Khatu Shyam Mandirखाटू श्याम मंदिर

About Khatu Shyam Mandir

Khatu Shyam Temple is a famous shrine in the village of Khatu in Sikar district, Rajasthan, about 80 km from Jaipur. It is dedicated to Khatu Shyam ji, who is identified with Barbarika, the grandson of Bhima from the Mahabharata, worshipped as a form of Lord Krishna. Devotees call him 'Haare ka Sahara', the support of those who have lost hope. Millions visit every year, especially on the Shukla Ekadashi of each month and during the great Phalgun Mela.

According to legend, Barbarika was a mighty warrior who promised always to fight for the weaker side in the Kurukshetra war. Lord Krishna, knowing this would prolong the war endlessly, asked for his head as an offering, and Barbarika gave it willingly. Pleased, Krishna blessed him to be worshipped in the Kali Yuga by Krishna's own name, Shyam. Tradition holds that his head was later found buried at Khatu, near the pond now called Shyam Kund. The temple was built and later rebuilt by local rulers, with major renovation in the early 18th century.

The temple is built of white marble and lime mortar, with a decorated entrance and a hall for devotional singing. The sanctum holds the revered head of Shyam ji, beautifully decorated with flowers each day. Close by is Shyam Kund, where devotees take a holy dip. Pilgrims often walk from Ringas carrying colourful nishan flags.

Khatu Shyam Mandir timings & aarti

Usually open in winter about 5:30 AM – 1:00 PM and 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM, and in summer about 4:30 AM – 12:30 PM and 4:00 PM – 10:00 PM. Times may vary; check locally before visiting.

Timings change on festivals, eclipses and special days. Please confirm locally before you travel.

How to reach Khatu Shyam Mandir

Festivals at Khatu Shyam Mandir

• Phalgun Mela (Lakhi Mela)Feb/Mar, peaking on Phalgun Shukla Ekadashi
• Kartik Ekadashi (Shyam's birthday)Oct/Nov
• HoliMar
• JanmashtamiAug/Sep

Visitor tips

Dress code

Modest traditional clothing recommended.

Entry

Open to all with no entry fee. Footwear, bags and phones may need to be left at counters during busy periods.

• Avoid Ekadashi and weekends if you want a quick darshan.
• During the Phalgun Mela, follow police queue arrangements and expect long walks.
• Take a dip or sprinkle water at Shyam Kund before or after darshan.
• Carry water and light clothing in summer, as the region gets very hot.

Places to visit near Khatu Shyam Mandir

• Shyam KundSacred pond where the head is believed to have been found, a short walk away
• Shyam BagichaGarden from which flowers are offered to Shyam ji, near the temple
• Jeen Mata TempleAncient goddess temple in the Aravalli hills, about 40 km away
• Salasar BalajiFamous Hanuman temple, about 100–110 km away

Frequently asked questions