Mathura is one of the seven esteemed cities in Hinduism, treasured as the birthplace of Lord Krishna. On Uttar Pradesh’s map lies this remarkable twin city (only 10km apart from each other) with Mathura and Vrindavan; a small town composed of ancient temples that mesmerize flocks of pilgrims worldwide.
Mathura’s banks are lined with 25 ghats and stretch across the Yamuna River, best visited during dawn to witness locals and tourists bathing in its sacred waters. Right after sunset is another blissful experience when hundreds of diyas guide the daily aarti. Tourists flock Mathura all year round but particularly during Janmashtami (Lord Krishna’s birthday) in August/September or Holi in February/March; two festivals that promise an unforgettable spiritual journey!
The Dwarkadheesh Temple and the Gita Mandir are the two most essential temples in Mathura, but there are many smaller temples scattered throughout the city. Shri Krishna Janmabhumi is renowned as the most popular tourist destination in Mathura because it is where Lord Krishna is said to have been born. Consequently, his prison cell of birth has been turned into a display for tourists.
If you are searching for a journey that goes beyond the regular attractions, then the best way to discover Mathura is by taking an excursion through its city streets. This sacred township has managed to retain an old-world charisma and possesses many structures associated with antique design, ruins of older edifices, as well as local citizens who will gladly show you around. When strolling down these pathways one can easily gain insight into the vast history of Mathura – making it a unique pilgrimage quite unlike any other!
Mathura has a storied history, stretching as far back as 2500 years ago. Commonly referred to as Brij Bhumi, this city is famously known for being the place of birth and early life of Lord Shri Krishna. Mathura is gloriously mentioned in Hindu epic Ramayan along with Alexandrian astronomer Ptolemy’s accounts which refer to it by its alternate name “city of gods” or Modoura.
Not only is the city of great religious significance to Hindus, but it also holds a special place in the hearts of Buddhists and Jains. During the time of Kushan dynasty around 400 AD, Chinese ambassador Fa Hien mentioned several Buddhist monasteries present in this region. However, due to their subjugation by Mahmud of Ghazni majority were demolished followed by Aurangzeb’s ransacking which caused further damage to the sacred site. Eventually following that British colonization took hold.
When Hiuen Tsang visited Mathura much later, the number of monks had dropped from 2000 to 3000. The Bhakti cult’s resurgent Hindu movement initiated a miraculous revival in the city and its temples were restored. As a result, Mathura has regained its original allurement and retained an abundant influx of tourists ever since.
By flight
Unfortunately, Mathura does not possess an airport of its own. The closest airports are located in the nearby cities of New Delhi and Agra.
By road
Reach Mathura quickly and conveniently by taking NH19/NH44!
By train
Mathura Junction is conveniently located near major rail routes, making it an ideal destination for travelers. A number of festival special trains run during peak seasons, providing even more options for visitors.
