Janmashtami, the joyous celebration of Lord Krishna’s birth, is observed with immense devotion across India. While the northern states are often associated with Krishna’s playful stories in Vrindavan and Mathura, South India has its own deep-rooted and rich Krishna traditions. Magnificent temples dedicated to Lord Krishna can be found across Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, and Kerala, each with unique customs, architecture, and history.
If you’re planning a spiritual getaway this Janmashtami, here are some of the most revered Krishna temples in South India that are worth visiting.
1. Udupi Sri Krishna Temple, Karnataka
Udupi is often called the “Mathura of the South” and is one of the most famous Krishna pilgrimage sites in the region. The Udupi Sri Krishna Temple was founded in the 13th century by the saint-philosopher Madhvacharya. What makes this temple unique is that devotees view the idol through a small silver-plated window with nine holes called the “Navagraha Kitiki.” The idol of Krishna is adorned like a young boy, holding a churning rod and rope. Janmashtami is celebrated here with grand processions, folk performances, and deep spiritual fervor.
2. Guruvayur Temple, Kerala
Known as the “Dwarka of the South,” the Guruvayur Temple in Kerala is one of the most sacred and visited temples dedicated to Lord Krishna. The deity here is worshipped as Balakrishna, or the child form of Krishna. Devotees believe that the idol was originally worshipped by Lord Krishna’s parents and later installed here by the sage Guru and Vayu, the wind god. Janmashtami celebrations include cultural programs, Krishna costume competitions for children, and night-long devotional music. The temple also has a resident elephant sanctuary which adds to the charm of the place.
3. Rajagopalaswamy Temple, Mannargudi, Tamil Nadu
Located in the Thiruvarur district of Tamil Nadu, the Rajagopalaswamy Temple is one of the largest Krishna temples in South India. Here, Krishna is worshipped as Rajagopalaswamy, a majestic cowherd king. The temple complex is massive and features intricate carvings and beautiful Dravidian architecture. The deity here is seen holding a whip and a rope, symbolizing his role as a protector of cows. During Janmashtami, the temple comes alive with traditional music, grand processions, and elaborate rituals.
4. Venugopala Swamy Temple, Hampi, Karnataka
Nestled in the historic ruins of Hampi, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Venugopala Swamy Temple is dedicated to Lord Krishna in his flute-playing form. Though the temple is no longer in active worship, it remains an architectural gem, reflecting the grandeur of the Vijayanagara Empire. A visit to this serene spot on Janmashtami adds a historical and spiritual layer to the festivities. Hampi itself is a great place to explore stories from the Ramayana and Mahabharata that still echo in its temples.
5. Parthasarathy Temple, Triplicane, Chennai, Tamil Nadu
One of the oldest temples in Chennai, the Parthasarathy Temple is dedicated to Lord Krishna as Parthasarathy, the charioteer of Arjuna in the Mahabharata. Built in the 8th century by the Pallavas and later expanded by the Cholas and Vijayanagara kings, this temple holds immense historical and religious importance. The temple houses five forms of Vishnu, with Krishna as the central deity. On Janmashtami, the temple is filled with chants, bhajans, and flower-decked chariots that carry the idol in a grand procession.
6. Melkote Cheluvanarayana Swamy Temple, Karnataka
Located on a hilltop in Melkote near Mysore, this temple is closely associated with the Srivaishnava tradition and was patronized by the saint Ramanujacharya. Though the main deity is Cheluvanarayana Swamy (a form of Vishnu), Lord Krishna is also deeply revered here. The temple overlooks beautiful natural surroundings and is an ideal place for a quiet yet spiritually uplifting Janmashtami. The town of Melkote itself is known for its traditional culture and Iyengar cuisine.
