Things to do in Mathura and Vrindavan – A complete travel guide

The sacred cities of Mathura and Vrindavan located in Uttar Pradesh are important to the Hindu faith and are also the places where Lord Krishna was born and further where he played. Both of these cities are central to devotees of Lord Krishna and also boast some of the most beautiful temples in India today. Experience the spiritual heritage of the Braj region through some landmarks listed down below:

This stunning temple is located in Mathura and is believed to be the birthplace of Lord Krishna and is a greatly cherished spot by devotees. This temple attracts millions of pilgrims every year and provides an unforgettable experience of devotion. This temple is built around the prison cell where the deity Krishna was born and becomes greatly alive during the festivals.

A ghat and a bath and worship place located on the banks of the river Yamuna in Mathura. This ghat holds great mythological significance as Lord Krishna is said to have rested here after killing Kamsa, and according to the Varāha Purāṇa, this place gets its name from Vasudeva who rested here, and the ghat is named after him. Visitors can witness the daily ritual baths and the famous evening Ganga Aarti at this ghat as this divine experience really brings peace to a person.

Located in the sacred town of Vrindavan, this Hindu temple is dedicated to Banke Bihari, revered as the combined form of Goddess Radha and Lord Krishna. The temple is always alive with devotees engaged in rituals and vibrant festivals. Visitors not only seek blessings here but are also mesmerized by the captivating idol of the deity.

A Hindu temple in Vrindavan dedicated to Radha Krishna and Sita Ram. Radha Krishna are on ground floor and Sita Ram are on first floor. The whole temple of Prem Mandir is built using Italian marble and there are very well-manicured gardens and fountains and life-size depictions of four leelas of Shri Krishna – Jhulan leela, Govardhan leela, Raas leela, and Kaliya Naag leela which will surely leave you speechless.

Nidhivan temple is made up of holy groves wherein Lord Krishna is said to dance his divine Raas Leela with Radha and the gopis at night. An aura of mystery pervades the temple as per some locals' sayings it is said that no one is allowed to come here after sunset since the god Krishna comes here to dance Raas Leela with Radha and the other gopis. Tulsi (Basil) plants are found in abundance and in pairs with uniquely entangled stems here.

The food scene in Mathura and Vrindavan is closely entwined with the cultural and spiritual heritage of the place, and tourists get an opportunity to taste local Braj delicacies famous for their vegetarian preparations and sweets. The tourists must try the local specialities here like Mathura Peda, Makhan Mishri, Kachori and Sabzi, and others. Banke Bihari Gali and numerous popular restaurants here can be visited to enjoy some scrumptious delicacies.