Barsana Parikrama

The story

Barsana rises over four hills said to be the four faces of Brahma, crowned by the Shriji Temple where Radha Rani is worshipped as the queen of Braj. Most pilgrims begin at the Radha Rani Selfie Point on Chiksauli Road, then wind through the narrow Sankari Khor gorge, the serene forest of Gahvar Van with its flute-carved Gahvar Kund, Maan Mandir atop Maan Garh and Mor Kutir, before closing at the hilltop Shriji Temple — each a setting of Radha and Krishna's tender pastimes. It comes most alive during Radhashtami and the famous Lathmar Holi, when the whole town sings and the lanes flood with colour and folk song.

Quick facts

• 1Barsana is the birthplace and home of Radha Rani.
• 2The town sits over four hills — said to be the four heads of Brahma.
• 3Bursts to life during Lathmar Holi and Radhashtami.

The route, stop by stop

The holy sites you'll pass along the way.

1. 1

   Radha Rani Selfie Point

   The official Radha Rani Selfie Point — a popular modern landmark right at the Barsana Parikrama starting point on Chiksauli Road.

2. 2

   Sankari Khor

   A narrow, rocky pass where Krishna and his cowherd friends playfully stopped the gopis to break their earthen pots and demand a 'tax' of milk and butter.

3. 3

   Gahvar Van & Gahvar Kund

   A dense, serene forest where Radha and Krishna rested; legend says Krishna carved out the adjacent Gahvar Kund with his flute to quench Radha's thirst.

4. 4

   Maan Mandir (Maan Garh)

   On the Maan Garh peak, marking where Radha would retreat in a loving, resentful sulk (maan) when she felt ignored by Krishna — who would then lovingly appease her.

5. 5

   Mor Kutir

   A vibrant spot marking the leela where Krishna took the form of a peacock (mor) to dance alongside Radha — devotees still occasionally spot peacocks wandering here.

6. 6

   Shri Radha Rani Temple (Shriji)

   The hilltop temple of Radha Rani, reached by a long flight of steps — the heart of Barsana and the close of the parikrama.

What to carry

Related temples nearby

Best festivals to walk it

Frequently asked questions

How long is the Barsana Parikrama?

Barsana Parikrama is about 4–5 km and typically takes 1.5–2 hrs. Hilly with steps and stone paths.

Where does the Barsana Parikrama start?

It traditionally starts from Radha Rani Selfie Point, Chiksauli Road, Barsana.

When is the best time to do the Barsana Parikrama?

The best time is Radhashtami & Lathmar Holi.

What is the significance of the Barsana Parikrama?

Circles the hills of Barsana, the birthplace and home of Srimati Radha Rani. Barsana rises over four hills said to be the four faces of Brahma, crowned by the Shriji Temple where Radha Rani is worshipped as the queen of Braj. Most pilgrims begin at the Radha Rani Selfie Point on Chiksauli Road, then wind through the narrow Sankari Khor gorge, the serene forest of Gahvar Van with its flute-carved Gahvar Kund, Maan Mandir atop Maan Garh and Mor Kutir, before closing at the hilltop Shriji Temple — each a setting of Radha and Krishna's tender pastimes. It comes most alive during Radhashtami and the famous Lathmar Holi, when the whole town sings and the lanes flood with colour and folk song.