About Gopinathji Swaminarayan Temple
The Gopinathji Swaminarayan Temple in Gadhada, Botad district, Gujarat, is one of six temples built under the direct supervision of Swaminarayan. Consecrated on 9 October 1828, it enshrines central idols of Gopinathji (Krishna), Radhaji and Harikrishna Maharaj. Located on the banks of the Ghela River, the temple is a major pilgrimage centre for the Swaminarayan Sampraday and marks the town where Swaminarayan resided for over 27 years.
Visitors guide
Visitors can expect a large traditional stone temple complex with ornate carved shrines, domes and pillared halls. The central sanctum houses idols of Gopinathji, Radhaji and Harikrishna Maharaj, with additional shrines for other deities. The complex includes courtyards, prayer halls, and the nearby Lakshmi Wadi and Ghela River ghats. The atmosphere is devotional with daily aarti, darshan queues, and pilgrim facilities within a compact town setting.
Key highlights
- 01
One of six temples built and consecrated by Swaminarayan himself on 9 October 1828
- 02
Central idols of Gopinathji Dev (Krishna), Radhaji and Harikrishna Maharaj in the main sanctum
- 03
Located on the banks of the Ghela River in Gadhada, where Swaminarayan lived for more than 27 years
- 04
Traditional stone architecture with carved pillars, domes and shikharas
- 05
Part of the Vadtal Gadi (LaxmiNarayan Dev Gadi) of the Swaminarayan Sampraday
- 06
Adjacent Lakshmi Wadi - the former residence of Swaminarayan preserved as a pilgrimage site
History of Gopinathji Swaminarayan Temple
The temple was built under the direct supervision of Swaminarayan and consecrated on 9 October 1828 (Vikram Samvat 1885, Aso Sud 10). It is one of the six temples personally established by Swaminarayan. Gadhada was his principal residence for over 27 years, and the temple was constructed on land donated by devotee Dada Khachar. The installation ceremony was performed by Swaminarayan himself.
Culture & Context
The temple is a principal pilgrimage centre for followers of the Swaminarayan Sampraday, particularly the Vadtal Gadi (LaxmiNarayan Dev Gadi). It enshrines Gopinathji as the presiding deity and is revered as the place where Swaminarayan delivered many discourses later compiled in the Vachanamrut scripture. Major festivals such as Janmashtami, Diwali, Annakut and Swaminarayan Jayanti are celebrated with large gatherings.