Situated about eight km on the northern side of Barsana, the town is believed to be the home of Shri Nandji, the foster father of Lord Krishna, and Yashoda, his foster mother. Nandgaon became their permanent place of residence after they moved from Gokul to escape the demons sent by Kansa to kill Lord Krishna. During his childhood, Lord Krishna lived with his foster parents in this town, which is considered as one of the sub-forests of Vrindavan.

Nandgaon is located on the top of Nandishwar Hill, which is said to be one of the homes of Lord Shiva. According to legend Lord Shiva prayed to Lord Krishna to allow him to view the latter’s childhood play and pastimes. Krishna, pleased with Lord Shiva’s devotion and sincere plea, instructed him to reside here in the form of a hill. The town has a temple of Nand Rai on the hill. It is also visited for temples like Yashoda Nandan, Nritya Gopal, Nand Nandan, Udhav Kyaro and Gopinath. There is also a lake named Pan Sarovar from where it is believed that Lord Krishna’s cattle used to drink water.

Located on the outskirts of Mathure, Mahavan is popular for the shrine of Mathuranath. It is said to have been founded by Nanda, Krishna’s foster father. It has a cluster of lush forests, and is also known as Brindavan, Gokul and Mahaban. Mahavan is infinitely beautiful, allowing visitors a respite from the heat and noise of the city, while exploring the place where Lord Krishna is said to have spent his childhood. It has a temple of Chhathi-Palana, which used to be the palatial residence of Baldeo’s mother Rohini. Mahavan has various shrines and temples, including Yogmaya, Tranairatri, Shymlaji, Raskhan Samadhi, Raman Reti, Brahmand Ghat, Chintaharan Mahadev and Mahamall Rai Ji’s Palace. Another attraction of Mahavan is Chaurasi Khambha or 84 pillars. The tomb of the noted poet, Raskhan, is also located in Mahavan.

According to a legend, it is believed that Barsana was the place where Radharani, the consort of Lord Krishna, resided. There are many temples in the area but the most prominent is the Radharani Temple. It is also called Ladliji (the beloved one) or Shriji, and is said to have been established around 5,000 years ago by Vajranabha.

Another temple worth visiting is Maan Mandir. It is said Radha would come here when she was annoyed with Lord Krishna, who would plead and cry to appease her. There is a dark tunnel leading to a small room to which she would withdraw. You can also explore Mor Kutir, where Goddess Radha and Lord Krishna would dance as peacock and peahen; Krishna Kund, where they would bathe; and Sankari Khor, a narrow passageway between two hills. A legend says Lord Krishna and his cowherds would block Radha and her friends’ path and playfully demand ghee, butter and yoghurt from them.

A sacred Hindu site in the Mathura district, it is situated on a hill called Giriraj. According to legend, young Lord Krishna held the Govardhan mountain on his little finger for seven days. He did so to save Braj from torrential rain caused by Devraj Indra (the lord of rain), who had cursed the people for failing to please him. Another legend speaks of how the hill ascended from heaven to become a part of Lord Krishna’s divine Leela. Today, it is believed that completing a parikrama (circumambulation) of Govardhan Hill will grant all your wishes.

Govardhan is vastly important for devotees, who flock here during Krishna Janmashtami and other festivals associated with the deity. A huge statue of his dominates the skyline of Govardhan, further emphasising its connection with Lord Krishna and his life.