Govardhan Parikrama

Govardhan Parikrama is a 21-kilometer (13-mile) spiritual trek around the sacred Govardhan Hill in Mathura district. It is one of the most important pilgrimages for devotees of Lord Krishna, as the hill is considered a natural form of Krishna himself.

Here is a comprehensive guide to the Parikrama:

1. The Two Parts of Parikrama

The full 21 km circuit is traditionally divided into two sections, often performed together:

• Badi Parikrama (12 km): Starts from Govardhan village and goes through Anyor and Puchhari.

• Chhoti Parikrama (9 km): Covers the area around Jatipura and Radha Kund.

2. Major Landmarks on the Route

The path is dotted with ancient temples and holy water bodies (Kunds), each with a story:

• Daan Ghati Mandir: The traditional starting and ending point. It commemorates where Krishna playfully asked for milk and curd as "tax" (Daan) from the Gopis.

• Mansi Ganga: A large lake where pilgrims often take a holy dip before starting the Parikrama.

• Kusum Sarovar: A beautiful sandstone structure with a peaceful pond where Radha and the Gopis are said to have picked flowers.

• Radha Kund & Shyam Kund: The most sacred ponds in Braj. Devotees believe bathing here grants one pure love for Krishna.

• Poonchhri Ka Lautha: Located at the "tail" of the hill. It is dedicated to a friend of Krishna who is still waiting for his return.

• Jatipura (Mukharbind): Here, the "face" of Govardhan is worshipped. Devotees offer massive amounts of milk here.

3. Ways to Perform the Parikrama

• Walking (Barefoot): The most common method. It typically takes 5 to 7 hours at a normal pace.

• Dandavat Parikrama: The most rigorous form where devotees prostrate (lie flat on the ground), mark the spot, stand up, and repeat. This can take weeks or even months to complete.

• Doodh Dhara: Some devotees perform the walk while continuously pouring a thin stream of milk from a pot along the entire 21 km path.

• E-Rickshaw/Auto: For the elderly or those with health issues, electric rickshaws are available for the entire route.

4. Essential Visitor Tips

• Direction: Always walk in a clockwise direction.

• Best Time: The best months are October to March (cool weather). Many devotees also perform it on Purnima (Full Moon) nights or during the month of Kartik.

• Monkeys: Like other parts of Braj, be very careful with your spectacles, phones, and bags.

• Stay Hydrated: There are many stalls along the way selling buttermilk (Chaas), water, and snacks.

Spiritual Significance

The legend says that Lord Krishna lifted the Govardhan Hill on his little finger for seven days to protect the people of Braj from the torrential rains sent by an angry Lord Indra. By doing the Parikrama, devotees express their surrender and gratitude to the Lord.

Pro Tip: If you want to avoid heavy crowds, avoid going on weekends or the day of Govardhan Puja (the day after Diwali).