Mathura is one of the most visited and loved historical places in India. It is located in the northern state of India, Uttar Pradesh. It is the birthplace of Lord Krishna. A few distances from Mathura is the Vrindavan city located where Lord Krishna had spent the majority of his childhood. Both this beautiful place is an architectural marvel and a historically significant place for the Indians. Also, travelers can explore the place in a straight and quiet period of two days max.
There are many temples to visit and other outdoor activities that a person can enjoy while he is in Mathura. Let’s check them all out!
Sri Krishna Janmasthan Temple complex is a group of temples located in the same vicinity in Mallapur at Mathura. These temples are located at the very place where the Lord himself was born. This temple is considered one of the most celebrated ones when it comes to the legends of the deity. It is said that the entire temple and the premises were built by the great-grandson of Lord Krishna, Vajranabha. It was constructed around the 6th century BC. There are three temples within Sri Krishna Janmasthan.
The most interesting part apart from the holy factor is that the temples are built around the prison where the deity was born before taking to Vrindavan. Also, there are a number of stories related to the temple getting destroyed over centuries. But every time it was been indestructibly built again and again.
Dwarkadheesh temple is the best architectural and sculptural epitome. And hence apart from the adherent devotees, it is a feast for tourists and travel enthusiasts all over the world. The temple is situated at a height that can be reached by climbing 50 steps that are massively designed by marbles. The places of temples are engraved with beautiful structures of gods and goddesses. This looks even more fabulous during evening hours. The devotees and the tourist can visit the temple from 7 to 12: 30 and from 5 to 9 in the evening hours. Hence visit the place without a second thought.
3. Birla Mandhir Mathura
Birla Mandhir is also known as Gita Mandhir and is also one of the best tourist centers in Mathura. This pilgrimage site is solely dedicated to Hindu God Lakshmi Narayana a reincarnation of Lord Vishu to say precisely. The architecture of the temple is excellent with sculptures and carvings of gods and goddesses. It is constructed by using red sandstone which is indisputably one of the best craftsmanship. And the pillars are inscribed with the writings of Bhagavad Gita. This place is all about the ambiance and the serenity that comes along with it.
4. Govardhan Hill
Govardhan hill is a historic site that is intriguingly beautiful, for many reasons places. The story behind Govardhan hill is a fascinating one and the Hindu devotees cherish it to a great extent. And that makes it the place most visited in the entire Mathura. It is believed that this tiny hill was lifted by Lord Krishna by his little finger. People come here to seek blessing from their favorite deity and to visit the historical place and learn behind the Parvat and the curse related to it.
This tiny parvat is 8 km long that is located much closer to Radha Kund. And hence saying this we have our next topic and the tourist spot to visit – Radha Kund!
Without any second thought or say, Radha Kund is the ultimate tourist spot that will leave you spellbound. People come to this lake or Kund to explore one of the most loved holy spaces. It is said that Lord Krishna had cut this lake or Kund to wash away the sins of him and his friends after they had accidentally killed a bull. And that time Radha also along with her sakis made a lake or Kund which is later called Radha Kund.
Radha Kund is a sign of eternal love between Lord Krishna and Radha. There are many things that you could do while you are visiting or exploring this beautiful spot. One of which is the ritual Parikrama offered by the devotees.
6. Rangji Mandhir
Rangji Mandhir is one of the oldest temples with Dravidian architecture. And that makes the place one of the most visited temples of Mathura. Even though there are several; temples devoted to Lord Krishna and Radha, however, the Rangji Temple serves the top most in terms of tourists and locals alike. Hence it is without any say a must place to visit and seek blessing while you are in the holiest place on earth.
Other Places to explore in Mathura
Apart from temples and pilgrimage places, there are many other destinations in Mathura that are worth exploring. Architectural eminence, museums and ghats are among them.
1. Vishram Ghat
Enclosed with a treasure story of mythology, love and history, Vishram is all the aforesaid. If you are a person who love to explore serenity and peace, Vishram Ghat is the place. If you are looking for a serious photo shoot, then without any doubt Vishram Ghat is the best. There is no particular entry fee to explore the place however, you need to pay a very nominal fee to get a boat ride.
Vishram Ghat is well maintained and hence people take a bath and rest here without any second thought. It is a beauty to watch the Ghat in the evening hours when the river Yamuna looks mesmerizingly beautiful in the setting sun.
2. Government Museum
The Government Museum of Mathura was said to be founded in the year 1874. It is said to be a research center to study the profound heritage of Mathura. This place is a treasure house to many old and rare sculptures that belongs to Maurya and Gupta period. Such a treasure of artifacts can be seen only here at this museum. Travelers particularly historians, researchers and writers take a keen interest in developing the facts behind the collection and studying the age-old tradition. Visit this mesmerizing place without fail during your next visit.
3. Kans Quila
Yet another, the famous architectural destination is Kans Quila. This Quila is dedicated to Lord Krishna’s maternal uncle Kans. Hence can be said that it dates back to the epic period of Mahabharata. The fort is massively well built with fortification walls surrounding it. Travelers often are mesmerized by the blend of Islamic and Hindu architecture. Kans Quila is definitely one of the must-visit places for the history lovers all over the country.
4. Brahmaanand Ghat
Along the Yamuna Ghat, there is yet another scary place that Mathura has to offer its devotees. This Ghat also bears a story that very few could have known. It is said that it was from this Ghat that little Krishna had consumed some mud particles. After which when his mother Yashoda confronted the entire universe was visible inside his mouth. This story is very close to the hearts of every devotee coming to Mathura and hence this place is without any doubt on my list. Have you dropped into yours yet?
Food that relishes your soul
When you are in Mathura, You are definitely in for some weight gain. One cannot hide from mouthwatering sweet dishes and yummy savories. Rabri is the most famous and the yummiest dish of Mathura. The traditional way of serving Rabri in an earthen pot makes it all worth a try. And it is said that Rabri and Jelabi combination is one that cannot be put into words. Also while going back home don’t forget to pick the famous Mathura Ka Peda!
Culture and tradition of Mathura People
Mathura is a place that is highly considered to be one of the holiest places on the earth. This place is home to Hinduism, Buddhism and Jainism from the very start of its origin. There was a number of traditional practices that Mathura followed of which the “Braj” culture is prominent. People of Mathura love the folklore and traditional songs that praise Lord Krishna and his love Radha. Mathura’s own age-old tradition of peace and serenity comes from a mythological background.
Mathura is a place for you if you are a devotee of Lord Krishna, a lover of art and culture, an admirer of mythology and folklore. Right from the beautiful temples and ghats, travelers have so much stored here for them. And for those who are food lovers, Mathura is no less than paradise.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Mathura the best place to visit? Mathura is one of the best places to visit in Uttar Pradesh. With Temples, historical places, rich tradition and food, this place is best to visit all-round the year.
What is the Best Time to visit Mathura? All around the year, particularly during the winter and vacation time. And try to visit the place during Janmashtami.
Is Mathura best for outdoor activities? Yes, Mathura has the best outdoor activities with sightseeing, temples, and historical places.
Things to keep in mind while visiting Mathura. Just keep in mind to book your stay during the festive season, Janmashtami which is considered the biggest festival in the city.
What languages are spoken in Mathura? Hindi is the official language, but locals speak and understand English as well.
How safe to visit Mathura? Mathura is the safest place to visit for tourism.
Are there any historical places in Mathura? There are several historical significance places in Mathura.
Can I get cheaper accommodation in Mathura? Accommodations are not that cheaper in Mathura, particularly during peak times.
Is Mathura a good honeymoon destination? Yes! Mathura is without any doubt popular among honeymooners and couples who are looking for explorations and some time for serendipity.
