About This Festival
Janmashtami — also known as Krishna Janmashtami — is a Hindu festival celebrating the birth of Lord Krishna, one of the most widely worshipped deities in Hinduism. It is observed on the Ashtami (eighth lunar day) of the dark fortnight (Krishna Paksha) of the month of Bhadrapada, usually in August or September. According to Hindu tradition, Krishna was born at midnight in Mathura to Devaki and Vasudeva, and was later raised in Gokul by Nanda and Yashoda. Devotees fast during the day and stay awake until midnight, when temples celebrate Krishna's birth with prayers, music, lamps and the ritual bathing and rocking of an image of the baby Krishna. Mathura, Vrindavan and Gokul are particularly important during the festival because they are associated with different stages of Krishna's early life — visiting these places at Janmashtami is one of the most atmospherically powerful experiences in North India. In other parts of India, especially Maharashtra, the festival is also celebrated through the lively Dahi Handi tradition. Devotees may: fast during the day; visit Krishna temples; sing bhajans and kirtans; recite passages from the Bhagavad Gita and Bhagavata Purana; decorate temples and homes; prepare special sweets and food offerings; perform Rass Leela; keep a vigil until midnight; bathe and dress an image of infant Krishna; place Krishna in a decorative cradle.
Where to Celebrate
Plan Your Visit
This spiritual journey passes through the Mathura–Vrindavan region — the epicentre of Janmashtami celebrations.
View Journey
October "“ March
Delhi · Jaipur · Bharatpur · Agra · Orchha · Khajuraho · Varanasi · Delhi
Upcoming dates to be confirmed. Enquire with Om for the latest information.
Om will design your itinerary to arrive at the perfect moment.
