GOKUL

Location: Uttar Pradesh
Nearest Town: Sadabad
Languages / Dialect: Hindi, Brij Bhasha
DIVINITY REVEALED: Gokul, the most prominent of Shri Krishna’s abodes, lies to the west of Sadabad, 1.6 km from Mahavan and 15 km south-east of Mathura, on the Mathura-Etah metalled road. It was here that his foster mother, Yashoda, brought up Lord Krishna in secrecy.
It was in the pastoral beauty of this cowherd encampment, on the banks of the Yamuna that lord Krishna spent a major part of his childhood and first revealed his divinity to his mother, Yashoda.

History: Gokul also has the head quarters of the followers of the 16th century saint, Vallabhacharya.

PRIME ATTRACTIONS

Temples: The temples dedicated to Gokulnath, Madan Mohan and Vithalnath, said to have been built around 1511 AD, are the three oldest temples in the place. The other temples include Dwarika Nath Temple, Balkrishna Temple, MOR Wala Temple and the shrines, which were built in the honour of lord Mahadeo in 1602 by Raja Vijai Singh of Jodhpur.

Janmastami Celebrations: The celebration of the festival of Janmashtami in August is unparalleled and is celebrated with great fervour and enthusiasm. Other such festivities celebrated with traditional zeal include the Janmotsav in Bhadaon, the Annakut Festival and the Trinavat Mela held on the fourth day of the dark half of kartik.

HOW TO GET THERE

Air: Nearest airport is Kheria (Agra), 62 kms.

Rail: Mathura is on the main lines of the central and western railways and is connected with all the major cities.

Road: Mathura is well connected by motorable roads to important tourist centres.

Local transport: Taxis, Tongas and Cycle rickshaws.

PLACES TO STAY

Tourist Bungalow, Gokul Gaon.

NEARBY CITIES