Hook: “Man is made by his belief. As he believes, so he is”. This is one of the many meaningful and powerful quotes of Lord Krishna that we find in and can learn from the Bhagavad Gita. People of the Hindu faith and those who have a keen interest in the life of Shri Krishna and consider themselves as his “Bhaktas” often feel pulled towards the holy sites associated with the lord, Mathura being a prominent one. SOTC is here to help make your dream Mathura trip a reality with a wide selection of Mathura trip package options.
The city of Mathura, Uttar Pradesh, is the birthplace of Lord Krishna, one of the major deities in Hinduism. Also, it is one of the seven holy cities known as Sapta Puri in Hinduism. The birthplace of the Lord is believed to be an underground prison, which now lies within the Krishna Janmasthan Temple Complex. Apart from this, a spiritual Mathura tour is a part of the holy Shree Krishna pilgrimage circuit alongside the sacred sites of Vrindavan, Barsana, Govardhan, Kurukshetra, Dwarka and Bhalka. The Shree Krishna Janmasthan Temple of Mathura is one of the most revered and visited Hindu temples in India. Devotees of the lord from all corners of the world go on the Mathura trip for the purpose of pilgrimage. If you, too, have the same goals, we at SOTC are here to help you fulfil them with our wide selection of Mathura tour packages. We offer Mathura tour packages for all popular budget and trip duration needs. Alongside well-planned itineraries, these Mathura tour packages feature essential features like accommodation, meals, optional flights, Mathura sightseeing, tour manager, etc. On this Mathura travel guide, you can find more about spiritual Mathura tourism, essential Mathura trip tips, popular Mathura tour packages and more.
Most Popular Mathura Tour Packages
Everything You Need to Know About Mathura
Here’s what you need to know about Mathura trip;
A Brief History of Mathura
Placed on the banks of the holy Yamuna River, Mathura has an impressive ancient historical record. It is the birthplace of Lord Krishna, according to Hindu mythology, who was born in the Yadu Dynasty. According to the scriptures, he was born to Queen Devaki and King Vasudeva in the prison cell where they were kept captive by Devaki’s tyrant brother, Kansa. On your Mathura trip, you can find the ASI plaque at Mathura Museum, which notes that the mentions of this city are even found in one of India’s oldest epics, the Ramayana. Historically, Mathura had been a prominent part of many kingdoms under various rulers, including the Surasena Kingdom, the Maurya Empire, the Indo-Greeks, and so on. Its mentions are even found in the historical records of ancient travellers who came to India, including Megasthenes and Fahien. Hence, history buffs and followers of Lord Krishna both like to go on the Mathura travel.
Traditions, beliefs, and practices
Alongside the popular temples at Mathura, you can explore its incredible culture and traditions. There are numerous temples across the city, with the main focus being the Shri Krishna Janmabhoomi Temple. Many traditional practices and cultural festivals are also associated with this place, such as the traditional art form of Sanjhi, the Raaslila dance festival of the Lord’s childhood, Rasiya folk songs of the Braj area, the dramatic traditional dance of Braj called Charkula, the festival of colour and sticks called Lath Mar, etc. Additionally, taking holy dips at the sacred sites is a key tradition. You can find Mathura tour packages by SOTC that cover these festivals and events for a better trip experience.
Local legends or stories
There are plenty of old legends and stories that elevate the mystical ambience and significance of Mathura travel. For instance, Radha Kund is one of the key spiritual places to visit in Mathura. According to a legend, after creating Shyam Kund, Goddess Radha dug up a Kund, where the lord summoned holy sites to enter in the form of water, which formed the Radha Kund. People, to this day, take sacred baths at these sites. It is believed that whoever takes a holy dip in Radha Kund will be blessed with Prem-Bhakti, making this ritual one of the most popular things to do in Mathura. It is one of the key inclusions of the itineraries of popular Mathura tour packages.
Then there are the legends associated with the holy site of Nidhivan in Vrindavan, a key part of the Mathura tour. It is the twin city of Mathura, located 15 km away. Locals believe that after nightfall, the lord, along with Radha and her gopis, come down to Nidhivan to perform the divine dance of love, Ras Leela. It is believed that whoever witnesses this event loses consciousness and even goes mad. This is why the doors to the forest are kept close,d and no one is allowed to enter after dark. You can book Mathura tour packages that feature a visit to Vrindavan and Nidhivan on our website.
Notable figures associated with Mathura
The entire district is of immense spiritual importance as it is home to many prominent sites associated with Hindu deities, Goddess Radha and Lord Krishna, that you can check out on your Mathura tour. Noteworthy figures and leaders of the current time associated with Mathura include names like Guru Maharaj, Jagadguru Kripalu Maharaj, Sadhvi Rithambara, etc. Experience the divinity of Mathura travel the way it is intended. Pick from our wide selection of Mathura tour packages at affordable rates.
Key Sites, Experiences & Places to Visit in Mathura
Here are some of the most iconic experiences and places you can check out on your Mathura travel;
Shri Krishna Janmasthan Temple
The Shri Krishna Janmasthan Temple is the main temple in Mathura, built centred on the prison where the lord’s parents were held captive, it is a major inclusion of Mathura tour packages. The temple complex includes the Keshavdev Temple, the Garbha Griha Shrine (which is believed to be the site of the prison cell where Lord Krish was born), Bhagvat Bhavan and a deep, tiered water tank called Potra Kund. This shrine is a major part of the Mathura tour. Find Mathura tour packages featuring Shri Krishna Janmasthan Temple visit on our website.
Radha Vallabh Mandir
The Radha Vallabh Temple is among the most revered temples in Mathura. A Mathura tour is incomplete without going for a darshan at this shrine. It is an embodiment of the celestial love of Goddess Radha and Shri Krishna in the form of ‘Ras Bhakti”. It is the main shrine of the RadhaVallabh sect and enshrines an idol which represents both the goddess and the god, signifying that they have two separate bodies but a unified soul. This is one of the highlights of Mathura tour packages.
Dwarkadhish Temple
For your tour to Mathura, make sure to visit the Dwarkadhish Temple. Alongside its stunning Maru Gurjara architecture, the temple houses numerous intricate murals and ornate constructions that elevate its divine atmosphere. During your darshan at this temple, you are bound to feel the divine aura as “Jai Shri Krishna” chants resonate in the temple complex. Visit SOTC to book Mathura tour packages featuring sites like Dwarkadhish Temple.
Banke Bihari Temple
The Banke Bihari Temple enshrines Lord Krishna in his popular “Tribhanga” stance, which is bent at three different angles, making it a renowned aspect of the tour to Mathura. The temple is known for its unique ritual, where curtains are drawn before the deity’s idol at intervals in order to avoid continuous darshan, which is, otherwise believed can make a person lose consciousness. Some Mathura tour packages include a visit to this shrine as standard. To make your ideal tour to Mathura a reality, book a Mathura trip package on SOTC.
Rituals and ceremonies in Mathura
- Sacred bath: You can be a part of this ritual on your tour to Mathura at sites like Radha Kund, Vishram Ghat, and Kusum Sarovar, which are usually part of the standard itinerary of Mathura trip package options.
- Bhajan Kirtan: On your tour to Mathura, you can visit the temples and other spiritual centres and be a part of the devotional singings called Bhajan and Kirtan. This activity can have a positive impact on your mind, body and soul and nurture devotion. Our Mathura tour packages also include activities to keep you engaged and part of the journey.
- Yamuna River Aarti: The ghats along the Yamuna River are some of the top places to visit in Mathura. Witnessing this visually and spiritually mesmerising aarti during evening time along with humming religious songs and hymns will surely fill your heart with devotion. After the Aarti, explore the local Mathura food stalls and enjoy the delicious delight of Mathura famous food items. Look for Mathura tour packages for any season on SOTC.
Other notable Mathura places to visit
- Govardhan Hill: The Govardhan Hill is one of the most significant tourist places to see in Mathura. According to the legend, Lord Krishna raised this hill with only one finger to save his hometown and its beings from heavy rainfall and thunderstorms. The site is very sacred for the followers of Lord Krishna and a common inclusion of a Mathura itinerary for spiritual tours.
- Vishram Ghat: According to the legend, Lord Krishna is said to have rested at this ghat on the bank of River Yamuna after defeating King Kansa, making it one of the must-visit places for many travellers on their trip with Mathura tour packages.
- Nidhivan: The forest of Nidhivan in Vrindavan, 13 km from Mathura, is a place that is important in terms of its natural beauty and spiritual association with the Lord. It is one of the must-see Mathura tourist places that you can visit.
- Radha Kund: Believed to have been created by Goddess Radha and filled with holy sites in sacred water form by Lord Krishna, Radha Kund is one of the best places in Mathura, enhancing its spiritual ambience.
Best Time to Visit
Making a Mathura trip plan? Here’s what you need to know about the best time to visit Mathura;
Mathura in summer (April-June)
During summer, the region experiences extreme heat and humidity. Temperatures can even go up to the 45°C mark during the day in peak summer. Overall, it is not a great time to check out the Mathura tourist attractions for spiritual tours. If you are visiting around this time, stick to early mornings and late afternoons for a Mathura city tour experience. SOTC offers Mathura trip package options for this season.
Notable events: Ram Navami celebrations and Ram Navami Shobha Yatra.
Mathura in winter (October-March)
Winter in Mathura brings a calm, cosy and chilly vibe. The weather stays clear, which makes temple visits and Mathura sightseeing very accessible. However, it is advised to pack warm clothes as the mercury usually stays below 14°C during the night. Book your Mathura trip package for winter on our website.
Notable events: Govardhan Puja, Lath Mar Holi, Kartik Utsav, Deepawali, etc.
Mathura in monsoon (July-September)
The Monsoon adds a unique flavour to Mathura tourism. It brings heavy rain, which offers relief from the summer heat. The average temperature also stays on the pleasant side but be wary of the high humidity. Exploring key Mathura during the rainy season is truly magical. Get Mathura trip package options for this season on SOTC.
Notable events: Janmashtami, Guru Purnima, Rath Yatra, Radhashtami, etc.
Local Culture and Food
The local culture, also called the Braj culture, is unique and truly fascinating. In addition to its spiritual significance and traditions that have blended into the lifestyle of the locals, Mathura is also a hub of history and art. Be it the colourful traditional art of Sanjh, where the ground is decorated with beautiful flowers, Raslila, a divine dance that Lord Krishna used to perform along with his gopis on the Yamuna River bank, or the dramatic dance form of Charkula performed during Holi, everything is celebrated and performed with smile and devotion in Mathura, making its culture vibrant, and a sight to behold on your trip with Mathura tour packages.
Often seen as a gateway to learning and getting in sync with the local culture, the food of a place can tell an elaborate tale. Additionally, you can try the famous food in Mathura, the sweet Peda. Other notable food items available in Mathura are Jalebi, Lassi, Ghewar, Rabri, Gujia, and Kalakand. As for dishes, most restaurants in Mathura serve delicious vegetarian cuisine you have to try when travelling with Mathura tour packages, such as Aloo Kachori, Baingan Bharta, Besan Gatte ki Sabzi, Kadhi Pakora, etc.
Travel Tips
How to get there
Mathura is about 150 km south of New Delhi. Typically, tourists either book a flight to train to New Delhi and then take a bus ride to Mathura, which takes 2.5 to 3 hours.
Buses are available from the Delhi Interstate Bus Terminal, with the availability of buses to Mathura at an interval of every 10-15 minutes.
You can also choose to travel to Agra, which is the nearest airport to Mathura, and then take a bus or cab to the holy city. The distance is around 60 km and can be covered in under 1 to 1.5 hours by car or bus.
If you want to travel to Mathura by road, consider the NH44 or NH19 for better connectivity.
Additionally, there are trains available from major Indian cities directly to Mathura Junction Railways Station.
Other things to note
When visiting temples for Darshan, people are advised to follow a modest dress code. One should avoid wearing revealing clothes for this purpose. Go for clothes that cover the knees and shoulders, preferably traditional.
Remember to always be respectful of your surroundings and the local culture.
Remove your shoes outside and keep them at the designated storage place before entering the shrines.
Most of the temples don’t allow cameras, electric equipment, leather belts or wallets inside the premises.
Photography and videography are strictly restricted inside most temple premises.
Note that there aren’t any entrance fees for the main temples across Mathura; however, there are charges for offerings and special darshan privileges.
For a smoother trip experience, consider hiring a local Mathura tour guide.
Conclusion:
Associated closely with one of the major deities in Hinduism, Lord Krishna, the city is also notable for its incredible traditions, cultural events and local festivals. From fascinating temples and revered ghats to experiencing Lath Mar Holi and trying local Pedas, there is a lot to soak in at this incredible location with our Mathura tour packages.
Planning your next spiritual trip? Pick Mathura tour packages by SOTC for your next experience!
