the devotional songs of the temple evoke a miraculous feeling in the chest.
How to reach: Dwarka railway station is directly accessible by train, which is connected to major cities of the country. By air, the nearest airports are Jamnagar (about 137 km) and Rajkot. Dwarka can be reached by taxi or bus from the airport.
Mumbai and Pune (Maharashtra)
In Maharashtra again the main attraction of Janmashtami is different. The main part of the festival here is 'Dahi Handi'. The giant human pyramid was built to commemorate Krishna's theft of butter. Thousands of people came down to the streets to watch this competition of breaking curd and butter pots tied high. Many tourists flock to Mumbai and Pune at this time to see this wonderful combination of devotion and thrill.
How to reach: Being one of the major metropolises of India, Mumbai and Pune are well connected to all parts of the country by rail, road and air. The city is easily accessible from Mumbai's Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport and Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus or Chhatrapati Terminus railway station. Pune also has its own international airport and Pune Junction Station.