Things To Do
in Mathura
Mathura is an ancient city in Uttar Pradesh perched on the banks of the Yamuna, famed as the birthplace of Lord Krishna and a cornerstone of Braj culture. It blends sacred temples with lively markets, offering a sense of timeless devotion alongside everyday Indian life. The old city’s narrow lanes overflow with sweets, handicrafts, and religious rituals that unfold around visitors.
Nearby Vrindavan expands the spiritual itinerary with additional historic temples and pilgrims flocking through the year.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day with a serene visit to Shri Krishna Janmabhoomi, the revered birthplace of Lord Krishna. Witness the early morning aarti as the temple comes alive with chants and devotional music. The peaceful atmosphere offers a profound spiritual experience amid intricate temple architecture.
Explore the adjacent Vishram Ghat where pilgrims gather to perform holy rituals by the Yamuna River. Enjoy a traditional lunch at a local eatery serving authentic Braj cuisine, savoring flavors unique to Mathura. Post lunch, stroll through the bustling streets lined with shops selling religious artifacts and sweets like peda.
Return to the riverbank to witness the mesmerizing evening aarti at Vishram Ghat, where lamps float gently on the water. The chants and rhythmic sounds create a magical ambiance under the twilight sky. Conclude the day by relaxing at a riverside café, soaking in the spiritual vibes.
Start with a visit to the Dwarkadhish Temple, famed for its beautiful carvings and vibrant morning prayers. Wander through narrow lanes nearby, observing local artisans crafting traditional items. The morning light casts a warm glow on the colorful street scenes, perfect for photography.
Head to the Government Museum to delve into Mathura’s rich archaeological heritage, featuring stunning sculptures from the Kushan period. Have lunch at a nearby eatery offering local vegetarian delicacies, enjoying the rustic ambiance. Spend time at the nearby Kali Temple, appreciating its unique red sandstone architecture.
Attend a cultural performance showcasing traditional Braj folk music and dance at a local community center. Engage with performers to learn about the stories behind each art form. End your evening with a leisurely walk around the illuminated temple complexes, absorbing the city’s historic charm.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $3-7 |
| 🥗Meal for two at a mid-range restaurant | $12-25 |
| 💧Bottle of water (1.5L) | $0.50-1 |
| 🚕Short taxi ride within town | $2-6 |
| 🛏️Budget hotel (per night) | $15-40 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich religious heritage and sacred sites
- Walkable old city with vibrant sweets and markets
- Close to Vrindavan and Govardhan for day trips
- Warm, hospitable locals
- Rich festival calendar and cultural experiences
- Crowded during peak pilgrimage periods
- Limited nightlife and late-evening entertainment
- Heat and humidity in summer can be intense
- Some areas require careful navigation for first-time visitors
- "Namaste" - Hello
- "Shukriya" - Thank you
- "Kripya" - Please
- "Aap kaise ho?" - How are you?
- "Kitne ka hai?" - How much is this?
- "Mujhe madad chahiye" - I need help
- "Bahut accha" - Very good
- "Mujhe bhookh lagi hai" - I am hungry
Places to Visit in Mathura
Visit one of these nice places.
Historical temple precinct with intricate carvings, pillars, and early morning or golden-hour lighting.
A riverside ghat perfect for sunset photography and the lively evening aarti.
A historic marble pond near Govardhan with lotus-adorned pavilions and reflections on a calm day.
Collection of ancient artifacts and sculptures set in a colonial-era building; good for architectural photography.
Colorful storefronts, aromatic spice stalls, and devotional tableaux ideal for candid street photography.
Food in Mathura
Mathura Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A soft, fragrant milk-based sweet emblematic of the city; best bought from local sweet shops near Krishna Janmabhoomi.
Must-Try!
Flaky fried pastry filled with spiced lentils, served with a tangy aloo sabzi or chutney.
Rich, sweet milk dessert often served chilled; pairs well with puri.
Grainy-sweet laddoo made from roasted gram flour and ghee; a common gift and snack.
Crispy potato patties topped with chutneys, yogurt, and spices; a popular street snack.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Lively lanes with sweets shops, chaat stalls, and dry fruits; best explored late afternoon.
Compact stalls offering fresh jalebi, puri-sabzi, and pedas ideal for quick bites.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Dress modestly, remove shoes before entering most temples, and avoid loud behavior.
Ask permission before photographing people; avoid flash in sacred spaces.
Treat devotional practices with respect; avoid commenting or photographing during ceremonies without consent.
Safety
Tipping in Mathura
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping 5-10% in restaurants if service is not included; small tips for porters and guides.
Cash (INR) is widely accepted; many places now accept cards and UPI-based payments; digital wallets common in larger towns.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Very hot; stay hydrated, wear light clothing, plan outdoor activities for early morning or late afternoon.
Occasional heavy rain; carry lightweight rain gear; streets can become slick; humidity high.
Mild to cool; pleasant for walking tours; mornings can be chilly; evenings comfortable.
Mathura at Night
Hiking in Mathura
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Pilgrimage circuit around Govardhan Hill; length can vary from a few hours to a full-day trek of about 21 km for the full parikrama.
Airports
How to reach Mathura by plane.
Major international hub near Delhi; about 180-200 km from Mathura; convenient for long-haul travel with domestic connections.
Smaller domestic airport about 60-70 km from Mathura; limited but useful for connections to major Indian cities.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A mix of devotional travelers from across India and residents who keep Mathura's temples busy year-round.
Residents engaged in crafts, carpentry, and religious services who contribute to the city’s devotional economy.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Widespread, with informal games in parks and streets across Mathura; matches in local grounds during holidays.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Mathura.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Mathura is predominantly vegetarian; go for dal-based curries and vegetables. Many places cook with ghee; ask for 'no onion, no garlic' if needed.