Mathura is considered to be one of the seven most holy
places in India for Hindus and there are several places of religious and
historical significance in Mathura and its neighborhood. Taking a trip to
Mathura can be a very good idea, if you intend to spend time witnessing the
local culture in India.
What to See in Mathura
Some of these popular places of tourist interest include the
Krishnajanmabhoomi (birth place of Lord Krishna, an Indian deity), Jai Gurudev
Ashram, Dwarikadheesh Temple, Durvasa Rishi Ashram, Kans Tila or the Old Fort and
Sri Keshavji Gaudiya Matha.
The Basantar Park was built in memory of the victory in the
1971 war, and this is a good place to check out too.
If your trip has purely religious intentions, then you can
visit the important temples in the region like the Birla Temple, Gayatri Tapo Bhumi
(first temple for Gayatri), the Gita Mandir (known for its architecture) and
the Siddhi Vinayak Temple.
Another site that’s a favorite among tourists is the Vishram
Ghat, a sacred spot where Lord Krishna is believed to have rested after slaying
Kamsa, the tyrant. Boating in the serene River Yamuna can be relaxing and you
can complete your trip with a visit to the Hansiya Rani Ghat, which is Rani
Hansiya’s bath that’s built from red stone.
When to Visit Mathura
The weather in Mathura is at its best between the months of
November and March. Mathura assumes a festive face during major festivals that
mark the birth of Radha and Krishna in the month of August. This time period is
considered the most auspicious, and the popular Ban Yatra or circumambulation
happens surrounding the holy sites in Braj Bhumi, throwing up an opportunity
for tourists to sink into Indian culture.
Mathura experiences extreme climatic conditions with
temperature during the summers touching 45o C. It goes without
saying that the time between April and June is best avoided. For feasting your
eyes on beautiful foliages, visit the city during the monsoon (July to
September).
Winters in Mathura witness the maximum number of visitors
and you can explore the city in peaceful and comfortable manner during this
time.
The Gateways to Mathura
Mathura is a major railway station and most trains that run
between Agra and Delhi halt here. It takes approximately two to three hours to
reach Mathura from Delhi and one hour from Agra. The city is also well connected
to other major cities by rail.
Situated on NH2 between Delhi ad Agra, Mathura is located 50
km to the north of Agra and 150 km to the south of Delhi. State transport buses
run through Mathura. If you are planning to fly, Agra is the closest airport
that you can land in. Most international and domestic flights land at IGI
Airport in New Delhi, and you can take up local modes from transport from here.
A visit to Mathura during this festive season can surely
brighten up your trip to India!
Click to view map