Are you looking for a unique and unforgettable travel experience in India? Do you want to explore the rich and vibrant culture of the land of Radha and Krishna? Do you want to witness the most colorful and playful festival of Holi in its original form? If yes, then you should definitely visit Barsana, a small town in Uttar Pradesh that is famous for its temples, hills, and festivals. Barsana is the birthplace of Radha, the consort of Krishna, and the place where they performed their divine love play. Barsana is also the place where the famous Lathmar Holi is celebrated, where women beat men with sticks as a part of the ritual.
In this article, we will provide you with a comprehensive and informative guide to Barsana, covering its history, culture, attractions, hotels, weather, food, nearby places, and how to reach. Whether you are a solo traveler, a couple, a family, or a group, you will find something for everyone in Barsana. So, let’s get started!
History and Culture of Barsana
Barsana is a town that is steeped in history and culture. It is believed that Barsana was the home of King Vrishabhanu, the father of Radha, and that Radha was born here. Radha is considered to be the supreme goddess of love and devotion, and the eternal consort of Krishna, the supreme god of joy and bliss. Barsana is also the place where Radha and Krishna performed their divine love play, known as Raas Leela, along with the other gopis (cowherd girls). Barsana is one of the 12 forests of Vrindavan, where Krishna spent his childhood and youth.
Barsana is also famous for its four hills, which are said to represent the four heads of Lord Brahma, the creator god. The hills are named Brahma Hill, Vishnu Hill, Shiva Hill, and Shesha Hill. Each hill has a temple dedicated to Radha and Krishna, and each temple has a different name and form of Radha. The most prominent temple is the Radharani Mandir, which is situated on the Brahma Hill, and is dedicated to Radha Rani, the queen of Barsana. The temple is also known as Ladli Ji Temple, meaning the beloved temple.
Barsana is also known for its festivals, especially the Lathmar Holi, which is celebrated a few days before the main Holi festival. Lathmar Holi literally means the Holi of sticks, and it is a unique and playful tradition where women beat men with sticks as a part of the ritual.
Temples and Attractions in Barsana
Barsana is a town that is full of temples and attractions that are related to the life and love of Radha and Krishna. Here are some of the must-visit places in Barsana:
1. Radharani Mandir
This is the main temple of Barsana, and it is dedicated to Radha Rani, the queen of Barsana. The temple is situated on the Brahma Hill, and it is also known as Ladli Ji Temple, meaning the beloved temple. The temple was built by Raja Bir Singh Ju Deo of Orchha in the 16th century, and it is a beautiful example of Rajasthani architecture.
2. Prem Sarovar
This is a lake that is considered to be the first meeting place of Radha and Krishna. It is said that Krishna was playing his flute near the lake, and Radha was mesmerized by his music. She came to the lake to see him, and they fell in love at first sight. The lake is also the place where they exchanged garlands and vows. The lake is surrounded by trees, flowers, and peacocks, and it has a serene and romantic atmosphere. The lake also has a temple, called Prem Mandir, which is dedicated to Radha and Krishna.
3. Maan Mandir
This is a temple that is dedicated to Maan Bhanjan, meaning the one who dispels the anger. The temple is situated on the Vishnu Hill, and it is related to the episode where Radha was angry with Krishna for not meeting her. It is said that Krishna came to this temple to pacify Radha, and they reconciled their love.
4. Rangeeli Mahal
This is a palace that was built by Baba Rangeela, a saint and a devotee of Radha and Krishna. The palace is situated on the Shiva Hill, and it is a splendid example of Mughal architecture. The palace has a grand entrance, a spacious hall, and a dome that is decorated with paintings and mirrors.
Hotels, Weather, and Local Food in Barsana
Barsana is a town that offers a comfortable and enjoyable stay for the travelers. Here are some of the hotels, weather, and local food options in Barsana:
Hotels: Barsana has a range of hotels that cater to different budgets and preferences. Some of the best hotels in Barsana are Shri Radha Brij Vasundhara Resort & Spa, Shri Radha Rani Guest House and Shri Radha Krishna Dharamshala.
Weather: Barsana has a subtropical climate, with hot summers, mild winters, and moderate rainfall. The average temperature ranges from 10°C to 40°C, and the average rainfall is about 800 mm. The best time to visit Barsana is from October to March, when the weather is pleasant and cool, and the festivals are in full swing. The peak season is during February and March, when the Lathmar Holi and Radha Ashtami are celebrated.
Local Food: Barsana is a town that offers a variety of local food that is delicious and nutritious. The local food is mainly vegetarian, and it is influenced by the Braj cuisine, which is the traditional cuisine of the region. Some of the local food items that you should try in Barsana are Kachori, Khichdi, Lassi and Peda.
Nearby Places to Visit
Barsana is a town that is surrounded by some other places that are worth visiting along with Barsana. Here are some of the nearby places that you can visit:
1. Mathura
This is a city that is considered to be the birthplace of Krishna, and the place where he spent his childhood and youth. Mathura is about 50 km from Barsana, and it takes about an hour to reach by road. Mathura is a city that is full of temples, monuments, and museums that are related to the life and love of Krishna.
2. Vrindavan
This is a town that is considered to be the place where Krishna performed his divine love play with Radha and the gopis. Vrindavan is about 60 km from Barsana, and it takes about an hour and a half to reach by road. Vrindavan is a town that is full of temples, gardens, and ashrams that are related to the pastimes and teachings of Krishna.
How to Reach Barsana
Barsana is a town that is well-connected by road, rail, and air. Here are some of the ways to reach Barsana:
By Flight: The nearest airport to Barsana is the Indira Gandhi International Airport in Delhi, which is about 150 km from Barsana. The airport is connected to all the major cities in India and abroad, and it has regular flights from various airlines.
By Road: Barsana is well-connected by road to all the nearby cities and towns, such as Mathura, Vrindavan, Agra, Delhi, and Jaipur. You can take a taxi, a bus, or a car to reach Barsana.
By Train: The nearest railway station to Barsana is the Mathura Junction Railway Station, which is about 45 km from Barsana. The railway station is connected to all the major cities in India, and it has regular trains from various zones. From the railway station, you can take a taxi, a bus, or a local train to reach Barsana.
We hope that this article has given you a comprehensive and informative guide to Barsana, and that you are ready to visit this town and experience its history, culture, attractions, and festivals. Barsana is a town that will enchant you with its beauty, charm, and spirituality, and that will make you fall in love with Radha and Krishna. So, what are you waiting for? Book your tickets, pack your bags, and head to Barsana, the land of Radha and Holi!