Things To Do
in Mathura

Mathura, India, is a city steeped in history and spirituality, known as the birthplace of Lord Krishna. Located in the northern state of Uttar Pradesh, it attracts pilgrims and tourists alike. The city is characterized by its vibrant ghats along the Yamuna River, ancient temples, and rich cultural heritage.

Visitors can immerse themselves in the local traditions, festivals, and delicious cuisine that Mathura offers.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring the Spiritual Heart of Mathura
morning
:

Visit the Krishna Janmabhoomi, the birthplace of Lord Krishna, and explore the temple complex.

afternoon
:

Head to Dwarkadhish Temple, one of the most revered temples in Mathura, and enjoy a traditional vegetarian lunch nearby.

evening
:

Stroll along the ghats of the Yamuna River, enjoying the sunset and the evening aarti (prayer ceremony).

day 2
Day 2: Culture and Local Delicacies
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Vishram Ghat for early morning rituals and a boat ride on the Yamuna.

afternoon
:

Explore the local markets, especially the Holi Gate area, and sample street food like kachoris and jalebis.

evening
:

Attend a cultural performance or play at the local theater and dine at a local restaurant to taste more Mathura delicacies.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a Local Restaurant$3
🏨Budget Hotel Night$15
🚕Taxi Ride (within city)$1
🚌Bus Ticket (local)$0.25
🍬Sweets (per kg)$5

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural and spiritual heritage
  • Delicious local cuisine and sweets
  • Vibrant festivals and community events
  • Traffic can be congested, especially during festivals
  • Limited nightlife options
  • Hot summers can be uncomfortable for outdoor activities
  • "नमस्ते" - Hello
  • "धन्यवाद" - Thank you
  • "कृपया" - Please
  • "आप कैसे हैं?" - How are you?
  • "मुझे मदद चाहिए" - I need help

Places to Visit in Mathura

Visit one of these nice places.

Krishna Janmabhoomi

Capture the stunning architecture and spiritual ambiance of the birthplace of Lord Krishna.

Vishram Ghat

Photograph the serene beauty of the Yamuna River, especially during sunrise and sunset.

Dwarkadhish Temple

A vibrant temple filled with intricate carvings and colorful decorations, perfect for architectural photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Mathura

Mathura is a food lover's paradise, especially for those who enjoy vegetarian cuisine. The city is famous for its sweets and snacks that reflect its rich cultural heritage.

Mathura Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Peda

A soft and sweet confection made from condensed milk, flavored with cardamom, and often garnished with pistachios.

Must-Try!

Kachori

Spicy, deep-fried pastries filled with a mixture of lentils and spices, often served with tangy chutneys.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Brijwasi Sweets

A popular sweet shop famous for its authentic Mathura peda and other local sweets.

Chaat Gali

A lively street known for its array of chaat, including aloo tikki and dahi puri.

Climate Guide

Weather

Mathura experiences a diverse climate throughout the year. Winters (November to February) are cool, with temperatures ranging from 8°C to 20°C. Summers (March to June) can be very hot, often exceeding 40°C during the day. The monsoon season (July to September) brings moderate rainfall, increasing humidity, while the post-monsoon months see pleasant weather.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Dress Modestly

Visitors should dress modestly, especially when visiting temples, covering shoulders and knees.

Respect Religious Practices

Be respectful during religious ceremonies and avoid taking photos where prohibited.

Remove Shoes

It's customary to remove shoes before entering temples and some homes.

Safety Guide

Safety

Mathura is generally safe for tourists, but it's advisable to stay vigilant in crowded areas and keep personal belongings secure. Avoid isolated places at night and be cautious when using public transportation. It's also wise to be aware of local scams targeting tourists.

Tipping in Mathura

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

It's customary to tip around 10% in restaurants if service charge is not included. For small services, rounding up is appreciated.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely accepted, but many restaurants and shops also accept digital payments through apps like Paytm and UPI.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Winter (November to February)

Pleasant weather with cool temperatures, ideal for exploring outdoor sites and attending festivals.

Summer (March to June)

Hot and dry conditions; it's best to plan indoor activities and visit early in the morning or late afternoon.

Monsoon (July to September)

Humidity increases with occasional heavy rain; be prepared for wet conditions but enjoy lush greenery.

Festive Season (October to November)

A vibrant time with festivals like Diwali and Janmashtami, perfect for experiencing local culture and celebrations.

Nightlife Guide

Mathura at Night

Mathura's nightlife is relatively quiet compared to larger cities, but there are a few local cafes and eateries that stay open late. Visitors can enjoy traditional music and dance performances during festivals, while the vibrant atmosphere along the ghats at night offers a unique experience. Local temples sometimes host evening aarti ceremonies, providing a spiritual nightlife experience.

Hiking in Mathura

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Raja Mandala Nature Trail

A scenic trail near Mathura, suited for leisurely hikes amidst nature, offering views of local flora and fauna.

Braj Bhoomi Trek

This trek takes you through the picturesque villages of Braj region, rich in culture and history, and is ideal for those looking for a moderate hike.

Airports

How to reach Mathura by plane.

Agra Airport (AGR)

Located about 55 km from Mathura, Agra Airport serves domestic flights and is the nearest airport for international travelers flying into the region.

Getting Around

Walkability

Mathura is a walkable city, especially in the old town area where many temples and markets are located close together. The narrow lanes can be bustling, making walking an immersive experience. However, it's advisable to be cautious of street vendors and traffic while navigating.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Hindus

The majority of Mathura's population is Hindu, reflecting the city's significance as a pilgrimage site.

Brahmins

A significant demographic group in Mathura, Brahmins often play key roles in religious ceremonies and cultural traditions.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Cricket

Cricket is the most popular sport in Mathura, with many local clubs and matches held regularly.

Kabaddi

Kabaddi, a traditional Indian sport, is also popular among the locals, often played in rural areas and during festivals.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Mathura can be congested, especially during peak hours and festival seasons. Auto-rickshaws, cycle-rickshaws, and buses are common public transportation options. Visitors are encouraged to use local transport options like rickshaws for shorter distances due to the narrow roads.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Mathura.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Most restaurants serve only vegetarian food, making it easy for vegetarians to find meals.

Gluten-Free

While options may be limited, dishes like rice, lentils, and certain snacks are generally gluten-free.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare facilities in Mathura include several government and private hospitals. Basic medical services are available, but for specialized care, patients may need to travel to larger cities like Agra. It's advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.

Discover India

Read more in our India 2025 Travel Guide.

India Travel Guide