Govardhan Parikrama Guide: Route, Distance, Time & Parikrama by Car

How long is the Govardhan parikrama?

The full parikrama around Govardhan Hill is about 21 km (often described as 7 kos). Govardhan town is roughly 22–25 km from both Mathura and Vrindavan.

The route and main stops

Most pilgrims start and end at Daan Ghati Mandir in Govardhan town. The parikrama is traditionally done keeping the hill on your right (clockwise). The main places along the way include:

1. Daan Ghati Mandir — the usual starting point, where pilgrims offer milk to Giriraj Ji.
2. Mansi Ganga — a large sacred kund in Govardhan town, with the Harideva temple nearby.
3. Kusum Sarovar — a beautiful sandstone tank with memorial chhatris.
4. Radha Kund and Shyam Kund — the twin sacred ponds, among the holiest places in Braj.
5. Puchhri ka Lautha — at the 'tail' end of the hill, in the Puchhri area.
6. Jatipura (Mukharvind) — a key place for Pushtimarg devotees.

Parikrama rules pilgrims follow

• Keep the hill on your right throughout the parikrama.
• Don't climb Govardhan Hill or take stones from it.
• Many walk barefoot; soft slippers are sold locally if the road is too hot.
• Bathing in the kunds is allowed, but don't wash your feet in them.
• Keep the mind on the pilgrimage — chanting or quiet walking.

Best time for Govardhan parikrama

• Season: October to March is the most comfortable; summer afternoons are very hot.
• Time of day: start before sunrise if walking, or late afternoon in winter.
• Special days: Guru Purnima (Mudiya Purnima), Govardhan Puja (the day after Diwali) and every Purnima see huge crowds — powerful, but plan for heavy rush and road closures.

Govardhan parikrama by car (for seniors and families)

If walking 21 km isn't possible, you can do the parikrama by car along the road around the hill, stopping at Daan Ghati, Mansi Ganga, Kusum Sarovar and Radha Kund. Inside the narrow parts, an e-rickshaw is easier than a car.

Most families combine Govardhan with Barsana (Radha Rani Temple) and Nandgaon on the same day — a natural Day 2 after Mathura and Vrindavan. See our Govardhan Hill page.

Practical tips

1. Carry water, a cap and light snacks — shade is limited on parts of the route.
2. Wear light cotton clothes; carry a warm layer for winter early mornings.
3. Keep small cash for e-rickshaws and prasad.
4. If you walk, break it into two halves with a rest at Daan Ghati.
5. On festival days, park outside town and expect police diversions.

Frequently asked questions