Vrindavan parikrama: a simple guide to the 10 km walk

A parikrama is a walk around a holy place, keeping it on your right side. In Vrindavan, devotees walk around the whole town. For many pilgrims, it is the most special thing they do here.

How long is it?

The Vrindavan parikrama path is about 10 km. Most people take two to three hours. Some walk slowly, chanting the holy names. Many choose Ekadashi, so the path is busiest then. A few devotees even do dandavat parikrama, lying flat on the ground at every step.

What you will see on the way

The path runs along the Yamuna and past old temples and ghats. On the route you will find:

• Madan Mohan Temple, on a small hill
• Imli Tala, an old tamarind tree where Chaitanya Mahaprabhu is said to have sat
• Shringar Vat
• Keshi Ghat, with its red stone steps on the Yamuna

Tips for first-timers

• Start around sunrise, when the air is cool and the path is calm.
• Many devotees walk barefoot. If you do, avoid the afternoon, when the ground gets hot.
• Carry water and some small change for offerings and chai.
• Wear light cotton clothes and keep your bag small.
• Go with the flow of people and keep the town on your right.

Getting there early

The parikrama path is one street from ISKCON Krishna Balaram Mandir. From Rukmani Vihar it is a short e-rickshaw ride, so you can start your walk at sunrise and be back for breakfast.