Discover the Spiritual Journey of 84 Kos ki Parikrama in Braj
Embark on a spiritual journey like no other as you discover the ancient tradition of 84 Kos ki Parikrama in Braj. This sacred pilgrimage, spanning a distance of 252 kilometers, takes you through the holy land of Lord Krishna's birthplace, where you can explore the many temples, shrines, and sacred sites that hold immense spiritual significance. As you undertake this journey, you will not only experience the rich culture and heritage of Braj but also deepen your spiritual connection and understanding. Join us on this transformative adventure and discover the spiritual essence of Braj through the timeless tradition of 84 Kos ki Parikrama.
Embark on a spiritual journey like no other as you discover the ancient tradition of 84 Kos ki Parikrama in Braj. This sacred pilgrimage, spanning a distance of 252 kilometers, takes you through the holy land of Lord Krishna's birthplace, where you can explore the many temples, shrines, and sacred sites that hold immense spiritual significance. As you undertake this journey, you will not only experience the rich culture and heritage of Braj but also deepen your spiritual connection and understanding. Join us on this transformative adventure and discover the spiritual essence of Braj through the timeless tradition of 84 Kos ki Parikrama.
Introduction to the Chaurasi Kos (84 कोस) Parikrama
Chaurasi Kos Parikrama is a famous pilgrimage circuit in India, consisting of a 270-kilometer (168 miles) journey through various holy sites. The word "Kos" refers to a unit of measurement, and "Chaurasi" means 84. The parikrama is said to have originated from a belief that Lord Krishna completed this journey in his youth.
The journey starts and ends in the city of Mathura, and takes about 40 days to complete on foot. During the parikrama, pilgrims visit various holy places associated with Lord Krishna, such as Vrindavan, Govardhan, Barsana, and Nandgaon. The journey is believed to cleanse the soul and bestow blessings upon the pilgrim.
The parikrama has been a part of the Hindu tradition for centuries, and many devotees undertake the journey every year during auspicious occasions such as the month of Kartik, which falls between October and November. Pilgrims often chant hymns and sing devotional songs during the journey, creating a spiritual and joyful atmosphere.
The Chaurasi Kos Parikrama is not just a physical journey, but a spiritual one as well, allowing devotees to connect with their faith and experience the divine grace of Lord Krishna. It is a unique and cherished tradition that has been passed down from generation to generation, and continues to be an important part of Hindu culture.
The Significance of Braj in Hindu Mythology
Braj, a region in northern India, holds great significance in Hindu mythology. It is believed to be the childhood playground of Lord Krishna, one of the most revered deities in Hinduism.
According to legend, Krishna spent his early years in Braj, where he performed many miraculous feats, such as lifting a mountain and defeating powerful demons. The stories of his adventures in Braj are chronicled in the ancient Hindu scripture, the Bhagavata Purana.
Today, Braj is considered a sacred pilgrimage site for Hindus, and millions of devotees visit the region each year to pay homage to Lord Krishna. The city of Mathura, located in Braj, is especially revered, as it is believed to be the birthplace of Lord Krishna.
The region is also home to many temples and shrines dedicated to Lord Krishna and other Hindu deities. Some of the most famous temples include the Banke Bihari Temple in Vrindavan and the Krishna Janmabhoomi Temple in Mathura.
In addition to its religious significance, Braj is also known for its vibrant culture and traditions, including the celebration of the annual Holi festival, which is believed to have originated in the region.
Overall, Braj holds a special place in Hindu mythology and continues to be an important spiritual and cultural center for Hindus around the world.
The 84-Kilometer Pilgrimage: A Journey of Faith and Devotion in Braj Bhumi
According to legend, Yashoda Ma and Nand Baba, the adoptive parents of Lord Krishna, expressed their desire to go on a pilgrimage (char dham yatra) and sought the help of their beloved son. Char Dham refers to the four abodes or holy pilgrimage centers of Hinduism, namely Badrinath, Puri, Rameshwaram, and Dwaraka, which represent the centers of Vaishnavism, Shaivism, and mixed Hinduism in the north, east, south, and west of India. To fulfill his parents' wishes, Lord Krishna used his divine powers to bring all the elements of these holy places to Vrindavan, within a radius of 300 kilometers, and sanctified the land, giving it divine status. This area was named 'Braj Bhumi'.
Since then, the Braj Bhumi pilgrimage has been known as the Braj Chaurasi Kos (84-kilometer) Yatra, and it is believed that those who undertake this journey are liberated from the cycle of birth and death and attain Nirvana. According to folklore, Brahma cast a spell on Gokul and Vrindavan and took Lord Krishna's cowherd friends and their cattle to test whether Krishna was a true spiritual figure. Lord Krishna, realizing this, took the form of his friends, people, and animals to perform one of his "leelas" or tricks. Brahma soon became angry at this misbehavior and asked for forgiveness from Lord Krishna. In jest, Lord Krishna told Brahma that he had to undertake a pilgrimage to expiate his "sin."
Thus, Brahma became the first pilgrim to practice the Chaurasi Kos Yatra. This underscores the importance and relevance of the yatra and the motivation that drives thousands of devotees to undertake it."
The Route of the Chaurasi Kos Parikrama
The Chaurasi Kos Parikrama is a 300-kilometer pilgrimage journey in the Braj Area, which includes 12 forests, 24 gardens, 20 ponds, anvillages such as Barsana, Nand Gaon, Vrindavan, Mathura, Kosi, Radha Kund, and Govardhan. It typically takes seven days to complete the journey, and there are many traditions to follow during the pilgrimage of the ‘Braj’ Bhoomi. However, the Chaurasi Kos Yatra is considered the most virtuous among all.
Day 1: Mathura
On the first day, start the journey with Vishram Ghat Yamuna Poojan followed by a visit to Dwarkadhish Temple, Krishna Janmasthan Temple, PotraKund, Keshav Dev Temple, Pagal Baba Temple, Birla Mandir, Bhuteshwar, Rangeshwar Mahadev, Madhuvan, and Kans Kila.
Day 2: Vrindavan
On the second day, visit KC Ghat Yamuna Poojan, Kalidah, Nidhivan, Bankey Bihari Temple, RadhaVallabh Temple, Radha Raman, Shahji Temple, Rangnath Temple, Prem Mandir, and Durga Temple.
Day 3: Govardhan
On the third day, visit Danghati Temple, Goverdhan Parvat Pooja, Jatipura, Talvan, Kumudvan, Manasi Ganga, ShyamKund, Radha Kund, Narad Kund, Mukharbind, Kusum Sarovar, Chandra Sarover, Bahulavan, Punchrika Lotha, LukLuk Daoji, and Neem Gaon.
Day 4: Kedarnath and Badrinath
On the fourth day, visit Deeg Mahal, LaxmanMandir, Badrinath, Kedarnath, Gangotri, Yamunotri, Laxman Jhula, Charan Pahari, Balram Kund, Lakha Top, Jal Mahal, Narsingh Kund, Nar Narayan Parvat, Gulab Kund, and Daya Kund.
Day 5: Barsana, Nandgaon, and KokilaVan
On the fifth day, visit ShriJi Temple (Radharani Temple), Gehar Van, Dev Kund, Vrish BhanuOkhar, Maan Mandir, Rangili Mehal, MorKuti, Radha Bagh, Mahaprabhu Ji Ki Baithak, Nand Bhawan, Nandeshwar Temple, Citra VicitraShila, Sanket Van, VrindaKund, TerKadamb, Kokila Van, GomtiKund, and Kot Van.
Day 6: BhandriVan and BelVan
On the sixth day, visit Garuda Govind, Shergadh, Koshi, Phalen, Paigaon, Chaumuha Morkhe, Surir, Bhadravan, Mat Van, Bihar Van, Akshay Vat, Tapo Van, Cheer Ghat, Bel Van, Bansi Vat, and Radha Rani Temple.
Day 7: Gokul and Raman Reti
On the last day, visit Rawal, Chandravali Temple, Gokul, Mahavan, Raman Reti, Loh Van, Dauji, Mahadev, Brahmand Ghat, and Chaurasikhamba.
By following this route, pilgrims can explore the significant places of the Braj Area and attain spiritual enlightenment.
Preparing for the Yatra: Tips and Recommendations
For many religious pilgrims, the yatra is undertaken on foot, taking about a month or more to cover the entire distance and return to the starting point. Some point out that a quicker edition of the yatra may take 20-25 days. However, vehicles are also arranged for groups of devotees, allowing the elderly and others to participate comfortably with intermediate stops that provide basic amenities.
A yatra organized by car may take 7-10 days if done daily. Various organizations hold yatras every week on a particular day, covering temples in a specific area. This allows many people to complete the yatra within a month or two. On average, this yatra can be completed within Rs. 8,000 to 25,000 depending on the limits of the devotees.
Many devotees who embark on the 84 Kos Parikrama travel for 5 to 7 days and rest at hotels or guest houses at night before continuing the yatra. For a trip of this magnitude, it is best to book in advance with a responsible group or organization that has experience in meeting the needs of pilgrims of all ages, with a backup plan in case of emergencies. Climate is also a significant factor to consider, particularly during the rainy season, and extra precautions must be taken to ensure accommodation and food comfort.
If you are planning to visit Mathura-Vrindavan for the 84 Kos Parikrama, one option for your stay is the Hotel Mansinghka Sevasadan Palace in Vrindavan. This hotel provides comfortable accommodation and amenities, making it an excellent choice for pilgrims. However, there are also several other hotels and guest houses available in the area to suit different preferences and budgets. Regardless of where you stay, it is essential to make arrangements in advance to ensure a smooth and enjoyable pilgrimage experience.
During the yatra, devotees should avoid carrying valuable items and only bring necessary items such as clothing and food to prevent any problems such as theft.
Overall, it's important to plan ahead and make appropriate arrangements to ensure a safe and enjoyable yatra experience.
Concluding Thoughts on the 84 Kos Parikrama: A Window into Indian Culture and Spirituality.
The 84 Kos Parikrama is a pilgrimage that offers a window into Indian culture and spirituality. Participating in the yatra can help individuals find inner peace and a sense of spirituality. Additionally, it can expose them to the culture of Braj, and they may come to realize that the things written in the Vedic Puranas are not myths, but realistic.
Many people assume that the yatra is only for the elderly, but this is not true. The youth can also participate, and upon completion, they may experience a sense of spiritual awakening. This can help to connect the younger generation with our religious values.
Aside from the intangible benefits of religion and self-realization that yatris receive from participating in Braj Parikrama, there are also thousands of people living on the periphery of the yatra whose livelihoods depend on it.
For those planning to participate in the yatra, finding a place to stay in Vrindavan is important. Fortunately, there are several hotels available, including Mansinghka Seva Sadan in Vrindavan.