Mathura: Blessed with Lord Krishna's blessings
The historic and mythological city of Mathura is located in Uttar Pradesh. Considered one of the most prominent and holy cities in India, Mathura lies on the banks of the Yamuna River. Hindu scriptures reveal that Mathura is the birthplace of Lord Krishna. The Keshav Temple, which still stands today, is believed to be built on the exact site of Lord Krishna’s legendary birthplace. In ancient times, Mathura was also regarded as an important economic hub due to its strategic position on major trade routes.
It is also believed that Lord Buddha visited Mathura and established monasteries here. These monasteries are mentioned in the travel accounts of the Chinese pilgrim Fa Hien. Over centuries, the city witnessed several invasions, notably by Mahmud of Ghazni (1017), Sikandar Lodi (1500), and later by Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb. The Bhagavata Purana and the Mahabharata describe Mathura as the capital of the Surasena Kingdom, ruled by Kansa, the maternal uncle of Lord Krishna. Today, Mathura forms an important part of the Agra–Mathura–Vrindavan circuit.
Following are the main attractions of Mathura
Dwarkadheesh Temple: Also known as the Jagat Mandir, this temple is dedicated to Lord Krishna, worshipped here as Dwarkadheesh, meaning the “King of Dwarka.” It is believed that the original shrine was built by Lord Krishna’s grandson Vajranabha, while the present structure was constructed by Seth Gokul Das Parikh in 1814. It is regarded as the 108th Divya Desam of Lord Vishnu and holds significance comparable to the Char Dhams of India.
Government Museum: Also known as the Mathura Museum, this archaeological treasure was founded by Sir F. S. Growse, the then Collector of Mathura, in 1874. It houses rare paintings, coins, sculptures, pottery, and artefacts from Mathura, along with preserved remains of the Kushan and Gupta Empires. It is considered one of the finest museums in Uttar Pradesh.
Kusum Sarovar: This 50-metre-wide water reservoir, about 60 feet deep, is known for its serene and picturesque surroundings. Lined with Kadamba trees, mythological accounts mention that the milkmaids (gopis) gathered flowers here for Lord Krishna. The tranquil waters are suitable for swimming.
Jama Masjid: Built in 1661 AD by Nabir Khan, the Jama Masjid of Mathura is known for its four elegant minarets and vibrant plaster mosaic work. Devotees from across Uttar Pradesh visit this mosque to offer prayers.
Kans Quila: This historic fort is named after Kansa, the maternal uncle of Lord Krishna. Raja Man Singh of Jaipur built this fort in the 16th century near the Yamuna River. It is believed that Kans Quila once safeguarded residents from sudden flooding of the Yamuna.
Excursions from Mathura
Tourists can explore nearby destinations such as Vrindavan (12 km), Agra (39 km), Bharatpur (59 km), Firozabad (94 km), Faridabad (119 km), and Meerut (195 km).
When to Reach
Mathura can be visited throughout the year, but the ideal time is from November to March. Visiting in August is particularly memorable due to the grand celebrations of the birth anniversaries of Lord Krishna and Radha.
How to Reach
Air: The nearest airport is Kheria Airport in Agra, located 62 km away.
Rail: Mathura Junction is well connected to major cities including Mumbai, Delhi, Gwalior, Jaipur, and others.
Road: Regular bus services link Mathura with Delhi, Jaipur, Deeg, Agra, and Bharatpur.
