Mathura Travel Guide: Mathura, the birthplace of Lord Krishna, is one of India’s oldest and most spiritual cities. Situated on the banks of the sacred Yamuna River in Uttar Pradesh, Mathura attracts pilgrims, history buffs, and travelers from around the world. Known as the birthplace of Lord Krishna, this ancient city is brimming with divine temples, rich culture, vibrant festivals, and delicious Braj cuisine.
This complete Mathura Travel Guide will help you explore the Mathura city’s history, famous temples, best routes, hotels, food, and top tourist attractions.
History of Mathura
Mathura has a rich and glorious history, dating back over 5,500 years. It is mentioned in ancient Hindu scriptures such as the Ramayana, Mahabharata, and Puranas. The city of Mathura was once the powerful kingdom of King Kansa, and later became the birthplace of Lord Krishna. Today, Mathura and the entire Braj region are among the most visited pilgrimage sites in India.
For centuries, Mathura flourished under the rule of the Mauryas, Kushanas, Guptas, and Mughals. The city of Mathura became an important center of art, culture, and religion. Today, Mathura stands as a symbol of India’s devotional and spiritual heritage in the Mathura Travel Guide.
Famous Temples in Mathura – Mathura Travel Guide
Mathura is known as the city of temples, where devotion to Lord Krishna is evident in every corner. Mathura has numerous temples, some of which are considered major pilgrimage sites. Let’s learn about these prominent temples.
Shri Krishna Janmabhoomi Temple
This is the holiest temple in Mathura city, the very place where Lord Krishna was born. Thousands of devotees visit this site every day, and the Shri Krishna Janmabhoomi temple is especially crowded during Janmashtami.
Dwarkadhish Temple
The Dwarkadhish Temple in Mathura is a beautifully decorated temple dedicated to Lord Krishna in his royal form. The morning and evening Aarti ceremonies at this temple are truly divine.
Birla Mandir (Gita Mandir)
The Birla Mandir in Mathura is a magnificent temple built by the Birla family. Its walls are inscribed with verses from the Bhagavad Gita, and it is surrounded by lush gardens. Inside the temple, there is also a Gita Stambh (pillar) depicting scenes from the Bhagavad Gita.
Vishram Ghat
Vishram Ghat is the most important ghat in Mathura, where Lord Krishna rested after killing Kansa. The evening aarti (prayer ceremony) performed at Vishram Ghat on the banks of the Yamuna River is a peaceful and spiritual experience.
Jai Gurudev Mandir
The Jai Gurudev Mandir in Mathura is a temple that resembles the Taj Mahal. Built of white marble, this temple adds to the beauty of Mathura.
Top 5 Tourist Places in Mathura
- Shri Krishna Janmabhoomi
- Dwarkadhish Temple
- Vishram Ghat
- Gita Mandir (Birla Temple)
- Jai Gurudev Mandir
Top 10 Tourist Places in Mathura
- Shri Krishna Janmabhoomi
- Dwarkadhish Temple
- Vishram Ghat
- Birla Mandir (Geeta Mandir)
- Jai Gurudev Mandir
- Kans Qila
- Bhuteshwar Mahadev Mandir
- Rangeshwar Mahadev Mandir
- Gokarneshwar Mahadev Mandir
- Pipleshwar Mahadev Mandir
How to Reach Mathura (Routes & Transport)
By Air
The nearest airport is Agra Airport (60 km) and Delhi Airport (160 km). Taxis, buses, and trains are easily available for travel to and from Mathura from Agra and Delhi airports.
By Train
Mathura Junction is well connected to major cities like Delhi, Agra, Jaipur, Mumbai, and Varanasi.
By Road
Mathura is well connected by NH-19 and the Yamuna Expressway. Regular buses and taxis operate from:
- Delhi to Mathura – approx. 3 hours
- Agra to Mathura – approx. 1.5 hours
- Jaipur to Mathura – approx. 4 hours
Best Time to Visit Mathura
We have explained in detail in the Mathura Travel Guide that the best time to visit Mathura and the entire Braj region is from October (around Diwali) to March (around Holi), when the weather is pleasant.
Special festival seasons:
- Janmashtami (August/September)
- Holi in Braj (March)
- Radhashtami
- Diwali
- Adhik Mah
These festivals make Mathura extremely colorful and lively.
Hotels & Accommodation in Mathura
Mathura city offers a wide variety of hotels, guesthouses, and lodges to suit every budget for the Mathura Travel Guide.
Budget Hotels
- Dharamshalas near temples
- Guest houses near Vishram Ghat
- Simple lodges near the railway station
Mid-Range Hotels
- Hotel Brijwasi Lands Inn
- Sheetal Regency
- Hotel Arya Vilas
Luxury Hotels (Nearby Vrindavan)
- SKS Grand Palace
- Hotel Radha Ashok
- The Lalita Grand
Booking in advance is recommended during the festive season, as the number of travelers increases significantly during this time for the Mathura Travel Guide.
Famous Food of Mathura
Mathura is famous for its simple yet delicious vegetarian food, inspired by Braj culture. You must try Mathura’s chaat!
Must-Try Foods in Mathura
- Mathura ka Peda – World-famous sweet made of milk
- Kachori & Sabzi
- Poori with Aloo Sabzi
- Lassi & Rabri
- Khichdi Prasad
- Chaat & Jalebi
The local street food near the Dwarkadhish Temple and Vishram Ghat is especially popular. The street food vendors here are also long-established, having been making and selling their snacks for many years in Mathura Travel Guide.
Shopping in Mathura
Popular items to buy from Mathura city
- Krishna idols
- Tulsi malas
- Religious books
- Peda sweets
- Handicrafts
- Traditional attire
Main markets:
- Holi Gate Market
- Krishna Nagar Market
- Main Bazaar near Janmabhoomi
Travel Tips for Mathura
· Wear modest clothing while visiting temples
· Avoid carrying leather items inside temples
· Visit early morning or evening to avoid crowds
· Keep cash for small purchases
· Respect local customs and traditions
FAQs for Mathura Travel Guide
Q1. What is Mathura famous for?
Mathura is famous as the birthplace of Lord Shri Krishna and for its ancient temples, Yamuna ghats, Braj culture, Holi celebrations, and delicious Mathura peda.
Q2. What are the top tourist places in Mathura?
The top tourist places in Mathura include Shri Krishna Janmabhoomi, Dwarkadhish Temple, Vishram Ghat, Government Museum, Gita Mandir, Kans Qila, Jai Gurudev Mandir, and Bhuteshwar Mahadev Mandir.
Q3. What is the best time to visit Mathura?
The best time to visit Mathura is from October (around Diwali) to March (around Holi), as the weather is very pleasant during this period. The weather is pleasant. Festivals like Janmashtami and Holi are also ideal times for a spiritual and cultural experience.
Q4. How can I reach Mathura?
Mathura can be reached by air via Agra or Delhi airports, by train through Mathura Junction, and by road via the Yamuna Expressway and NH-19.
Q5. How many days are enough for the Mathura tour?
A 2 to 3-day trip is enough to explore major temples, tourist attractions, and nearby places like Vrindavan and Barsana in the Mathura Travel Guide.
Conclusion,
Mathura is not just a city; it is an experience of devotion, culture, and history. From sacred temples and holy ghats to delicious food and colorful festivals, Mathura offers something special for every traveler. This Mathura Travel Guide will help you plan a memorable journey to the birthplace of Lord Krishna.
Whether you are a pilgrim or a tourist, Mathura will fill your heart with peace and divine energy. If you liked this article about the Mathura Travel Guide. Please stay connected with our blog for more insightful articles on festivals, temples, history, and India’s spiritual heritage. Keep following Mero Bradham for more insightful and well-researched articles. Hare Krishna!