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Govardhan Hill Parikrama

4.5
·3k reviews·Aanyor, India

A sacred hill central to Hindu legends, offering a 21 km spiritual circumambulation and serene natural beauty.

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

October to March mornings

Pleasant weather for the walk

CrowdMedium
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Govardhan Hill - Image 1

Govardhan Hill Parikrama

Best Time

October to March mornings

Pleasant weather for the walk

CrowdMedium

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A sacred hill central to Hindu legends, offering a 21 km spiritual circumambulation and serene natural beauty.

4.5
(3k reviews)

"The 21 km parikrama is a peaceful journey for devotees and nature lovers alike."

Vertical photo
TIP

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

The 21 km parikrama requires sturdy, comfortable footwear. Many opt for sandals or walking shoes.

💧 Stay Hydrated

Carry plenty of water, especially during warmer months. Small shops along the path sell water and snacks.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The 21 km Parikrama Path

The 21 km Parikrama Path

Govardhan Hill

Embark on a spiritual journey around the sacred hill, a profound act of devotion and surrender.

Kusum Sarovar

Kusum Sarovar

On the parikrama path

A serene lake steeped in Radha Krishna's pastimes, perfect for reflection and flower offerings.

Mansi Ganga

Mansi Ganga

Near Govardhan Hill

A tranquil and spiritually charged pond, known for its calming energy and ability to clear the mind.

Dandavat Parikrama

Dandavat Parikrama

Govardhan Hill

An intense devotional practice involving full-body prostrations for every step of the 21 km circumambulation.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing Your Spiritual Journey

The 21 km Govardhan Hill Parikrama is a significant pilgrimage. While any time can be spiritually rewarding, consider visiting during the cooler months of October to March for a more comfortable walk. Avoid the peak summer heat and monsoon rains. Festivals like Govardhan Puja and Janmashtami see immense crowds but offer an unparalleled spiritual atmosphere.

Understanding the Parikrama

The Govardhan Parikrama is a sacred circumambulation of Govardhan Hill, believed to be a natural form of Lord Krishna. Devotees undertake this journey to express devotion and receive blessings. The main parikrama is 21 km, but a shorter 15 km route is also popular. Some choose the intense 'Dandavat Parikrama,' involving full-body prostrations for each step.

Best Times

When
October to March mornings
Why
Pleasant weather for the walk
Crowd
Medium
When
Govardhan Puja
Why
Electric spiritual atmosphere
Crowd
High
When
Janmashtami
Why
Vibrant celebrations
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Krishna holding up govardhan hill was such a beautiful vedic teaching/story 🤭🫶 #fyp #foryoupageeeee #foryoupage #fypシ゚viral #fypシ #fyppppppppppppppppppppppp #livelaughlovekrishna #govardhanhill #beautifulstory #foru #littlekrishna #krishna
@ilovelittlekrishna
36.5K likes • 229.1K views

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

The 21 km parikrama requires sturdy, comfortable footwear. Many opt for sandals or walking shoes. TikTok

💧 Stay Hydrated

Carry plenty of water, especially during warmer months. Small shops along the path sell water and snacks. Reddit

Replying to @King Messi bukit govardhan dulunya tinggi. Namun skrng banyak batu2 bukit yg sdh turun menyebabkan bukit smkin pendek. Namun itu batu2 spt berkeliling bgitu saja seolah3 melindungi bukit tsb dari org2 jahil yg ingin memanjatnya#govardhan #srikrishna #brindavan#bukitgovardham#tourindia #wisataindia#travelindia #lilatravel#fyp #forpage
@tirtayatraindia
11.7K likes • 789.5K views
Friday night Govardhan Hill parikrama #bhakti #yoga #govardhan #parikrama
omrichardpena
15 likes • 543 views

🚶‍♀️ Consider a Shorter Route

If 21 km is too much, the 15 km route or specific points of interest are also fulfilling. Reddit

🙏 Respect Local Customs

Dress modestly and be mindful of local traditions, especially when visiting temples or performing rituals. TikTok

This is Dandavat Parikrama, a practice done around Govardhan hill (about 24 km) it is performed by stretching out on the ground and leaving a marker at the place where your hand reached. Devotees then walk to the place where the stone was placed, pick up the stone and lie down again. A person of average height will have to lie on the ground and stand up 17,300 times in order to do the entire circu...
angelayogatravels
0 likes • 1.4K views

Tips

from all over the internet

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

The 21 km parikrama requires sturdy, comfortable footwear. Many opt for sandals or walking shoes. TikTok

💧 Stay Hydrated

Carry plenty of water, especially during warmer months. Small shops along the path sell water and snacks. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Consider a Shorter Route

If 21 km is too much, the 15 km route or specific points of interest are also fulfilling. Reddit

🙏 Respect Local Customs

Dress modestly and be mindful of local traditions, especially when visiting temples or performing rituals. TikTok

☀️ Start Early or Late

To avoid the midday sun, begin your parikrama in the early morning or late afternoon. Reddit

🚗 Hire a Rickshaw/Auto

For parts of the journey or if time is limited, auto-rickshaws are available for hire. TikTok

📸 Capture the Scenery

The route offers beautiful views and spiritual sites; keep your phone charged for photos. Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.5
(3k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Govardhan Parvat is a deeply spiritual destination, revered for its mythological significance and the sacred 21 km parikrama. Visitors praise its serene atmosphere, beautiful natural landscapes, and the profound sense of peace found at sites like Mansi Ganga. While the parikrama is physically demanding, the spiritual rejuvenation it offers is widely appreciated.

"Aanyor, Mathura: A Sanctuary of Peace on the Govardhan Parikrama
Aanyor is much more than just a village; it is a divine cornerstone nestled at the base of the sacred Govardhan Hill (Giriraj Ji). As a key point on the revered 21-kilometer Parikrama route, the spiritual energy here is profound and palpable.
The moment you arrive, you are greeted by an atmosphere of deep devotion and tranquility. The views of Giriraj Ji from Aanyor are breathtaking and offer a perfect backdrop for meditation and prayer. The local environment is kept clean and peaceful, reflecting the respect the community holds for this holy site.
This location serves as an inspirational stop for pilgrims and offers a true sense of Braj culture and hospitality. For anyone undertaking the Govardhan Parikrama or simply seeking a place of genuine spiritual calm in Mathura, Aanyor is an absolute 5-star destination."

Hacker Group

"Visited this place when i was 14,
Felt the energy there, it was something warm and positive, the whole Mathura Vrindavan trip was like that ,I would like to visit soon in the future."

Harsh Thapa

"The 21 km parikrama (circumambulation) route around the hill is a peaceful journey for devotees and nature lovers alike. Along the way, you'll find several temples, kunds (sacred ponds), and mesmerizing views that connect you to the ancient history and traditions of the region.

The best time to visit is during early morning or late evening when the weather is pleasant, making the walk more comfortable. During festivals like Govardhan Puja and Janmashtami, the entire area is beautifully decorated."

Manoj Yadav

What People Like

Profound spiritual atmosphere
Beautiful natural scenery
Peaceful kunds and temples

What People Dislike

Physically demanding parikrama
Crowds during festivals

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Govardhan Hill is accessible from major cities like Delhi, Agra, and Jaipur. You can take a train or bus to Mathura or Vrindavan, and then hire a taxi or auto-rickshaw to reach Govardhan. Many pilgrims also arrange private transport directly to the starting point of the parikrama. TikTok

Local buses and auto-rickshaws are available for shorter distances or to reach specific points on the parikrama route. However, for the full 21 km, walking is the traditional method. TikTok

Yes, you can drive to Govardhan. There are parking facilities available, though they can get crowded during peak festival times. Many visitors prefer to park and then start their parikrama on foot. Instagram

From Vrindavan, you can easily hire an auto-rickshaw or a taxi to reach Govardhan. The journey takes approximately 30-45 minutes. TikTok

Yes, several tour operators and ISKCON centers offer guided parikrama tours, which can be helpful for understanding the spiritual significance and logistics. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, there are no entry tickets required for the Govardhan Hill Parikrama itself. It is a free pilgrimage route. However, some temples or specific sites along the way might have separate entry fees or donation boxes. Reddit

Govardhan Hill and its parikrama path are generally accessible 24/7, as it's an open pilgrimage route. However, it's advisable to perform the parikrama during daylight hours for safety and comfort. Reddit

While you can start anytime, most devotees prefer to begin their parikrama in the early morning (around sunrise) or late afternoon to avoid the heat. Reddit

The main restriction is to perform the parikrama with devotion and respect. Some individuals may choose to perform the 'Dandavat Parikrama,' which involves full-body prostrations. Instagram+1

Many devotees choose to perform the parikrama barefoot as a sign of devotion. However, if you have health concerns or the ground is too hot, wearing comfortable footwear is perfectly acceptable. TikTok

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

The full 21 km parikrama typically takes between 5 to 8 hours to complete on foot, depending on your pace, breaks, and the type of parikrama you are doing. InstagramReddit

You'll encounter numerous temples, sacred ponds (kunds) like Kusum Sarovar and Mansi Ganga, small villages, and beautiful natural landscapes. The spiritual energy is palpable throughout the route. InstagramReddit

The path is generally safe, especially during daylight hours. It's advisable to travel in groups if possible and be aware of your surroundings. Instagram

Basic facilities like small shops selling water and snacks are available at intervals. Public restrooms can be found at some key points, but it's good to be prepared. Reddit

The Dandavat Parikrama is an intense form of devotion where devotees perform a full-body prostration for every step they take along the 21 km route. It's a very challenging but spiritually rewarding practice. Instagram+1

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

There are numerous small eateries and dhabas along the parikrama route and in the town of Govardhan, serving local Indian cuisine. ISKCON centers also often provide prasadam (blessed food). Reddit

Try local vegetarian dishes like parathas, sabzis, and sweets. Many places offer simple, wholesome meals that are perfect after a long walk. Reddit

Govardhan is a sacred town, and most eateries primarily serve vegetarian food out of respect for religious sentiments. Reddit

Yes, most food served is vegetarian. Vegan options might require specific requests, but many dishes can be made without dairy. Reddit

While tempting, it's advisable to eat at established dhabas or restaurants to ensure hygiene. Always drink bottled water. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Kusum Sarovar, Mansi Ganga, and various viewpoints along the 21 km path offer stunning photographic opportunities. The temples and the natural landscape are also very picturesque. Instagram+1

Photography is generally allowed in open areas and on the parikrama path. However, inside some temples, photography might be restricted. Always check for signage. Instagram

A standard camera or smartphone is sufficient. A wide-angle lens can be useful for capturing the expansive landscapes and the hill itself. Instagram

Early morning and late afternoon offer the best light for photography, with softer shadows and beautiful golden hues. Instagram

Drone usage might be restricted in religious and sensitive areas. It's best to check local regulations before flying a drone. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The 21 km parikrama can be challenging for young children. Consider focusing on shorter segments or visiting key sites like Kusum Sarovar and Mansi Ganga, which are more accessible and offer beautiful scenery. Many families opt to hire a rickshaw for parts of the journey to cover more ground without exhausting the children. Pack plenty of snacks and water, and make it a fun, educational experience by sharing the stories of Lord Krishna. TikTokReddit

🚶‍♀️ Budget Travelers

Govardhan Hill is an excellent destination for budget travelers. The parikrama itself is free. You can find affordable guesthouses and dhabas serving inexpensive, delicious vegetarian meals. Traveling by public bus or shared auto-rickshaw from nearby towns like Vrindavan or Mathura is also cost-effective. Carrying your own water bottle and refilling it can save money. TikTokReddit

🙏 Devout Pilgrims

For devout pilgrims, the full 21 km parikrama is a must. Consider the 'Dandavat Parikrama' for an intensely spiritual experience, though it requires significant physical stamina and time. Staying in ashrams or guesthouses near the hill can enhance your spiritual immersion. Participating in the Annakut ceremony during Govardhan Puja is a highlight for many. Instagram+2

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Legend of Govardhan Hill

Govardhan Hill is central to a pivotal story in Hindu mythology, particularly concerning Lord Krishna. According to the Srimad Bhagavatam, Lord Krishna lifted the entire hill on his finger for seven days and seven nights to shield the villagers of Vrindavan from torrential rains and divine wrath unleashed by the god Indra. This act demonstrated Krishna's divine power and his deep love and protection for his devotees. The hill itself is revered as a natural manifestation of Lord Krishna, known as Giriraj.

The significance of this legend is profound, emphasizing themes of divine protection, devotion, and the sacredness of nature. The parikrama, or circumambulation, of Govardhan Hill is a way for devotees to connect with this divine story and express their faith and surrender. The hill's size is said to be diminishing daily, a concept tied to ancient curses, adding to its mystique. TikTokInstagramReddit

Understanding the Parikrama Routes

The most well-known pilgrimage is the 21-kilometer (approximately 13 miles) parikrama around Govardhan Hill. This route is often referred to as the '7 Kos Parikrama' (a kos is an ancient Indian unit of distance). Along this path, devotees visit numerous sacred sites, including temples and kunds (sacred ponds).

For those seeking a more intense spiritual practice, the Dandavat Parikrama is undertaken. This involves performing a full-body prostration, or 'dandavat,' for every step taken. Devotees stretch out on the ground, mark the spot where their hand reaches, then walk to that mark and repeat the prostration. This is an extremely arduous but deeply devotional practice, often taking several days to complete. Instagram+2

There is also a shorter 15 km route, and some pilgrims focus on visiting specific holy spots around the hill rather than completing the entire circumambulation. The choice of route often depends on the devotee's physical capacity, time, and spiritual inclination. Reddit

Spiritual Significance and Practices

The Govardhan Parikrama is more than just a physical journey; it's a profound spiritual practice aimed at expressing love and devotion to Lord Krishna. Devotees believe that by walking around the sacred hill, they receive Krishna's blessings and purify themselves. The name 'Govardhan' itself has layers of meaning, often translated as 'nourishment for cows' or 'that which increases the senses' in devotion to Krishna. Reddit

During festivals like Govardhan Puja (often celebrated the day after Diwali), the hill is elaborately decorated, and a special 'Annakut' ceremony takes place, where a mountain of food offerings is prepared for the Lord. This celebration commemorates Krishna's divine act and highlights the abundance and gratitude of the devotees. TikTokInstagram+1

Many pilgrims also visit significant kunds like Kusum Sarovar and Mansi Ganga, which are associated with Radha Krishna's pastimes. These serene spots offer moments for meditation, reflection, and connecting with the divine energy of Braj. InstagramReddit

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