How To Reach Mathura By Flight, Train, And Road; Best Route Options

Located in western Uttar Pradesh along the banks of the Yamuna River, Mathura forms the core of the sacred Brij Bhoomi circuit (including Vrindavan, Goverdhan, and Barsana). Dubbed the Holy Land of Shri Krishna, Mathura attracts a number of devotees and pilgrims. It is located roughly 160 to 180 km south of New Delhi and 55 to 60 km north of Agra. You can reach this spiritual land via multiple modes of transportation, depending on the point of origin of your journey. From flights and trains to cars and buses, this unstumbled guide will help you choose which mode of transportation is the most suitable for your travel.

How To Reach Mathura By Flight

While not the cheapest, flights are the fastest and most convenient options for those who either live far away or live in major cities. The following are the three closest airports to Mathura, from farthest to closest:

1. Indira Gandhi International Airport, New Delhi (DEL)

Distance: Around 170 to 180 km from Mathura.

Why choose it: Highest flight frequency, international connections, and direct link to Yamuna Expressway via Noida/Greater Noida.

Onward Journey: Rent a self-drive car, book an app-based cab (Uber/Ola/InDrive), or take a pre-paid taxi via Yamuna Expressway.

2. Noida International Airport, Jewar (DXN)

Distance: Around 90 to 100 km from Mathura.

Why choose it: Significantly reduces transit time compared to Delhi IGI; direct access to the Yamuna Expressway corridor.

3. Agra Kheria Airport (AGR)

Distance: Around 55 to 60 km.

Limitations: Limited commercial passenger flights; ideal if direct regional connections are available.

How To Reach Mathura By Train

Traveling to Mathura via trains is arguably the most cost-effective as well as accessible. The Mathura junction in the region offers excellent connectivity to almost all parts of India. It is also conveniently located on the main Delhi to Mumbai and Delhi to Chennai trunk lines. The following table lays out how you can reach the Mathura Junction from major Indian cities:

Last-Mile Connectivity from Mathura Junction: E-rickshaws, auto-rickshaws, and private cabs are readily available 24/7 outside the station for transfers to Mathura city center (three km) or Vrindavan (12 km).

Also Read: Top 10 Places to Visit in Mathura

How To Reach Mathura By Road

The closest city to Mathura is Delhi. If you land in the city, these are the routes you can take to reach this spiritually fulfilling destination:

Route 1: From Delhi/NCR via Yamuna Expressway (6-Lane Access-Controlled)

Distance and Time: Around 160 km or around two to three hours.

Route: Delhi → Greater Noida → Yamuna Expressway → Exit 9 (Raya/Mathura toll) → Mathura.

Toll and Amenities: Smooth driving experience with food plazas, fuel stations, and EV charging stations along the route.

Route 2: From Delhi via NH-19 (Delhi to Agra Highway)

Distance and Time: Around 150 km or around three to four hours.

Route: Delhi → Faridabad → Palwal → Kosi Kalan → Mathura.

Best for: Local pitstops and avoiding toll fees on the expressway.

Bus Connectivity To Mathura From Delhi

Frequent Volvo AC, Janrath, and regular buses depart from Sarai Kale Khan ISBT, Kashmere Gate ISBT, and Anand Vihar ISBT in Delhi.

Here is a brief overview of the best ways to reach Mathura and which mode of transportation might be most ideal for you:

Advice For Pilgrims And First-Time Visitors

• Connecting to Vrindavan, Goverdhan and Gokul: Mathura serves as the central transit base; local auto-rickshaws, tempo travelers, and electric buses easily connect to Vrindavan (12 km) and Goverdhan (26 km).
• Peak Festival Crowds: Expect traffic diversions and heavy passenger volume during Janmashtami (August/September), Holi (March), and Radhashtami.
• Book train tickets and cabs at least 30 to 60 days in advance.
• Local Commute: Electric auto-rickshaws (E-rickshaws) are the most efficient mode of transport inside narrow temple lanes.

Also Read: Where To Stay In Mathura: Area-Wise Guide For Every Budget

Summing Up

Reaching Mathura is convenient regardless of where you’re traveling from. If you’re coming from another state or overseas, flying into Delhi, Jewar, or Agra and continuing by road offers the quickest option. For budget-conscious travelers and pilgrims, Mathura Junction provides excellent rail connectivity from major Indian cities. Road trips via the Yamuna Expressway or NH-19 are equally comfortable, while regular bus services from Delhi and nearby states make travel affordable and hassle-free. Once you arrive, local transport such as e-rickshaws, auto-rickshaws, taxis, and buses makes it easy to explore not only Mathura but also the sacred towns of Vrindavan, Goverdhan, Gokul, and Barsana. Planning your journey in advance, especially during Janmashtami, Holi, and other major festivals, will help you avoid delays and enjoy a smooth, spiritually enriching visit to the heart of Brij Bhoomi.

FAQs

What Is The Best Time To Visit Mathura?

The months from October to March offer pleasant weather for sightseeing and temple visits. If you wish to experience the city’s vibrant celebrations, visit during Janmashtami or Holi, but be prepared for larger crowds and higher accommodation demand.

How Can I Travel Around Mathura After Arriving?

E-rickshaws, auto-rickshaws, taxis, and local buses are widely available. E-rickshaws are particularly convenient for navigating the narrow lanes around the city’s temples and markets.

How Many Days Are Enough To Explore Mathura And Nearby Places?

A two- to three-day trip is ideal for visiting Mathura, Vrindavan, Goverdhan, Gokul, and other important pilgrimage sites in the Brij region.

How Far Is Vrindavan From Mathura?

Vrindavan is approximately 12 km from Mathura and can be reached in 20 to 30 minutes by e-rickshaw, auto-rickshaw, taxi, or local bus.