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Are you planning to walk on a path that so many saints, sages and devotees have walked for thousands of years? Every step on this journey carries the weight of history, the echoes of Krishna’s pastimes and the silent whispers of unwavering devotion. This is Govardhan Parikrama, a sacred circumambulation of the sacred Govardhan Hill where faith meets endurance and devotion transcends time. You can not just say that it is just a ritual.

Why do millions of devotees do this Parikrama every year? What makes this 21 km route so powerful? The answer lies in its deep history, hidden stories and the belief that every stone on this path is a manifestation of Lord Krishna himself. You can not just say that it is just a ritual. Govardhan Parikrama is an experience that can’t be put into words. It has to be walked. It has to be felt.

The Origin of Govardhan Hill

According to the ancient texts, Govardhan Hill is no ordinary hill. It is a divine entity and a part of Lord Krishna himself. The hill is said to have come from the celestial realm of Goloka and was brought to earth by Pulastya Rishi. But the most famous legend is Lord Krishna lifting the hill on his little finger to save the people of Braj from the wrath of Lord Indra. This divine act is celebrated every year during Govardhan Puja. If you wish to attend this celebration you can select the popular Mathura Vrindavan Tour Packages and experience the best of the Puja.

Interestingly geological studies have revealed that the rocks of Govardhan Hill are older than the surrounding terrain. Some even believe Govardhan is shrinking every year as per the Hindu texts and so those who want to complete the Parikrama in their lifetime are in a hurry.

From Where the Govardhan Parikrama Starts?

The Parikrama usually begins at Manasi Ganga which is a sacred water body believed to have manifested from Krishna’s thoughts. Pilgrims take a dip in its waters and believe in purifying the mind as well as the soul before they embark on their journey. The first major stop is the Haridev Temple which is an ancient shrine dedicated to Lord Krishna, where devotees offer prayers before stepping onto the revered path. Many of the devotees choose to book a Govardhan Puja Package for their convenience which includes a guided tour and transportation.

The Sacred Route of Govardhan Parikrama

Govardhan Parikrama is divided into two parts the outer Parikrama which is 21 kilometers and the inner Parikrama which is 8 kilometers. The route is lined with numerous temples, holy ponds and hidden spiritual spots. Here are some of the most significant places on the way:

• Radha Kund and Shyama Kund: These twin ponds are believed to be the embodiment of Radha and Krishna’s eternal love. Bathing in Radha Kund on specific nights especially during Kartik Purnima is believed to give a spiritual high.
• Kusum Sarovar: It is associated with Radha collecting flowers for Krishna. The water here is believed to have healing properties and the architecture around the pond is Mughal and Rajput style.
• Daan Ghati: This is an important place in the route where Krishna is believed to have playfully blocked the Gopis and demanded offerings in return for passage.
• Puchari Ka Lotha: A beautiful spot associated with a devotee named Lotha who wanted to complete the Parikrama but collapsed due to fatigue. and it is believed that Lord Krishna has completed the remaining journey for him.

How Long Does it Take to Complete the Govardhan Parikrama?

It takes around 5 to 7 hours to complete the Govardhan Parikrama if you walk at a steady pace. But there are different ways to do it:

• Regular Walking Parikrama: The most common way, where devotees walk the full 21 kilometres barefoot as an act of devotion.
• Dandavat Parikrama: The most intense and rigorous way, where devotees do full prostration after every step. This can take weeks to complete.
• Half Parikrama: Some pilgrims due to age or physical limitations do the inner 8 kilometer Parikrama which is still very significant.

Interestingly some devotees do the Parikrama in reverse order thinking it pleases Govardhan more. And there is a growing trend of eco friendly cycling in Parikrama so that those who cannot walk long distances can also do it.

When Is the Best Time to Do Govardhan Parikrama?

The Govardhan Parikrama changes with the seasons. While we do it all year round, certain times are more spiritual and culturally significant.

• Kartik Month (Oct-Nov): The most auspicious time for Parikrama. Thousands of pilgrims come during this month, as every step taken in Kartik is 100 times more meritorious than in other months. Kartik Purnima night is especially powerful.
• Govardhan Puja (Next day of Diwali): One of the most crowded and divine times for Parikrama. This is when Krishna lifted Govardhan hill. The entire route is illuminated and devotees offer Annakoot, a mountain of food offer to Govardhan.
• Full Moon and Amavasya Nights: Many saints prefer to do the Parikrama on full moon nights when the moonlight adds to the mysticism of the journey. Some believe that doing it on an Amavasya (new moon night) gives unique blessings as it is the most intense spiritual time of the month.
• Monsoon Season (July-Sept): Though less popular as the paths are muddy, this is when Govardhan Hill is most beautiful. The greenery is everywhere and peacocks can be seen dancing on the way.

Preparing for Govardhan Parikrama

The Govardhan Hill walk requires physical strength and spiritual intention. Many first timers underestimate the challenge and start without preparation. The 21km is not just about faith but also about stamina. Cotton clothes are recommended as many opt for traditional attire like dhotis, sarees or kurtas. Though most devotees walk barefoot, some carry socks or padded footwear for protection against rough terrain.

Carry water bottles because dehydration is common, especially in summer. Some pilgrims bring dry fruits or jaggery sweets to keep their energy levels up throughout the journey. A walking stick is a good companion for elderly devotees, a flashlight for those who walk at night. Many devotees also carry small Govardhan stones, believing them to be infused with Krishna’s presence.

Don’t overeat before the Parikrama as it will slow you down. The path requires mental toughening and heavy baggage is discouraged. While food stalls are available along the way, it is always good to carry some essentials so you don’t depend on others.

Some Mystical Experience to Encounter

Govardhan Parikrama is full of experiences that defy logic. Many pilgrims claim to have felt an invisible presence guiding them on the way, especially near Radha Kund where the energy is at its peak. There are countless stories of devotees hearing Krishna’s flute in the still of the night and feeling as if they have been transported to another world.

Some saints and sadhus tell of glowing lights above Manasi Ganga, believed to be celestial beings offering prayers. Some pilgrims have met old sages who gave them spiritual wisdom and then vanished, leaving many to think they were not human but divine in disguise.

One of the most amazing experiences is Govardhan Shila changing its form. Some devotees say when they pick up a small stone from Govardhan it looks normal but later develops divine markings or symbols, indicating Krishna’s presence. Such experiences prove that Govardhan is alive and watching over those who walk its path.