श्री राधा रानी मंदिर, बरसाना
Shriji Temple, Barsana
Radha Rani's own temple, on top of the Brahmachal hill at Barsana, reached by about two hundred steps.
Barsana is Radha's village, and the Shriji temple — Ladli Ji — sits at the top of the hill above it. The climb is roughly two hundred steps. There are palanquins for anyone who cannot manage them, carried by men who do this all day, and there is no embarrassment in taking one.
The temple is red and white sandstone and the view back over Barsana from the top is the best in Braj. This is also the epicentre of Lathmar Holi, when the women of Barsana drive the men of Nandgaon back out of the village with lathis, and the lanes below fill past the point of movement.
What we would tell you beforehand
- About 200 steps, and no lift. Tell us if that is a problem and we will arrange a palanquin before you arrive rather than negotiating at the bottom.
- Agree the palanquin price in advance. This is the one place in Braj where we most often hear about a price changing at the top.
- Radha Ashtami in August or September is Barsana's own festival and the temple is at its most beautiful. It is also very full.