UP Government declares Vrindavan, Barsana as pilgrimage sites

The Uttar Pradesh Government on Friday declared Vrindavan Nagar Palika Parishad and Barsana Nagar Panchayat as 'pavitra tirth sthal' (holy pilgrimage sites).

"Vrindavan area in Mathura is the birthplace of Lord Krishna and his elder brother Balram and is a world famous site. Barsana is Radha's birthplace. Lakhs of tourists visit these places to pay obeisance. Keeping in mind their importance and in view of tourism, these are declared as holy pilgrimage p6laces," an official release issued by the state government said.

The UP government mentioned that both the places are a sign of purity and many devotees visit both the places from around the globe to offer prayers to Lord Krishna and Radha.

Both Vrindavan and Barsana fall in Mathura district.

The official also said special attention will be paid to these areas for development of facilities for locals and tourists.

Mathura-Vrindavan Nagar Nigam was constituted recently along with Ayodhya Nagar Nigam.

This announcement is made at the eleventh hour as the State Election Commission announced civic polls in three phases from November 22.