Experience the vibrant Holi celebration in Mathura and Vrindavan, the birthplace of Lord Krishna. Join the festivities as locals and visitors alike immerse themselves in the colorful traditions of Braj ki Holi. From the iconic Lathmar Holi in Barsana and Nandgaon to the Phoolon wali Holi near the Govardhan Hill, each celebration offers a unique experience. Witness the touching Widow’s Holi in Vrindavan, where widows celebrate their freedom to participate in the joyous occasion. Don’t miss the lively atmosphere at Banke Bihari Temple and Dwarkadhish Temple, where priests shower devotees with colorful gulaal and flowers. Explore the Harunga festivities at Dauji Temple, a captivating ritual that adds to the charm of your Holi experience in Mathura. Join us for an unforgettable celebration of love, color, and tradition in the heart of Braj.
Govardhan
Located in the Mathura district, Govardhan is a sacred Hindu site atop Giriraj hill. Legend has it that Lord Krishna lifted the Govardhan mountain on his finger for seven days to protect Braj from torrential rain caused by Devraj Indra’s curse. Another tale describes how the hill descended from heaven to join Krishna’s divine Leela. Completing a parikrama (circumambulation) around the hill is believed to fulfill wishes.
Devotees gather at Govardhan during Krishna Janmashtami and other festivals. A towering statue of Lord Krishna dominates the skyline, symbolizing its significance. Explore attractions like the Har Devaji temple showcasing Krishna’s life, Mansi Ganga water tank, Kusum Sarovar, and Radha Kund, associated with Krishna’s divine play. Experience the spiritual essence and historical charm of Govardhan on your visit.
Erected in 1815 by Seth Gokuldas Parikh, the temple boasts remarkable architecture and stands as a global marvel. Positioned on the northern banks of the Yamuna River, near Vishram Ghat in Mathura, it entices visitors with its grandeur.
Inside, the vast hall is adorned with vibrant hues and intricate floral patterns on yellow pillars, leading to the elevated sanctum. Crafted from black marble, the idol of Lord Krishna and his consort Radharani in white marble exudes divine beauty. The temple’s courtyard, accessed through a splendid Rajasthani-style doorway, showcases exquisite carvings of deities.
Dwarkadhish Temple draws large crowds during Holi and Krishna Janmashtami, with additional festivals enriching its cultural tapestry. The “Hindola” festival in Shravan (July-August) sees the temple adorned with flowers and lights, creating a picturesque spectacle. Similarly, the “Jhoola” festival marks the onset of the monsoon season, with Lord Dwarkadhish seated on a resplendent swing of gold and silver for devotees to offer their reverence.
Legend has it that Barsana was the cherished abode of Radharani, the beloved consort of Lord Krishna. Among the numerous temples here, the Radharani Temple stands out, also known as Ladliji or Shriji, believed to have been founded some 5,000 years ago by Vajranabha.
Maan Mandir is another notable site, where Radha would retreat when upset with Lord Krishna, who would earnestly plead for her forgiveness. Mor Kutir, where the divine duo danced as peacocks, and Krishna Kund, their bathing spot, offer glimpses into their celestial love. Sankari Khor, a narrow passage between hills, recalls playful encounters between Krishna and Radha.
Other temples like Jaipur Temple, Peeli Pokhar, and Dangarh, along with attractions like Bhanokhar Tank, Prem Sarovar, and Roop Sarovar, enrich the spiritual tapestry of Barsana. The town is famed for Lathmar Holi and Radharani’s birth anniversary, marked by devotees offering sweets to peacocks at dawn, symbolizing homage to Lord Krishna.
Nestled on the outskirts of Mathura, the quaint town of Baldeo holds a special place in Hindu mythology. According to local lore, it was governed by Lord Krishna’s elder brother, Lord Balaram, affectionately known as Dau ji maharaj. The Baldeo Temple, a revered site, beckons devotees to pay homage to Lord Balaram and Revati, with idols sculpted from stone, believed to date back to around 1580 AD. The town’s vibrant spirit shines during Holi, celebrated fervently as Dauji ka Huranga, drawing devotees from across the nation to revel in the joyous festivities. Each December, the temple commemorates its founding with fervent celebrations during Margshish Poornima, echoing the enduring legacy of Lord Balaram in the hearts of the faithful.
Located just 10 km from Mathura, Gokul is steeped in mythology and holds a special place in the hearts of Lord Krishna’s devotees. Legend has it that it was here, on the tranquil banks of the Yamuna River, that the young Krishna was raised in secrecy by his foster mother, Yashoda. Today, the village bustles with activity during Krishna Janmashtami and Nandotsav, drawing crowds to its temples and ghats.
Gokul is adorned with two sacred reservoirs, Radha Kund and Shyam Kund, each steeped in divine mythology. According to legend, Shyam Kund was created by Lord Krishna himself after he defeated the bull demon Aristasura, while Radha Kund was formed by Radharani and her friends. The town also hosts the annual Ahoi Ashtami Fair, attracting pilgrims from far and wide.
Among its many attractions are the temples of Dauji, Raja Thakur, Yogmaya, and Gopal Lalji, each resonating with spiritual significance. Thakurani Ghat, where Sant Vallabhacharyaji once prayed, and Nanda Bhavan, believed to be Krishna’s childhood home, are also must-visit sites. Additionally, the Rangbihariji Temple, established by revered saint Swami Gyandasji, holds a special place in the hearts of devotees. With its rich history and spiritual ambiance, Gokul offers a truly enchanting experience for pilgrims and visitors alike.
Discover the vibrant hues of Brij Ki Holi celebration in Mathura with Geniefie Trip Planner! Explore the diverse celebrations across the region, from the playful Lathmar Holi in Barsana and Nandgaon to the colorful Phoolon wali Holi at Gulaal Kund near Govardhan Hill. Witness the joyous festivities of Widow’s Holi in Vrindavan, where widows clad in white sarees embrace the spirit of the festival. Experience the lively chants and prayers at Banke Bihari Temple and Dwarkadhish Temple, where priests shower devotees with vibrant colors and flowers. With Geniefie, immerse yourself in the cultural richness of Brij Ki Holi, creating unforgettable memories of this cherished tradition in Mathura.