Welcome to Mathura, the birthplace of Lord Krishna and a city steeped in history and spirituality!
Mathura is a vibrant city with a rich cultural heritage that dates back thousands of years. It is home to some of the most magnificent temples and shrines in India, where devotees from all over the world come to pay their respects and seek blessings.
But Mathura is not just a spiritual destination, it is also a hub of art, music, and literature. The city has produced some of the finest artists, musicians, and writers in India, and their legacy lives on in the many galleries, museums, and cultural centers scattered throughout the city.
And if you’re a foodie, Mathura is the place to be! The city is famous for its mouth-watering sweets and snacks, including the world-renowned Mathura peda, which is a must-try for anyone with a sweet tooth.
Whether you’re a history buff, a spiritual seeker, an art lover, a foodie, or simply someone looking for a unique and memorable experience, Mathura has something for everyone. Come and explore this amazing city and discover its many wonders for yourself!
About Mathura
Mathura is an ancient city located in the state of Uttar Pradesh in northern India. It is situated on the banks of the river Yamuna, about 150 kilometers south of Delhi. The city is considered to be the birthplace of Lord Krishna, one of the most revered and beloved deities in Hinduism.
The history of Mathura dates back to ancient times, with archaeological evidence suggesting that the city was inhabited as early as the 6th century BCE. Over the centuries, Mathura was ruled by various dynasties, including the Mauryas, the Kushans, the Guptas, and the Mughals.
During the Mauryan period, Mathura was a major center of Buddhism, with many stupas, monasteries, and other Buddhist structures built in and around the city. The Kushan period, which lasted from the 1st to the 3rd century CE, is considered to be the golden age of Mathura, with the city becoming a major center of art, culture, and commerce.
The Guptas, who ruled over much of northern India in the 4th and 5th centuries CE, continued to patronize the arts and sciences in Mathura, leading to a further flourishing of the city’s cultural and intellectual life. The Mughal emperor Akbar also had a deep connection with Mathura, which he considered to be one of his favorite cities.
Today, Mathura is a thriving city that is home to a large number of temples, shrines, and other religious and cultural institutions. It continues to be an important center of Hinduism, attracting pilgrims from all over the world. The city is also known for its rich cultural heritage, with many museums, galleries, and cultural centers showcasing the best of Indian art, music, and literature.
Architecture of Mathura
Mathura has a rich and diverse architectural heritage, reflecting the city’s long and storied history. Over the centuries, Mathura has been influenced by a variety of architectural styles, including Buddhist, Hindu, Jain, and Islamic.
Some of the most famous examples of Mathura’s architectural heritage include:
- Krishna Janmabhoomi Temple: This temple is believed to be built on the site where Lord Krishna was born. It is a major pilgrimage site for Hindus and is known for its beautiful architecture and intricate carvings.
- Dwarkadhish Temple: This temple is dedicated to Lord Krishna and is one of the most famous temples in Mathura. It is known for its stunning architecture and intricate carvings, and is a must-visit for anyone interested in Hindu temple architecture.
- Kans Qila: This fort is named after Kans, the uncle of Lord Krishna who is said to have ruled Mathura during his time. It is an important historical site and is known for its impressive architecture and stunning views of the surrounding area.
- Jama Masjid: This mosque was built in the 17th century during the Mughal period and is known for its impressive architecture and beautiful domes. It is one of the largest mosques in Mathura and is a must-visit for anyone interested in Islamic architecture.
- Vishram Ghat: This is a sacred spot on the banks of the river Yamuna and is known for its beautiful architecture and stunning views of the river. It is a popular spot for tourists and locals alike, and is a great place to soak in the atmosphere of Mathura.
These are just a few examples of the many stunning examples of architecture in Mathura. Whether you’re interested in Hindu temples, Islamic mosques, or Buddhist stupas, there is something for everyone in this beautiful and historic city.
35 Places to Visit in Mathura
There are many places to visit in Mathura, each offering a unique glimpse into the city’s rich cultural and historical heritage. Here are 35 places to visit in Mathura:
- Krishna Janmabhoomi Temple: A famous temple that marks the birthplace of Lord Krishna, a significant deity in Hinduism. The temple attracts a large number of devotees and tourists.
- Dwarkadhish Temple: A beautiful temple dedicated to Lord Krishna that showcases stunning architecture and intricate carvings.
- Kans Qila: A historic fort built during the reign of Raja Mansingh of Amber that is named after Kans, the uncle of Lord Krishna.
- Jama Masjid: A stunning mosque built by the Mughals in the heart of Mathura.
- Vishram Ghat: A sacred spot on the banks of the Yamuna river, where Lord Krishna is believed to have rested after killing Kansa.
- Kusum Sarovar: A tranquil lake that is believed to have been created by Lord Krishna.
- Gita Mandir: A temple dedicated to Lord Krishna and the Bhagavad Gita.
- Radha Kund: A sacred pond believed to be associated with the love story of Lord Krishna and Radha.
- Mathura Museum: A museum that showcases various artifacts and exhibits related to the rich history and culture of Mathura.
- Govardhan Hill: A sacred hill that is associated with Lord Krishna’s legends.
- Vrindavan: A famous hill town known for its association with Lord Krishna and Radha, with several temples and spiritual sites.
- Banke Bihari Temple: A famous temple dedicated to Lord Krishna that is known for its unique architecture and rich history.
- Prem Mandir: A stunning temple built using white marble that is dedicated to Radha and Krishna.
- ISKCON Temple: A beautiful temple dedicated to Lord Krishna and his teachings.
- Nidhivan: A sacred forest believed to be associated with the legends of Lord Krishna and Radha.
- Radha Raman Temple: A beautiful temple dedicated to Lord Krishna and his wife Radha.
- Seva Kunj and Nidhuban: A beautiful garden and sacred grove that are associated with Lord Krishna and Radha’s love.
- Shri Krishna Janmasthan Temple: A temple dedicated to Lord Krishna’s birthplace that attracts a large number of devotees.
- Madan Mohan Temple: A beautiful temple dedicated to Lord Krishna and his divine consort Radha.
- Rangaji Temple: A stunning temple dedicated to Lord Ranganatha, a form of Lord Vishnu.
- Mathura Chhappan Bhog: A famous sweet shop that offers a wide variety of traditional Mathura sweets.
- Sri Krishna Balaram Mandir: A famous temple that showcases stunning architecture and intricate carvings, dedicated to Lord Krishna and his brother Balarama.
- Jai Gurudev Ashram: A spiritual retreat center that offers yoga, meditation, and spiritual healing programs.
- Mathura Refinery: A major oil refinery located in Mathura.
- Birla Mandir: A beautiful temple that offers stunning views of Mathura city and is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and his consort, Goddess Lakshmi.
- Gokul: A small town associated with the childhood of Lord Krishna.
- Dauji Temple: A temple dedicated to Lord Balarama, the elder brother of Lord Krishna.
- Jaigurudev Ashram: A spiritual retreat center that offers yoga, meditation, and spiritual healing programs.
- Shri Radha Vallabh Temple: A temple dedicated to Radha and Krishna’s love, with beautiful architecture and intricate carvings.
- Krishna Balram Temple: A temple dedicated to Lord Krishna and his brother Balarama, with stunning architecture and beautiful idols
- Kesi Ghat – A sacred spot on the banks of the Yamuna river associated with Lord Krishna.
- Kaliya Ghat – A sacred spot associated with the legend of Lord Krishna and the serpent Kaliya.
- Brijwasi Royal Palace – A beautiful palace with stunning architecture.
- Nandgaon – A small town associated with the childhood of Lord Krishna.
- Barsana – A small town associated with Radha’s birthplace.
Weather and Best time to visit Mathura
Mathura experiences a hot semi-arid climate, with hot summers and mild winters. The best time to visit Mathura is during the winter season, between October and March when the weather is pleasant and the temperature ranges between 5°C to 25°C.
During the summer months, from April to June, Mathura experiences scorching heat, with temperatures soaring up to 45°C. The monsoon season, from July to September, brings relief from the heat but also leads to heavy rainfall, which can disrupt travel plans.
Therefore, it is recommended to visit Mathura during the winter season when the weather is pleasant and the temperatures are comfortable for exploring the city’s attractions. However, if you do plan to visit during the summer or monsoon season, make sure to carry appropriate clothing and take necessary precautions to stay hydrated and protect yourself from the heat and rainfall.
How To Reach Mathura
Mathura is well connected to major cities in India by air, rail, and road. Here are the different modes of transport to reach Mathura:
- By Air: The nearest airport to Mathura is the Indira Gandhi International Airport in Delhi, located about 165 km away. From there, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Mathura.
- By Train: Mathura Junction is a major railway station and is well connected to major cities in India. You can take a direct train from cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Chennai, and Bangalore.
- By Road: Mathura is well connected by road to major cities in Uttar Pradesh and nearby states. You can take a bus or hire a taxi to reach Mathura. The city is located on the National Highway 19, which connects it to Delhi, Agra, and other major cities in the region.
Once you reach Mathura, you can explore the city on foot, or hire a taxi, auto-rickshaw, or cycle-rickshaw to visit the various attractions in and around the city.
Accommodation options in Mathura
Mathura is a popular tourist destination, and there are plenty of accommodation options available in the city to suit different budgets and preferences. Here are some of the accommodation options in Mathura:
- Hotels: Mathura has a wide range of hotels, from budget to luxury, which offer comfortable stay options. Some of the popular hotel chains in the city include The Radisson Blu, The Country Inn, and The Clarks Inn.
- Guesthouses: Mathura has several guesthouses and lodges that provide affordable accommodation options. Some of the popular guesthouses in the city include Krishnam Guesthouse and Nidhivan Sarovar Portico.
- Homestays: For those who want a more personalized experience, Mathura also has homestays where you can stay with a local family and experience their way of life.
- Dharamshalas: Mathura is a holy city, and there are several dharamshalas and ashrams that provide free or affordable accommodation for pilgrims and travelers. Some of the popular dharamshalas in the city include the Brijwasi Royal Dharamshala and the ISKCON guesthouse.
It is recommended to book your accommodation in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons, to ensure availability and get the best deals.
Top 10 Hotels to Stay in Mathura as per users Reviews and Ratings
Here is a brief overview of the top 10 hotels to stay in Mathura based on user reviews and ratings:
- The Radisson Blu – This 5-star hotel is located in the heart of the city and offers luxurious rooms, an outdoor pool, fitness center, and multiple dining options.
- The Country Inn – This 4-star hotel is located near the Yamuna River and offers comfortable rooms, an outdoor pool, fitness center, and a multi-cuisine restaurant.
- The Clarks Inn – This 4-star hotel is located close to the Mathura Junction railway station and offers spacious rooms, an outdoor pool, fitness center, and multiple dining options.
- The Brijwasi Royal – This 3-star hotel is located near the Banke Bihari Temple and offers comfortable rooms, a multi-cuisine restaurant, and a rooftop garden.
- Hotel Sheetal Regency – This 3-star hotel is located near the Krishna Janmasthan Temple and offers comfortable rooms, a restaurant, and a rooftop terrace.
- Hotel Abhinandan – This 3-star hotel is located near the Mathura Junction railway station and offers comfortable rooms, a restaurant, and a rooftop terrace.
- Hotel Mukund Palace – This budget hotel is located near the Krishna Janmasthan Temple and offers basic rooms, a restaurant, and free Wi-Fi.
- Hotel Maharana Palace – This budget hotel is located near the Mathura Junction railway station and offers basic rooms, a restaurant, and free Wi-Fi.
- Hotel Ananda Krishna Van – This budget hotel is located near the Krishna Janmasthan Temple and offers basic rooms, a restaurant, and free Wi-Fi.
- Hotel Ganpati Palace – This budget hotel is located near the Mathura Junction railway station and offers basic rooms, a restaurant, and free Wi-Fi.
Travel Tips To know Before Your Trip to Mathura
Mathura is a sacred city located in the northern Indian state of Uttar Pradesh. It is a popular pilgrimage site for Hindus and is considered the birthplace of Lord Krishna. If you’re planning a trip to Mathura, here are some travel tips that can help you make the most of your visit:
- Choose the right time to visit: Mathura can get very hot and humid during the summer months, so it’s best to visit during the winter season (November to February) when the weather is pleasant.
- Dress appropriately: Mathura is a religious city, so it’s important to dress modestly when visiting temples or other religious sites. Women should cover their shoulders and wear long skirts or pants, while men should wear shirts and pants.
- Respect local customs: When visiting temples or other religious sites, it’s important to respect local customs and traditions. Remove your shoes before entering a temple and avoid touching or pointing your feet towards any religious statues or images.
- Be cautious of street food: Mathura is known for its delicious street food, but it’s important to be cautious when trying new foods. Stick to restaurants that look clean and hygienic, and avoid eating raw or uncooked food.
- Bargain when shopping: Mathura is a great place to shop for traditional Indian handicrafts and souvenirs, but be prepared to bargain. It’s common practice to haggle over prices, so don’t be afraid to negotiate.
- Take a guided tour: If you’re new to Mathura or unfamiliar with the local customs and traditions, consider taking a guided tour. A local guide can show you the best places to visit and help you navigate the city.
- Learn some basic Hindi phrases: While many people in Mathura speak English, learning some basic Hindi phrases can help you communicate with locals and show your respect for their culture.
By following these travel tips, you can have a safe and enjoyable trip to Mathura. Happy travels!
Food To Eat in Mathura
Mathura is a holy city known for its rich cultural heritage and delicious food. Here are some must-try dishes that you should not miss when visiting Mathura:
- Peda: Mathura is famous for its pedas, a sweet made from khoa (reduced milk) and sugar. The pedas are soft, creamy, and melt in your mouth. Some popular shops for pedas in Mathura include Brijwasi Sweets, Gupta Ji Peda Wale, and Radha Ballabh Sweet Shop.
- Kachori: Kachori is a deep-fried pastry stuffed with spicy lentils, onions, and potatoes. The kachoris in Mathura are famous for their spicy and tangy filling. Some popular places to try kachoris in Mathura are Ram Asrey, Brijwasi Kachori Wala, and Shri Radha Brij Vasundhara Resort & Spa.
- Chole Bhature: Chole Bhature is a popular North Indian dish made with spicy chickpeas and deep-fried bread. The chole bhature in Mathura are served with a side of sweet and sour pickles and spicy chutney. Some popular places to try chole bhature in Mathura are Yadav Dhaba, Shri Bankey Bihari Paratha Wala, and Brijwasi Rasgulle Wala.
- Lassi: Lassi is a traditional Indian drink made from yogurt, milk, and sugar. Mathura is known for its thick and creamy lassi, which is flavored with saffron and cardamom. Some popular places to try lassi in Mathura are Brijwasi Sweets, Pracheen Mathura, and Sri Krishna Juice & Lassi Centre.
- Jalebi: Jalebi is a crispy and syrupy sweet that is popular throughout India. The jalebis in Mathura are famous for their crispiness and sweetness. Some popular places to try jalebis in Mathura are Gopala’s Jalebi Wala, Deviram Sweets, and Shri Brijwasi Mithai Wala.
These are just a few of the delicious foods that you can try in Mathura. Don’t miss the opportunity to indulge in the local cuisine and explore the city’s culinary delights.
Best Places for Shopping in Mathura
Mathura is a city rich in culture and heritage, and it’s a great place to shop for traditional Indian handicrafts and souvenirs. Here are some of the best places for shopping in Mathura:
- Brijwasi Mithai Wala: This sweet shop is famous for its pedas, but it also sells a variety of handicrafts and souvenirs. You can find beautiful brass idols, paintings, and traditional clothing here.
- Radha Madhav Emporium: This shop is located near the Krishna Janmabhoomi Temple and sells a range of items such as incense, clothing, jewelry, and home decor.
- Krishna Handicrafts: Located in the old city, Krishna Handicrafts sells a variety of handicrafts made from wood, brass, and marble. You can find beautiful idols, wall hangings, and other souvenirs here.
- Vishal Mega Mart: This is a modern shopping mall that sells a range of items such as clothing, accessories, and home decor. It’s a good place to shop for everyday items and souvenirs.
- Shri Radha Brij Vasundhara Resort & Spa: This luxury resort has a shopping arcade that sells a range of items such as handicrafts, clothing, and jewelry. You can find some unique and high-quality souvenirs here.
- Holi Gate Market: This market is located near the Holi Gate and sells a range of items such as clothing, jewelry, and souvenirs. It’s a good place to shop for traditional Indian clothing.
- Chatta Bazaar: This is a bustling street market that sells a variety of items such as clothing, accessories, and home decor. It’s a good place to shop for bargains and unique souvenirs.
These are just a few of the many shopping options available in Mathura. Make sure to explore the city and discover its unique shops and markets.
Things you Can buy as a Tourist
Mathura, being a holy city and a popular tourist destination, has many unique and traditional items that you can purchase as souvenirs or gifts. Here are some of the things you should consider buying as a tourist from Mathura:
- Idols and figurines: Mathura is famous for its intricate brass and stone idols of Lord Krishna and Radha. You can find these idols in different sizes and designs, which make for great souvenirs or gifts.
- Handicrafts: Mathura has a rich tradition of handicrafts, such as woodcarving, marble work, and weaving. You can find a variety of handicrafts, such as wall hangings, jewelry boxes, and home decor items that make for unique and beautiful souvenirs.
- Peda: Mathura is famous for its pedas, a sweet made from khoa (reduced milk) and sugar. You can purchase pedas from famous sweet shops, such as Brijwasi Sweets, Gupta Ji Peda Wale, and Radha Ballabh Sweet Shop, which make for great gifts for family and friends.
- Paintings: Mathura is also famous for its paintings, which are inspired by the life and teachings of Lord Krishna. You can find beautiful paintings on silk or canvas, depicting various scenes from the Mahabharata and the Ramayana.
- Clothing: Mathura is a great place to shop for traditional Indian clothing, such as sarees, salwar kameez, and kurta pajama. You can find a variety of designs and fabrics, such as cotton, silk, and chiffon.
- Incense and oils: Mathura is known for its fragrant incense and essential oils, which are used in various rituals and ceremonies. You can find a variety of scents, such as sandalwood, rose, and jasmine, which make for great gifts.
These are just a few of the many things you can buy as a tourist from Mathura. Make sure to explore the city and discover its unique products and traditions.
Nightlife in Mathura
Mathura is a holy city, and the nightlife here is not as lively as in other Indian cities. However, there are a few things that you can do in Mathura after dark. Here are some of the things you can do for nightlife in Mathura:
- Visit the temples: Many temples in Mathura stay open late into the night, and you can experience the serene and peaceful atmosphere of these temples at night. The Krishna Janmabhoomi Temple and the Dwarkadhish Temple are two popular temples that are open late.
- Attend the Aarti ceremony: Aarti is a Hindu ritual of worship, where devotees offer prayers to the gods with the lighting of lamps and singing of devotional songs. Many temples in Mathura hold Aarti ceremonies in the evenings, which are worth attending.
- Watch a cultural performance: Many hotels and resorts in Mathura host cultural performances, such as classical music and dance performances, in the evenings. You can watch these performances and get a glimpse of the traditional culture of Mathura.
- Visit the night markets: Mathura has a few night markets that are open until late. You can explore these markets and shop for handicrafts, souvenirs, and street food.
- Enjoy a boat ride: You can take a boat ride on the Yamuna river, which offers a beautiful view of the city at night. Some boat rides also offer light and sound shows, which are worth experiencing.
Overall, the nightlife in Mathura is not as vibrant as in other cities, but there are still a few things that you can do to experience the culture and traditions of this holy city.
Activities and Things to do in Mathura
Mathura is a holy city in India and is known for its rich cultural and religious significance. There are many activities and things to do in Mathura that allow you to experience the city’s traditions and culture. Here are some of the activities and things to do in Mathura:
- Visit the temples: Mathura is home to several ancient temples, including the Krishna Janmabhoomi Temple, Dwarkadhish Temple, and the Banke Bihari Temple. These temples are of significant religious importance and are worth visiting.
- Attend the festivals: Mathura celebrates several festivals throughout the year, including Holi, Janmashtami, and Radha Ashtami. These festivals are grand and vibrant, and attending them is a unique experience.
- Explore the markets: Mathura has several markets that offer a variety of products, including handicrafts, sarees, jewelry, and street food. The Holi Gate market, Chowk Bazaar, and Radha Madhav Market are popular markets that are worth exploring.
- Take a boat ride on the Yamuna river: You can take a boat ride on the Yamuna river, which offers a beautiful view of the city and its surroundings.
- Visit the museums: Mathura has several museums, including the Government Museum and the Mathura Museum, which house a collection of ancient artifacts, sculptures, and paintings.
- Explore the nearby wildlife sanctuaries: Mathura is located close to several wildlife sanctuaries, including the Keoladeo National Park and the Sur Sarovar Bird Sanctuary. These sanctuaries offer a unique opportunity to explore the natural beauty of the region.
- Enjoy local cuisine: Mathura is known for its unique and delicious cuisine, including peda, lassi, and kachori. Make sure to try these local delicacies when you visit the city.
Overall, Mathura offers a rich and diverse cultural experience, and there are many activities and things to do that allow you to explore its traditions and heritage.
Lesser Known facts about Mathura
Mathura is a city with a rich history and cultural significance. Here are some lesser-known facts about Mathura:
- Mathura is known as the birthplace of Lord Krishna, one of the most worshipped gods in Hinduism.
- Mathura is also known as Brajbhoomi because it is the land where Lord Krishna spent his childhood.
- The city has been inhabited for over 3,000 years and is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world.
- Mathura was the capital of the Kushan Empire, which ruled over a large part of India and Central Asia from the 1st to the 3rd century CE.
- The city has a rich tradition of art and architecture, and the Mathura School of Art, which flourished during the Gupta Empire, is known for its exquisite sculptures and carvings.
- Mathura is also an important center for Buddhism, and several Buddhist temples and stupas have been discovered in the city.
- The city has been the site of several battles and invasions throughout history, including the Battle of Panipat in 1526, which marked the beginning of the Mughal Empire in India.
- Mathura is famous for its delicious sweets and snacks, including the famous Mathura Peda, which is made from milk, sugar, and khoya.
- The city is home to several holy sites, including the Krishna Janmabhoomi Temple, which is believed to be the birthplace of Lord Krishna.
- Mathura is also known for its colorful and vibrant festivals, including Holi, Janmashtami, and Radha Ashtami, which attract thousands of visitors from all over India and the world.
FAQ about Mathura
What is the best time to visit Mathura?
A: The best time to visit Mathura is between the months of October and March, when the weather is pleasant and mild.
Q: How far is Mathura from Delhi?
A: Mathura is approximately 150 km from Delhi and takes about 3-4 hours by road to reach.
Q: What is the nearest airport to Mathura?
A: The nearest airport to Mathura is the Indira Gandhi International Airport in Delhi, which is approximately 160 km away.
Q: How can I travel within Mathura?
A: You can travel within Mathura by hiring a taxi, taking an auto-rickshaw, or by using public transportation such as buses or local trains.
Q: What are the popular temples to visit in Mathura?
A: Some of the popular temples to visit in Mathura include the Krishna Janmabhoomi Temple, Dwarkadhish Temple, Banke Bihari Temple, and the Kusum Sarovar.
Q: What is the significance of Mathura in Hindu mythology?
A: Mathura is considered a holy city in Hindu mythology as it is the birthplace of Lord Krishna, one of the most worshipped gods in Hinduism. The city is also associated with several other important events and figures in Hindu mythology.
Q: Is Mathura safe for tourists?
A: Yes, Mathura is generally safe for tourists. However, it is advisable to take necessary precautions while traveling and to be aware of your surroundings at all times.
Q: What are the popular festivals celebrated in Mathura?
A: Mathura celebrates several festivals throughout the year, including Holi, Janmashtami, Radha Ashtami, and the Brahmotsavam Festival.
Q: What are the popular dishes to try in Mathura?
A: Some of the popular dishes to try in Mathura include Mathura Peda, lassi, kachori, and samosa.
