84 Kos Parikarma: Braj Mandal is said to be the place where Lord Shri Krishna performed many of his childhood pastimes. 84 Kos means 252 kilometres. From Vrindavan to Mathura, Gokul, Nandgaon, Barsana, Govardhan, and many other places spread across 84 Kos, where Lord Shri Krishna spent his childhood. This is why Braj Mandal is said to have great significance in the Vedas and Puranas.
What is the significance of visiting Braj?
It is said that there are approximately 66 pilgrimage sites on Earth. However, these pilgrimage sites reside in Braj during Chaturmas. This is why the circumambulation of 84 Kos is performed only during Chaturmas. There is also a legend that once Mother Yashoda and Nand Baba expressed their desire to visit the four holy places.
The Story of the 84 Kos Parikrama
The story goes that before Lord Krishna’s birth, Mother Yashoda and Nand Baba vowed that if they had a child, they would visit the Char Dham. However, by the time Lord Krishna was born, Mother Yashoda and Nand Baba were already quite old.
As a result, Mother Yashoda and Nand Baba were unable to visit the Char Dham at their age. This is why Lord Krishna summoned all the pilgrimage sites to Braj so that his parents could see the Char Dham.
Regarding the 84 Kos Parikrama, it is believed that those who complete the 84 Kos Parikrama with a true heart are liberated from the 84 lakh births and also attain salvation. Simply undertaking this journey liberates a person from all sins.
When is the 84 Kos Parikrama performed?
Although the 84 Kos Parikrama is primarily performed during Adhik Maas or Chaturmas, the months of Chaitra and Vaishakh are also considered to be of special significance. This Parikrama is performed once a year, from Chaitra Purnima to Vaishakh Purnima.
However, many people begin the Parikrama after Vijayadashami in the month of Ashwin. The Shaivite and Vaishnavite communities observe this Parikrama at different times, based on their respective beliefs.
Special Facts About the 84 Kos
The 84 Kos Parikrama can be completed in two ways: on foot or by vehicle. Most people prefer to complete it on foot. It can take a month or more to complete on foot.
The 84 Kos Parikrama ends at the same place where it began. During this Parikrama, apart from about 1100 lakes, 36 forests, and gardens associated with the Leelas of Lord Shri Krishna, one can also see mountains.