Parikrama in Hinduism is the circumambulation of sacred
Hindu pilgrimage centers and is performed for redemption from sins committed.
The importance of Parikrama is mentioned in the Puranas and other scriptures. A
Parikrama is undertaken by walking for several kilometers in a sacred place.
During the walk a devotee will pass through numerous temples and other sacred
spots.
The most important Parikramas in Hindu religion are held at:
The most important Parikramas in Hindu religion are held at:
- Nimsar
- Bithur
- Mathura
- Govardhan Parikrama
- Hari Parbat in
- Girnar Hill in Junagarh
- Barda in
- Kashi –
- Janakpur in
There are several different types of Parikramas. And this is
mentioned in the Kashi Khanda of the Skanda Purana. There are daily,
fortnightly, monthly and annual parikramas. There are also circumambulations
that are performed only during special months like Chaitra, Vaishak, Kartik
etc.
One of the most important Parikrama is the Panchkoshi
Parikrama – a walk for 16 km covering various spiritual spots. Another famous
Parikrama is the Govardhan Parikrama.
The length of the Parikrama varies from region to region – from
5 to 50 kms.
Parikrama in South India is known as Girivalam
and is observed mainly in the Tiruvannamalai
Temple