Radha Kund is a sacred pond situated in the Mathura district of Uttar Pradesh, India. According to Hindu tradition, it is the place where Radha, the consort of Lord Krishna, created a pond with her bangles and filled it with holy water. The pond is a significant pilgrimage site for devotees of Krishna and is located in the town of Govardhan, which is approximately 26 kilometers away from Mathura city.
Radha Kund is of great religious importance in Hinduism because it is associated with the divine love story of Radha and Krishna. It is considered one of the most sacred places in the Braj region, where Krishna performed his pastimes. Taking a dip in Radha Kund, especially on auspicious days, is believed to be highly meritorious and is said to bestow love and devotion towards the divine.
The best time to visit Radha Kund is during the cooler months from October to March. However, if one wants to experience the grand festivities and religious fervor, visiting during special occasions like Krishna Janmashtami, Radha Ashtami, and the month of Kartik (Oct-Nov) can be quite rewarding.
Yes, many pilgrims perform 'snan' (holy bath) in the Radha Kund on auspicious days. During the month of Kartik, devotees often do a parikrama (circumambulation) of the kund, and on Ahoi Ashtami (which usually falls a few days before Diwali), a large number of devotees visit to take a holy dip at midnight, which is considered especially sacred.
Facilities for tourists include small shops selling religious paraphernalia, snacks, and refreshments. Although accommodation options in Radha Kund itself might be limited, there are various hotels and guest houses in the nearby areas of Govardhan and Mathura to suit different budgets.
There are no entry fees for visiting Radha Kund. The pond is open to visitors 24 hours a day. However, specific rituals and events may have particular timings, so it's advisable to check locally if you wish to participate in these.
Near Radha Kund, there are several other religious sites worth visiting, such as Govardhan Hill, Kusum Sarovar, Mansi Ganga, and numerous temples in the Braj region. Vrindavan and Mathura, with their numerous temples dedicated to Lord Krishna, are also in proximity and make for an enriching spiritual experience.
Photography is generally allowed at Radha Kund, but it is always best to respect the privacy of individuals, especially during their worship or ritual practices. In certain sacred areas or during specific rituals, photography might be restricted, so it's recommended to seek permission when in doubt.
Radha Kund can be reached by road from Mathura, which is well-connected by rail and road to major cities in India. Local taxis, buses, and auto-rickshaws are available from Mathura to Govardhan, from where Radha Kund is a short distance away.
Visitors should dress modestly, as Radha Kund is a place of worship. It's also important to maintain cleanliness and not pollute the pond or its surroundings. Keep in mind the cultural and spiritual significance of the place, and be respectful to the local customs and practices.
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