Govardhan and Radha Kund
Govardhan, Uttar Pradesh
Govardhan is the sacred hill about 25 km from Mathura, where Krishna is said to have lifted the hill on his little finger to shelter the people of Braj. Pilgrims walk the circular path around it (the Govardhan Parikrama), visit the sacred ponds such as Mansi Ganga and Radha Kund, and worship the hill itself. Even a short visit by car gives a taste of the rural side of Braj.
What to see and do
- See the Mansi Ganga pond and the Harideo temple nearby
- Visit Radha Kund and Shyam Kund, two sacred ponds
- See pilgrims walk the Parikrama and join a short stretch if you wish
- Learn the story of Krishna lifting the hill
Ideal for
- Devotees of Krishna
- Families who want to see rural Braj
- Walkers who enjoy a short parikrama
Good to know
- The full Parikrama is a long walk of many kilometres, so most visitors by cab see only a few key places, and distances should be checked
- Mansi Ganga and Radha Kund timings are not confirmed, so check locally
- Go in the cooler hours, as the hill is exposed and hot
- Govardhan Puja, a day after Diwali, is the busiest time
- Dress modestly, and expect to remove shoes at temples
Spiritual significance
Govardhan is where the Krishna story of protecting Braj from the storm is remembered, and the hill itself is worshipped. For many pilgrims, walking around it is the heart of a Braj pilgrimage.
Why it matters
- The hill Krishna lifted: a central story of Braj
- Sacred ponds: Mansi Ganga and Radha Kund are major pilgrim spots
- The Parikrama: a pilgrim path that many walk barefoot