Govardhan Hill, also known as Giriraj Parvat, is one of the most sacred pilgrimage sites in the Braj region of Mathura, deeply associated with the life of Lord Krishna. According to Hindu mythology, Lord Krishna lifted Govardhan Hill on his little finger to protect the villagers of Vrindavan from the wrath of Lord Indra, who sent torrential rains to flood the area. This event, known as Govardhan Leela, symbolizes Krishna's divine power and his role as the protector of his devotees.
Pilgrims from all over the world come to circumambulate (Parikrama) the hill, which is believed to bestow blessings, purify sins, and bring spiritual merit. The Govardhan Parikrama is approximately 21 kilometers long and passes through several sacred spots associated with Krishna’s pastimes.
| Activity | Timing |
|---|---|
| Best Time for Parikrama | Early Morning (5:00 AM to 9:00 AM) or Late Evening (5:00 PM to 8:00 PM) to avoid the heat. |
| Govardhan Puja Celebrations | Entire Day (Starts early morning, continues with rituals and festivities throughout the day) |
| Mode of Transport | Details |
|---|---|
| By Air | Nearest Airport: Agra Airport (75 km) or Indira Gandhi International Airport, Delhi (180 km). Taxis and buses are available from both airports. |
| By Train | Nearest Station: Mathura Junction (25 km). Auto-rickshaws, taxis, and buses are readily available from Mathura to Govardhan. |
| By Road | Govardhan Hill is well-connected by road. Regular buses and taxis are available from Mathura (25 km), Vrindavan (30 km), and Agra (75 km). |
| Local Transport | Shared autos, rickshaws, and private taxis are available from Mathura and Vrindavan to Govardhan town. |
| Activity | Description |
|---|---|
| Perform Govardhan Parikrama | Walk the 21 km circumambulation (Parikrama) around Govardhan Hill, stopping at sacred spots associated with Krishna’s pastimes. |
| Visit Govardhan Puja Festival | Attend the Govardhan Puja (the day after Diwali), when devotees offer Annakut (a mountain of food) to the hill, symbolizing gratitude for Krishna’s protection. |
| Darshan at Mansi Ganga | Visit the sacred pond believed to have been created by Krishna’s mind (Mansi) and bathe in its holy waters to purify sins. |
| See the Govind Kund | A sacred water tank where Krishna is believed to have bathed after lifting Govardhan Hill. |
| Visit Kusum Sarovar | A beautiful reservoir surrounded by ornate cenotaphs and temples, associated with Radha and Krishna’s divine pastimes. |
| Offer Milk and Flowers | Devotees often offer milk, butter, and flowers at various shrines along the Parikrama route. |
| Explore the Radha Kund and Shyam Kund | These holy ponds are considered the most sacred in Braj, associated with the love of Radha and Krishna. |
| Enjoy Local Food and Sweets | Try the famous Mathura Peda and other local delicacies available in the markets around Govardhan. |
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