Best famous places to visit in Mathura

Join Whats App Channel

INTRODUCTION

Let us known about the best famous places to visit in Mathura known as the birthplace of Lord Krishna, is a sacred city in Uttar Pradesh, India. Rich in culture, mythology, and heritage, this ancient city is revered by devotees and history enthusiasts alike. Mathura Located along the banks of the Yamuna River,is part of the Braj Bhoomi region, which holds immense spiritual significance in Hinduism.

Mathura offers a harmonious blend of spirituality, art, and tradition, with its stunning temples, ghats, and historic landmarks. The city becomes especially vibrant during festivals like Janmashtami (Krishna’s birth anniversary) and Holi, drawing visitors from all over the world.

Also Read: Best places to visit in Meerut

Shri Krishna Janmabhoomi temple

1.The Shri Krishna Janmabhoomi Temple is one of the most revered pilgrimage sites for Hindus, located in Mathura, Uttar Pradesh.

2.Vishram Ghat: A peaceful ghat on the Yamuna River, where Lord Krishna is said to have rested after defeating Kansa.

3.Govardhan Hill: A significant site in Krishna’s life, revered for its spiritual and scenic beauty.

4.Kusum Sarovar: A picturesque reservoir surrounded by sandstone structures, ideal for reflection and photography.

5.The Dwarkadhish Temple in Mathura is a magnificent Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Krishna, revered as “Dwarkadhish,” meaning the “King of Dwarka.” This temple is a spiritual and architectural marvel that attracts devotees and tourists alike.

This temple is built at the site believed to be the birthplace of Lord Krishna. The complex includes various shrines, a museum, and the Garbha Griha (sanctum sanctorum). It is a spiritually significant place for devotees and offers a serene atmosphere.

History of Shri krishna Janmabhoomi Temple

The tyrant King Kansa, Krishna’s maternal uncle, ruled Mathura during his birth.He imprisoned Shri Vasudeva and Mata Devaki .It is believed to be the birthplace of Lord Krishna, a revered deity in Hinduism. The temple has a long and tumultuous history, marked by religious devotion, architectural grandeur, and episodes of destruction and rebuilding.

Structure inside the Shri krishna Janmasthan complex

1. Garbha Griha (Sanctum Sanctorum)

• Significance:
  • This is believed to be the exact spot where Lord Krishna was born to Devaki and Vasudeva.
• Structure:
  • The sanctum is a small, plain chamber, preserving the sacredness of the birthplace.
  • It contains an altar where devotees offer prayers and seek blessings.

2. Keshavdev Temple

• History:
  • Dedicated to Lord Keshavdev, an incarnation of Krishna, this temple was initially constructed in the 4th century CE but was destroyed and rebuilt multiple times over centuries.
• Current Structure:
  • The temple is a prominent shrine in the complex, with a striking dome and beautifully decorated interiors showcasing Krishna’s life.

3. Bhagavata Bhavan

• Function:
  • A large hall used for religious discourses, cultural events, and exhibitions on Krishna’s life.
• Interior:
  • The walls are adorned with depictions of Krishna’s life, teachings from the Bhagavad Gita, and other significant episodes from Hindu scriptures.

Timings of Shri Krishna Janmasthan Temple

Dwarkadhish Temple

Famous for its intricate architecture and vibrant festivals, this temple is dedicated to Lord Krishna in his “King of Dwarka” form. It is one of the most visited temples in Mathura, especially during Janmashtami and Holi .The beautiful Rajasthani architectural patterns and craftsmanship make the complex appear even more majestic.

History of Dwarkadhish Temple

It is dedicated to Lord Krishna, who is worshipped as Dwarkadhish or “King of Dwarka.” The temple holds immense spiritual, historical, and cultural significance as part of the Char Dham Yatra and Sapta Puri—seven holy pilgrimage centers of Hinduism.

Architectural Features

1. Jagat Mandir (Main Shrine)

• Structure:
  • The temple is a five-storied structure, supported by 72 ornately carved pillars.
  • It is made of limestone and sand, which have weathered the test of time and coastal conditions.
• Plan:
  • Built in a Nagara-style architecture, with a sanctum (garbha griha), mandapa (assembly hall), and an antarala (vestibule).

2. Garbha Griha (Sanctum Sanctorum)

• Deity:
  • The sanctum houses the black stone idol of Lord Dwarkadhish (Krishna), adorned with gold, jewelry, and garlands.
• Atmosphere:
  • The sanctum exudes a sense of serenity, illuminated by oil lamps and resonating with devotional chants.

Cultural and Religious Importance

Jagat Mandir, features a well-organized complex of shrines, halls, and other structures that reflect its religious, architectural, and historical significance. The temple is a blend of spirituality and artistic grandeur, built in the Chalukya style of architecture.

Timings of Dwarkadhish temple

Vishram Ghat

Located on the banks of the Yamuna River, this ghat holds religious significance as it is believed to be the place where Lord Krishna rested after defeating the tyrant King Kansa. Visitors can enjoy serene boat rides and attend the mesmerizing evening aarti.

History of Vishram Ghat

It holds immense historical, mythological, and cultural significance, particularly for devotees of Lord Krishna. The ghat serves as the focal point for rituals, ceremonies, and pilgrimages in Mathura.

Mythological Significance

1. Lord Krishna’s Resting Place:
   • According to Hindu mythology, Vishram Ghat is the site where Lord Krishna rested after slaying the tyrant king Kansa, his maternal uncle.
   • The word “Vishram” translates to “rest,” emphasizing its role as a place of divine respite.
2. Connection to Yamuna River:
   • The Yamuna River is considered sacred in Hinduism and plays a prominent role in Krishna’s life and legends. Vishram Ghat is a pivotal spot for devotees to perform rituals and immerse themselves in the divine aura of Krishna’s presence.

Things to do at Vishram Ghat

 1. Attend the Yamuna Aarti

• Description:
  • The Yamuna Aarti is a grand evening ritual where priests perform prayers to honor the Yamuna River as a goddess.
• Highlights:
  • Lamps (diyas) are lit and floated on the river, creating a mesmerizing sight.
  • The chants and rhythmic beats of drums add to the spiritual ambiance.
• Best Time:
  • Attend during sunset for the most beautiful experience.

2. Take a Holy Dip

• Significance:
  • It is believed that bathing in the Yamuna at Vishram Ghat cleanses one’s sins and bestows blessings.
• Experience:
  • Pilgrims often start their visit with a holy dip to purify themselves before performing rituals.

3. Offer Prayers and Perform Rituals

• Activities:
  • Participate in Pind Daan (ancestor offerings) or other Vedic rituals conducted by priests at the ghat.
  • Offer flowers, lamps, and prayers to the Yamuna River and Lord Krishna.
• Facilities:
  • Local priests guide visitors through these rituals.

Vishram ghat Mathura Arti Timings

Govardhan Hills

Govardhan Hill, also known as the Giri Raj, is located 22 kilometres from Vrindavan.

The hill is built of sandstone and rises 80 feet tall with a perimeter of 38 kilometres.

The Govardhan Hill, also known as Giriraj, is a sacred site in the Mathura district of Uttar Pradesh, deeply revered in Hinduism for its association with Lord Krishna. It holds immense spiritual significance and is a major pilgrimage destination for devotees of Lord Krishna and Vaishnavism.

Mythological Significance

1. The Govardhan Leela:
   • According to Hindu mythology, Lord Krishna lifted the Govardhan Hill on his little finger to protect the people of Vrindavan from the wrath of Indra, the rain god.
   • Indra, in his arrogance, unleashed torrential rains, but Krishna sheltered everyone under the hill for seven days, emphasizing the importance of devotion over ritualistic worship.
2. Symbolism:
   • Govardhan Hill is considered a natural form of Krishna, and worshiping it is believed to bring divine blessings.
   • Krishna urged the people to worship the hill (a manifestation of nature) instead of Indra, teaching ecological reverence and simplicity.

Historical and cultural Importance

1. Pilgrimage Site:
   • Govardhan Hill has been a pilgrimage destination for centuries. Devotees undertake the Govardhan Parikrama (circumambulation) as an act of devotion.
2. Mentions in Texts:
   • The hill is referenced in sacred scriptures like the Bhagavata Purana and Vishnu Purana, as well as in the poetry of saints like Surdas and Chaitanya Mahaprabhu.

Things to do at Govardhan Hills

1. Perform the Govardhan Parikrama (Circumambulation)

• Description:
  • A 21-kilometer circumambulation of Govardhan Hill, considered a highly auspicious act of devotion.
• Ways to Do It:
  • Walking Parikrama: The most common way, often accompanied by chanting Krishna’s name.
  • Dandavat Parikrama: Devotees prostrate (lie flat) after every step—a highly intense and spiritual practice.
• Significance:
  • It symbolizes surrender and devotion to Lord Krishna, with each step bringing spiritual blessings.
• Tip:
  • Begin early in the morning or late evening to avoid heat and carry water.

2. Visit the Sacred Radha Kund and Shyam Kund

• Radha Kund:
  • A holy pond associated with Radha’s love and devotion to Krishna.
• Shyam Kund:
  • Adjacent to Radha Kund, representing Krishna’s energy.
• Things to Do:
  • Take a ritual bath, meditate, or simply absorb the serene vibes.
• Best Time:
  • During the midnight Radha Kund Snan (bathing) on Radha Ashtami, the pond is believed to be most auspicious.

3. Bathe in Manasi Ganga

• Sacred Lake:
  • Believed to have been created by Lord Krishna’s mind (manas).
• Ritual Bath:
  • Devotees take dips here to cleanse themselves spiritually.
• Boating:
  • A boat ride on the lake offers a serene experience and a panoramic view of the surrounding temples.

Timings of Govardhan Hills

Radha kund and Shyam Kund

Radha Kund and Shyam Kund are two of the most sacred and revered water bodies in Mathura, Uttar Pradesh. These twin kunds (ponds) hold immense significance for devotees of Lord Krishna and Radha and are an integral part of the Govardhan Parikrama. They symbolize the eternal love and devotion between Krishna and Radha and are deeply rooted in Vaishnavite traditions and legends.

History of Radha Kund and Shyam kund

The history of Radha Kund and Shyam Kund, situated near Govardhan Hill in Mathura, is steeped in Hindu mythology, particularly the divine pastimes of Lord Krishna and Radha. These sacred water bodies are considered the holiest among the Vaishnavite pilgrimage sites, symbolizing the eternal love and devotion between Radha and Krishna.

Festivals and Rituals

1. Radha Ashtami

• Significance:
  • Celebrates the appearance day of Radha, the eternal consort of Krishna.
  • It is one of the most auspicious occasions at Radha Kund.
• Highlights:
  • At midnight, thousands of devotees take a ritual bath in Radha Kund, which is believed to grant liberation and fulfill spiritual desires.
  • The kund is beautifully decorated with flowers and lamps, and devotional songs (bhajans) are sung in praise of Radha

2. Govardhan Puja

• Significance:
  • Marks the day when Krishna lifted Govardhan Hill to protect the residents of Vrindavan from the wrath of Indra, the rain god.
• Highlights:
  • A massive offering of food, known as Annakut, is presented to Krishna and later distributed among devotees

3. Janmashtami

• Significance:
  • Celebrates the birth of Lord Krishna.
• Highlights:
  • The kunds are illuminated with lamps, and devotional activities like chanting, singing, and fasting take place.

Timings of Radha Kund And Shyam Kund

Best Time to visit Mathura by season

How to reach Dehradun to Mathura

By Train

Delhi to Mathura

Conclusion

In conclusion, Mathura, the birthplace of Lord Krishna, is a city steeped in spirituality, history, and culture. Its iconic landmarks, such as the Shri Krishna Janmabhoomi Temple and Dwarkadhish Temple, attract pilgrims from across the world, while the serene Vishram Ghat and Kusum Sarovar offer moments of tranquility. Govardhan Hill and Barsana, with their deep mythological significance, are must-visit nearby destinations, especially during festivals like Janmashtami and Holi. For history enthusiasts, the Mathura Museum provides a glimpse into the city’s ancient legacy. With its unique blend of devotion, tradition, and charm, Mathura is a destination that leaves a lasting impression on every traveler.

FAQs about Best Places to Visit in Mathura