Vrindavan
The sacred town where, according to tradition, Lord Krishna spent his childhood. Vrindavan is home to thousands of temples, ancient ghats along the Yamuna, and a living spiritual heritage that draws devotees from around the world.
Explore Braj
Sacred Places of Braj
Vrindavan, Mathura, Govardhan, Barsana, and beyond.
Vrindavan
Mathura
Traditionally regarded as the birthplace of Lord Krishna, Mathura is one of the seven sacred cities of Hinduism. The city blends ancient temples with vibrant bazaars and sits along the banks of the Yamuna.
Govardhan
The sacred hill that, according to tradition, Lord Krishna lifted to protect the people of Braj. Govardhan Parikrama — the 21-kilometre circumambulation of the hill — is considered one of the most important pilgrimages in Braj.
Barsana
Traditionally regarded as the hometown of Shri Radha Rani. The hilltop Radha Rani temple, known as Ladli Ji Mandir, offers sweeping views of the Braj countryside. Barsana is especially famous for Lathmar Holi celebrations.
Nandgaon
Traditionally believed to be the village of Nand Baba, the foster father of Lord Krishna. The Nand Bhavan temple sits atop a hill and is a key stop in the Braj Yatra. Nandgaon is closely linked to Barsana in festival traditions.
Gokul-Mahavan
According to tradition, Gokul is where the infant Krishna was brought by Vasudev across the Yamuna. The area includes Mahavan, believed to be the ancient forest settlement. Key sites include Gokulnath Ji temple and Raman Reti.
Raval
Traditionally regarded as the birthplace of Shri Radha Rani. This small village is an important pilgrimage stop, especially for devotees who wish to visit the place associated with Radha's early life.
Parikrama
84 Kos Parikrama
Explore the sacred circumambulation route of Braj.
Sacred Forests
12 Vans of Braj
Discover the twelve sacred forests of Braj.
84 Kos & Forest Sites
Bhandirvan
One of the twelve sacred forests of Braj. Traditionally associated with the place where, according to devotional literature, the divine couple's wedding ceremony took place under a great banyan tree.
Kokilavan
A serene forest that forms part of the 84 Kos Parikrama. According to tradition, this is where Lord Krishna appeared as a cuckoo bird. The forest retains a peaceful, contemplative atmosphere.
Belvan
One of the twelve sacred forests of Braj, known for its bel (wood apple) trees. Traditionally regarded as a place of Krishna's childhood pastimes described in devotional texts.
Bahulavan
A sacred forest associated with the story of the cow Bahula and her calf, as described in traditional texts. This forest is part of the broader 84 Kos Parikrama circuit.
Kamyavan
Traditionally known as the forest of fulfilled desires. Kamyavan is considered one of the larger and more significant of the twelve sacred forests, with several ancient temples and kunds.
Madhuvan
The first of the twelve sacred forests of Braj. According to tradition, this forest is associated with the story of the demon Madhu. It holds significance in the broader narrative of Braj.
Parasauli
A village in the Braj region associated with the Raas Leela traditions. According to devotional literature, this is where the divine dance is said to have taken place.
Lohvan
One of the twelve sacred forests, traditionally associated with the story of the demon Lohasura. This forest is part of the 84 Kos Parikrama pilgrimage route.