Mathura is one of Hinduism’s seven holiest towns and the birthplace of Lord Krishna. Mathura and Vrindavan, both in Uttar Pradesh, are frequently referred to as twin cities (located only 10km away from each other). Mathura is a little town filled with temples dating from different eras that draws pilgrims from all over the world.
One side of Mathura is spread across the Yamuna River, bordered with 25 ghats, which are best seen at dawn (just after sunset) when hundreds of diyas are floating during the daily aarti, and at dawn (just after sunset) when locals and tourists take a holy dip. During the two major festivals, Mathura is overrun with tourists and pilgrims.
Mathura
How to Reach Mathura
The nearest airport to Mathura is Agra Airport, which is 50 kilometres distant, while the biggest international airport is Indira Gandhi International Airport, which is about 147 kilometres away. Through the Noida-Agra expressway, Mathura is connected to Delhi. Regular trains run between the Mathura railway station and India’s main cities. Mathura is also accessible by bus from surrounding cities such as Agra, Faizabad, Allahabad, Lucknow, Varanasi, and Delhi.
Best Time to Visit
Mathura is best visited between October and March, when the weather is nice and mild enough for touring. The best time to visit Mathura is between Krishna Janmashthami (August/September) and Holi (March/April) to soak up the city’s culture and soak up the vibes of Lord Krishna (March). However, keep in mind that during these festivities, the town experiences a surge of visitors, so be prepared for a throng. Mathura has extremely hot summers and wet monsoons, making travel and visiting new locations difficult during those months.
Best Places to Visit
1. Dwarkadhish Temple
Dwarkadhish Temple- Mathura
One of the top places to visit in Mathura, Dwarkadhish temple is famous throughout the world for its intricate architecture and paintings. The temple, which was built in 1814, is relatively new but is widely respected. Located within the perimeter of the holy gate of the city, close to the Ghats of the Yamuna River, the temple and its surroundings are a hub of many interesting activities. Every day, thousands of devotees come here to pay their obedience. A series of exquisite ceiling paintings showing the different aspects of the life of the Lord and the magnificent architectural designs and carvings of Rajasthani architecture makes the complex look even more magnanimous.
2. Vishram Ghat
Vishram Ghat – Mathura
On the banks of the River Yamuna, a sacred ghar located about 5km from Mathura, which is the center to 25 ghats. There is a parikrama that pilgrims take around the ghat. Literally translating to a place of relaxation, Lord Krishna rested at this place after killing the evil demon, Kansa. There is a heavy crowd around the ghat during Bhaidooj for the holy dip.
3. Nand Gaon
Nand Gaon – Mathura
Around 50 km from Mathura, NandGaon is a quaint town situated in the Nandishwara Hills. It is the home to Krishnaji’s adopted parents – Nand Ji and Yashoda Maiyya. There are many temples situated on the top of this hill. Other popular temples here are Nritya Gopal, Nand Nandan, Udhav Kyaro and Gopinath. There is a beautiful lake here called the Pan Sarovar that is much loved by tourists. Around this area, there is also a temple dedicated to Shanidev.
4. Kusum Sarovar
Kusum Sarovar – Mathura
A beautiful reservoir made of sandstone and a true remnant of the bygone era, the Kusum Sarovar has a flight of stairs that descend into the pond. According to folklore, the reservoir got its name from one of Radha’s dasis, Kusum. It is a great place for taking a dip during summers. One can also find many temples in its vicinity and around it during their trip to Mathura and Vrindavan. The emerald green water is cool and the pond has a floral border, boasting different flowers. It is believed that Radha collected these flowers to make garlands and floral jewelry for herself.
5. Jama Masjid Mathura
Jama Masjid Mathura
Mathura’s Jama Masjid was built in the year 1661 by Abd-un-Nabi Khan, who was the then Governor of Aurangzeb. Featuring four minarets and beautiful mosaic plastering along with stunning intricate carvings, this sanctum is bound to leave you spellbound with its beauty, making it one of the many reasons why Mathura is among the finest places to explore near Delhi. Other than its brilliant architecture, the history and peaceful aura of this shrine also makes it one of the most revered tourist places in Mathura.
6. Kans Qila
Kans Qila- Mathura
Nestled on the banks of the Yamuna River, the majestic Kans Qila is an ancient fortress and one of the most celebrated places to see in Mathura. As the name suggests, it is dedicated to Kans – Lord Krishna’s maternal uncle. Located close to the Krishna Ganga Ghat and Gau Ghat, this huge fort serves as a popular tourist spot attracting a large number of travelers every month with its Hindu-Muslim fusion architecture. Even though it’s in a dilapidated state today, Kans Qila doesn’t fail to attract history geeks and architecture lovers from across the country.