Located in Uttar Pradesh alongside the banks of the river Yamuna, the sacred city of Mathura is dotted with beautiful temples, religious structures and historical towns. It is one of the seven sacred cities in India and an important pilgrimage centre for Hindus.
Embellished by the magnificent temples of Lord Krishna who was born on this land about 5000 years ago, Mathura is one of India’s most serene spiritual destinations that simply cannot be missed and there are a lot of things to do in Mathura that are worth your visit. Each of the temple has its own significance in describing phases of Lord Krishna’s life. The city of Mathura depicts enchanting cultures and traditions that captivate the soul and elevate the spiritual senses of the visitors. Vrindavan, a small town in Mathura, is another hotspot for the pilgrims which alone sees about 500000 visitors every year.
9 Things To Do In Mathura
Tourists from across the country and the globe are seldom exposed to various other activities that provide a great experience as well as bring in peace and calm. Let us take a look at them one by one and see what are the things to do in Mathura on your next trip.
- Kusum Sarovar – Dip In Holy Waters
- Kans Quila – Experience Mahabharata
- Kesi Ghat – Indulge In Photography
- Govardhan Hill – Trekking Amidst Nature
- Lathmar Holi – Witness The Fun
- Shopping – Live The Experience
- Bhuteshwar Temple – Witness Patal Devi Cave
- Dolphin World Water Park – Adventure Filled Day
- Vaishno Devi Dham – Enjoy Comfortable Stay
1. Kusum Sarovar – Dip In Holy Waters
It is a 450 feet long water reservoir with a depth of 60 feet. The reason for this reservoir being the most famous tourist places in Mathura amongst many is that it is believed that Lord Krishna and Radha used to meet here secretly at the banks of the water reservoir. It is also surrounded by Lord Krishna’s favorite trees of Kadamb.
The tranquility and peace which surrounds the water body make the actual difference. You can feel a new spiritual person rising within yourself as you take a dip or plan to swim in Kusum Sarovar. Another unique thing is to watch the evening aarti, which will awake your inner self and show you spiritual wellbeing.
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2. Kans Quila – Experience Mahabharata
One of the most prominent places to see in Mathura, Kan’s Quila was named after Lord Krishna’s maternal uncle. According to Hindu mythology, this fort dates back to the time of Mahabharata. So, if you are a history lover and want to experience one of the physical remains from the Mahabharata, you must visit Kan’s Quila, which is also famously known as Purana Quila.
It is a great art form that resembles both Mughal and Hindu architecture. However, in the later years, this fort acted as a life saver for the residents of Mathura when the Yamuna river floods hit the city severely. Though the fort presently can be witnessed only in the form of its ruins today, but still, you can experience a touch of history here.
3. Kesi Ghat – Indulge In Photography
Situated at the banks of Yamuna River, Kesi Ghat is named after the Kesi demon who was killed by Lord Krishna. According to Hindu mythology, the horse-demon, Kesi, was sent by Lord Krishna’s uncle Kansa who wanted to kill Lord Krishna. After Lord Krishna killed the demon, it is believed that he took a bath in these ghats. From then on, this place is regarded as a sacred place.
You can experience extraordinary views during the evening aarti when thousands of Brahmins and devotees gather at the ghat to offer sandhya aarti. If you are looking for places to visit in Mathura in one day, you can visit Kesi Ghat to experience and capture the special occasion in your lenses.
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4. Govardhan Hill – Trekking Amidst Nature
If you are an adventure enthusiast looking for adventure places in Mathura, go for a trek of 21 km around the Govardhan hills. The long trekking trail is well built and facilitated with numerous roadside eateries. The safest of all, you can always find a companion throughout the year as you choose to trek along this trail.
According to Hindu mythology, Lord Krishna lifted the entire hill to save his village from a massive thunderstorm. Since then the mountain is worshiped. Every stone of this hill is regarded as sacred and a part of Lord Krishna. Take a tour and also spot various photo-taking places that are worth clicking.
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5. Lathmar Holi – Witness The Fun
This is the best experience to have if you happen to be in Mathura around Holi. One of Hindu’s most celebrated festival is Holi, the festival of colors. It is celebrated to mark the victory of good over evil. Be a part of Lathmar Holi in Mathura as it is played in a peculiar way than that of the other parts of India.
In Mathura, Holi is not only about colors but also about Sticks and Thandai (a special drink prepared during Holi). Lathmar Holi takes place days before the actual Holi in neighbouring towns so you must book your flight tickets and stay accordingly to enjoy this unique Holi festival centered on Lord Krishna.
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6. Shopping – Live The Experience
Shopping is a part of every travel. And for those who love to indulge in shopping, a tour is never complete without buying souvenirs for friends and family while travelling back home. In a sacred place like Mathura, you can expect to buy things which are great for worshipping and keep you close to your deity.
Starting from hand paintings to metal idols and other puja accessories, you can purchase various idols of gods and goddesses in different colors and sizes. The best places where you can buy these from are Holygate, Lal Bazaar, Krishnanagar Market, and Highway Plaza. Make it a point to click colorful and vibrant pictures as you walk through the shopping lanes of Mathura.
7. Bhuteshwar Temple – Witness Patal Devi Cave
One of the temples in Mathura, which is not dedicated to Lord Krishna is Bhuteshwar Temple. It is dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is also famous among Hindu mythology as it is one of the shaktipeeth where Mata Sati’s ringlet fell after her body was destroyed. You can get to see the cave of Patal Devi, who was worshipped by Kansa, the uncle of Krishna, who wanted to kill Lord Krishna at his young age. If you are searching for sightseeing places in Mathura, do visit Bhuteshwar Temple.
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8. Dolphin World Water Park – Adventure Filled Day
If you want to have some real fun time with your family and kids, head to Dolphin Water Park situated on the outskirts of Agra City (Agra Mathura Road) and experience thrilling slides, roller coasters and a host of other water rides. Established in 2002, this water theme park is a mode of entertainment for the city dwellers as well as a retreat for the tourists.
Besides the water slides, it also has an amusement park and a play area for kids. Make the most of your day with your family as you relax in Dolphin, the Water World on Agra Mathura road.
9. Vaishno Devi Dham – Enjoy Comfortable Stay
Vaishno Devi Dham, popularly known as Maa Vaishno Devi mandir provides free accommodation to its devotees. It is mostly full all year round, but it is most suitable if you are a lone traveler. Also, get the chance to meditate at the hall at the Dham as you worship a gigantic Vaishno Devi sculpture at the Dham.
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Most Famous Temples To Visit In Mathura
Your trip to Mathura is incomplete without having paid a visit to any of these temples listed below. While there are a plethora of temples in Mathura and Vrindavan, these three are the ones you cannot afford to miss out on.
1. Shree Krishna Janmabhoomi Temple
2. Dwarkadhish Temple
3. Banke Bihari Temple
1. Shree Krishna Janmabhoomi Temple
It is one of the most important places in Mathura. The temple was built by the grandson of Krishna approximately about 5000 years ago and marks the birthplace of the Lord himself. Although the temple was destroyed by the Mughal ruler Aurangzeb, it was rebuilt in 1965 after some political dispute. One can still witness the prison in which the Lord was born. The temple is open on all days from Monday to Sunday. The timings are from 5:00am to 12:00pm and from 4:00pm to 9:30pm.
2. Dwarkadhish Temple
The famous temple of Dwarkadhish is one of the oldest and most visited temples in Mathura. It is located on the banks of river Yamuna at a distance of 4KM from the Mathura junction. The shrine was erected by an ardent devotee of Lord Krishna, Seth Gokuldas Parikh. The temple was built for the commemoration of the deity, Dwarkadhish, which is another form of Lord Krishna himself. The temple is open on all days and is accessible from 7:00 AM to 1:00 PM and 5:00 PM to 9.30 PM.
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3. Banke Bihari Temple
The gorgeous temple of Banke Bihari was built around the 18th century in Vrindavan. The temple is aesthetically pleasing and is designed in complete Rajasthani style architecture. It is of the most significant temples to visit in Mathura and thus a must-visit site. Millions of followers flood the historical city of Mathura to visit this temple every year which also makes it one of the richest temples in Uttar Pradesh. The temple of Banke Bihari is deemed highly sacred and important for Hindus as a pilgrimage destination. The temple is open on all days from Monday to Sunday and is accessible from 7:45 AM to 12:00 PM and 5:30 PM to 9:30 PM.
Best Time To Visit Mathura
Mathura is often flooded with visitors during certain festival seasons including Janmashtami (The birthday of Lord Krishna), Radha-Ashtami (Appearance day of Radha Rani), Holi, Govardhan Puja, and Guru Purnima. This the perfect time to experience and enjoy the rich traditional culture of this beautiful city. So, if you’re planning to visit Mathura, mark your dates on your calendar according to these festivals. The celebration of Holi in Barsana is a treat to watch and indulge in.
Mathura has a rich history that can be seen through the architecture and vast array of art on offer. One must witness the true magic of the city at least once in their life.
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Mathura is a wonder known for its mysticism and culture. A visit to this city will be an experience you won’t forget owing to the awe-striking temples and welcoming locals. Don’t forget to indulge yourself in the above-listed things to do in Mathura when traveling to India.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Things To Do In Mathura
What is Mathura famous for?
Mathura is famous as the birthplace of the ancient Hindu deity, Lord Krishna who is believed to be an incarnation of Lord Vishnu. Krishna is a revered deity in the Hindu religious system who is also considered as a real warrior and hero by the Hindus. The ancient city of Mathura is a very important pilgrim place and one of the most sacred pilgrimage sites for Hindus. Hundreds of temples are scattered all over this town dedicated to Lord Krishna. One of the famous pilgrim center in Mathura for worshipping Lord Krishna is the Shri Krishna Janmabhoomi temple.
Is Mathura worth visiting?
Mathura is one of the most famous pilgrimage centers in India and marks the birthplace of the ancient Hindu deity, Lord Krishna. The town is one of the oldest in India and extremely popular for its ancient culture and tradition. Mathura contains a plethora of tourist attractions, various pilgrimage spots and temples. Also Vrindavan, is just 10 km from Mathura. If you are a truly devotee of Lord Krishna then you should not miss this place at any cost.
Is Mathura safe for girls?
Mathura is a religious place with many beautifully designed temples of Lord Krishna. It’s a holy place and considered as a safe place for girls. During festivals, there is a huge amount of crowd in Mathura so those females who are not very comfortable with overly crowded places should avoid visiting Mathura during the festival time.
What should I buy in Mathura?
The best markets to shop in Mathura are:
• Tilak Dwar Market
• Chatta Bazaar
• Highway Plaza
• Lal Bazaar
• Krishna Nagar Market
• Highway Plaza
The best shops to buy sweets are:
• Brijwasi Mithaiwala
• Radhika Sweets
• Shankar Mithaiwala
For artefacts and souvenirs: Radha Madhav Shringar Kendra
What is the famous food of Mathura?
Kachori and Jalebi are one of the most common food items relished by tourists at Mathura. Crisp and flat, these delicious and fresh kachoris are served with a potato and also have strong flavours of hing or asafetida.
Which temple is famous in Mathura?
Shri Krishna Janmabhoomi Temple While there are many old and famous temples in Mathura, Shri Krishna Janmabhoomi Temple is the most revered of all.
Is Mathura and Vrindavan same?
While Mathura is one of the most famous and ancient religious places in India, Vrindavan is a holy town in Mathura. A very significant pilgrimage site in Braj region, Mathura, Vrindavan is famous for its various temples, forts, lakes and much more which attracts lakhs of pilgrims every year. If you want to witness the rich culture and tradition and hear the stories of Lord Krishna, Vrindavan is the place to be as Lord Krishna spent his childhood here. Both Mathura and Vrindavan have also been mentioned in the epic of Ramayana owing to its mythological significance.
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