Overview
Goloka (Sanskrit: गोलोक), also known as Goloka Vrindavan (IAST: Goloka Vṛndāvana), is described in several Hindu traditions as the celestial abode of the god Krishna and his chief consort Radha. The name literally evokes a "world of cows", reflecting the pastoral imagery long associated with Krishna.
In texts such as the Bhagavata Purana and the Garga Samhita, Krishna is portrayed as the highest person, residing in Goloka along with Radha. The realm is depicted as a region of flowing streams and lovely gardens, inhabited by cows and the enchanting cowherd maidens known as the Gopis. The imagery draws upon the earthly Vrindavan associated with Krishna's youthful pastimes, while presenting Goloka as its eternal, transcendent counterpart.
Goloka holds an important place in various Vaishnava traditions, including Gaudiya Vaishnavism, the Swaminarayan Sampradaya, the Pranami Sampraday, Pushtimarg and the Nimbarka Sampradaya. In these traditions, Goloka is revered as the supreme spiritual destination associated with devotion to Krishna and Radha.
Besides the Bhagavata Purana, references to Goloka appear in a number of Sanskrit scriptures, including the Pancharatra texts, the Garga Samhita, the Brahma Samhita, the Brahma Vaivarta Purana and the Devi-Bhagavata Purana. Together, these works contribute to the theological framework in which Goloka is understood within Vaishnavism.