Govardhan in Mathura District – History, Temples, and Parikrama
- Vrindavan Tours and Packages
- Jun 21
- 5 min read
Govardhan in Mathura is not just a geographical landmark—it is a divine being, a sacred hill worshipped as the embodiment of Lord Krishna himself. Rising gently from the plains of Braj Bhoomi, Govardhan Hill is a silent witness to one of the most compassionate acts of divine love in Hindu mythology. Here, the stones are not just stones; they are Krishna. The dust is not just dust; it is the essence of divinity. Pilgrims don’t just walk the path around the hill—they perform a sacred dialogue between the soul and the Supreme. From its mythological origins to its timeless temples, from the profound Govardhan Parikrama to hidden kunds and shrines, every part of Govardhan in Mathura is a story waiting to be lived.
The Mythology of Govardhan – A Hill That Became God
This isn’t just a hill. According to sacred texts like the Bhagavata Purana, when Indra, the rain god, grew angry over the Brajwasis abandoning his worship on Krishna's advice, he sent torrential rains to destroy Vrindavan. Lord Krishna, then a young boy, lifted Govardhan Hill on his little finger for seven days and nights, sheltering all beings under it like an umbrella. This divine act showed the supremacy of bhakti (devotion) over ritual and power.
What makes this history unique?
Govardhan is worshipped as Krishna himself, not just a reminder of his pastimes.
Devotees offer Annakut (mountain of food) to the hill on Govardhan Puja.
Saints affirm the hill is conscious and responds to sincere prayers.
Stones from the hill (Govardhan Shilas) are legally and spiritually accepted as personal deities for worship.
Govardhan isn’t a symbol. It’s a presence—living, breathing, watching.
Important Temples Around Govardhan Hill
The temples around Govardhan in Mathura are not monumental in size but monumental in spirit. They are scattered like gems around the hill, each narrating a different facet of Krishna’s life.
Must-Visit Temples:
Danghati Temple: Most iconic, it shows Krishna holding the hill. Aarti here is soul-stirring.
Jatipura Temple: Considered the main point of offering, where Krishna accepted food offered to the hill.
Mukharvind Temple: Worshipped as the face (mouth) of Govardhan—pilgrims offer milk and water.
Mansi Ganga: A mystical lake created by Krishna's mind (manas). Pilgrims begin Parikrama here.
Radha Kund and Shyam Kund: The most sacred water bodies in Braj—said to be liquid forms of Radha and Krishna’s love.
Govind Kund: Where Indra offered his repentance and bathed Krishna after the lifting of the hill.
Each of these temples has a living pujari, a vibrant history, and a divine energy you can feel.
Govardhan Parikrama – A Sacred Circle of Surrender
The Parikrama (circumambulation) of Govardhan Hill is one of the most heartfelt spiritual practices in India. Unlike temple darshan which lasts minutes, the parikrama can take hours—or even days.
About the Parikrama:
Total distance: 21 kilometers
Traditional route: Begins at Mansi Ganga → Mukharvind → Jatipura → Radha Kund → Kusum Sarovar → Govind Kund → back to Mansi Ganga.
Some devotees perform Dandavat Parikrama, prostrating after every step—this can take weeks or months.
Parikrama can also be done in part: Half Parikrama ends at Radha Kund.
Why it’s spiritually powerful:
Every step cleanses karma.
Walking barefoot connects you to Krishna.
Chanting during the walk builds focus and bhav (emotion).
The silence of the path teaches surrender like no lecture ever can.
No loudspeakers, no grand architecture—just dust, stones, and devotion.
Govardhan Hill Timings, Address & Entry Fee
Darshan Timings of Govardhan Hill
Day | Timing |
Monday | 7:00 am – 7:00 pm |
Tuesday | 7:00 am – 7:00 pm |
Wednesday | 7:00 am – 7:00 pm |
Thursday | 7:00 am – 7:00 pm |
Friday | 7:00 am – 7:00 pm |
Saturday | 7:00 am – 7:00 pm |
Sunday | 7:00 am – 7:00 pm |
Address
Govardhan Hill, Aanyor, Mathura, Uttar Pradesh – 281502, India
Entry Fee
No Entry Fee – The hill is open for all, in Krishna’s inclusive spirit.
Hidden Gems & Sacred Spots Along the Parikrama
While most pilgrims know the main temples, there are many lesser-known but spiritually potent places around Govardhan.
Explore:
Poonchari Ka Lota: Krishna’s friend Madhumangal’s playful leela site.
Kusum Sarovar: A serene kund where Radha picked flowers for Krishna.
Haridev Temple: Ancient site worshipped by Lord Chaitanya Mahaprabhu himself.
Surabhi Kund: Where Surabhi cow thanked Krishna after the Govardhan Leela.
Uddhava Kund: Represents pure knowledge and Krishna’s last leela before leaving for Dwarka.
These places are best visited slowly, ideally with a local Vaishnava guide or spiritual tour group.
Festivals and Events at Govardhan in Mathura
The spiritual calendar at Govardhan is vibrant and filled with high-energy events.
Key Celebrations:
Govardhan Puja (next day after Diwali): Thousands offer food mounds (Annakut) to the hill.
Kartik Purnima: Mass Parikrama and deep daan (lamp offerings).
Sharad Purnima: Raas Leela and divine moonlit celebrations.
Guru Purnima: Many sadhus and saints gather at Radha Kund for satsangs.
Holi and Janmashtami: Celebrated with Braj’s unique flavor of colors, bhajans, and sweets.
Being at Govardhan during these festivals is a life-transforming experience.
How to Reach Govardhan from Mathura and Beyond
From Mathura: 25 km by road. Autos, buses, and taxis are available.
From Vrindavan: 22 km. Many ISKCON devotees do day trips from Vrindavan.
From Delhi: 160 km. Takes about 3.5–4 hours via Yamuna Expressway.
From Agra: 80 km. Taxi ride takes about 2 hours.
Nearest railway station: Mathura Junction (MTJ)Nearest airport: Agra (AGR) or Delhi (DEL)
Best Time to Visit Govardhan in Mathura
Weather:
October to March: Ideal weather for walking and darshan.
April–June: Hot; avoid unless for specific events.
July–September: Monsoon makes the hill green and divine—but parikrama can get muddy.
Spiritually Potent Times:
Kartik Month (Oct–Nov)
Govardhan Puja (Day after Diwali)
Every Purnima (Full Moon)
What Makes Govardhan in Mathura Different from Other Pilgrimage Spots?
You’re not visiting a deity—you’re walking with the deity.
The pilgrimage is not just about visiting temples—it’s a moving meditation.
The divine energy is natural, not constructed.
You don’t need wealth or elaborate rituals—just a humble heart and willing feet.
It’s one of the few sacred places where Krishna worshipped the devotee (he bowed to Govardhan).
Conclusion
Govardhan in Mathura is more than a destination. It is an emotion, an eternal reminder that God is not far, not untouchable, not reserved for the rich or scholarly. Here, even a barefoot step is worship, a sincere chant is heard, and a small offering is accepted with love. In a world filled with distractions and noise, Govardhan invites you to walk slowly, speak softly, and listen deeply—to the song of devotion echoing through the boulders.
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FAQs – Govardhan in Mathura District
1. Why is Govardhan Hill worshipped?
Because Lord Krishna lifted it and declared it divine; it is worshipped as Krishna’s own form.
2. How long does Govardhan Parikrama take?
The 21 km route usually takes 5–6 hours at a moderate pace.
3. Can I do Parikrama at night?
Yes, especially on Purnima or festival nights—it’s peaceful and spiritually charged.
4. Is it necessary to walk barefoot?
Not mandatory, but many do it out of devotion and respect.
5. Is Radha Kund part of the Parikrama?
Yes, it's one of the holiest stops along the route.
6. Are there food and water stalls along the route?
Yes, but carry essentials. Avoid plastic; respect the environment.
7. What is the best place to start the Parikrama?
Traditionally from Mansi Ganga in Govardhan town.
8. Can children and elderly do the Parikrama?
Yes, with breaks. Vehicles are also allowed on the parikrama marg.
9. Are there guided tours for Govardhan Hill?
Yes, many local and spiritual tour operators offer immersive experiences.
10. Can I bring home a stone from Govardhan?
Only if you’re initiated or permitted by a guru—stones are sacred and living deities.
