Explore its ancient roots

With a legacy of over 3,000 years, Mathura flourished under the Mauryan and Kushan empires and witnessed the blossoming of Buddhist sculptural art. Its legacy of exquisite statues continues to captivate visitors. The Bhakti movement, emphasising devotion to Lord Krishna, cemented the city's spiritual standing. Each temple, each ghat, and each smiling face you encounter here adds another layer to your understanding of this sacred place.

Mathura finds mention in Ramayana, India's oldest epic. Back then, it was known as Madhuvan, a name that hints at the dense forests that once thrived here. Over time, the city evolved, transforming from Madhuvan to Madhupura and, finally, to the Mathura we know today.

Bow in devotion at the holiest sites

As you wander through Mathura, you'll be transported to an era when gods walked among mortals. The city is dotted with countless temples, but a few stand out as the most famous and revered by pilgrims and visitors alike. Your exploration begins at the heart of Mathura's spiritual landscape—Shri Krishna Janmasthan. The temple complex houses a small prison cell believed to be the exact spot where Lord Krishna was born. Explore the temple's various shrines, each dedicated to different aspects of Lord Krishna's life, and soak in the belief that this very spot witnessed the arrival of the eighth avatar of Lord Vishnu.

Within Mathura's bustling lanes lies another iconic landmark – the Dwarkadhish Temple. Dating back to 1814, this architectural marvel is incredibly popular and revered. Here, Krishna is worshipped in his majestic adult form, the idol itself a captivating piece of black marble. Another important temple to visit is the Gita Mandir, whose walls are inscribed with the 700 verses of the Bhagavad Gita, the holy Hindu scripture. Some other famous temples are Jai Guru Dev Mandir, Bhuteshwar Mahadev Mandir, Banke Bihari Temple and Prem Mandir in Vrindavan.

For those seeking a more profound spiritual experience, Mathura offers numerous ashrams and meditation centres. These havens of peace provide an opportunity to connect with your inner self, guided by age-old wisdom and practices.

Experience riverside serenity

Mathura's picturesque ghats along the river Yamuna offer tranquil vistas and sacred surroundings. The Vishram Ghat (ghat of rest) is the most significant among the city's twenty-five ghats. Here, Krishna is believed to have rested after vanquishing his demon maternal uncle Kansa. Devotees flock to Vishram Ghat for rituals and holy dips, while festivals like Holi and Janmashtami transform the ghats into vibrant celebrations. In Vrindavan, don’t miss Cheer Ghat, one of the holiest bathing sites. This ghat holds a special place in Krishna lore, believed to be the spot where the playful young deity stole the clothes of the Gopis (cowherd maidens) of Vrindavan.

Discover artistic and historic heritage

The ancient city of Mathura was also a flourishing hub for art, particularly sculpture. Dating back to the 2nd century BC, Mathura art thrived when Buddhism, Jainism, and Hinduism flourished together. This city became the "first artistic centre to produce devotional icons for all three faiths," showcasing the remarkable tolerance and artistic exchange. Watch for Mathura's sculptures as you visit temples and museums! Local markets showcase these traditional artworks, ranging from paintings to terracotta figurines.

Delve deeper into Mathura's past by exploring Kans Quila, an ancient fortress that rises along the banks of the river Yamuna. It is said that this very fort housed the tyrannical King Kans, Lord Krishna's maternal uncle. Mathura's treasures extend beyond myths. Step into the Government Museum and be transported through time. Here, a treasure trove of archaeological wonders awaits from the Mauryan and Kushan periods - ancient sculptures, intricate pottery, paintings, weathered coins and more.

Continue your Braj journey

Mathura serves as a gateway to several other important sites in the Braj region. Just a short drive away is Vrindavan, synonymous with Krishna's playful youth. Vrindavan is dotted with temples and ashrams associated with Lord Krishna and his beloved consort, Radha. The Banke Bihari Temple and the ISKCON Temple are among the most visited attractions here. At the Banke Bihari temple, Krishna's idol is so enchanting that priests regularly draw a curtain to prevent devotees from being overwhelmed by its beauty.

Just 10 km away lies Gokul, an idyllic town steeped in legend. Here, Lord Krishna is believed to have spent his childhood nurtured by his foster parents, Yashoda and Nanda. A pilgrimage to Govardhan, roughly 25 km from Mathura, is a must for any Krishna devotee. The majestic Govardhan Hill stands tall here. Legend speaks of a young Krishna lifting this very hill with his finger to protect the people of Mathura from torrential rains. Ascend the hill and explore the exquisite sandstone monument, the serene Kusum Sarovar lake, and the numerous temples that dot the landscape.

Travel 42 km from Mathura to reach the charming town of Barsana, the birthplace of Radha, Krishna's beloved consort. The air here vibrates with romance and devotion. Pay homage to the famed Shri Radha Rani Temple, a magnificent structure that attracts crowds of devotees throughout the year.

As you explore the region, don't be surprised by the warm smiles and friendly greetings of the locals. Here, a simple "Radhe Radhe!" (pronounced rah-day rah-day) isn't just a hello – it's a way of expressing devotion to the divine couple of Radha and Krishna. Join in, return the greeting with a smile, and experience the welcoming spirit that permeates this special place.

An unmatched festive spirit

The festive fervour, enthusiasm and energy of the devotees of Lord Krishna touch unprecedented levels during festivals like Holi and Janmashtami. Holi, the festival of colours, is celebrated with unparalleled zeal, drawing visitors worldwide to partake in the joyous revelry. The famous Lathmaar Holi of Barsana is one of its kind and remains a huge attraction for tourists. Janmashtami, marking Krishna's birth witnesses grand processions and temple decorations, making it an unforgettable experience for those fortunate enough to be in Mathura during this time.

A mouthwatering medley of flavours

No trip to Mathura is complete without savouring its culinary delights. The city offers innumerable options to tingle your taste buds. Relish the famed, mouth-watering pedas (sweetened and soft milk fudge), kachoris (a snack filled with lentils and spices), and jalebi (a crispy, syrup-soaked sweet). Chilled lassi, a traditional yoghurt-based drink sprinkled with rose water, is sure to be a refreshing treat after a day of exploration in the bustling lanes of Mathura.

The divine land beckons

To embark on a pilgrimage to Mathura is to delve into the very heart of Hindu spirituality. Plan your visit between October and March, when pleasant weather graces the city. To truly immerse yourself in the vibrant spirit of Mathura, consider coming during Krishna Janmashtami (August/September) or Holi (March) and witness the city come alive with joyous celebrations.