Pilgrimage to Mathura

Rs. 4000 / Person (Minimum 4 person)

Mathura, located in the Indian state of Uttar Pradesh, is a city of immense religious, cultural, and historical significance. It is regarded as the birthplace of Lord Krishna, making it one of the holiest cities in Hinduism. Mathura is part of the Braj Bhoomi region, a place closely associated with the life and stories of Krishna. Situated on the banks of the Yamuna River, Mathura draws millions of pilgrims and tourists annually for its temples, festivals, and spiritual atmosphere.

Overview of Mathura

Location: Mathura is located in the northern state of Uttar Pradesh, approximately 180 km from Delhi and 50 km from Agra. It is situated on the banks of the Yamuna River.
Significance: Mathura is one of the seven Mukti Sthalas (places of liberation) in Hinduism and is revered as the birthplace of Lord Krishna, making it a major pilgrimage destination for devotees.

2. Key Attractions

Krishna Janmabhoomi: This sacred site is believed to be the birthplace of Lord Krishna. The Krishna Janmabhoomi Temple complex includes a shrine and a prison cell where Krishna is said to have been born. The atmosphere is vibrant with daily prayers and festivities.
Dwarkadhish Temple: A beautiful temple dedicated to Lord Krishna, known for its stunning architecture and intricate carvings. The temple is a hub for spiritual activities and attracts many devotees.
Vishram Ghat: Located along the banks of the Yamuna River, this ghat is an important site for pilgrims who come to take holy dips and perform rituals. The evening aarti here is particularly captivating.
Radha Kund and Shyama Kund: These sacred ponds are believed to be associated with the divine love of Radha and Krishna. Pilgrims often visit to take a dip in the holy waters and seek blessings.
Nandgaon and Barsana: These nearby towns are associated with Lord Krishna’s childhood. Nandgaon is the village of Krishna’s foster father, Nanda, while Barsana is the birthplace of Radha. Both places are rich in history and cultural significance.
Mathura Museum: This museum showcases a collection of artifacts related to the life of Lord Krishna and the history of Mathura. It’s a great place to learn more about the region’s heritage.

3. Activities

Temple Visits: Engage in spiritual practices by visiting the various temples in Mathura, participating in rituals, and seeking blessings.
River Activities: Take a boat ride on the Yamuna River to enjoy the serene environment and picturesque views of the ghats.
Cultural Programs: Attend local cultural events, dance performances, and music recitals that often depict stories from the life of Lord Krishna.
Local Market Exploration: Explore the bustling local markets, where you can find religious artifacts, handicrafts, and delicious local sweets like peda.

4. Cuisine

Local Delicacies: Mathura offers a range of vegetarian cuisine, with some must-try dishes including:
- Mathura Peda: A sweet made from condensed milk, flavored with cardamom and garnished with pistachios.
- Aloo Tikki: Spicy potato patties served with chutneys.
- Chaat: A variety of savory snacks made from potatoes, chickpeas, and spices.

5. How to Reach

By Air: The nearest airport is Agra Airport, about 50 km from Mathura. The airport has limited connectivity, with better options available in Delhi.
By Train: Mathura Junction is well-connected by rail, with trains operating from major cities across India. It’s one of the most convenient ways to reach Mathura.
By Road: Mathura is well-connected by road to nearby cities like Delhi, Agra, and Vrindavan. Buses, taxis, and auto-rickshaws are available for local transportation.

6. Accommodation

Options: Mathura offers a variety of accommodation options, including dharamshalas (pilgrim lodges), budget hotels, and mid-range options. Staying near the Krishna Janmabhoomi can enhance your spiritual experience.

7. Best Time to Visit

Seasons: The best time to visit Mathura is from October to March, when the weather is pleasant for sightseeing and spiritual activities. Major festivals like Janmashtami and Holi draw huge crowds and provide a unique cultural experience.

Conclusion

An expedition to Mathura offers a rich spiritual experience filled with historical significance, vibrant culture, and deep-rooted traditions. Whether you’re exploring the sacred temples, participating in rituals, or enjoying the local cuisine, Mathura promises an unforgettable journey into the heart of Hindu spirituality.

Overview

Day 01 :

Delhi to Mathura & Local Sightseeing

Morning:
1. Drive from Delhi to Mathura (6:00 AM - 9:00 AM)
  - Depart from Delhi early in the morning for Mathura (about 180 km, 3-4 hours by road).
  - Stop for breakfast at a highway restaurant.

Check-in:
- Arrive in Mathura by mid-morning and check into your hotel.

Late Morning: 2. Shri Krishna Janmabhoomi Temple (10:30 AM - 12:00 PM)
- Visit the Shri Krishna Janmabhoomi Temple, the birthplace of Lord Krishna. Explore the temple complex, which has a sacred prison cell where Krishna is said to have been born.

Lunch:
- Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant or your hotel.

Afternoon: 3. Dwarkadhish Temple (2:00 PM - 3:30 PM)
- Visit the Dwarkadhish Temple, dedicated to Lord Krishna. This 200-year-old temple is one of the most popular shrines in Mathura with beautiful architecture and a peaceful ambiance.
1. Vishram Ghat (4:00 PM - 5:30 PM)
  - Head to Vishram Ghat, a sacred bathing ghat along the Yamuna River where Lord Krishna is said to have rested after defeating the demon Kansa. Take a boat ride along the river and enjoy the serene views.

Evening: 5. Yamuna Aarti at Vishram Ghat (6:00 PM - 7:00 PM)
- Witness the evening Yamuna Aarti, a peaceful and spiritual experience. Lamps and flowers are floated down the river, creating a beautiful atmosphere.

Dinner:
- Have dinner at a local restaurant or your hotel.

Overnight:
- Return to your hotel and relax for the night.

Day 02 :

Vrindavan Exploration

Morning:

Drive to Vrindavan (8:00 AM - 8:30 AM)
- After breakfast, drive to Vrindavan, which is about 15 km (30-minute drive) from Mathura.

Banke Bihari Temple (9:00 AM - 10:30 AM)
- Visit the famous Banke Bihari Temple, dedicated to Lord Krishna. The temple is known for its vibrant atmosphere, and the deity of Lord Krishna is adorned beautifully.

Prem Mandir (10:45 AM - 12:00 PM)
- Explore Prem Mandir, a beautiful marble temple dedicated to Radha-Krishna. The temple’s intricate architecture and serene environment are perfect for some spiritual reflection.

Lunch:

Have lunch at a local restaurant in Vrindavan.

Afternoon: 4. ISKCON Temple (1:30 PM - 3:00 PM)

Visit the ISKCON (Krishna Balaram Mandir), one of the most well-known temples in Vrindavan, especially among international visitors. Experience the peaceful and spiritual vibe of the temple complex.

Radha Raman Temple (3:30 PM - 4:30 PM)
- Visit the Radha Raman Temple, one of the ancient temples in Vrindavan. The temple is famous for its deity of Lord Krishna and beautiful rituals.

Evening: 6. Nidhivan and Seva Kunj (5:00 PM - 6:30 PM)

Explore Nidhivan, where it is believed that Lord Krishna performs Ras Lila every night. The trees and plants here are said to represent gopis. Close by is Seva Kunj, another revered site associated with Radha-Krishna.

Dinner:

Return to Mathura and have dinner at your hotel or a local restaurant.

Overnight:

Stay overnight in Mathura.

Day 03 :

Govardhan and Departure

Morning:

Drive to Govardhan (8:00 AM - 8:30 AM)
- After breakfast, drive to Govardhan, about 25 km from Mathura.

Govardhan Parikrama (9:00 AM - 12:00 PM)
- Do a short portion of the Govardhan Parikrama, a sacred walk around Govardhan Hill, which is believed to have been lifted by Lord Krishna to protect the villagers from heavy rain. The full Parikrama is about 21 km, but you can choose to do a shorter segment.

Lunch:

Return to Mathura for lunch at a local restaurant.

Afternoon: 3. Radha Kund and Shyam Kund (2:00 PM - 3:00 PM)

Visit Radha Kund and Shyam Kund, two sacred ponds associated with the love of Radha and Krishna.

Explore Local Markets (3:30 PM - 5:00 PM)
- Spend some time shopping for souvenirs and handicrafts in the local markets of Mathura. Items like traditional handicrafts, religious items, and sweets such as Mathura Peda are popular.

Evening: 5. Drive Back to Delhi (5:00 PM - 8:30 PM)