
Ravidas Janam Asthan Seer Govardhanpur
A sacred pilgrimage site dedicated to Sant Ravidas, offering spiritual solace and a vibrant community experience with its grand temple and renowned La...

Highlights
Must-see attractions
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For a peaceful, spiritual start

Ravidas Janam Asthan Seer Govardhanpur
Best Time
For a peaceful, spiritual start

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A sacred pilgrimage site dedicated to Sant Ravidas, offering spiritual solace and a vibrant community experience with its grand temple and renowned Langar.
"It's a very divine place. It gives you real peace."

🙏 Embrace the Langar
Don't miss the delicious and free community meal. It's a core part of the experience and very welcoming!
👟 Dress Modestly
Cover shoulders and knees out of respect for this sacred site. Comfortable shoes are a must for exploring.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Grand Temple Structure
Main temple complex
A magnificent testament to faith, featuring a golden dome and intricate architecture. Offers a profound sense of peace.

Guru Ka Langar
Community kitchen area
Experience the heartwarming tradition of free community meals, a symbol of equality and selfless service.

Guru Ravidas Gate
Entrance to the temple complex
A monumental gateway, inaugurated by the former President of India, symbolizing the spiritual journey.
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Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for Serenity
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Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🙏 Embrace the Langar
Don't miss the delicious and free community meal. It's a core part of the experience and very welcoming!
👟 Dress Modestly
Cover shoulders and knees out of respect for this sacred site. Comfortable shoes are a must for exploring.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Especially during warmer months, carry water. The spiritual journey can be long and fulfilling.
📸 Respectful Photography
Capture the beauty, but be mindful of devotees. Ask permission before photographing individuals.
Tips
from all over the internet
🙏 Embrace the Langar
Don't miss the delicious and free community meal. It's a core part of the experience and very welcoming!
👟 Dress Modestly
Cover shoulders and knees out of respect for this sacred site. Comfortable shoes are a must for exploring.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Especially during warmer months, carry water. The spiritual journey can be long and fulfilling.
📸 Respectful Photography
Capture the beauty, but be mindful of devotees. Ask permission before photographing individuals.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently describe Ravidas Janam Asthan as a deeply divine and peaceful place, offering a profound spiritual experience. The welcoming community, especially the heartwarming Langar service, is frequently highlighted as a major draw. While the site is generally well-maintained, some may find the crowds during festivals overwhelming.
"In the mid-1960s, the leaders of Dera Ballan began an effort to build a place of pilgrimage at the birthplace of Ravidas. They determined that Ravidas had been born in Sir Gobardhan, and one of them, Hari Dass, laid the foundation stone for this temple on 14 June 1965 while Sarwan Dass was the head of the Dera. Dera Ballan provided funding for the first phase of the temple's construction. a small shrine was built at the site in 1972. The more impressive current structure was completed in 1994 with the help of people from India and other countries, especially overseas devotees who donated through a trust formed by Dera Ballan in 1983.Kanshi Ram, founder of the Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP), ceremoniously installed the temple's golden dome.During the temple's construction, Dera Ballan's ownership of the temple through a trust was disputed by the All India Adi-Dharm Mission based in New Delhi. Dera Ballan responded with legal action, and they documented the ceremonies they organized at the temple to prove their ownership of it.On 25 May 1997, Kanshi Ram of the BSP laid the foundation stone of the huge monumental gate, Guru Ravidas Gate, which leads to the temple. K. R. Narayanan, then President of India, performed the opening ceremony of the gate on 16 July 1998.The gate was the destination of a candle march carried out by students from Banaras Hindu University to support natives of Nepal after an earthquake in April 2015.[5]
Shri Guru Ravidas Janam Asthan is an important cultural and religious site for Dalits,[2] Ad-Dharmis/Ravidasis, and Ramdasia Sikhs. The birth anniversary of Ravidas is celebrated at the temple every year, attracting millions of devotees from India and abroad. The festivities include musical prayer and kirtan. Dera Ballan and the All India Adi-Dharm Mission consider Sir Gobardhan to be the birthplace of Ravidas, though some scholars trace his birthplace to Mandoorgarh village, also near Varanasi"
Ashok Nigam
"Its a very divine place. It gives you real peace"
Vishal Dilare
"I have seen this type of Dharamshala/Gurdwara
All the worshipers very friendly to the strangers.
I stay with our families 15 persons, no cost changes on us for 2 days and 2 nights self -help
Hanuman garkari is near to it about 30mins junction way"
Amar Kumar Roy
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The site is located in Seer Govardhanpur, near the Dafi area of Varanasi. You can reach it by auto-rickshaw or taxi from Varanasi city. Many visitors arrive via the 'junction way' from Hanuman Garhi, which is about a 30-minute drive.
Local buses and auto-rickshaws are available from Varanasi to the Seer Govardhanpur area. It's advisable to confirm the exact route with local transport operators upon arrival.
The nearest major city is Varanasi, which has its own railway station and airport (Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport). From Varanasi, you can hire a taxi or take local transport to the temple.
Look for signs directing you to 'Ravidas Janam Asthan' or 'Seer Govardhanpur'. The impressive Guru Ravidas Gate is a prominent landmark as you get closer to the complex.
There is usually ample parking space available near the temple complex for visitors arriving by private vehicle.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to Ravidas Janam Asthan is generally free for all devotees and visitors. It's a place of pilgrimage and community service.
The temple complex is typically open from early morning until late evening, allowing ample time for darshan and reflection. It's best to visit during daylight hours for the full experience.
Advance booking is not required as there is no entry fee. You can visit anytime during the operational hours.
Visitors are expected to dress modestly, covering shoulders and knees. Shoes must be removed before entering the main temple area.
Yes, visiting during festivals like Ravidas Jayanti is highly recommended to experience the vibrant celebrations, though it will be more crowded.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Take your time to soak in the peaceful atmosphere. Visit the main shrine, experience the Langar, and observe the devotion of other pilgrims.
Yes, modest attire is required. Ensure your shoulders and knees are covered out of respect for the sacred site.
Photography is generally permitted in the outer areas, but it's best to be discreet and respectful. Avoid flash photography inside the main shrine and always ask permission before photographing individuals.
Basic facilities like drinking water and restrooms are usually available. The Langar provides free meals. Some visitors mention 'Dharamshala' (pilgrim guesthouses) are available for stay.
While efforts are made to accommodate visitors, accessibility can vary. The main temple area might have some steps. It's advisable to inquire locally about specific accessibility options.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The most significant dining experience is the 'Guru Ka Langar' within the temple complex, offering free vegetarian meals.
The Langar serves simple, wholesome vegetarian Indian cuisine, typically including roti (bread), dal (lentils), and rice. The parsad is also noted as delicious.
The Langar usually operates during specific hours, often serving lunch and dinner. It's best to check the timings upon arrival.
While the Langar is the primary focus, small local eateries might be found in the surrounding Seer Govardhanpur area offering basic snacks and refreshments.
Yes, donations are welcome and help sustain the Langar service. You can inquire at the temple administration for donation procedures.
📸 📸 Photography
The golden dome, the Guru Ravidas Gate, and the serene temple interiors offer great photographic opportunities. The Langar area can also be visually interesting.
Be respectful. Avoid flash photography inside the main shrine and refrain from photographing devotees without their explicit consent.
Early morning or late afternoon light provides a beautiful, soft glow on the temple architecture. Golden hour can be particularly stunning.
Drone usage is typically prohibited at religious sites to ensure privacy and safety. It's best to check local regulations before attempting to fly a drone.
A versatile lens (like a 24-70mm) is useful for capturing both wide shots and details. A wide-angle lens can be great for the grand architecture.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
When visiting with children, ensure they are dressed modestly and comfortably. Carrying water and snacks is advisable, though the Langar is a great option for a meal. The spiritual significance of the site can be explained in simple terms, focusing on Sant Ravidas's message of kindness and equality, making it an educational and enriching outing for the whole family.
🧘 Solo Travelers & Spiritual Seekers
The welcoming nature of the devotees and the communal spirit of the Langar make it easy for solo visitors to feel connected and engaged. Don't hesitate to strike up conversations; you might gain profound insights into the faith and the life of Sant Ravidas. The availability of 'Dharamshala' facilities also offers a budget-friendly and immersive stay option.
🏛️ History & Culture Enthusiasts
Learning about Sant Ravidas's life and teachings, and how they continue to inspire millions, provides a rich cultural context. The Guru Ravidas Gate itself is a historical monument, inaugurated by a former President of India, symbolizing the site's national importance. Engaging with the local community and observing the traditions can offer a deeper appreciation of this cultural landmark.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Spiritual Significance of Ravidas Janam Asthan
The temple's architecture, including its prominent golden dome and the monumental Guru Ravidas Gate, reflects the devotion and aspirations of its followers. The annual celebration of Ravidas's birth anniversary here attracts millions, transforming the site into a vibrant hub of prayer, kirtan, and community gathering. This event underscores the temple's role not just as a place of worship, but as a cultural anchor for a significant community.
While Seer Govardhanpur is widely accepted as his birthplace, some scholarly discussions trace Sant Ravidas's origins to Mandoorgarh village, also near Varanasi. Regardless of the precise historical debate, the spiritual resonance and cultural impact of Ravidas Janam Asthan remain undeniable, serving as a powerful symbol of faith, equality, and social reform.
Experiencing the Langar: A Symbol of Equality
Visitors consistently praise the Langar for its delicious food and the incredibly friendly atmosphere. Many recount staying for extended periods, finding the hospitality and the shared experience deeply moving. The act of preparing and serving food collectively fosters a sense of unity and mutual respect among volunteers and diners alike.
Donating to the Langar is a common way for visitors to contribute to this noble cause. The continuous operation of the Langar is a testament to the generosity of devotees and the enduring legacy of Sant Ravidas's message of equality and service. It's an experience that nourishes both the body and the soul.
Photography at Ravidas Janam Asthan
When photographing within the complex, it's crucial to maintain a respectful demeanor. While general photography is often allowed in the outer areas, avoid using flash inside the main shrine, as it can be disruptive to devotees in prayer. Always seek permission before taking close-up photos of individuals. The Langar area, with its communal dining and bustling activity, can also provide compelling candid shots that tell a story of devotion and service.
For the best photographic results, consider visiting during the golden hours around sunrise and sunset. The diffused light at these times can enhance the architectural details and create a more atmospheric feel. Remember that the primary purpose of your visit is spiritual, so balance your photography with moments of quiet contemplation and appreciation for the sacredness of the site.



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