Govardhan Hill, also known as Giriraj, is a sacred hill located in the Mathura district of Uttar Pradesh, India. It is situated about 23 kilometers west of Mathura and is one of the most important pilgrimage sites in Hinduism.
Govardhan Hill is considered to be the incarnation of Lord Krishna, the eighth avatar of Lord Vishnu. It is believed that Lord Krishna lifted the hill on his little finger to protect the people of Vrindavan from the wrath of Lord Indra, the god of rain and thunder. Lord Indra had sent a heavy downpour to destroy the village of Vrindavan, but Lord Krishna lifted the hill to provide shelter to the people and animals of the village.
The Govardhan Hill is about 80 feet high and has a circumference of around 38 kilometers. The hill is made of sandstone and dotted with numerous temples and shrines. The most famous temple on the hill is the Govardhan Nathji Temple, dedicated to Lord Krishna. The temple is said to have been built by Raja Bhoj of Malwa in the 11th century.
The hill is also home to several other temples, including the Mukharbind Temple, the Daan-Ghati Temple, and the Radha Kund Temple. The Mukharbind Temple is believed to be the spot where Lord Krishna had lifted the hill, while the Daan-Ghati Temple is believed to be the place where Lord Krishna stopped to rest during his journey to raise the mountain.
The Govardhan Hill is known for its Parikrama, which circumambulates the hill. The Parikrama is considered to be a sacred ritual and is undertaken by thousands of pilgrims every year. The Parikrama covers a distance of around 23 kilometres and takes about 6-8 hours to complete.
Govardhan Hill is also known for its natural beauty. Lush green forests surround the hill and are home to various flora and fauna. It is also an important water source for the surrounding areas, as it is believed to be the source of several rivers and streams.
The Govardhan Hill is an important Hindu pilgrimage site, attracting thousands of visitors yearly. Its rich history, religious significance, and natural beauty make it a must-visit destination for anyone visiting the Mathura district of Uttar Pradesh.
Places To Visit Nearby Govardhan Hill in Uttar Pradesh
Mathura is a historical city situated about 23 kilometres east of Govardhan Hill. It is known for its association with Lord Krishna and is home to several ancient temples and shrines dedicated to him.
Vrindavan is a small town located about 12 kilometres from Govardhan Hill. It is believed to be where Lord Krishna spent his childhood and is home to several temples and ashrams dedicated to him.
Barsana is a small village situated about 21 kilometres from Govardhan Hill. It is the birthplace of Radha, the beloved of Lord Krishna, and is home to several temples and ashrams dedicated to her.
Radha Kund is a sacred lake located about 10 kilometres from Govardhan Hill. It is believed to be where Radha and Krishna used to meet, and it is an important pilgrimage site for Hindus.
Kusum Sarovar is a beautiful lake located about 8 kilometres from Govardhan Hill. Lush green gardens surround it, and it is a popular picnic spot for locals and tourists.
Agra is a city located about 88 kilometers from Govardhan Hill. It is famous for the Taj Mahal, one of the Seven Wonders of the World, and is home to several other historical monuments and landmarks.
These places offer a glimpse into the rich cultural and religious heritage of Uttar Pradesh and are worth visiting for anyone interested in history and spirituality.