Lord Krishna performed many divine acts during his childhood for the welfare of his devotees. One of the most famous of these was the circumambulation of Mount Govardhan. To protect the people of Braj from the wrath of Lord Indra, Lord Krishna lifted the huge Govardhan mountain on his little finger and provided shelter to the people for seven days.
This remarkable act earned him the name “Girdhar” or “Giriraj.” For this reason, Mount Govardhan is also called Giriraj Ji. Every year, the day after Diwali, Govardhan Puja is celebrated, during which Annakut and special worship of Govardhan are performed.
What is the importance of travelling?
Govardhan Mountain is considered to be the visible manifestation of Lord Krishna. It is believed that Lord Krishna resides in every stone on it. Devotees who devoutly visit and circumambulate Govardhan Mountain are cleansed of all their sins and are blessed with happiness, peace, and prosperity. It is believed that all the wishes of those who circumambulate are fulfilled by the grace of Lord Krishna.
When do you travel?
The Saptakoshi Giriraj Parikrama on the full moon day of the Shukla Paksha (waxing moon phase) is considered to be of special significance. Performing it bestows immense blessings. Especially on Sharad Purnima and Govardhan Puja, this circumambulation is considered extremely auspicious and fruitful. It is believed that circumambulating Giriraj Govardhan on this day bestows the blessings of Lord Krishna as well as Radha Rani, bringing happiness and prosperity into one’s life.
How to start the journey
The circumambulation of Shri Govardhan Parvat is seven kos, or approximately 21 km long. Before beginning the circumambulation, devotees pay obeisance to Govardhan Parvat. The journey begins at Mansi Ganga Kund and heads towards Radha Kund village. The route then continues via Vrindavan Road. The first major stop is the Daan Ghati Temple, where Giriraj Ji is anointed with milk. Devotees complete the circumambulation while singing hymns and kirtans along the route.
Travel in 2 days
Devotees can also complete the Saptakosiya Govardhan Giriraj Parikrama over two days, as per their convenience, which is called the Choti and Badi Parikrama. However, completing it in a single day is considered more auspicious. The Parikrama includes several small stops where devotees visit various holy sites. Notable among these are Manasi Ganga, Radha Kund, Govind Kund, and Kusum Sarovar. This journey provides devotees with spiritual peace and divine bliss.
How to reach Govardhan Parikrama
Govardhan Hill (Giriraj Ji) is located in Mathura district (Uttar Pradesh) and is approximately 22 kilometers from Vrindavan and 25 kilometers from Mathura city. To reach Govardhan Hill, keep these steps in mind:
By Rail: The nearest railway station is Mathura Junction. From Mathura, you can reach Govardhan Hill by taxi, auto, or bus.
By Road: Direct bus and taxi services are available from Mathura, Vrindavan, Agra, Aligarh, and Delhi. Govardhan is approximately a 45-minute journey from Mathura.
By Air: The nearest airports are Agra (about 75 km) and Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport (about 150 km). From there, you can reach Govardhan by taxi or bus via Mathura.
