Deepavali & Govardhan Puja

The story

Diwali sees every temple in Vrindavan ringed with rows of oil lamps, the lanes glowing till late. The very next day brings Govardhan Puja and Annakut: to honour Krishna lifting Govardhan hill on his little finger to shelter Braj from Indra's storm, temples build towering replicas of the hill out of food — hundreds of sweets, rice and savouries — which are offered to the deities and then shared with every visitor.

Quick facts

• 1Annakut means 'mountain of food' — and temples build exactly that.
• 2Honours Krishna lifting Govardhan hill to shelter all of Braj.
• 3Temples are outlined with thousands of oil lamps for Diwali.

Where to see it

Temples to visit

Frequently asked questions

When is Deepavali & Govardhan Puja celebrated in Vrindavan?

Deepavali & Govardhan Puja is celebrated in Kartika Amavasya & Pratipada (October / November). Festivals follow the Hindu lunar calendar, so exact dates shift each year. Dates shown are indicative — confirm locally before travelling.

Where is Deepavali & Govardhan Puja celebrated?

Deepavali & Govardhan Puja is centred at Govardhan, Temples across Vrindavan.

What is the significance of Deepavali & Govardhan Puja?

Celebrates the festival of lights and Krishna lifting the Govardhan hill. Diwali sees every temple in Vrindavan ringed with rows of oil lamps, the lanes glowing till late. The very next day brings Govardhan Puja and Annakut: to honour Krishna lifting Govardhan hill on his little finger to shelter Braj from Indra's storm, temples build towering replicas of the hill out of food — hundreds of sweets, rice and savouries — which are offered to the deities and then shared with every visitor.