Govardhan Hill Parikrama Timing – 21 KM of Faith and Devotion
- Vrindavan Tours and Packages
- Jun 23
- 5 min read
Govardhan Hill, located near Mathura-Vrindavan, is not just a sacred site—it’s a living symbol of Lord Krishna’s divine love and protection. Devotees from around the world perform the 21-kilometer Parikrama (circumambulation) around the holy hill, offering prayers, chanting bhajans, and seeking blessings. It’s believed that one round of Govardhan equals visiting all the holy places in the world. Knowing the Govardhan hill parikrama timing is crucial for both spiritual fulfillment and physical comfort, especially given the region’s hot climate.
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What is Govardhan Hill Parikrama and Why is it Performed?
Performing a parikrama around Govardhan Hill is an act of surrender, love, and spiritual purification.
Govardhan Hill is believed to be a manifestation of Lord Krishna Himself.
Devotees recall the time when Krishna lifted the hill to protect villagers from torrential rain sent by Indra.
Parikrama is considered a way to show gratitude and seek protection from life’s hardships.
The 21-kilometer path includes major sites like Daan Ghati, Govinda Kund, Haridev Temple, Kusum Sarovar, and Mansi Ganga.
Walking barefoot while chanting the Lord’s name is common and deeply fulfilling.
It’s a spiritual journey, not a race—taken at one’s own pace with humility in the heart.
Govardhan Hill Parikrama Timing – When to Begin?
Though the Parikrama can be done at any time, certain hours are more comfortable and spiritually elevated.
Best time to start:
Early morning (4:30 AM – 7:00 AM)
Late evening (6:00 PM onwards)
Avoid afternoon hours, especially in summer, due to extreme heat.
During Purnima (Full Moon) or Ekadashi, many devotees begin walking right after midnight.
The winter months (Nov–Feb) offer more flexibility, but nights can be chilly.
On special days like Govardhan Puja, the route is bustling with bhajan mandalis and prasad stalls all night.
Understanding the right Govardhan hill parikrama timing helps avoid sun exhaustion and enhances your spiritual experience.
21 KM Route Map – Key Spiritual Stops Along the Way
The Parikrama isn’t just walking—it's a guided path through Krishna's divine playgrounds.
Start Point: Most begin at Mansi Ganga, believed to have manifested from Krishna’s mind.
Daan Ghati Temple: Symbolizes Krish
na demanding offerings from the Gopis.
Govinda Kund: Where Indra himself bathed Lord Krishna after surrender.
Haridev Temple: A must-visit temple before starting the Parikrama.
Kusum Sarovar: A beautiful sandstone structure, said to be where Radha picked flowers for Krishna.
Radha Kund and Shyam Kund: Considered the most sacred part of the journey.
These spots turn the 21 km walk into a divine experience, giving spiritual breaks for rest, reflection, and darshan.
Tips for Devotees – Make Your Parikrama Hassle-Free
Preparing ahead can make your journey more comfortable and peaceful.
Wear light cotton clothes and carry a scarf to cover your head.
Bring a water bottle, energy bars, and wet wipes.
Walk barefoot if possible, but you can wear light slippers if needed.
Keep a small chanting mala or download bhajans for continuous focus.
Avoid heavy bags; carry only essentials in a small backpack.
Rest frequently at temple spots or shade trees—no rush.
If walking at night, bring a torchlight or headlamp.
The 21 km can be tiring physically, but it's meant to cleanse your soul—go slow, chant more.
Best Time of Year for Govardhan Hill Parikrama
The climate of Braj significantly affects your experience and safety.
October to March: The most favorable time, with pleasant temperatures and cool evenings.
April to June: Summer is extremely hot—avoid midday hours if walking during this season.
July to September: Monsoon adds greenery but also mud and slippery paths.
Special times to do Parikrama:
Govardhan Puja (Day after Diwali)
Guru Purnima
Radhashtami
Kartik Purnima
These days attract lakhs of devotees, and the Govardhan hill parikrama timing shifts to early nights due to massive crowds.
How Long Does the Parikrama Take?
Devotees complete the Parikrama at their own pace—there’s no single standard.
Fast walkers: Around 4–5 hours with short halts.
Casual pace with stops: 6–7 hours including temple visits and breaks.
Pad Yatra (with full devotion and bhajans): 8+ hours.
Some pilgrims take an entire day, resting and meditating at each spot.
Sashtang Dandavat Parikrama (full-body prostration every step) can take days or even weeks—an intense act of devotion.
Always adjust your Govardhan hill parikrama timing based on personal capacity, weather, and crowd conditions.
Safety & Facilities for Devotees
Though a spiritual zone, practical safety helps ensure a serene experience.
Several water stalls, public toilets, and tea points are available on the route.
At night, police and volunteer teams assist with navigation and crowd control.
First aid camps are often set up during festival times.
Avoid accepting food from strangers—stick to prasad or known sources.
Senior citizens can use battery rickshaws or cycle carts that go around the path.
Keep mobile phones charged—signal is decent across most parts.
Govardhan Parikrama is beautifully traditional but supported with basic modern facilities.
Accommodation Options Near Parikrama Route
Plan your stay so you can rest before or after the Parikrama.
Govardhan Town: Offers basic dharamshalas, guesthouses, and lodges.
Barsana or Radha Kund: Nearby areas also offer rooms for pilgrims.
Vrindavan/Mathura: If you’re coming from here, start early or stay overnight in Govardhan.
Some popular options:
Giriraj Bhavan
Mansi Ganga Dham
ISKCON Govardhan guesthouses
Booking in advance is recommended during peak festivals.
Stay close to the starting point to match your ideal Govardhan hill parikrama timing with proper rest.
Spiritual Importance – What the Scriptures Say
Govardhan Parikrama is mentioned in several Puranas and Braj traditions.
Skanda Purana: Performing this Parikrama frees one from all sins and grants Krishna’s grace.
Bhagavata Purana: Govardhan Hill is Krishna Himself—walking around it is walking around God.
Devotees chant “Giriraj Maharaj ki Jai” or sing Govardhan Bhajans throughout the walk.
According to Srimad Bhagavatam, even demigods performed Parikrama in invisible form.
Your 21 km walk isn’t just physical—it’s an act of total surrender to Krishna’s shelter.
Conclusion: A Journey of the Body, Heart, and Soul
The Govardhan hill parikrama timing is not just about the hour—it’s about the inner readiness. Whether you begin at dawn or dusk, fast or slow, each step is an offering, each breath a chant. In a world full of distractions, this 21-kilometer journey pulls you into stillness, gratitude, and connection with the Divine. Plan your Parikrama with awareness, walk with faith, and let Govardhan Maharaj embrace you with love.
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FAQs – Govardhan Hill Parikrama Timing
1. Can I do Govardhan Parikrama at night?
Yes, many devotees do it at night, especially during summer or Purnima.
2. What is the total length of the Parikrama?
It is approximately 21 kilometers.
3. Is there a fixed Govardhan hill parikrama timing?
No fixed time, but early morning or late evening is recommended.
4. Is the path safe for solo walkers?
Yes, especially during festivals and mornings. Avoid deserted hours alone.
5. How long does it take to complete?
On average, 4–7 hours depending on speed and stops.
6. Can elderly people do the Parikrama?
Yes, with support. Rickshaws and carts are available for assistance.
7. Are there food and water facilities along the way?
Yes, stalls and tea points are available at regular intervals.
8. Can I carry shoes or must it be barefoot?
Traditionally done barefoot, but light footwear is acceptable for those who can’t.
9. Is photography allowed during the Parikrama?
Yes, but be respectful around temples and sadhus.
10. Is there any entry fee for the Parikrama?
No, it is completely free and open to all.
