Dwarkadhish Temple

The Dwarkadhish Temple, also known as Jagat Mandir, was originally built by Vajranabha, the great grandson of Lord Krishna, on the banks of Gomti river in 400 BC. This five storied limestone structure stretching to a height of 170 feet is supported by 72 pillars and is located in the heart of the city. A huge flag on its magnificently carved dome is made from 52 yards of cloth and can be seen from a distance of almost 10 kms. Interestingly, this flag, also referred to as Dwajaa, is changed five times a day.
There are two entrances to this temple; the northern gate from the main market is called Moksha Dwar whereas the southern gate is called Swarg Dwar. The latter leads to the Gomti river, 56 steps below. Devotees usually visit the Dwarkadhish temple after taking a dip in the Gomti river. Exactly below the Temple Dome (shikhara), in the sanctum sanctorum stands a two and a half feet tall idol of Dwarkadhish or Lord Krishna flanked by shrines of Ganesha, Shiva, Dattatreya, Devaki, Vasudeva, Balarama, Satyabhama, Jambhwanti and Revati. The festival to watch out for is Janmashtami that is celebrated with a lot of pomp and show. Devotees of Lord Krishna from all around the world gather here to offer prayers and be the part of the revelries.