Mathura is considered to be one of the seven sacred cities of India. It holds this prestigious title for being the land where Lord Krishna took birth. Way before Krishna earned his reputation for being a menace in his childhood and playing a pivotal role in the Mahabharata, his story started in Mathura in a dark prison cell. The mentions of this city in Uttar Pradesh can be traced back in the oldest Indian epic, Ramayana. Presently, Mathura emits a great spiritual presence on the map of India, attracting people from all over to visit this holy land. If you also feel drawn towards the mystical energies and want to explore a place brimming with history, this travel guide to Mathura.
History And Culture Of Mathura
The history and tales of Mathura are as old as time. According to the Ramayana, Prince Shatrughna slayed the demon Lavanasura in Mathura. Ptolemy, an Alexandrian philosopher, hinted at a city called Modoura which translates to ‘City of Gods’ in Latin. And of course, Mathura is the birthplace of Lord Krishna, the eighth avatar of Lord Vishnu who changed the course of Mahabharata with his diplomacy.
Unsurprisingly, every nook of Mathura has witnessed some association with Krishna. For instance, the renowned Vishram Ghat is the place where Krishna took rest after killing his evil uncle Kansa.
Being the twin city of Vrindavan where Lord Krishna grew up, the culture they share is quite similar. The people of Mathura are highly hospitable and treat their guests amicably, and the fun here gets to a whole new level during Holi. Bright gulaal sprinkled all over the place, the locals singing Rasiya (love) songs of Radha and Krishna, and a big glass of bhaang – it doesn’t get any better!
Best Season To Visit Mathura
The Peak Season – October To March
The months between October and March are the best time to visit Mathura not only for the weather but also for the festivals! A lot of devotees visit Mathura during Janmashtami and a lot of tourists go to witness Braj ki Holi. The city might be crowded, but the experience is so worth a few pushes. Even the temperature fluctuates from 28ºC to 5ºC.
The Moderate Season – April To June
Escape the crowds but at the cost of extreme heat. If you’re up for this challenge, you can enjoy Mathura a lot more leisurely. Beware, though. The temperatures shoot up to 45ºC! So, be sure to stay hydrated and carry appropriate clothing.
The Off-Season – July To September
To see the Yamuna in all its glory, you should visit Mathura during the monsoon season. During these months, the city isn’t teeming with people either. So, you can enjoy the temples and other places at your own pace. The temperatures switch between 32ºC to 25ºC.
How To Get To Mathura?
By Air
Mathura doesn’t have an airport, but you can fly to the nearest airport in Agra. The Agra Airport has regular flights from major cities across India. From the airport, you can book a cab to Mathura, which is just about 47 km away.
By Train
Mathura has two railway stations – Mathura Junction (MTJ) and Mathura Cantonment (MRT). Both the stations get trains regularly and during festivals, there are even special trains arranged for the devotees.
By Road
Mathura is easily accessible by the NH19/NH44. There’s even the ISBT (Interstate State Bus Terminal) that leaves Delhi every 25 minutes!
How To Get Around Mathura
To travel locally, you can choose to take auto rickshaws or cycle rickshaws. Cycle rickshaws make for a great experience but they’re slower. Auto rickshaws can take you all around the city at reasonable prices but remember to bring out your best bargaining skills for the fares. You can even try out the local buses which cover all of Mathura or hail a taxi!
Best Places To Stay In Mathura
1. Madhav Muskan Residency
Enjoy complimentary breakfast and air-conditioned rooms at irresistible prices! From Super Deluxe Rooms to Mini-Suite, Madhav Muskan Residency has an array of room availability to choose from. The rooms have stylish decor and come with basic amenities like a cozy bed and flat-screen TV.
Their on-site restaurant is very hygienic, uses little oil while cooking, and the menu is entirely vegetarian. So, you can surely expect to indulge in an appetizing Indian cuisine that is freshly prepared just for you. You’ll be Disabled guests are provided with special provisions by the staff of the hotel.
Price: INR 1,837
Address: 58/169, Krishna Puri Road, Sadar Bazar, Mathura 281001
2. Hotel Spiti
Hotel Spiti treats the guests and their comfort as a top priority. Even the rooms are designed keeping in mind a relaxing stay. From clean linens for a good sleep to an air conditioner to beat the heat, they’ve provided everything. The best part? It’s only 5 km away from Mathura Junction Railway Station.
They even include services like laundry, 24-hour front desk, and parking. Their on-site restaurant has delicious vegetarian meal options available, and you’re allowed to order vegetarian food via online apps.
Price: INR 2,308
Address: NH 2 Opposite Highway Plaza, Near Mandi Samiti Crossing, Mathura 281001
3. Hotel Brijwasi Royal
Enjoy the AC Deluxe Room or the Executive Rooms with free breakfast – everybody loves free food! The staff of Hotel Brijwasi Royal are praised to be professional and provide swift service. Dwarkadheesh Temple, a famous temple of Mathura is only 1.9 km away from this hotel!
You can even make your night special by dining at their multi-cuisine restaurant and pairing the food with some drinks from the bar.
Price: INR 4,020
Address: Station Road, Mayur Vihar, Mathura 281001
4. The Radha Ashok
Stay in lavish rooms that have a garden view and enjoy your meals in their on-site restaurants and a bar. You can even choose to unwind in their outdoor pool. It’s only 5 km away from Mathura Railway Junction and 3 km away from the city center.
Both the Executive Queen Room and Executive Double Room are spacious and comfortable with air conditioning. If you’re too lazy to get out of bed in the morning, they also provide breakfast in bed! Their restaurant will also make special arrangements for you if you require a special demand. All you have to do is let them know.
5. Ira Homestay
One of the best ways to get to know the people of any place better is to accommodate yourself in a homestay. Ira Homestay is not only dirt cheap but also one of the most popular homestays in Mathura.
Get cozy in homely rooms and indulge in satvik food here. Other perks are that you get garden space, free WiFi, and free parking. The hosts are extremely humble and hospitable and will answer all your questions, making you feel right at home!
Price: INR 399
Address: 36, Maholi Road, Shakti Nagar, Madhavpuri, Mathura
Go Check It Out!
1. Shri Krishna Janmasthan
Visit the place where it all began! Shri Krishna Janmasthan has the prison cell where Krishna came into the world and his evil uncle Kansa swore to kill him. It’s a temple complex comprising three temples: one is the Keshavdev temple dedicated to the Lord himself, the Garbha Griha which is believed to be his birthplace, and the Bhagavata Bhavan where the main deities are Lord Krishna and his beloved Radha.
Timings: 5:00 am to 12:00 pm, 4:00 pm to 9:30 pm
2. Radha Kund
Krishna struck the ground with his feet after Radha asked him to wash away the sin of killing a bull – a religious symbol. In retaliation, the Gopis dug another kund (a pool) with their bangles which was later blessed by Krishna himself and came to be the Radha Kund. You can choose to do a Radha Kund parikrama or even try taking a midnight dip! It’s the only place where devotees are known to take ardh ratri snana.
3. Dwarkadheesh Temple
Dedicated to Lord Dwarkadheesh, it becomes one of the most happening temples during Janmashtami and Diwali. There are two entrances to the temple and right outside, you’ll find vendors selling Tulsi plants that you can take to place on the idol as an offering. This temple is an architectural marvel with beautiful Rajasthani patterns. During the month of Shravan, you’ll see Lord Krishna on a Hindola, a type of a swing set.
4. Jama Masjid Mathura
Although Mathura is famous for its temples, you want to include this masjid also in your itinerary. Built in 1661 by the governor of Aurangzeb, the Jama Masjid has 4 minarets and a spacious courtyard.
The mosaic designs along with minute carvings display Islamic architecture. Another striking feature of the masjid is that it has 99 names of Allah in the Persian script inscribed on a facade.
Timings: 7:00 am to 7:00 pm
5. Rangji Mandir
Also known as Sri Ranganatha temple is dedicated to a South Indian saint – Sri Goda Rangamannar. In South India, she’s also known as Andal – the only female Alvar among the 12 Hindu saint poets.
She’s known to have composed a hymn on Lord Krishna and his life in Vrindavan. After listening to her song, Krishna was so impressed that he agreed to marry her. So, at this temple, you’ll get to see an idol version of Lord Krishna and Andal.
Summing Up
This Mathura travel guide takes care of all the questions you might have to plan a trip. Now, all you have to do is focus on packing your best clothes and making the best of this spiritual marvel. Mathura is one of those places where you can actually experience the devotion to Lord Krishna.
FAQs
What Is Famous About Mathura?
Mathura draws fame as a pilgrimage site, celebrated as the birthplace of Lord Krishna.
Is Mathura And Vrindavan The Same?
They aren’t the same, but Vrindavan is the twin city of Mathura and they’re about 15 km away from each other.
Which Food Is Famous In Mathura?
Makhan Mishri, Kachori, and Malpua are some of the famous foods of Mathura.
Which Prasad Is Famous In Mathura?
Mathura Peda is a famous prasad that’s used in all the temples.
Are Jeans Allowed In Mathura?
Mathura doesn’t enforce a specific dress code, but visitors are expected to dress modestly when visiting temples to preserve their sanctity.
Is Mathura Safe For Girls?
Yes. Mathura is relatively safer for female solo travelers. However, it’s always better to be cautious and stay away from desolate areas.
