Shri Giriraj Ji Temple Guide
Shri Giriraj Ji Temple: A Sacred Pilgrimage Around the Holy Hill Guide
Welcome to Shri Giriraj Ji Temple, a deeply revered Hindu shrine nestled in the heart of Goverdhan, India. This isn't just a temple; it's an entire sacred hill, believed to be a manifestation of Lord Krishna himself. Pilgrims from all over the world flock here to perform the 'parikrama,' a devotional circumambulation of the Giriraj hill, seeking blessings and spiritual fulfillment. Prepare to be immersed in a vibrant tapestry of faith, tradition, and devotion as you embark on this unforgettable journey. The history of Giriraj Ji is intertwined with the legends of Lord Krishna. According to Hindu scriptures, Krishna lifted the Govardhan hill to protect the villagers of Vrindavan from torrential rains sent by Lord Indra. This act demonstrated Krishna's divine power and his love for his devotees. The Giriraj hill is therefore considered extremely sacred, and the parikrama is a symbolic reenactment of seeking refuge and blessings from the Lord. Over centuries, numerous temples and shrines have been built around the hill, further enhancing its spiritual significance. The primary activity here is the parikrama, a roughly 21-kilometer walk around the Giriraj hill. You can choose to walk barefoot, hire a cycle rickshaw, or even travel by car (though walking is the most traditional and spiritually rewarding). Along the way, you'll encounter numerous temples, sacred ponds (kunds), and bustling marketplaces selling religious artifacts and local snacks. Don't miss the opportunity to witness the 'aarti' (prayer ceremony) at various temples, a truly mesmerizing experience filled with chanting, music, and devotion. Goverdhan is known for its simple, vegetarian cuisine, often offered as 'prasad' (blessed food) at the temples. Be sure to try the local sweets and snacks available along the parikrama route.
Transportation
The nearest major railway station is Mathura Junction (MTJ), about 22 kilometers from Goverdhan. From Mathura, you can hire a taxi or take a local bus to Goverdhan. Several buses also operate directly from Delhi and other major cities in Uttar Pradesh to Goverdhan. Once in Goverdhan, auto-rickshaws and cycle-rickshaws are readily available for local transportation. For the parikrama, many pilgrims choose to walk, but cycle-rickshaws and shared jeeps are also available.