India is a land of many religion. Many dieties are worshipped. And one of the prominent place for Hindu worship is Mathura also known as Brajbhoomi. Mathura is very popular destination for Hindu devotees as it is the birthplace of Lord Krishna who is regarded as the incarnation of Lord Vishnu. It is an important pilgrim place of the Hindus and one of the seven sacred cities in India. The main pilgrim center in Mathura is the Shri Krishna Janmabhoomi temple. (janambhumi=birthplace)
Today I will take you on a short trip to one of the main attraction of Mathura, whish is known by Govardhan Parbat or Giriraj Ji which is a popular temple, located approx 20-25 Kms from Vrindavan, dedicated to natural form of Lord Krishna.
Govardhana Hill, also called Mount Govardhana and Giriraj, is a sacred Hindu site in the Mathura district of Uttar Pradesh, India on an 8 km long hill located in the area of Govardhan and Radha Kund, which is about 21 kilometres (13 mi) from Vrindavan.
It is considered as one of the most auspicious mount in the world since Lord Krishna is considered forever wandering on its slopes. As per the mythological tale Lord Krishna lifted this hill on his little finger for seven days at a stretch to protect the localities from the devastating rain. The incident has notable mention on Shrimadbhagvad Gita and also in Puranas. Due indesent rain, that mount crushed inch by inch. The symbolic small piece of mountain, approx 3 x 5 feet, is worshiped here.
The deity of Braj fulfills all its desires by worshipping at this place. Goverdhan Parikarama is most auspicious one because it is an offering of worship to Radhe and Krishna. Fed on the tale, partly mythological, partly religious, believers / devotees from far off place visit Govardhan to do a 21 km parikrama (circumambulation) around the 80 ft hill to sweat off their sins and acquire good karma.
Apart from the temple sight, there are many places in the area which is worth visiting. One of the best place is Radha Kund. At night the place is worth spending time. People who often get tired of the parikarma take rest at this place. On lighting up the place is worth a lot.
The temple committee make some special arrangement for the devotees to take the parikarma..they have spread find sand all across he path, so that the devotees don't get hurt. Walking g on these make the devotees to feel relaxed.
There are few pond and temples on the way as way which make the parikarma quite blissful. The sighting of these simply add vigor among the devotees to get closer to Shri Krishna.
One of the most important attraction of the temple, is offering of 56 bhog made to Lord Krishna. 56 spelled as "chappan" in Hindi. This food items also known as Chappan Bhog. It is a special prasad consisting of 56 food items that are offered to Lord Krishna on Krishna Janmashtami.
I must admit, this is a not a tourist attraction, but in case you are a vivid cultureist who goes to explore the different cultures of India, do visit this place. While the chanting of radha krishna keeps you hooked, you won't get drained out exploring the vast religion of India has.
Make sure, to keep your belonging safe from wild monkey. Not only this place infact the entire Mathura is abundant of them. Who like to take on the tourist and their belongings.
It is fun exploring the root of Indian mythology through these places.