If you’re looking to experience Braj’s spiritual beauty beyond temples and crowds, Kusum Sarovar is a place that truly soothes the soul. Located near Govardhan Hill in Mathura, this serene and lesser-known site is a perfect blend of natural charm, historical depth, and devotional legend.
Whether you’re a Krishna devotee, a photographer, or a peaceful traveler, Kusum Sarovar in Mathura offers a unique escape into the mysticism of Vrindavan.
What is Kusum Sarovar?
Kusum Sarovar is a sacred water reservoir (sarovar) spread across the Govardhan region of Mathura, near the Parikrama Marg. The site is associated with Radha Rani and her sakhis, who are said to have picked flowers (kusum) here for Krishna.
Framed by sandstone architecture, chhatris (cenotaphs), and calm waters, it’s a place where history meets divine romance. The tranquil pond, reflecting domes and mango trees, creates a picturesque yet sacred setting for all who visit.
Historical Background
Though Kusum Sarovar is revered mainly for its spiritual connection to Radha-Krishna leelas, it also holds significant historical value:
- The current structure was built during the 18th century by Maharaja Suraj Mal, the powerful Jat ruler of Bharatpur.
- The chhatris (cenotaphs) at the ghats are memorials for Suraj Mal and his queens, showcasing fine Rajasthani and Mughal architecture.
- The carvings and paintings inside the cenotaphs depict scenes from the life of Krishna and Braj folklore.
Despite being an architectural gem, it has remained off most commercial tourist maps, making it a peaceful spiritual retreat.
“Kusum Sarovar is not just a lake — it is a reflection of divine love, where Radha’s footsteps still echo through the petals and waters whisper tales of eternal devotion.”
Mythological & Spiritual Significance
| Legend | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Radha used to come here to collect flowers | The name ‘Kusum Sarovar’ comes from this tradition |
| Site of Radha-Krishna’s secret meetings | Adds spiritual mystery and romance |
| Considered a part of Govardhan Parikrama | Many sadhus rest or meditate here during their walk |
It is believed that even today, at night, Radha and Krishna perform leelas here in their divine forms—making it a highly revered spot for bhakts and Vaishnav saints.
Kusum Sarovar Timings
| Days | Opening Hours |
|---|---|
| Monday–Sunday | 6:00 AM – 8:00 PM |
- The sarovar is open throughout the week.
- Best time to visit: Early morning (sunrise) or evening (sunset) for calm weather and golden light reflections on the water.
Location and How to Reach
Location: On Govardhan Parikrama Marg, between Radha Kund and Mansi Ganga, about 25 km from Mathura city center.
| Mode | Distance | Travel Time |
|---|---|---|
| From Mathura | ~25 km | 45 minutes (cab/auto) |
| From Vrindavan | ~22 km | 40–45 minutes |
| From Govardhan | 3 km | 10 minutes or walk |
Best way to reach is via private cab or auto while doing the Govardhan Parikrama, or as a separate spiritual visit from Mathura or Vrindavan.
Entry Fee and Photography
- Entry Fee: Free for all visitors
- Photography: Allowed. It is one of the most photogenic sites in Braj.
However, photography should be respectful, especially if people are bathing, meditating, or performing rituals.
What to See at Kusum Sarovar
| Attraction | Description |
|---|---|
| Sarovar (Pond) | Sacred water body surrounded by ghat steps |
| Chhatris and Domes | Royal cenotaphs with murals and architectural finesse |
| Krishna-Radha Carvings | Stories depicted in traditional Rajasthani artwork |
| Forested Surroundings | Quiet green belt perfect for meditation or bhajan |
| Sunrise/Sunset Reflections | Ideal for spiritual photography |
You may also encounter wandering sadhus, bhajan groups, or devotees quietly reciting Krishna naam japa by the water.
Best Time to Visit
| Season | Months | Reason |
|---|---|---|
| Winter | October–March | Cool weather, perfect for long spiritual walks |
| Monsoon | July–September | Lush greenery, overflowing pond, scenic but slippery |
| Festivals | Holi, Janmashtami | Colorful rituals, but may attract moderate crowds |
| Sunrise/Sunset | Year-round | Best natural lighting, peaceful surroundings |
Avoid peak summer afternoons as there is limited shade around the ghats.
Activities You Can Do
- Meditation by the ghat
- Sketch or photograph the reflection of domes
- Dip your feet in the holy water
- Chant or read scriptures
- Join Govardhan Parikrama walkers
Many prefer to carry Tulsi mala, Gita, or Radha-Krishna bhajan books while sitting here.
Nearby Places to Visit
| Place | Distance from Kusum Sarovar | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Radha Kund | 1.5 km | Sacred pond associated with Radha |
| Mansi Ganga | 2 km | Start point of Govardhan Parikrama |
| Haridev Temple | 2.5 km | Ancient temple on Parikrama route |
| Daan Ghati Mandir | 4 km | Leela spot of Krishna’s daan pastime |
Plan your itinerary to include Kusum Sarovar as a relaxing midpoint between these spiritual landmarks.
Travel Tips
- Carry a water bottle and light snacks
- Avoid littering; the area is environmentally sensitive
- Don’t enter deep water; though the pond looks calm, it is not supervised
- Shoes should be left at designated spots near the entry
- Visit in groups if possible, especially for evening visits
Local shops sell water bottles, fruits, incense sticks, and basic offerings.
Call to Action: Experience Kusum Sarovar with Brajbhoomi Tour & Travel
Let us take you to the serene and spiritual side of Braj with a visit to Kusum Sarovar, one of Mathura’s most peaceful hidden gems.
Our packages include:
- Private cabs from Mathura or Vrindavan
- Local guide for spiritual storytelling
- Full-day Govardhan and Radha Kund darshan
- Ashram stays and bhajan participation options
Company Name: Brajbhoomi Tour & Travel
Email: info@brajbhoomitourandtravels.com
Phone: +91 8218328897
Website: www.brajbhoomitourandtravels.com
Final Thoughts
In a world of constant motion, Kusum Sarovar offers stillness—a place where you don’t just visit, you pause. You breathe. You feel Braj.
Its waters echo with the love of Radha and Krishna, and its stones whisper centuries of unbroken devotion. Whether you’re on a religious pilgrimage or simply yearning for peace, Kusum Sarovar is a perfect spiritual stop in your Mathura-Vrindavan journey.
Next time you’re near Govardhan, take a short turn—your heart will thank you.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the history of Kusum Sarovar?
Ans- The pond dates back to the era of Radha–Krishna. Initially a natural waterbody, it was restored in the 17th century by Raja Veer Singh Deo, and later the elegant sandstone cenotaphs (chhatris) were added in memory of Jat king Suraj Mal by his son Jawahar Singh in the 18th century.
2. Where is Kusum Sarovar located, and how far is it from Mathura?
Ans- Located between Govardhan Hill and Radha Kund on the Govardhan Parikrama path, Kusum Sarovar lies around 24–28 km from Mathura city, accessible via taxi, bus, or auto‑rickshaw.
3. What are the opening hours (timings) of Kusum Sarovar?
Ans- The site is open every day from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM (some sources list until 7:00 PM)—sunrise to sunset 365 days a year.
4. Is there an entry fee to visit Kusum Sarovar?
Ans- No, visiting Kusum Sarovar is free of charge—there is no entry fee for anyone.
5. What is the cultural and mythological significance of Kusum Sarovar?
Ans- Legend says Radha and the Gopis used to collect flowers here to meet Krishna. Narada Maharshi is believed to have composed his Bhakti Sutras near the pond. Devotees believe a dip in the sarovar brings pure love and devotion towards divine Krishna.
6. How big is Kusum Sarovar and what is its architectural style?
Ans- The tank is approximately 450 ft long and 60 ft deep, with steps on all four sides leading into emerald-green water. The red sandstone chhatris and terraces showcase exquisite Rajasthani architecture, decorated ceilings, chhatris, and paintings of Krishna–Radha pastimes.
7. What activities should visitors plan at Kusum Sarovar?
Ans- Common activities include: walking around the tank; viewing the cenotaphs and frescoes; photography (especially at sunrise/sunset); attending evening aarti; sitting under a kadamba tree; and visiting Narada Kund and local ashrams.
8. What is the recommended time to visit Kusum Sarovar?
Ans- The best time to visit is early morning or late afternoon, especially at sunset when the sunlight enhances the reflections on the water and sandstone structures. Ideal visiting months are October–December and February–April when the weather is cooler.
9. What facilities are available for visitors?
Ans- Basic amenities include small shops for snacks and souvenirs, parking, and drinking water. For more extensive services—lodging, restaurants—visitors rely on nearby towns like Govardhan or Mathura.
10. Can visitors bathe or swim in Kusum Sarovar?
Ans- While local legends say bathing here yields spiritual benefits, swimming is not generally recommended, and visitors are advised to follow local customs and posted guidelines