Mathura-“The Hometown of Lord Krishna”
Mathura, situated in the Indian state of Uttar Pradesh, is the sacred place where Lord Krishna was born. It is a small town dotted with numerous temples for ages and attracts numerous devotees yearly. The town Mathura is stretched from one side across the Yamuna River, lined with 25 ghats. The place is flooded with innumerable pilgrims and devotees during the main festival of- Janmashtami and Holi.
To fully experience the rich history of Mathura, it is essential to explore the Dwarkadheesh Temple and the Gita Mandir, the two most significant temples in the town. It includes old-fashioned architecture, the crumbling ruins of old houses, and the locals’ warm amiability, who are always willing to show you around. Sri Krishan Janmashtami is an attractive place in Mathura as it is believed that Lord Krishna was born here. And now, the prison where Krishana was born is displayed for tourists.
How to reach the hometown of Lord Krishna
The closest airport is Agra airport, situated around 50 k from Mathura. But the major airport is the Indra Gandhi International Airport, located around 147 km from the town. Mathura is well connected to Delhi via the Agra-Noida expressway. You can also reach Mathura by bus to its nearby areas. Mathura Railway Station has good connectivity with all major cities of the country through regular trains.
The Colorful Canvas of Uttar Pradesh
The colourful city of Uttar Pradesh, Mathura, is the popular heritage town chosen for HRIDAY. Apart from its holy sites, the town is popular for its industrial and commercial base. The town offers a rich, exotic cultural aura that adds to its aesthetics. It also carries a taste of familiar texture and vibrant lifestyles. Mathura landscapes are dotted with numerous temples of significance. Also, the town is popular for its Braj culture and the Raslilas and Sanjhees.
Culture of Mathura
Mathura, where Lord Krishna was born, has a vibrant and unique culture to feel it. You can hear “Radhey Radhey” chants on the streets, or you can find people who call them “Brajwasis.” It offers enchanting activities, including dance dramas, folk songs, devotional dance, etc., all praising Krishna. Mathura hosts numerous tourists and pilgrims annually and participates in pooja rituals and customs. The lip-smacking Awadhi cuisine inspires the food and all of which is vegetarian. Krishan Janmashtmi is the famous one celebrated here with great joy.
Top tourist attraction spot to see in Mathura
Lathmar Holi
It is celebrated 4-5 days before the Holi festivities in other states. So now it is interesting to know how this festival is celebrated. This festival is celebrated in Mathura, Nandgaon, and Barsana, the districts of Uttar Pradesh. These towns are situated 42 km from Mathura and are popular for their celebration of the Holi festival. The locals have a unique way of celebrating Holi, which involves playing with colours and sticks. Lathmar Holi is a Hindi word that translates – ‘Lath’ means stick, and ‘mar’ means beat. And together they mean playing Holi with sticks and colours. Remember to try Thandai, a sweet drink traditionally enjoyed during the Holi festival. It’s a must-try!
Govardhan Hill
Govardhan Hill, or Giri raj hill, is around 22 km from Vrindavan. It is stated in the holy Bhagvat Gita according to Krishna Govardhan, Parvat is not different from him. So the devotees of Lord Krishna worship this Parvat just like they worship Lord Krishna. The hill is composed of sandstone and has a height of 80 feet and a circumference of 38 kilometres. You can also visit the hills, including Mansi Ganga, Mukharvind, and Daan Ghati.
Lord Krishna saved his village by lifting the Govardhan Hill with one finger. It is now a sacred site visited by Guru Purnima. Devotees walk 23 km barefoot during Govardhan Puja. The hill is worshipped one day after Diwali. So, it is a serene place and definitely, a must-visit!
Dwarkadheesh temple
Dwarkadheesh is one of the holy temples in Mathura and is popular for its fascinating architecture and painting. In 1814 the temple was established and relatively new but is highly revered. It is dedicated to Lord Dwakadheesh, Lord Krishna’s form. So it is well known as Dwarkanath, depicted in a black marble idol. Near the ghats of River Yamuna, it is located within the perimeter of the holy town gate. There are plenty of engaging activities to do in and around the temple. Each day, thousands of devotees come to show their respect.
Best time to visit the place
Visit from Oct to Mar for ideal weather. Visit Mathura during Krishna Janmashthami to immerse in the city’s cultural richness fully and Lord Krishna’s spiritual energy. However, remember that the town received numerous crowds during this festival. The city of Mathura has very hot summers and rainy monsoons, making travelling and discovering new places during those months difficult.
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Lord Krishna Birth’s place
Lord Krishna, who is deeply cherished, was born in Mathura, a city in Uttar Pradesh. It is a small town dotted with numerous temples for ages and attracts numerous devotees yearly. The town Mathura is stretched from one side across the Yamuna River, lined with 25 ghats. The place is flooded with innumerable pilgrims and devotees during the main festival of- Janmashtami and Holi. Exploring the site of Mathura is the only way to experience its rich history fully. It includes old-fashioned architecture, the crumbling ruins of old houses, and the locals’ warm amiability, who are always willing to show you around.
Dwarkadheesh temple
Dwarkadheesh is one of the holy temples in Mathura and is popular for its fascinating architecture and painting. In 1814 the temple was established and relatively new but is highly revered. It is dedicated to Lord Dwakadheesh, Lord Krishna’s form. So it is well known as Dwarkanath, depicted in a black marble idol. Near the ghats of River Yamuna, it is located within the perimeter of the holy town gate. The temple and its surroundings offer many interesting activities. It’s visited by thousands of devotees daily.
Giri Raj Temple
Giri raj hill is located around 22 km from Vrindavan. It is stated in the holy Bhagvat Gita according to Krishna Govardhan, Parvat is not different from him. So the devotees of Lord Krishna worship this Parvat just like they worship Lord Krishna. The hill is composed of sandstone and reaches a height of 80 feet, with a circumference of 38 kilometres. You can also visit the hills, including Mansi Ganga, Mukharvind, and Daan Ghati. Lord Krishna saved his village by lifting a hill with one finger. This hill is considered holy and is visited by worshipers on Guru Pu.
