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Mathura

Mathura, Uttar Pradesh, India

Journey to the Heart of Krishna's Kingdom: Mathura Step into a world painted in vibrant hues of devotion and history in Mathura, a city pulsating with the spirit of Lord Krishna. Located in the heart of Uttar Pradesh, In…

#Religious#Historical#Pilgrimage#Cultural#Tourist destination

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Stay & fly Things to do Videos Practical Guide

Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Mathura.

Top Hotels in Mathura

Top Flights to Mathura

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Mathura.

Tours

Visit to Sri Krishna Janmasthan Temple

Explore the birthplace of Lord Krishna, a major pilgrimage site for Hindus, featuring ancient temples and a serene atmosphere.

Explore Kusum Sarovar

A picturesque reservoir surrounded by stunning architecture dedicated to the legends of Lord Krishna and Radha.

Visit Dwarkadheesh Temple

One of the oldest and largest temples in Mathura, dedicated to Lord Krishna with beautiful architecture and carvings.

Shopping

Shopping at Krishna Nagar Market

Shop for traditional Indian clothes, handicrafts, and souvenirs in Mathura's bustling market.

Outdoor

Bird watching at Sur Sarovar Bird Sanctuary

Enjoy watching various bird species in their natural habitat. Ideal for nature enthusiasts and bird watchers.

Rowing at Yamuna River

Enjoy a peaceful rowing session on the Yamuna River, offering views of historical ghats and temples along the riverbank.

Govardhan Parikrama

A sacred 21-kilometer walk around the Govardhan Hill, held in high reverence by the devotees of Lord Krishna.

Vrindavan Garden Visit

Spend a relaxing day amidst nature in one of India’s historic gardens known for its layout and horticulture.

Pottery Workshop in Kans Quila

Take up a hands-on pottery making workshop near the historic Kans Quila.

Location videos

Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.

From travelers

Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Mathura.

Currency

₹ | INR | Indian Rupee

Population

Not Available

Languages

Hindi, Braj, Hindi, Urdu

Average weather

Mathura

Jan

21°7°

Feb

24°10°

Mar

30°15°

Apr

36°21°

May

40°26°

Jun

39°28°

Jul

34°27°

Aug

33°26°

Sep

33°25°

Oct

32°20°

Nov

28°14°

Dec

23°9°

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Mathura.

What people love

Mathura, located in the state of Uttar Pradesh, India, is a popular destination for tourists and pilgrims alike. Here are some pros of traveling to Mathura:

Religious Significance: Mathura is considered to be the birthplace of Lord Krishna, a major deity in Hinduism. The city is dotted with temples and sacred sites associated with Krishna, making it a significant pilgrimage spot for Hindus.
Cultural Heritage: Mathura has a rich cultural heritage, with a history dating back thousands of years. Visitors can explore ancient temples, historical sites, and museums that showcase the city's vibrant past.
Festivals and Celebrations: Mathura is known for its lively celebrations, especially during festivals like Holi (the festival of colors) and Janmashtami (Krishna's birthday). These festivals attract visitors from all over the world who come to witness the vibrant colors and traditions of Mathura.
Art and Handicrafts: Mathura is known for its traditional art and handicrafts, including intricate paintings, sculptures, and wood carvings. Visitors can shop for unique souvenirs and witness local artisans at work.
Delicious Cuisine: Mathura offers a wide range of delicious vegetarian dishes that are a must-try for food enthusiasts. From traditional sweets like peda and jalebi to savory snacks like kachori and samosa, the local cuisine is sure to delight your taste buds.

Overall, traveling to Mathura offers a unique blend of spirituality, culture, history, and culinary delights, making it a memorable destination for travelers seeking an authentic Indian experience.

What to know

Some potential cons of traveling to Mathura, Uttar Pradesh, India, specifically in Mathura, may include:

Crowds and congestion: Mathura is a popular pilgrimage destination for Hindus, especially during festivals like Holi and Janmashtami. This can lead to overcrowding, long lines at temples, and traffic congestion in the city.
Pollution: Like many cities in India, Mathura can experience high levels of air and noise pollution, especially in highly trafficked areas. This could potentially affect travelers sensitive to pollution.
Limited accommodation options: While there are hotels and guesthouses in Mathura, the range of options may be limited compared to larger cities. During peak tourist seasons, finding suitable accommodation at a reasonable price could be challenging.
Sanitation and hygiene: Some parts of Mathura, especially in crowded areas or near water bodies, may not meet the sanitation and hygiene standards expected by international travelers. It is important to be cautious about food and water hygiene to avoid falling ill.
Language barrier: While many people in Mathura may understand Hindi, English proficiency can vary. Communication could be a challenge for travelers who do not speak the local language.
Travel infrastructure: Transportation infrastructure in Mathura may not be as developed as in major cities, which could make getting around the city or traveling to nearby attractions more challenging.

It is always recommended to research thoroughly and take necessary precautions when traveling to any destination.

Mathura, located in the state of Uttar Pradesh, India, is one of the most ancient and historically significant cities in the country. It is revered as the birthplace of Lord Krishna, a major deity in Hinduism, which contributes significantly to its cultural and religious importance.

Ancient Period

Early Settlements: The history of Mathura dates back to ancient times, with archaeological evidence suggesting human settlement as early as the 6th century BCE. It was a part of the Surasena Kingdom.
Mauryan Empire: During the reign of the Mauryan Empire (4th-3rd century BCE), Mathura became a prominent center for economic and cultural activities. Emperor Ashoka's edicts mention Mathura, indicating its importance.
Kushan Empire: In the 1st century CE, Mathura flourished under the Kushan Empire. The city became a hub for trade and a melting pot of cultures. The Kushans, especially King Kanishka, promoted Buddhism and patronized the creation of Buddhist art and architecture.
Gupta Empire: Mathura reached new heights under the Gupta Empire (4th-6th century CE). It was a center for the development of classical Indian art and culture.

Medieval Period

Early Medieval Period: Mathura continued to be an important cultural and religious center. It saw the construction of several temples dedicated to Lord Krishna.
Islamic Invasions: The city faced destruction during the invasions by Mahmud of Ghazni in the 11th century and later by the Ghurids. Many temples were destroyed during these invasions.
Mughal Period: In the 16th century, Mathura came under the rule of the Mughal Empire. Emperor Akbar was known for his relatively tolerant policies, and the city saw some restoration of its religious sites. However, during Emperor Aurangzeb’s reign, there was significant destruction of Hindu temples.

Modern Period

British Colonial Rule: Mathura became part of the British Raj in the 19th century. It was during this time that many of its ancient sites were rediscovered and preserved.
Post-Independence: Following India's independence in 1947, Mathura has been developed as a major pilgrimage site.

Significant Historical Figures

Lord Krishna: As the birthplace of Lord Krishna, Mathura holds a central place in Hindu mythology and religious practices.
Emperor Ashoka: His edicts mention Mathura, highlighting its significance during the Mauryan period.
King Kanishka: Under his rule, Mathura became a prominent center for Buddhist art.

Important Landmarks

Krishna Janmasthan Temple Complex: Believed to be the birthplace of Lord Krishna, it is one of the most revered sites in Mathura.
Dwarkadhish Temple: A prominent temple known for its architecture and spiritual heritage.
Kusum Sarovar: A historical reservoir with beautiful architecture.
Jama Masjid: Built in 1661 by Abd-un-Nabi, the Governor of Aurangzeb, it is known for its four minarets and intricate carvings.
Archaeological Museum: Houses a rich collection of sculptures from the Kushan and Gupta periods.

Today, Mathura remains a vibrant city that draws millions of visitors and pilgrims annually due to its historical, cultural, and religious significance.