About Mathura
Mathura, on the western banks of the river Yamuna in Uttar Pradesh, is the birthplace of Lord Krishna — the eighth avatar of Lord Vishnu. Along with Vrindavan (11 km away), it forms the sacred Braj Bhumi — the land of Krishna's childhood and divine leelas (pastimes). Mathura is one of the Sapta Puri — the seven holiest cities in Hinduism.
Shri Krishna Janmabhoomi
The most sacred site in Mathura, the Krishna Janmabhoomi complex marks the exact prison cell (karak griha) where Lord Krishna was born to Devaki and Vasudeva. The grand temple built around this site is a major pilgrimage destination. The Kesava Deo temple within the complex attracts thousands of devotees daily.
Dwarkadhish Temple
Built in 1814 by Seth Gokuldas Parikh, the Dwarkadhish Temple is one of Mathura's most magnificent temples, dedicated to Lord Krishna as the King of Dwarka. The temple's vibrant architecture, colourful Rajasthani paintings, and the rituals during festivals are spectacular.
Vishram Ghat
The most important ghat in Mathura, Vishram Ghat is where Lord Krishna is believed to have rested (vishram) after slaying the demon Kansa. An evening Yamuna Aarti is performed here that rivals the famous Ganga Aarti of Varanasi. The 25 ghats of Mathura stretch along a 5-km arc.
Vrindavan — Land of Radha-Krishna
Just 11 km from Mathura, Vrindavan is where Krishna spent his childhood with the Gopis. Key temples include the Banke Bihari Temple (with its unique swaying Bihari ji darshan), ISKCON Vrindavan, Radha Raman Temple, Prem Mandir (a modern marble masterpiece), and the Nidhivan — a sacred forest where Krishna is believed to perform Raas Leela every night.
Govardhan Hill
Located 22 km from Mathura, Govardhan Hill is where Lord Krishna lifted the entire hill on his little finger to protect the villagers from Indra's wrath. Devotees perform the 21-km Govardhan Parikrama barefoot as an act of devotion.
Barsana & Nandgaon
Barsana, 50 km from Mathura, is the birthplace of Radha. Its famous Lathmar Holi — where women playfully beat men with sticks — is one of India's most vibrant and unique festivals. Nandgaon is the home of Nanda Baba, Krishna's foster father.
Best Time to Visit
October to March is ideal. Janmashtami (August/September, Krishna's birthday) is the grandest festival with midnight celebrations. Holi in Braj (March) — especially Lathmar Holi and Phoolon ki Holi — is a bucket-list experience.
How to Reach
Mathura is 145 km from Delhi on NH-19 (Yamuna Expressway). The nearest airport is Agra Airport (AGR), 55 km away. Mathura Junction is a major railway station on the Delhi-Mumbai and Delhi-Chennai lines with excellent connectivity.
