Things To Do
in Mathura
Mathura is a sacred city in northern India, known for being the birthplace of Lord Krishna. It is a major pilgrimage site for Hindus and attracts visitors from all over the world. The city is home to numerous temples, including the famous Krishna Janmabhoomi Mandir and Dwarkadhish Temple.
Mathura is also known for its colorful festivals, especially during the celebration of Holi.
- "kiddan" - How are you?
- "shukriya" - Thank you
- "tuhada naa ki hai" - What is your name?
- "ki haal chaal" - How are things?
- "chalo" - Let's go
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $15 - $50
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $3 - $15
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.30 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $15 - $30
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $10 - $25
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day by visiting the iconic Shri Krishna Janmabhoomi, the birthplace of Lord Krishna. Take your time to explore the intricate carvings and peaceful atmosphere.
After lunch, head to Dwarkadhish Temple to admire its beautiful architecture. The temple is a hub of local activity, so enjoy the vibrant surroundings.
As the day winds down, enjoy a boat ride on the Yamuna River. Witness the sunset and listen to the evening aarti resonating across the water.
Visit the Government Museum to get insights into Mathura's rich history and artifacts. Spend time admiring the ancient sculptures and pottery.
Enjoy lunch at a local eatery to taste authentic Mathura cuisine. Post-lunch, explore the local bazaars for traditional handicrafts and souvenirs.
Attend a cultural event or dance performance at a local venue. Engage with the vibrant artistic community and savor delicious snacks from street vendors.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural and historical significance as the birthplace of Lord Krishna.
- Numerous temples and pilgrimage sites, attracting tourists and devotees.
- Vibrant festivals, such as Janmashtami, provide a lively atmosphere.
- Local cuisine features unique and delicious dishes.
- Cordial and welcoming local communities.
- Overcrowding during religious festivals can lead to inconvenience.
- Infrastructure challenges, such as traffic congestion and poor public transport.
- Limited access to modern amenities in certain areas.
- Pollution and cleanliness issues in some parts of the city.
- Heat and humidity can be uncomfortable, especially in summer.
Best Activities in Mathura
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the famous temple known for its association with Lord Krishna's birth
Enjoy a leisurely boat ride along the scenic Yamuna River
Hike or take a scenic drive to explore the historic Govardhan Hill
Tours
Uncover the best of Mathura with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Mathura
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers a beautiful view of the Yamuna River and is a popular spot for photography
Known for its stunning reflection of the surrounding structures and is a great spot for photography
Features captivating architecture and beautifully landscaped gardens, providing great photo opportunities
A historical and religious site with picturesque surroundings, offering excellent photo opportunities
Food in Mathura
Mathura Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A delectable sweet made from condensed milk, sugar, and saffron, Peda is a must-try dessert in Mathura. The city is famous for its unique version of this sweet delicacy.
Must-Try!
A classic breakfast combination, Bedai is a deep-fried puffed bread, usually served with spicy potato curry, while Jalebi is a crispy, coiled sweet delicacy. Head to old street vendors or local breakfast joints for an authentic experience.
Mathura's streets are dotted with chaat stalls offering a variety of tangy, spicy, and savory snacks such as Aloo Tikki, Papdi Chaat, and more. The vibrant flavors of these street snacks are not to be missed.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Mathura better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Known for its vibrant food scene, Holi Gate is a bustling street food market where you can relish local flavors such as Kachori, Samosa, and various chaat items. The market comes to life in the evenings, offering a true feast for the senses.
These food stalls are renowned for their diverse selection of vegetarian delights, including delectable snacks like Paneer Pakoda, Mirchi Bada, and more. It's a great spot to savor local street food culture.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Mathura, it is important to show respect for the religious customs, as it is considered a sacred city in Hinduism. Visitors should be mindful of local religious practices and customs, such as removing shoes before entering temples and showing reverence at religious sites.
When greeting locals in Mathura, it is customary to use traditional greetings such as 'Namaste' with folded hands. Respecting personal space and avoiding physical contact with the opposite gender, unless invited, is also an important aspect of respectful behavior.
In Mathura, it is advisable to dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites and interacting with locals. This means avoiding revealing clothing and dressing in a culturally appropriate manner to show respect for the local norms and values.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Mathura with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Mathura
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not commonly practiced in Mathura, India. However, in some upscale restaurants and hotels, a service charge may be included in the bill.
Payment in Mathura, India is primarily done in cash. Credit and debit cards are accepted in some establishments, especially in larger cities. It's always advisable to carry sufficient cash for smaller transactions and in rural areas.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Mathura.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
The best time to visit Mathura is during the winter season when the weather is pleasant and the festival of Diwali is celebrated with great enthusiasm. The temperature ranges from 5°C to 22°C, making it ideal for sightseeing and exploring the city's rich cultural heritage.
Spring is another good time to visit Mathura as the weather starts getting warmer, and the famous festival of Holi is celebrated with vibrant colors and festivities. The temperature can range from 12°C to 40°C, so be prepared for warmer days.
During the monsoon season, Mathura experiences heavy rainfall which can sometimes lead to flooding. While the landscape becomes lush and green, it's advisable to be cautious while traveling during this time.
Autumn is a transitional period with the weather becoming cooler and more pleasant. It's a good time to visit if you want to avoid the crowds and still experience the cultural festivities of Mathura.
Mathura at Night
Hiking in Mathura
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A sacred hill with a parikrama path that offers scenic views and a peaceful hiking experience, popular among devotees and nature lovers.
A serene forest area that provides a tranquil environment for hiking, along with opportunities to explore the local flora and fauna.
A short drive from Mathura, these hills offer various trails with beautiful vistas and a chance to enjoy the rural landscape.
Located a bit outside Mathura, Kosi Kalan features trails in the countryside, allowing hikers to experience the local village life and scenery.
A spiritual site that also offers trails and paths for hiking, blending a sense of exploration with spiritual significance.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Mathura through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Mathura by plane.
Located in Delhi, approximately 180 km from Mathura, this is the primary international airport serving the National Capital Region.
Located in Mumbai, around 1,000 km from Mathura, this is one of the busiest airports in India and serves numerous international flights.
Situated in Hyderabad, approximately 1,100 km from Mathura, it is a major international airport in southern India.
Located in Kolkata, about 1,100 km from Mathura, this airport serves international flights to various countries.
Situated in Chennai, around 1,300 km from Mathura, this airport serves both domestic and international flights.
Located in Ahmedabad, about 900 km from Mathura, this airport connects to several international destinations.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority demographic group in Mathura, primarily consisting of various castes and sects, including Vaishnavites who worship Lord Krishna.
A significant minority in Mathura, with a rich cultural history and presence in the region.
A smaller demographic group in Mathura, contributing to the region's diversity.
A minor demographic group in Mathura, with a historical presence and small community.
Includes adherents of other faiths such as Jainism and Buddhism, though they are present in smaller numbers.
The Soul of Mathura
Discover the essence of Mathura through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A widely popular sport in Mathura, cricket is played at various levels, from street matches to organized tournaments.
Football has a strong following in Mathura, with many youth participating in local clubs and school competitions.
Kabaddi is a traditional sport enjoyed by many in Mathura, often played in local gatherings and sports events.
Field hockey is also popular, with a number of teams and players emerging from the region.
Badminton is a common sport played both recreationally and competitively in various indoor facilities.
Track and field events are promoted in schools and colleges, encouraging participation in athletics.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Mathura.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Given the city's religious significance, vegetarian options are plentiful in Mathura. Many local eateries and restaurants predominantly serve vegetarian fare, making it a welcoming place for vegetarians and vegans. However, it's advisable to inquire about the use of dairy and ghee in vegetarian dishes for vegan preferences.
While traditional Indian cuisine heavily features bread and wheat-based items, several establishments in Mathura are mindful of dietary restrictions. Visitors with gluten intolerances can enjoy dishes like Chana Masala, Dal Tadka, and various vegetable preparations. Clear communication with the kitchen staff is recommended to ensure a pleasant dining experience.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Mathura with these cultural adventures.
