Located about 23 kms from Mathura, it is believed that Lord Krishna had lifted this hill on one finger, to protect Mathura from the rainstorms.
Suggested Duration - 1 – 2 hours
If you are walking on the parikrama marg, you will see a lot of beautiful temples and this beautiful hill.
Govardhan Hill, also known as Giriraj mountain, is situated in the holy land of Mathura, Uttar Pradesh. This sacred site holds immense significance in Hindu mythology, particularly in the tales of Lord Krishna. The hill is believed to have been lifted by the young Krishna on his little finger to protect the villagers from the wrath of Lord Indra, the God of rain and thunder. This legendary event is celebrated as Govardhan Puja, a day after Diwali.
Highlights of Govardhan Hill | The hill is surrounded by several significant temples, including the famous Radha Kund, Shyam Kund, and Mansi Ganga. The Govardhan Parikrama, a 21-kilometre circumambulation of the hill, is a ritual performed by thousands of devotees every year. The hill itself is rich in flora and fauna, offering a serene environment for meditation and introspection. |
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Timings | Govardhan Hill is open 24 hours a day, all year round. |
Entry Fee | Free |
Tips | It's advisable to start the Parikrama early in the morning to avoid the afternoon heat. Wear comfortable footwear and carry water bottles. |
Require Time | 3-4 hours for Parikrama |
Restricted Items | There are no specific restricted items, but it's always respectful to maintain the sanctity of the place. |
The hill is made up of sandstone and stands 80 feet tall. It is believed that with each passing day, the hill is sinking by the width of a mustard seed. The hill is also home to the Govardhan Eco Village, an initiative to promote sustainable living and spiritual education.
Nearby attractions include the Krishna Balaram Mandir, Prem Mandir, and the ISKCON temple.
The best time to visit is during the cooler months of October to March. The Govardhan Puja, celebrated a day after Diwali, attracts a large number of devotees.
Apart from the Parikrama, devotees can also engage in meditation, yoga, and bhajan-kirtan sessions. The serene environment of the hill provides a perfect setting for spiritual activities.
Being a religious site, Govardhan Hill doesn't offer conventional nightlife experiences. However, the evening aarti at the temples and the sound of the temple bells create a divine atmosphere.
There are several local eateries around Govardhan Hill offering delicious vegetarian food, keeping in line with the religious sentiments of the place.
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