Places to see during your Mathura trip

People from all over the world come to Mathura in search of awakening throughout the whole year since it is widely regarded to be among the holiest places in all of India. Mathura is renowned as the birthplace of Lord Krishna and is located around 150 kilometres southeast of Delhi. The city is home to several historical and religious landmarks. Old-world charm can be found in every nook and crevice of this location, including the small roads and bylanes that encapsulate the urbanisation of the city.

Mathura is home to a rich history, which may be experienced by paying a visit to the city’s historic buildings as well as taking advantage of the friendly nature of the locals, who are more than happy to show visitors around. We are going to show you some of the most popular and revered visiting places in Mathura.

But before you do that, you should investigate the many routes that lead to this breathtaking location.

By air: Mathura’s closest international airport is in Delhi, which is located 147 km away. Taxis may be hailed from thereafter and taken to the holy city.

By train: Major Indian cities including Delhi, Mumbai, and Chennai may be accessed through Mathura’s main railway station. To go to Mathura, the most practical and economical option is to take a train. The surrounding sites may be reached via pre-paid taxis.

By road: Buses operated by the government link Agra, Faizabad, and Allahabad to Mathura. Delhi is connected to the holy city via luxury buses operated by private companies.

 

11 best visiting places in Mathura

 

• Krishna Janmasthan Temple 

Source: Pinterest

Mathura, the holiest city in Uttar Pradesh, is home to the Shri Krishna Janmasthan Temple. A replica of the cell in which Mata Devaki, Lord Krishna, and Vasudeva were confined by his evil uncle Kansa may be found inside the fortress. The temple has a special meaning for Hindus since it is considered the birthplace of Lord Krishna.

The distance from Mathura Junction Station to the Krishna Janmasthan Temple is around 3 kilometres, and the trip takes about nine minutes total.

The area of Mathura is home to a number of temples that are devoted to the deity Lord Krishna. The presence of a sacred atmosphere, along with the austerity of the setting, instils in one’s heart an unshakeable conviction that one is standing in the same spot where Lord Krishna arrived before entering the temple.

Morning aarti services are held between the hours of 5:00 am and 12:00 pm throughout the months of April through November, while evening aarti services are held between 4:00 pm and 9:30 pm. Visits to the Garbha Griha may be made between the hours of 5 am and 9:30 pm.

The Aarti times change throughout the winter season and are held between the hours of 5:30 am and 12:00 pm throughout the months of April through November, while evening aarti services are held between 3:00 pm and 8:30 pm. Visits to the Garbha Griha may be made between the hours of 5:30 am and 8:30 pm.

 

 

• Kusum Sarovar

Source: Pinterest

The Kusum Sarovar is a stunning reservoir formed of sandstone as well as a genuine relic from the past era. It features a series of steps that descends into the pond, making it seem as if it was built centuries ago. Kusum, one of Radha’s dasis, is said to be the source of the legend that explains how the reservoir received its name. During the hot summer months, this spot is perfect for going for a swim.

During a journey to Mathura, visitors will also get the opportunity to see the various temples that can be found in the area. The water in the emerald green pond is refreshing, and it has a flowery border that is home to a variety of beautiful blooms. People think that Radha gathered these flowers so that she might construct floral garlands and jewellery for herself out of them. Watching the sunset from here is a lovely way to spend a peaceful evening.

Due to the fact that it is located in a tropical climate zone, Mathura has extreme weather all year long. Between the months of October and December, as well as between the months of February and April, the weather at Kusum Sarovar is more agreeable, making these months the ideal time to visit.

It is possible to go to Kusum Sarovar from Mathura, which is located roughly 24 kilometres away, by hiring a private taxi.

 

• Gita Mandir

Source: Pinterest

The well-known Birla Mandir, also often referred to as the Gita Mandir, can be found on the road that connects Vrindavan and Mathura. It is a significant religious destination for Hindus and is devoted to Lord Lakshmi Narayan, one of Vishnu’s incarnations. The sculptures and murals within the temple are works of art in their own right, but the design of the building itself is a testament to its opulence.

The complete Bhagavad Gita may be seen written on the temple’s pillars.  The construction of this enormous temple, which is made of red sandstone, is regarded to be an example of superb workmanship. Portraits of divinities adorn the marble walls of the temple. The whole grounds of Gita Mandir have been meticulously cared for in order to provide the visitors with an atmosphere that is peaceful.

The Gita Mandir is accessible to visitors on each of the seven days each week. Visiting hours typically take place between the hours of 5:00 am and 12:00 pm  and 2:00 pm and 8:00 pm. However, these times are subject to change depending on the schedule of any festival as well as other special events that are held on the grounds.

It is around 12 km distant from both the bus stop and the train station in Mathura. You may get to Vrindavan and see the Gita Mandir by using either a government or a private bus. 

• Ghats

Source: Pinterest

A holy bathing ghat, Vishram Ghat, is situated on the Yamuna’s banks. It is the most important ghat in Mathura and serves as a hub for the city’s other 25 ghats. Pilgrims come from around the nation to take a dip in the sacred waters of Vishram Ghat and complete the customary parikrama, which begins and concludes at this location.

Following his victory against Kansa, Lord Krishna slept here at Vishram. This is why a trip to Mathura wouldn’t be complete without stopping at Vishram Ghat as well as the many temples that populate the area. During the evenings, when the rituals and aarti are being performed, Vishram Ghat puts up a stunning show for visitors. Oil lights and diyas are placed on paan leaves and thereafter floated down the adjacent Yamuna River by devotees.

On the festival of Bhai Dooj, also often referred to as Yam Dwitiya, that takes place on the next day following Diwali, the ghat is visited by a large number of people. One of the most enjoyable things that visitors to Vishram Ghat can do is take a boat ride down the Yamuna River, which allows them to take in the tranquillity of the area and calm their minds and souls.

The distance between the Vishram Ghat and the Mathura Bus Stand is roughly 2.8 kilometres. You may reach the Ghat in a short amount of time and with little effort due to the abundance of easily accessible automobiles, rickshaws, and buses.

• Govardhan Hill

Source: Pinterest

It takes 22 kilometres to get from Vrindavan to Govardhan Hill, also known as Giriraj. All of those who worship Lord Krishna do so by paying homage to the modest stones that make up the hill, just as they do to his idol. The hill is composed of sandstone and stretches for 38 kilometres while rising to an elevation of 80 feet. There are several significant locations that may be visited, including  Mukharvind, Mansi Ganga, and Daan Ghat.

In his youth, Krishna is said to have lifted Govardhan Hill solely on a single finger to protect Mathura from torrential rain and thunderstorms. On Guru Purnima and Govardhan Puja, devotees walk barefoot all around the slope for 23 kilometres in devotion, which is termed Govardhan prakriya. Following Lord Krishna had saved his village, he requested everyone to pray to the hill, which is why Govardhan Puja is held the day after Diwali. It’s a beautiful place and a must-see for sure! 

• Radha Kund

Source: Pinterest

In Mathura, the Radha Kund can be found nestled away near Govardhan Hill. This is among the most popular tourist destinations in all of Mathura. The fact that its water is regarded as holy and clean and thought to possess magical curative abilities helps to ensure that this location is regarded as an important holy place within the city. A representation of Krishna and Radha’s everlasting love, the Radha Kund has been around since the time of Krishna and Radha. 

A single plunge in the Radha Kund is claimed to relieve you of your sins and cleanse your spirit, making it a popular pilgrimage destination for both the natives and worshippers who travel from far.

You may get to the Radha Kund by renting a private cab or by taking a rickshaw from the city of Mathura, which is around a half an hour’s journey to the location. The nearest train station is the Mathura Junction, which is located 25 km  away.

• Kans Qila

Source:  Pinterest

The Kans Qila, an old fortification on the Yamuna River’s banks, is a must-see attraction in Mathura for anybody interested in ancient history and architecture. This temple is named after Lord Krishna’s maternal uncle, Kans. Kans Qila, despite its deteriorated status, nevertheless attracts history buffs and architectural enthusiasts from all across India.

There is a fee required for entry, and animals of any kind are not permitted within the fort. The months of October through March provide the most favourable weather conditions, making this the ideal time to plan a trip. It is possible to go to the Kans Qila by taking a rikshaw or a local cab since it is approximately 2.9 km from Mathura.

• Government Museum Mathura

Source: Pinterest

Dampier Park is the location of the Government Museum Mathura, which was once known as the Curzon Museum of Archaeology. Locals also refer to the repository as the Mathura Museum, and it holds a substantial collection of historical antiquities, artworks, coins, and drawings. The repository is considered to be one of the best in the nation.

To this day, the Mathura School’s antique sculptures, spanning from the 3rd century BC to the 12th century AD, are housed at this museum. Artefacts discovered by well-known researchers, mostly around Mathura, are also on show in the museum. 

Even though you may go to Mathura at any time of the year, the ideal time to go to the museum is between the months of October and April. During these months, the climate is more agreeable, making it easier to stroll about and take in the sights. The museum is located 2.4 km from the Mathura crossroads, and getting there will take you 7 minutes if you start from here.

• Rangji Temple

Source: Pinterest

Even more significant than the other temples in Mathura, this one is widely regarded as one of the city’s top attractions. Dedicated to Sri Goda Rangamannar, a goddess from South India, and Lord Ranganatha, who is said to be a manifestation of Lord Vishnu, this temple can be found on the route that leads from Mathura to Vrindavan. It was built as a homage to both deities. The design of the temple, which was modelled on that of South Indian temples, has garnered a lot of praise from visitors.

Every day of the week, beginning at 8:00 in the morning and continuing until 12:00 noon, as well as from 3:00 in the afternoon until 7:30 in the evening, the Shri Rangji temple is open to visitors. The Mangala Aarti begins at 05:30 in the morning, and the Bhog brings the ceremony to a close at 9:00 in the evening.

The Rangji Temple may be reached in a short period of time by renting a private cab or an auto rickshaw. It is situated around 11 kilometres away from Mathura.

• Nandgaon

Source: Pinterest

Nandgaon, a small village nestled at the foot of a Nandishwara Hill, is only 8 kilometres away from Mathura. Yashoda Maiyya and Shri Nandji, Lord Krishna’s foster parents, are said to have lived in this town, which is adored by Hindu pilgrims. On top of the hill, there is also a large temple of Shri Nandji. Pan Sarovar, a lovely lake nearby, is not just a popular tourist destination but also a haven of solitude and quiet. Shri Krishna’s cattle are said to have drunk from this well.

To go to Nandgaon from Mathura, you may either take a private taxi or a public bus in the area.

 

• Kokilavan Dham

Source: Pinterest

Kokilavan Dham is well renowned for its Shani Mandir, which is dedicated not only to the god Shani Dev as well as to his master, called Barkhandi Baba. Kokilavan Dham is situated in close proximity to Kosi Kalan. This popular visiting place in Mathura was built in the thick of a verdant forest, and its name comes from its location in the heart of the jungle.

Kosi Kalan is the neighbourhood in which this magnificent temple may be found. It is a distance of 45 kilometres from the city of Mathura. The temple is at its most beautiful during the winter months. Between the months of November and December, this location is quite popular with tourists.

 

FAQs

What is Mathura renowned for?

It is said to be the location where the deity known as Lord Krishna was born. A well-known Buddhist centre in ancient India, this location was also well-known for a magnificent school of sculpting renowned as the Mathura School of Art, which thrived during the Kushana empire in the first century AD.

What is the quickest route to Mathura?

Mathura is a major train station where the majority of trains stop. It is also accessible by road, with buses passing through the area.

What is the native cuisine of Mathura?

The desserts and dairy products of the region are the culinary highlights of the city. The dessert known as pede, which is often prepared with condensed milk, is indeed a local delicacy. A person should also try Kachori, Panipuri, Samosa, Dhokla, Aloo tikki, and Lassi in addition to these dishes. One may also enjoy delectable platters that are characteristic of North Indian cuisine.

Where are the other locations that are close to Mathura?

The most notable locations in close proximity to Mathura include Agra, (48 km), Vrindavan (10 km), Bharatpur (35 km), Delhi (138 km) and Deeg (34 km).

Got any questions or point of view on our article? We would love to hear from you. Write to our Editor-in-Chief Jhumur Ghosh at [email protected]