Govardhan Hill Mathura – Timings, History, Location, and Complete Travel Guide

Govardhan Hill, which is another name for Giri Raj, is a powerful sacred landmark found in Aanyor, Mathura, Uttar Pradesh, India. Situating an approximate 22 km from the place named Vrindavan, the hill is the most sacred place for the faithful of Lord Krishna. To the top of 80 feet and around 38 kilometers of lengths, the hill is believed to be the same physical form of the Lord which was described in the Bhagavad Gita. The pilgrims assemble here with the intention to complete parikrama (the rough circling of the hill), and take part in the commemorative events to Krishna.

Timings and Entry Fee

Timings:

1. Monday to Sunday: 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM  
2. Entry Fee: No entry fee

Historical and Mythological Significance

The Legend of Lord Krishna

Govardhan Hill is a mythological hill which is the main mythological object of Lord Krishna's childhood. The Hindu texts say that Lord Krishna raised the hill on his little finger so that the inhabitants of Vrindavan were protected from the extreme rainfall that was brought about by the anger of Lord Indra. This incident which seems to be impossible demonstrates Krishna's exceptional power and mercy and, therefore, the Govardhan Hill is a place of worship to the people who believe that during the birthday the mountain was lifted to demonstrate the same. Initially, Shankar Uta Khanan, an AFK, then, later on, experience before traffic schedule for North Delhi underpass. Finally, PWD gave a realignment plan to DMRC, and they have agreed to finish the underpass construction within three months of implementation of this plan.

Importance of Govardhan Puja

Govardhan Puja, following Diwali, is a celebration of the event. Believers offer 56 Chappan Bhog dishes to Krishna and walk around the hill while thanking him for his mercy.

Location and Accessibility

Address: Aanyor, Mathura, Uttar Pradesh, 281502, IndiaDistance from Key Locations:

1. Mathura: 25 kilometers away from city center, which takes around 50 minutes by car.  
2. Vrindavan: 22 kilometers from the city center (about 45 minutes by car).

How to Reach Govardhan Hill

1. By Road: By well-connected buses and taxis from Mathura and Vrindavan.  
2. By Train: The closest railway station is Mathura Junction, which has connections to reticulation cities.  
3. By Air: The nearest airport to Govardhan Hill is Indira Gandhi International Airport (Delhi). Taxis have facilities to the destination.

Key Attractions at Govardhan Hill

1. Kusum Sarovar – The Lake of Flowers

A serene lake of Kusum Sarovar, ordained with fragrant flowers, is the historical and spiritual site of the attraction. It was here that, the greatest divine lovers Radha-Krishna used to meet. The lake is surrounded by cenotaphs with detailed murals showing scenes from their life.

Timings: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM

2. Giriraj Temple

This temple is the abode of Lord Krishna and it is a revered place of pilgrimage for the devouts, which houses holy symbols and is a hub for devotion and acts of worship.

Radha Kund and Shyama Kund

These two kunds are very inspiring for pilgrims. According to the myth, Shyama Kund was originated by Krishna and then Radha Kund by Radha. The followers are convinced that visiting the kund makes their soul clean and stronger their connection to God.

4. Mansi Ganga Lake

The lake named Mansi Ganga found on the top of Govardhan is the largest and the worshipped for its believed cleansing effects. The water body is also the starting and ending point of parikrama.

5. Danghati Shrine

The temple is Krishna's piscatorial representation of lifting the hill. The deity is Krishna who holds the Govardhan Hill which signifies love for protection and sacredness.

The Sacred Parikrama (Circumambulation)

The devotees of Lord Krishna perform the parikrama around the Govardhan hill and this process is extremely important to them. The full circuit is about 23 kilometers and is usually done in 5-6 hours.

Types of Parikrama

1. Walking Parikrama: Pilgrims go around the hill on their feet and recite prayers.  
2. Doodh Parikrama: Milk is provided throughout the parikrama as an offering.  
3. Dandvat Parikrama: This is the most difficult activity when the believer lies down and moves himself just stretching out a bit.  
4. Couple Dandvat Parikrama: Upon couple's request, the god is also forgivable.  
5. 108 Dandvat Parikrama: The corresponding action refers to 108 bows in one point and sometimes continue for a couple of months during the day.

Best Time to Visit

It is mostly preferred that tourists may travel to the place of Govardhan Hill from the month of October to March when the weather is pleasant. Special occasions like Govardhan Puja and Guru Purnima witness grand celebrations, attracting thousands of devotees.

Shopping and Dining

Local Markets

Tourists are able to discover colorful markets that sell souvenirs such as prayer beads, brass statues, and traditional paintings.

Popular Restaurants

1. Ninety-Nine Restaurant – It is a vegetarian restaurant.  
2. Sheel Gopal Restaurant – Provides delicious North Indian cuisine.  
3. Bhagwan Singh's Mithai Shop – Is known for selling ghee kachoris.

Accommodation Options

Both budget and luxury hotels are available in Mathura and Vrindavan, enabling a cozy and comfortable stay. In addition, guesthouses situated near Govardhan Hill are affordable accommodations for pilgrims.

Travel Tips for Visitors

1. Footwear: There is a parikrama route that is extensive and that should be walked, so a pair of comfortable shoes is a thing to take along.  
2. Timing: The parikrama should be done very early in the morning to miss the heat and crowding.  
3. Essentials: Bring water, snacks, and sunscreen with you.  
4. Respect Local Customs: By behaving according to temple etiquette and dressing modestly you follow the local customs.
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(FAQ) Regarding Mathura's Govardhan Hill

1. What role does Hindu mythology's Govardhan Hill play?

Lord Krishna's early years are connected to the hallowed location known as Govardhan Hill. The hill was raised on his little finger by Krishna in Hindu mythology to shield the inhabitants of Vrindavan from the torrential rains brought on by Lord Indra's wrath. This deed proved Krishna's benevolence and omnipotence, elevating Govardhan Hill to a hallowed pilgrimage location.

2. What is the duration required to do the Govardhan Parikrama?

About 23 kilometers make up the whole parikrama (circumambulation) of Govardhan Hill, which typically takes 5–6 hours to do on foot. In order to avoid crowds and the heat, devotees often begin early in the morning.

3. Which months are ideal for visiting Govardhan Hill?

Because of the beautiful weather, October through March is the ideal time of year to explore Govardhan Hill. Guru Purnima and Govardhan Puja are two special events that draw sizable audiences for lavish festivities.

4. Does Govardhan Hill have admission costs or set hours?

Govardhan Hill does not charge admission. Devotees practicing parikrama may begin as early as sunrise, however the regular visiting hours are from 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM.

5. What is the route to Govardhan Hill?

By Road: Excellent bus and taxi connections are available from Vrindavan (22 km) to Mathura (25 km).

By Train: Mathura Junction is the closest train station.

By Air: Indira Gandhi International Airport in Delhi, which is around 150 kilometers distant, is the nearest airport.

Conclusion

Much more than an example of nature's creation, Govardhan Hill in Mathura is in reality a spiritual hotspot ringing with mythical legends and religious and traditional rituals. New temples, peaceful lakes, and interesting procedures make the place a mixture of history and devotion at the same time. Whether you are a person who travels to find peace, discover new cultures, or cherish nature, Govardhan Hill will definitely provide you an unforgettable experience.

Do come and let Lord Krishna guide and show you the eternal experiences. The easiest way to experience this is through the Mathura-Vrindavan tour package, which you can book today and let yourself be transcendental.