By the Vrajraj team, Govardhan · Last verified
Mudiya Purnima is the great mela of Govardhan, held on Guru Purnima, which falls on Sunday 18 July 2027. For about a week, devotees from across India walk the 21 km Govardhan Parikrama day and night. On Purnima itself, shaven-headed Gaudiya sadhus lead the Mudiya shobha yatra. In 2025, officials expected more than 1.5 crore pilgrims over the week.
The story
Sanatana Goswami (1488–1558) was one of the six Goswamis of Vrindavan, the disciples Sri Chaitanya Mahaprabhu sent to Braj to uncover its sacred places. He spent his last years at Govardhan, walking the parikrama daily until age made it impossible. He passed away on Ashadha Purnima in 1558. His followers shaved their heads (mudiya) in mourning and walked around Giriraj ji in his memory. The tradition has continued for about 470 years.
Today, Gaudiya sadhus shave their heads at the Radha Shyam Sundar temple in Govardhan and lead the Mudiya shobha yatra, with kirtan, through the town on Guru Purnima.
What to expect
- The parikrama never stops. The 21 km path is full day and night for the whole week. The peak comes over the last two or three days before Purnima.
- Traffic is restricted. Vehicles are stopped at the edges of Govardhan and diversions run on the roads in. Special buses and trains are usually announced.
- Bhandaras and camps line the route, offering water, food and rest to pilgrims.
- It is monsoon season. Expect heat, humidity and rain; many pilgrims walk at night.
Tips for the mela
- Book early. Rooms around the hill are taken weeks in advance.
- Arrive before the peak and plan to walk in from wherever vehicles are stopped.
- Walk at night or before dawn, carry water and a torch, and keep children and elders close.
- Agree a meeting point in case your group gets separated, and keep phones charged.
- Elderly pilgrims should consider coming on a quieter day before the mela. See parikrama by e-rickshaw.
- Check the official traffic plan issued by the Mathura administration before you set out.
Where to stay for Mudiya Purnima
Staying near the parikrama but outside the town centre lets you rest away from the noise and step onto the route when you choose. Vrajraj Farms & Retreat is at Punchhari, about 2 km from Punchhari ka Lautha at the southern tip of the hill, among open fields. The parikrama is busy here too during the mela, but the fields are quiet. See staying on the parikrama marg and the Braj festival calendar.
