Things to Do in Mathura: A Spiritual and Cultural Journey
Mathura, the birthplace of Lord Krishna, is one of the most revered pilgrimage sites in India. Situated in Uttar Pradesh, this ancient city attracts devotees and tourists from across the globe. Its rich history, stunning temples, and the divine aura of Lord Krishna’s legacy make Mathura an unmissable destination for spiritual seekers and culture enthusiasts. Here’s a guide to the top things to do in Mathura that offer a blend of spiritual experience, cultural heritage, and serene landscapes.
Also Read: A Guide to Dwarkadheesh Temple Mathura History, Timings, How to Reach
1. Visit Shri Krishna Janmasthan Temple Complex
The Shri Krishna Janmasthan Temple Complex is the most significant and sacred site in Mathura. It marks the exact spot where Lord Krishna was believed to be born.
Key Highlights:
- Visit the Garbhagriha (sanctum sanctorum): This is where devotees believe Lord Krishna was born.
- Explore the various temples: The complex houses multiple temples dedicated to different deities, making it a sacred hub for religious activities.
- Attend the aarti: Don’t miss the mesmerizing aarti (devotional ceremony) performed with deep devotion.
Timings:
- Open daily from early morning till late evening, with special rituals conducted during festivals.
2. Explore Dwarkadhish Temple
One of the largest and most popular temples in Mathura, Dwarkadhish Temple is dedicated to Lord Krishna in his royal Dwarka avatar. The temple is known for its exquisite architecture and vibrant religious rituals.
Key Highlights:
- Witness the stunning architecture: The temple features Rajasthani-style carvings and intricate designs.
- Attend the Janmashtami celebrations: The temple is especially crowded during Krishna Janmashtami, with lively celebrations including music, dance, and devotional songs.
- Relax by the Yamuna River: The temple is situated near the Yamuna, providing a peaceful ambiance for meditation and relaxation.
Timings:
- Open daily from 6:30 AM to 11:00 AM and 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM.
3. Take a Boat Ride on the Yamuna River
The Yamuna River holds immense religious significance in Mathura. Taking a boat ride on this sacred river is a peaceful and spiritual experience. Devotees believe that the Yamuna cleanses them of sins, and boat rides often end with rituals at the riverbank.
Key Highlights:
- Enjoy the serene surroundings: The peaceful riverbanks lined with temples offer a meditative atmosphere.
- Witness the evening aarti: The river becomes a focal point of evening prayers, with priests performing rituals while devotees light diyas (lamps).
- Bird watching: If you are lucky, you may spot some exotic bird species around the river during early mornings.
4. Visit the Vishram Ghat
Vishram Ghat is one of the most sacred ghats on the Yamuna River. According to mythology, it is the place where Lord Krishna rested after defeating the evil king Kansa.
Key Highlights:
- Take part in evening aarti: The Ghat comes alive in the evening with the Yamuna Aarti, where priests chant hymns and light oil lamps in honor of the river goddess.
- Take a holy dip: Devotees believe that bathing in the Yamuna at Vishram Ghat washes away sins.
- Boat rides: You can enjoy a peaceful boat ride, especially during sunrise or sunset, to experience the tranquil surroundings.
5. Explore the Mathura Museum
For those interested in history and art, the Mathura Museum (also known as the Government Museum) is a must-visit. It houses a vast collection of ancient sculptures, coins, paintings, and artifacts dating back to the Kushan and Gupta periods.
Key Highlights:
- Marvel at ancient sculptures: The museum is known for its exceptional collection of Mathura School sculptures, especially statues of Lord Buddha and other deities.
- Learn about Mathura’s history: The exhibits provide a detailed insight into the region’s rich history, with displays covering various dynasties and periods.
- Cultural experience: The museum also showcases terracotta items, bronze statues, and historical inscriptions, making it a treasure trove for history enthusiasts.
Timings:
- Open daily except on Mondays from 10:30 AM to 4:30 PM.
6. Experience Holi in Mathura and Vrindavan
Mathura and the neighboring town of Vrindavan are globally renowned for their vibrant and colorful Holi celebrations. The festival of colors takes on a special significance here, as it is associated with Lord Krishna’s playful nature.
Key Highlights:
- Phoolon Ki Holi: In Vrindavan, the celebrations begin with “Phoolon Ki Holi,” where flowers are thrown instead of colors.
- Lathmar Holi in Barsana: Close to Mathura, Barsana hosts a unique Lathmar Holi, where women playfully beat men with sticks, and colors are thrown in abundance.
- Enjoy traditional music and dance: Throughout the festival, traditional Krishna bhajans (devotional songs) and folk dances take place.
Best Time to Visit:
- The Holi festival is usually celebrated in March, and it’s the best time to experience Mathura’s lively atmosphere.
7. Visit the Radha Kund and Shyam Kund
Located near Govardhan Hill, Radha Kund and Shyam Kund are two sacred water tanks believed to have been created by Radha and Krishna. The kunds are an important part of Mathura’s spiritual landscape.
Key Highlights:
- Take a holy dip: Devotees believe that a dip in Radha Kund cleanses one’s soul and brings good fortune.
- Explore the nearby temples: There are several small temples around the kunds where devotees can offer prayers.
- Enjoy the peaceful atmosphere: The area is less crowded compared to other parts of Mathura, offering a serene and spiritual experience.
8. Walk Along Govardhan Hill
Govardhan Hill is another significant pilgrimage site associated with Lord Krishna. According to Hindu mythology, Krishna lifted this hill to protect the villagers from torrential rains sent by Lord Indra.
Key Highlights:
- Parikrama (circumambulation): Devotees perform a 21-kilometer walk around the hill, which is considered an act of great devotion.
- Visit nearby temples: Along the path, there are several temples and shrines dedicated to Krishna and Radha.
- Enjoy scenic views: The landscape surrounding Govardhan Hill is picturesque, with natural beauty that adds to the spiritual journey.
9. Shop at Mathura’s Colorful Bazaars
No visit to Mathura is complete without exploring the local markets, where you can buy souvenirs, religious items, and traditional sweets like peda, a specialty of the region.
Key Highlights:
- Shopping for religious items: From idols of Lord Krishna to sacred books and prayer beads, Mathura’s markets are a haven for spiritual shoppers.
- Traditional clothing and handicrafts: You can also shop for colorful traditional clothing and handcrafted items unique to the region.
- Taste local sweets: Don’t forget to try the famous Mathura peda and other local delicacies available in sweet shops.
10. Attend Festivals and Cultural Events
Mathura’s vibrant culture comes alive during festivals and religious events. Apart from Holi and Janmashtami, the city hosts various other celebrations throughout the year.
Key Highlights:
- Krishna Janmashtami: Celebrated in August, Janmashtami marks Lord Krishna’s birth and features grand celebrations, including fasting, singing, and reenactments of Krishna’s life.
- Govardhan Puja: Held after Diwali, this festival honors Krishna’s lifting of Govardhan Hill, and devotees create huge mounds of food in temples as offerings.
- Makar Sankranti: In January, Mathura celebrates this harvest festival with kite flying, prayers, and special offerings.
Conclusion
Mathura is a city that not only offers a spiritual journey but also immerses you in rich history, vibrant festivals, and cultural experiences. From visiting ancient temples to taking a serene boat ride on the Yamuna River, every moment in Mathura brings you closer to the divine. Whether you’re a devotee or a traveler seeking to explore India’s spiritual heart, Mathura promises an unforgettable experience filled with devotion, tradition, and natural beauty.
How to Reach Mathura
Mathura, being one of the most significant pilgrimage sites in India, is well-connected by air, train, and road, making it easy for travelers to reach the city. Here’s a detailed guide on how to reach Mathura via different modes of transportation:
By Air
Mathura does not have its own airport, but it is easily accessible from several nearby airports. The nearest major airport is in Delhi.
1. Indira Gandhi International Airport, New Delhi (DEL)
- Distance from Mathura: Approximately 160 km
- Travel Time: Around 3 to 4 hours by road
- International and Domestic Connectivity: This is the nearest major airport to Mathura, offering excellent connectivity to both domestic and international travelers. It is served by all major airlines, including Air India, Indigo, Vistara, and others, with flights from various parts of India and abroad.
2. Agra’s Pandit Deen Dayal Upadhyay Airport (AGR)
- Distance from Mathura: Approximately 60 km
- Travel Time: Around 1.5 hours by road
- Domestic Connectivity: Agra’s airport mainly serves domestic flights. Although it’s closer to Mathura, it has limited flight options compared to Delhi. It is ideal for those flying in from domestic locations like Mumbai or Jaipur.
Getting to Mathura from the Airport:
- By Taxi: Pre-paid taxis or private cabs are readily available at both Delhi and Agra airports for a comfortable ride to Mathura.
- By Bus: From Delhi, you can take a bus from the airport to the ISBT Kashmere Gate bus terminal and then board a direct bus to Mathura.
- By Train: From Delhi or Agra, take a cab to the nearest railway station (New Delhi Railway Station or Agra Cantt) and board a train to Mathura.
By Train
Mathura Junction (MTJ) is a major railway hub in Uttar Pradesh and is well connected to various parts of India via an extensive rail network. The station sees a large number of trains, including express trains, superfast trains, and passenger trains.
1. Trains from Delhi
- Duration: 1.5 to 2.5 hours
- Mathura is connected to New Delhi by several fast trains, including Shatabdi Express, Taj Express, and various superfast trains.
- Major trains like the Gatiman Express, Rajdhani Express, and Duronto Express pass through Mathura.
2. Trains from Mumbai
- Duration: 16 to 20 hours
- Mathura is well connected to Mumbai by trains like the Mumbai Rajdhani Express, Golden Temple Mail, and Paschim Express.
3. Trains from Jaipur
- Duration: 4 to 5 hours
- There are multiple direct trains between Jaipur and Mathura, including the Jaipur Superfast Express and Intercity Express.
4. Trains from Agra
- Duration: 30 to 45 minutes
- Agra is very close to Mathura, and there are frequent trains between the two cities, including Passenger Trains, Superfast Trains, and Intercity Express.
Facilities at Mathura Junction:
- Mathura Junction is equipped with facilities like waiting rooms, food stalls, and retiring rooms. Taxis and auto-rickshaws are readily available outside the station for onward travel to various parts of the city.
By Bus
Mathura has excellent road connectivity to nearby cities and towns. There are regular bus services operated by the Uttar Pradesh State Road Transport Corporation (UPSRTC) and private operators.
1. From Delhi
- Distance: 160 km
- Duration: 3 to 4 hours
- You can board state-run UPSRTC buses from ISBT Kashmere Gate in Delhi to Mathura. Private buses and luxury Volvo buses also operate frequently on this route.
- There are both AC and non-AC buses, and you can choose as per your comfort and budget.
2. From Agra
- Distance: 60 km
- Duration: 1 to 1.5 hours
- Buses ply frequently between Agra and Mathura, and you can find regular services throughout the day. The journey is short and convenient, and you can choose between local and deluxe buses.
3. From Jaipur
- Distance: 220 km
- Duration: 4 to 5 hours
- Direct buses connect Mathura and Jaipur. Both government-operated and private buses, including sleeper and AC Volvo options, are available.
4. From Other Major Cities
- Mathura is well connected by bus to several other major cities like Lucknow, Kanpur, Gwalior, and Varanasi.
- Both UPSRTC and private buses, including luxury coaches, are available.
Facilities at Mathura Bus Stand:
- Mathura’s main bus stand, New Bus Stand, is located near the city center. It offers basic facilities like seating areas, snack stalls, and toilets. Taxis, rickshaws, and cycle rickshaws are available for local travel.
Mathura is easily accessible by air, train, and road, making it convenient for travelers from all parts of India and abroad. Whether you prefer the speed and comfort of a train journey, the convenience of flights, or a scenic road trip by bus, Mathura welcomes you with open arms to experience its divine and cultural charm.
