Belvan
About Belvan, Vrindavan
Belvan is a beautiful and sacred forest located on the other side of the Yamuna River in Vrindavan, Braj. In ancient times, this forest was filled with bael trees, and it is said that during His time in Braj, Shri Krishna and His cowherd friends used to graze cows here. They enjoyed playing games and feasting on the delicious bael fruits from the trees.
Belvan is also a special place because it is where Goddess Lakshmi (Lakshmi Devi) performed tapasya (penance) to enter the divine rasa-leela. For this reason, the forest is also known as “Shri Van,” meaning “the forest of Lakshmi Devi.” Today, this sacred site attracts many visitors, and a temple dedicated to Goddess Lakshmi is situated here.
The Story of Lakshmi Devi at Belvan
One day, Goddess Lakshmi heard from Narad ji about the sweet rasa-leela of Shri Krishna. Filled with a desire to witness this divine dance, she came to Braj. However, only the Gopis, who have pure and selfless love for Krishna, could take part in the rasa-leela. The Gopis were so devoted to Krishna that they were willing to do anything for Him.
Unlike the Gopis, Goddess Lakshmi, being the Goddess of fortune, could not perform the simple tasks of village life, like milking cows or making butter, which Krishna loved. So Lakshmi devi can witness rasa-leela but she cannot cross the Yamuna to enter rasa mandala in Braj.
Therefore, Lakshmi Mata started worshiping Lord Krishna with her face towards Vrindavan. When Lord Krishna was very tired of doing Maharaslila, Lakshmi Mata lit the fire with her saree and made khichdi for him. Lord Krishna was very pleased with him after eating this khichdi. When Lakshmi Mata asked Lord Krishna for permission to stay in Braj, he gladly granted her permission. The incident took place on Thursday in the month of Pausha. Later, a grand temple of Lakshmi Mata was established at this place.
Distance for Belvan
| Place Name | Distance |
|---|---|
|
Mathura Railway Station |
25 km |
|
Mathura |
23 km |
|
Gokul |
30 km |
|
Vrindavan |
15 km |
How to Reach
By Road: You can easily hire a cab from Agra, Mathura, or Delhi to travel to the Belvan. It is approx. 162 km from Delhi, 85 kms from Agra, 23 kms from Mathura.
By Train: The city is well-connected with almost all cities across the country. The nearest railway station is in Mathura, located 25 kms away.
By Air: The nearest fully functional commercial airport is the Indira Gandhi International Airport in New Delhi, approx. 160 km away.