You’re wandering through lush green forests where Krishna once played his flute, rivers that still ripple with his laughter, and hills that hold secrets of his divine love.
Welcome to Braj – the magical land of Mathura and Vrindavan. The Braj Chaurasi Kos Parikrama is no ordinary trip. It’s a 252 km sacred circle (84 kos) around Krishna’s playground, packed with temples, ponds, and stories that’ll touch your soul.
I’ve done this journey, and trust me, it’s not just walking – it’s feeling Krishna’s presence in every step.
Ancient texts like the Varaha Purana say completing it wipes away sins from 8.4 million births. Saints like Chaitanya Mahaprabhu walked it in bliss, and so can you – in just 7 epic days!
The full foot version takes 40-45 days, but our 7-day guided tour by comfy AC vehicle covers all the must-see spots.
You’ll do mini-parikramas, temple darshans, and bhajans without the hassle. Perfect for busy folks like us who want that deep spiritual connect.
To make it super smooth, go with Braj Bhoomi Tour and Travels. Their guides know every story by heart, arrange tasty veg meals, cozy stays, and safe rides. Contact them at info@brajbhoomitourandtravels.com, call +91 8218328897, or book your spot at www.brajbhoomitourandtravels.com. They’ve made my trips unforgettable – they’ll do the same for you!
Why This 7-Day Parikrama Will Change You
Braj isn’t a place; it’s alive with Krishna’s leelas. Think: Lifting Govardhan Hill to save everyone from rain, stealing butter as a naughty kid, or dancing Raas Leela with Radha under the stars.
You’ll visit 12 forests, 20 ponds, and key villages like Mathura, Vrindavan, Govardhan, Barsana, and Gokul.
Best time? July-Oct (Chaturmas) or Oct-Nov (Kartik) – festivals like Janmashtami and Holi crank up the magic. Pack comfy clothes, water bottle, and an open heart. Go barefoot for parikramas if you feel called – it’s pure devotion!
“In Braj, the dust on your feet is more precious than gold – it carries Krishna home with you.”
Your Day-by-Day Itinerary Table
Here’s the simple breakdown. We start/end in Mathura for easy travel.
| Day | Key Spots | Top Highlights | Overnight Stay | Distance Covered |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Mathura – Gokul | Janmabhoomi darshan, Yamuna aarti, Raman Reti sands | Mathura | 25 km |
| 2 | Mathura – Lohvan | Lohvan Forest walk, Raskhan Samadhi, Bhuteshwar Shiva | Mathura | 30 km |
| 3 | Govardhan | Shantanu Kund bath, 21 km Hill Parikrama, Manasi Ganga | Govardhan | 40 km |
| 4 | Radha Kund | Twin lakes parikrama, Kusum Sarovar romance, Narad Kund | Govardhan | 20 km |
| 5 | Deeg – Hanuman | Hakeek Patthar Hanuman, Deeg Palace fountains, Sudamapuri | Deeg | 35 km |
| 6 | Kamvan – Vrindavan – Barsana | Chaturyug Mahadev, Radhavallabh Temple, Barsana hills | Barsana | 45 km |
| 7 | Barsana – Nandgaon | Barsana Parikrama, Mor Kuti, Nanda Bhavan, return | Mathura/End | 50 km |
Total: 245 km – Almost the full Chaurasi Kos essence!
Day 1: Mathura & Gokul – Krishna’s Birthplace Magic (35 km total)
Land in Mathura, and boom – you’re in Krishna’s hometown! Start at Krishna Janmabhoomi Temple. Standing where he was born in that prison cell? Goosebumps.
You can feel Devaki’s joy and Kansa’s fear. The temple queues move fast, and the marble floors cool your feet.
Next, Dwarkadhish Temple – its walls are carved with Krishna’s full life story, like a divine comic. By afternoon, head to Vishram Ghat.
The evening Yamuna aarti is unreal: Brass lamps float, priests chant, bells ring, and the river sparkles like Krishna’s eyes. Sit on the steps, close your eyes – you’ll hear his flute.
Short drive to Gokul (10 km). This is baby Krishna’s hideout from Kansa. Walk Raman Reti – golden sands where he crawled, stole butter, and played with gopis.
Touch the sand; it’s soft and holy. At Brahmand Ghat, relive Yashoda seeing the universe in his mouth. Bhagavad Gita (10:42) says, “With one tiny part of Me, I support the whole world.” Mind blown!
End with Mathura pedas (sweet heaven) and rest in a clean Mathura hotel.
Pro tip: Join the evening kirtan – group singing that lifts your spirits.
Day 2: Mathura to Lohvan – Forests Whispering Krishna’s Tunes (30 km)
Wake to temple bells – instant energy! First stop: Raskhan Samadhi. This Muslim poet wrote Krishna bhajans that still make you tear up. His simple tomb feels peaceful; light a diya and read one of his lines.
Drive into Lohvan Forest – one of Braj’s 12 sacred vans. Krishna killed demon Lohasur here. Walk shady paths lined with peepal trees.
Birds chirp like flutes; close your eyes, and you’re in a leela. It’s just 2-3 km easy stroll – perfect for photos and quiet prayers.
Next, Tal Van – another forest spot tied to Krishna’s childhood games. Then, Bhuteshwar Mahadev Temple.
Krishna prayed to Shiva here before battles. Offer bilva leaves; the priest might share fun stories.
Vallabhacharya said, “Braj’s forests are Krishna’s playground – enter, and joy overflows.” Lunch: Crispy kachoris and frothy lassi from a local stall.
Back to Mathura by evening for more darshans or shopping tulsi malas. Crash early – tomorrow’s a highlight!
Day 3: Govardhan – The Hill Krishna Lifted for You (40 km)
Early start to Govardhan (20 km drive). Begin at Shantanu Kund – dip toes in the pond for instant peace. Legend: Krishna created it to cool the hill.
Now, the star: 21 km Govardhan Parikrama! Walk (or mix ride/walk) around the sacred hill. Start at Radha Kund end.
Pass Manasi Ganga – lake from Krishna’s mind. Stop for pics; cows graze nearby. At Dan Ghati, hear how Krishna playfully “taxed” gopis’ milk.
Midway, Mukharvind – where Krishna showed his peacock feather.
“Krishna lifted Govardhan on his finger, smiling at the storm – teaching us to trust the divine.”
Finish by sunset (4-5 hours total). Hydrate with holy water stalls. Dinner: Govardhan’s famous rabri. Overnight in a dharmshala under the hill – stars feel closer!
Day 4: Radha Kund – Dive into Radha-Krishna Love (20 km)
Stay in Govardhan for this romantic day. Head to Radha Kund & Shyam Kund – twin ponds dug by their hands after a demon fight. Parikrama time: 1-2 km circle around both.
Bathe (or sprinkle water) – it’s said to melt heart knots and grant wishes.
Walk hand-in-hand vibes: Radha’s pond is pink lotuses, Krishna’s deep blue. Nearby, Kusum Sarovar – stunning stepwell where Radha picked flowers.
Sit on marble steps; imagine their chats. Narad Kund next – sage Narad blessed their love here.
“One dip in Radha Kund equals serving Radha lifetime – Krishna comes running.” – Padma Purana
Feel the romance? Lunch by the pond, then free time for journaling leela thoughts. Evening kirtan seals the day. Same stay – you’re hooked!
Day 5: Deeg & Hanuman – Power, Friendship & Fun (35 km)
Drive to Deeg (25 km). First, Hakeek Patthar Hanuman Ji – Hanuman carved from glowing agate stone. His eyes sparkle! Chant Hanuman Chalisa; energy surges – perfect for strength in your journey.
Explore Deeg Palace – Jat kings built it with 20+ fountains that dance on command. Feels like Krishna’s water pranks! Wander gardens; peacocks strut.
Then, Gaya Kund and Sudamapuri. Krishna’s poor friend Sudama shared rice here – story of true friendship. Gita (11:55): “Serve with pure heart, be kind – you reach Me.”
Lunch: Palace-style thali. Afternoon free for palace museum. Overnight in Deeg heritage hotel – fountains lull you to sleep.
Day 6: Kamvan to Vrindavan & Barsana – Forests to Radha’s Hills (45 km)
Into Kamvan Forest – ancient vibes at Chaturyug Mahadev Temple. Shiva from all four yugas; offer prayers for timeless blessings.
Drive to Vrindavan (20 km). Radhavallabh Temple buzzes with color – darshan of playful Radha-Krishna idols. Chaitanya Mahaprabhu: “Vrindavan’s name is sweetest nectar – drink it daily.” Shop for sandalwood beads.
End in Barsana (15 km) – Radha’s pink hills glow at sunset. Climb easy steps to temple gate. Dinner: Barsana’s malpua sweets. Overnight in cozy Barsana guesthouse – hill views!
Day 7: Barsana Parikrama & Joyful Return (50 km)
Final day! Barsana Parikrama: 5 km loop. Start at Sankari Khori – narrow pass where Radha teased Krishna. Laugh at the story!
Gaehvar Van – cave hideout. Mor Kuti – peacock shed where Radha rested. Kokilavan – cuckoo forest songs.
Crown it with Radha Rani Temple darshan – her fierce-loving eyes melt you. Quick Nandgaon stop (5 km): Nanda Bhavan for Yashoda’s warmth.
Swami Haridas: “Braj dust adorns the soul like jewels.” Head back to Mathura (20 km) by afternoon. Reflect on airport/train drop.
Quick Tips for Blissful Days
- Hydrate: Carry 2L water daily.
- Dress: Modest, light cotton.
- Food: All veg – try peda, rabri, chaat.
- Health: Walk 5-10 km/day; rest well.
- Customs: Remove shoes in temples; offer prasad.
This 7-day epic packs Chaurasi Kos magic into your life. Braj Bhoomi Tour and Travels handles everything: Guides share stories, vehicles are spotless, meals fresh. Email info@brajbhoomitourandtravels.com, call +91 8218328897, or visit brajbhoomitourandtravels.com NOW to book.
Go walk Braj – Krishna’s waiting to dance with you!
FAQs
1. What is the Braj Chaurasi Kos Parikrama?
The Braj Chaurasi Kos Parikrama is a sacred pilgrimage covering about 252 km (84 kos) around Mathura, Vrindavan, Gokul, Govardhan, Barsana, Nandgaon, and other holy villages associated with Lord Krishna’s divine pastimes.
2. Why is it called “84 Kos Parikrama”?
In ancient Indian measurement, 1 kos equals approximately 3 km. Hence, 84 kos equals about 252 km, representing the divine region of Braj where Krishna performed his leelas (divine acts). Devotees complete this circuit as a mark of devotion and purification.
3. How many days are needed for the full Braj 84 Kos Parikrama?
The traditional Parikrama takes 7 to 9 days to complete. Most travelers prefer a 7-day tour package, covering all major Krishna-related sites comfortably with guided visits and temple darshan.
4. What are the main places covered during the Parikrama?
Key pilgrimage spots include Mathura, Vrindavan, Govardhan, Barsana, Nandgaon, Gokul, Baldeo, Radha Kund, Kusum Sarovar, Kama, and Mahavan — each filled with divine significance and legends of Krishna and Radha.
5. What is the spiritual significance of doing Braj Parikrama?
The Parikrama represents a journey of devotion, humility, and purification. It is believed that completing the 84 kos circuit grants liberation from the cycle of birth and death, and deepens one’s connection with Lord Krishna.
6. What is the best time to do the Braj Chaurasi Kos Parikrama?
The best time is between October and March, when the weather is pleasant. Many devotees also perform the Parikrama during Guru Purnima, Janmashtami, and Kartik month (October–November) for extra spiritual merit.
7. How is the Parikrama performed — by walking or vehicle?
Traditionally, devotees walk the entire route barefoot. However, modern tours offer vehicle-assisted Parikrama packages, combining spiritual visits with comfortable transport and accommodation.
8. Are accommodation and food available along the route?
Yes, there are ashrams, dharamshalas, and hotels in major towns like Mathura, Vrindavan, and Govardhan. Most tour packages include pure vegetarian meals and nightly stays in spiritual environments.
9. What should I pack for the 7-day Braj Parikrama tour?
Carry comfortable walking shoes, light cotton clothes, a shawl, medications, and a reusable water bottle. If you’re joining the walking Parikrama, keep essentials like socks, sunscreen, and a flashlight.
10. Why should every Krishna devotee experience Braj Chaurasi Kos Parikrama once in life?
Because it’s not just a journey — it’s a spiritual transformation. Walking through the land where Krishna played, loved, and taught dharma fills the heart with divine joy, surrender, and peace that words can’t describe.