Govardhan Hill, also known as Giriraj, is a sacred site in Hindu mythology and is located near Vrindavan in the Mathura district of Uttar Pradesh, India. It holds significant religious importance, especially for devotees of Lord Krishna.
History:
According to Hindu mythology, Lord Krishna lifted Govardhan Hill on his little finger to protect the people of Vrindavan from the wrath of Lord Indra, the god of rain and thunderstorms. This event is known as the Govardhan Lila.
How to Reach Govardhan Hill:
- By Air: The nearest airport is the Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL) in New Delhi, approximately 140 kilometers away. From there, you can hire a taxi or use other transportation options to reach Govardhan.
- By Train: Mathura Junction is the nearest railway station, located about 26 kilometers from Govardhan Hill. Trains connect Mathura with major cities in India. From Mathura, you can take a taxi, auto-rickshaw, or a local bus to reach Govardhan.
- By Road: Govardhan is well-connected by road to Mathura and other nearby towns. Buses and taxis are available for the journey.
Best Time to Visit:
The best time to visit Govardhan Hill is during the winter months (October to March) when the weather is pleasant for outdoor activities and sightseeing.
Connectivity Options:
- Local Transport: Once you reach Govardhan, you can use auto-rickshaws, cycle-rickshaws, or taxis for local transportation.
- Road: Govardhan Hill is well-connected by roads, making it accessible by private vehicles, buses, and taxis.
ISKCON Temple Overview:
The International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON) Temple, often referred to as the “Radha Krishna Temple,” is a prominent landmark and a place of worship for followers of the Hare Krishna movement.
History:
ISKCON was founded in 1966 in New York City by A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada. The organization aims to propagate the teachings of Lord Krishna as revealed in ancient Hindu scriptures.
How to Reach ISKCON Temple:
- By Air: The nearest airport is the Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL) in New Delhi, approximately 45 kilometers away. From there, you can hire a taxi or use other transportation options to reach the ISKCON Temple.
- By Train: The nearest railway station is the New Delhi Railway Station. From there, you can hire a taxi or use the Delhi Metro to reach the ISKCON Temple.
- By Road: The temple is located in the Hare Krishna Hill, Sant Nagar area of New Delhi, and is easily accessible by road. You can use taxis or auto-rickshaws for local transportation.
Best Time to Visit:
The ISKCON Temple can be visited throughout the year. However, visiting during major festivals or on special occasions related to Lord Krishna can provide a more vibrant and culturally enriching experience.