Naulakha Temple - Deoghar — Attraction in Jharkhand

A Serene Sojourn to Naulakha Mandir, Deoghar — My Memorable Experience

Last month, I had the wonderful opportunity to visit one of the lesser-known yet exquisitely beautiful temples of Deoghar — the Naulakha Mandir. Nestled amidst tranquil surroundings about 1.5 km from the famous Baba Baidyanath Dham, this temple is not just an architectural delight but also a peaceful haven for seekers of solitude and devotion.

The Story Behind the Name

Before visiting, I was intrigued by the temple’s unique name — Naulakha. The word itself means nine lakh, and the temple is said to have derived its name from the fact that a devout queen, Rani Charushila of Pathuria Ghat, Kolkata, spent an astounding nine lakh rupees to build this beautiful shrine in the early 20th century. The temple was constructed in memory of her beloved husband and son, which makes the place even more touching and soulful. This touching story of love, loss, and devotion was something I read about beforehand and felt deeply while standing inside the temple premises.

The Journey to the Temple

Deoghar, often referred to as the ‘City of Temples’, has a spiritual vibe that envelopes you the moment you arrive. After offering prayers at the renowned Baidyanath Jyotirlinga, we decided to take a rickshaw ride to Naulakha Mandir. The short journey was pleasant, with greenery and glimpses of local life on both sides of the road. Unlike the usually crowded main temple, Naulakha Mandir remains relatively calm and less commercialized, which was exactly what I was looking for.

First Impressions

As we approached the temple, its pristine white structure stood out against the clear blue sky, almost like a jewel in a crown. From a distance, the temple’s architecture bears a striking resemblance to the Ramakrishna Temple in Belur Math, which is no coincidence as it was inspired by the same style. The peaceful surroundings, gentle breeze, and the distant chants from nearby temples created an atmosphere that instantly calmed the mind.

Architectural Beauty

Standing 146 feet tall, the Naulakha Mandir is built mainly of marble and granite. The main sanctum houses a beautiful idol of Radha-Krishna, radiating a sense of eternal love and divinity. The temple is built on a raised platform, which one can reach by climbing a flight of wide steps. Intricate carvings adorn the walls, and the detailed craftsmanship speaks volumes about the artisans of that era. Despite being over a century old, the temple is well-maintained and shines immaculately under the sun.

One thing I particularly admired was how the temple is surrounded by lush green gardens and flowering plants. There are benches where one can sit, relax, and soak in the serenity. I sat there for a good half an hour, listening to the chirping of birds and observing the slow life around me — an experience that felt like meditation in itself.

A Spiritual Pause

Inside the sanctum, the atmosphere is serene and the air heavy with devotion. The priest offered flowers and blessed us. Unlike the bustling crowd of the Baidyanath Dham, here I had ample time to offer prayers, sit quietly, and reflect without any rush or disturbance. It felt like a personal moment with the divine, an experience that is becoming rare in most famous pilgrimage sites nowadays.

Local Insights and Friendly Locals

While resting under the shade of a tree within the temple complex, I struck up a conversation with an elderly local devotee. He shared stories about the queen who built the temple, the traditions that continue to this day, and how the temple becomes even more vibrant during Janmashtami and Radha Ashtami. His warmth and pride in sharing the temple’s history added a beautiful human touch to my visit.

Photography and Memories

For those interested in photography, Naulakha Mandir offers plenty of picturesque frames — be it the temple's majestic spire, the white marble glistening in sunlight, or the vivid green gardens encircling the shrine. I captured several shots, each reminding me of the calmness and devotion that define this place....

Naulakha Temple, located in Deoghar, Jharkhand, is a significant Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Krishna. It is one of the popular pilgrimage sites in the region, known for its unique architecture, serene atmosphere, and historical importance. Here's a detailed review of the temple:

Highlights:

Architectural Beauty: The Naulakha Temple is known for its distinctive architecture. The temple has a beautiful design that resembles traditional North Indian temple architecture, with intricate carvings and decorative features. Its name, "Naulakha," is derived from the fact that the temple was built at a cost of nine lakh rupees, according to local legends.

Religious Significance: The temple is dedicated to Lord Krishna, and devotees visit the site for darshan (sight of the deity) and to seek blessings. It is a place of religious importance for people who follow the Vaishnavism tradition.

Scenic Surroundings: The temple is situated in a peaceful environment, surrounded by lush greenery and a serene atmosphere. The setting of the temple provides a calm space for meditation and spiritual contemplation. It offers beautiful views of the surrounding landscape, making it a pleasant experience for visitors.

Cultural Experience: The temple is a hub for local cultural and religious activities, especially during major festivals like Janmashtami and other events dedicated to Lord Krishna. Visitors can immerse themselves in the religious and cultural heritage of the region during these times.

Peaceful Ambience: The temple is a quiet place, ideal for people looking to connect with their spirituality. The peaceful surroundings make it a perfect spot for prayers and reflection.

Things to Keep in Mind:

Accessibility: The temple is located on a hill, and reaching the top requires climbing stairs, which might be challenging for elderly people or those with physical limitations.

Crowd during Festivals: The temple can get crowded, especially during festivals or special events, so visitors may want to plan their visit accordingly for a more peaceful experience.

Conclusion:

Naulakha Temple in Deoghar is a must-visit for those interested in exploring religious sites, spirituality, and the culture of Jharkhand. The temple's beautiful architecture, tranquil environment, and religious significance make it a prominent destination for pilgrims and tourists alike. If you're visiting Deoghar, this temple is definitely worth a stop for a peaceful and...

The Naulakha Temple, located about 2 km from the Baba Baidyanath Temple in Deoghar, is a remarkable spiritual and architectural site. Built in 1940 by a wealthy devotee named Rani Charushila, the temple is called “Naulakha” because of the 9 lakh rupees (900,000) spent on its construction—a significant amount at the time.

The temple is dedicated to Radha and Krishna, and it stands 146 feet tall, offering a magnificent view from a distance. Its design is inspired by the architecture of the famous Belur Math in West Bengal, giving it a distinct look compared to traditional Hindu temples.

What makes the temple particularly special is its tranquil environment. Unlike the bustling Baba Baidyanath Temple, Naulakha Temple offers peace and calm, making it an excellent spot for meditation and reflection. The idol of Radha-Krishna inside the temple is beautifully crafted, and the temple's simplistic charm enhances the overall spiritual experience.

Rani Charushila, the temple's patron, is said to have built it after the tragic loss of her husband and son. She sought solace in Deoghar and dedicated the temple as an act of devotion to Lord Krishna.

The surrounding area is also scenic, with greenery and a serene atmosphere, offering a peaceful break from the more crowded parts of the city. Visitors can enjoy not only the spiritual aspect of the temple but also its impressive...