NH19 vegetarian dhabas near Kosi
Roadside thali and paratha stops. Pick a busy one. No name confirmed
ब्रज चौरासी कोस परिक्रमा
Braj Chaurasi Kos Parikrama (84 kos)
The great circuit of Braj, about 252 km, covering the twelve forests, Govardhan, Barsana, Nandgaon and Gokul.
ParikramaFurther outBraj Mandal
The story: The circle of eighty-four kos
A kos is an old measure of distance, roughly 3 km. Eighty-four kos make about 252 km, the length reckoned for the Braj Chaurasi Kos Parikrama, one of the greatest pilgrimage circuits of India. It runs through parts of Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan and Haryana and takes in the twelve forests, the twenty-four groves, Govardhan, Barsana, Nandgaon, Gokul and Vrindavan.
On foot it takes weeks; ISKCON's Vrajamandala Parikrama in the month of Kartik is a well-known organised walk. By cab, a driver can arrange the key places in about five to seven days. Different traditions follow slightly different routes.
The merit of the walk is told in the Varaha Purana's Mathura Mahatmya and the Gaudiya works. In the spirit of the Gita, act with devotion and without worry about the result. Take the part you can.
Where this is told
- Varaha Purana (Mathura Mahatmya)
- Chaitanya Charitamrita, Madhya Lila 17 to 18: Mahaprabhu's tour of the Braj forests
- The 252 km figure is a traditional reckoning
History
- The parikrama has been walked for centuries. Government efforts to improve roads and shelters have been reported in recent years. Check locally.
What to see
- Vrindavan, Mathura, Gokul, Mahavan
- Govardhan, Radha Kund, Barsana, Nandgaon
- Kamyavan and Bhandirvan
Key festivals
- Oct to Nov: Kartik parikrama season
Timings and rules
| Summer darshan | Not advised in summer heat |
|---|---|
| Winter darshan | Best from October to February |
| Closed | Check locally |
| Dress code | Modest clothing; shoulders and knees covered. |
| Photos and phones | Not inside any sanctum. Check locally for the rest. |
No reliable published timings were found. Check locally.
Parking and getting there
Parking
Varies by stop.
Charge: Small. Check locally.
Restrictions
- No special rule found. Festival days bring diversions. Check locally
Cab drop and walk
Drop: Ask your driver.
Walk: About 252 km for the full circuit.
Town-wide parking and transport rules: Further out guide.
Distances and nearby places
| From Mathura Junction | Varies |
|---|---|
| From Banke Bihari, Vrindavan | Varies |
| From Delhi Airport (IGI) | Varies |
Distances and drive times are approximate and vary with traffic and diversions.
Practical tips
Timing and crowds
Best time: October to February.
Crowds: Usually light. Heavier on festival days.
Monkeys: Possible. Keep spectacles, phones and food out of sight.
Comfort
Footwear: Leave shoes at the gate or with your driver.
Toilets: Limited. Use facilities before you arrive.
Accessibility: Uneven ground and steps are likely. Check locally.
Scams to avoid
- Touts who offer a 'special' puja or darshan for a fee
Where to eat nearby
Heera Foods (opposite the CNG station, Delhi-Mathura highway)
Veg thalis on the road in from Delhi, a handy stop for airport transfers
This list comes from desk research in published guides and listings. We have not visited these places for this guide. Walk and drive times are rough, and opening hours, prices and onion/garlic policy can change, so check locally before you go.
Common questions
How long is it?
About 252 km by tradition (84 kos). Routes differ slightly.
Check locally
- Route and length
- Days needed
Last checked: 2026-10-23. Sources for timings, parking and rules:
Radhe Radhe. Walk with love, we will take care of the road.
Book a cab for Braj Chaurasi Kos Parikrama (84 kos)