- By Brij Khandelwal
2024.09.24 (Vrindavan Today News): Nestled in the heart of Braj Mandal, Goverdhan Parbat, the sacred hill lifted by Lord Krishna to protect his people from Indra Dev’s wrath, is emerging as a premier destination for spiritual tourism. This holy town, once characterized by humble dharamshalas and temple premises, now boasts smaller hotels and roadside dhabas catering to the growing influx of NRIs and high-income pilgrims from metropolitan cities.
The town’s allure has been amplified by newly opened resorts offering breathtaking views of the Goverdhan hill, drawing high-profile visitors seeking spiritual solace amidst nature’s splendor.
According to local pandits, Goverdhan is perhaps India’s most frequented pilgrim center, attracting devotees throughout the year for the 21-kilometer parikrama of the holy hill. “Pilgrims flock here regardless of season or time, numbering from thousands to lakhs on festivals or full moon nights,” says a local pandit.
Even during the recent heavy rains, the bhakts continued their parikrama and dandauti rituals, braving odds. The parikrama is divided into two parts, the smaller one goes round the Radha Kund town, while the longer one goes around Jatipur.
Shopkeeper Rakesh estimates over 10 crore annual visitors, with a staggering 10 million attending the five-day Mudiya Poono fair.
Recognizing Goverdhan’s significance, the Uttar Pradesh government has undertaken extensive infrastructure development, including:
– Building bypasses and new roads
– Constructing pilgrim shelters
– Installing street lighting along the parikrama route
NGOs are also actively renovating holy ponds and groves, enhancing the town’s spiritual ambiance.
As Goverdhan continues to captivate devotees and tourists alike, its transformation into a spiritual hub is poised to bolster India’s religious tourism landscape.
Goverdhan’s spiritual allure is rooted in its rich mythology and history. The town’s parikrama route is dotted with sacred sites, including the iconic Daan Ghati, where Lord Krishna lifted the Goverdhan hill. Devotees perform rituals and offer prayers at these sites, seeking divine blessings.
The local economy is also benefiting from the influx of pilgrims, with many residents engaging in hospitality and tourism-related ventures.
“The growing number of visitors has created new opportunities for us,” says local resident and entrepreneur, Rajesh.
He further added, “We’re committed to preserving Goverdhan’s spiritual essence while catering to the needs of modern pilgrims”
