Places to Visit in Govardhan
Govardhan Hill
Govardhan Hill is central to Govardhan’s spiritual charm. According to legend, Lord Krishna advised the people of Braj to worship Govardhan Hill instead of Indra Dev, the lord of rain, as the hill provided food, water, and grazing grounds for their cattle. This angered Indra, who sent a heavy storm. To protect the people, Krishna lifted Govardhan Hill on his little finger and held it for seven days, providing shelter for everyone.
Radha Kund and Shyam Kund
Radha Kund and Shyam Kund are sacred ponds with a fascinating story. After Krishna killed a demon disguised as a bull, Radha and the Gopis refused to associate with him, claiming he had become impure. To prove his purity, Krishna summoned all the holy rivers of the world to fill Shyam Kund, where he bathed. Krishna bathed in it and declared himself free of any sin. However, the Gopis, led by Radha, refused to enter the lake, saying it was dirty since it washed away Krishna’s sins. They decided to create their own Kund. So they dug up their own kund after some time they were tired of digging the kund so lord krishna request all the holy lakes and river to fill it, creating the divine Radha Kund.
Mansi Ganga
When Lord Krishna parents expressed a wish to bathe in the Ganga River, Krishna manifested it in Govardhan itself. The name “Mansi” comes from the Sanskrit word for “mind,” as it was created by Krishna’s divine will.
Kusum Sarovar
Kusum Sarovar is one of the most picturesque spots in Govardhan. According to legend, Radha Rani used to come here to gather flowers and secretly meet Lord Krishna. The sarovar, with its beautiful architecture and tranquil waters, was built in 1675 by the ruler of Orchha and later adorned by Jawahar Singh, the son of Suraj Mal.
Jatipura
Jatipura is where Lord Krishna appeared before Madhavendra Puri as Shrinathji, a deity form of Krishna. This is the site where the Annakut festival, a grand celebration of offering food to the deity, began.
Daan Ghati Temple
Daan Ghati Temple is a prominent temple in Govardhan where many pilgrims start their Govardhan Parikrama. It is believed to be the spot where Krishna playfully demanded butter as a tax from the Gopis.
Puchari Ka Lautha Temple
This unique temple is dedicated to a friend of Krishna who is waiting patiently for his return after Krishna left Govardhan. The temple symbolizes devotion and faith.
Chakleshwar Mahadev Temple
This temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva, who played a crucial role in protecting the Brajwasis during the heavy rains caused by Indra. Shiva used his trident to absorb the excess water, helping Krishna protect the people.