Govardhan Hill

Sacred Mountain of Lord Krishna

Where divine grace meets earthly devotion

Explore the Sacred Site

About Govardhan

Govardhan Hill, also known as Mount Govardhana or Giriraj, is a sacred 8-kilometer-long hill in the Mathura district of Uttar Pradesh, India. Located approximately 21 km from Vrindavan and 26 km from Mathura, this holy site is revered as the natural form of Lord Krishna.

According to Hindu legend, Lord Krishna lifted this entire hill on a single finger for seven days to shelter the villagers of Gokul from the torrential rains sent by Lord Indra. This miraculous event is commemorated annually during Govardhan Puja, making it one of the most significant pilgrimage centers for Krishna devotees worldwide.

8 km

Hill Length

21 km

Parikrama Path

2018

Official Pilgrimage Status

Govardhan Hill

The Divine Legend

Indra's Wrath

In ancient times, villagers worshipped Lord Indra, the rain god, through elaborate fire rituals. When Krishna persuaded them to worship Govardhan Hill instead, Indra became furious and unleashed torrential rains to flood the village.

Krishna's Protection

To save the villagers and their cattle, young Krishna lifted the entire Govardhan Hill on his little finger, holding it like an umbrella for seven days and nights, providing shelter from the devastating storm.

Divine Victory

Realizing Krishna's divine power, Lord Indra accepted defeat and stopped the rains. Since then, devotees celebrate Govardhan Puja annually, and the hill has become a major pilgrimage site for Krishna worshippers.

Plan Your Visit

Parikrama

The sacred 21 km circumambulation around Govardhan Hill starts at Daan Ghati temple, passes through Radha Kund and Shyama Kund, and ends at Manasi Ganga pond.

Sacred Temples

Visit important temples including Daan Ghati, Sri Giriraj, Haridev, and Mukharvind. Each temple holds unique significance in Krishna's divine pastimes.

Holy Waters

Bathe in the sacred waters of Manasi Ganga, believed to be blessed by the holy Ganges, and visit Radha Kund and Shyama Kund for spiritual purification.

Best Time

Visit during Govardhan Puja (October-November) for the grand Annakut festival, or any time of year to experience the divine atmosphere.

How to Reach

From Mathura

26 km via Mathura-Barsana Road

From Vrindavan

21 km via Govardhan Road