Ranchhodrai Temple

Ranchhodrai Temple is a prominent Hindu temple in Dakor, Kheda District, Gujarat, dedicated to Lord Krishna worshipped as Ranchhodrai. Located on the banks of the sacred Gomti Lake, it is a major pilgrimage centre in Gujarat. The present temple structure was built in 1772 and features eight domes and 24 turrets with intricate architecture. It is renowned for its black touchstone idol of Krishna adorned with rich ornaments.

Visitors can expect a busy pilgrimage temple complex with a large courtyard, ornate domes, carved pillars, and gold and silver gates leading to the sanctum. The central shrine houses the black stone idol of Lord Ranchhodrai. The temple overlooks Gomti Lake where devotees take a holy dip. Expect queues for darshan, aarti ceremonies, prasad shops, and devotional music within a vibrant religious atmosphere.

According to tradition, the idol of Lord Krishna was originally worshipped in Dwarka and was brought to Dakor by the devotee Bodana. The present temple was constructed in 1772 CE by Shri Gopal Jagannath Ambekar with later additions by the Peshwas. It exhibits traditional Gujarati temple architecture with eight domes and 24 turrets and has been a major Vaishnav pilgrimage centre for over 250 years.

The temple is one of the most revered Krishna pilgrimage sites in Gujarat, where Krishna is worshipped as Ranchhodrai, meaning one who left the battlefield. It attracts lakhs of pilgrims annually, especially on Sharad Purnima, Janmashtami and every full moon day. The Gomti Lake is considered sacred and ritual bathing before darshan is an important tradition.