Nestled on the banks of River Yamuna, Mathura is counted as one of the oldest towns. It’s a holy place for Hindus. The town has several temples and serene ghats visited by devotees from all over India.
This ancient town is said to be the birthplace of Lord Krishna. And it’s a magnificent blend of rich heritage and soothing culture.
But Mathura isn’t only about religious places. You have many other places to visit in Mathura apart from temples. Check out this list of places to visit in Mathura that you must explore. Whether you’re looking for spiritual enlightenment or a glimpse into vibrant Hindu festivities, Mathura is a must-visit. It can be a soulful trip to connect with your inner self.
1. Krishna Janmasthan Temple
Krishna Janmasthan Temple is the main mandir in Mathura. It’s Lord Krishna’s birthplace, and it’s built around the prison cell where he was born.
The sacred aura that surrounds the temple makes it one of the best places to visit in and around Mathura. It was first constructed by King Vajra, the great-grandson of Lord Krishna. But it has been destroyed and rebuilt several times over the course of history.
Krishna Janmasthan is regarded as a sacred place all over the country. Hindus consider it a pilgrim site to be visited at least once in your life. Visit it during Holi or Janmashtami if you wish to be a part of the vibrant festive celebrations organised here.
- Entry Fee: Free
- Timings: 5 AM – 12 noon and 4 PM – 9.30 PM
- Distance from Mathura: 2 km from centre of town
2. Dwarkadhish Temple
Another famous mandir in Mathura is Dwarkadhish Temple. This temple is also dedicated to Lord Krishna, and it’s another of the top places to visit in Mathura. It’s famous throughout the world for its elaborate architecture and vibrant paintings.
The temple has been constructed in the Rajasthani style of architecture. What sets this temple apart is its shiny black marble idol of Lord Krishna. He’s depicted in his Dwarkanath (meaning King of Dwarka) avatar, without his flute and peacock feather.
Magnificent pillars and painted ceilings are some of the prominent features of the temple. The open courtyard makes the complex look even more magnanimous.
- Entry Fee: Free
- Timings: 6.30 AM – 10.30 AM and 4 PM – 7 PM
- Distance from Mathura: 3 km from centre of town
3. Govardhan Hill
Govardhan Hill is one of the most interesting and scenic places to visit near Mathura. This famed hill is associated with Lord Krishna. And it holds a spiritual significance for Hindus from across the country.
According to legends, Krishna lifted this huge hill on just one finger when he was still a child. He did so to protect the village people and animals from incessant rains and thunderstorms.
Although Govardhan Hill is situated a bit far from Mathura, it’s still visited by devotees. They believe it to be a part of Lord Krishna himself. Thus, they come here and circumambulate the hill as a form of devotion when they visit Mathura.
- Entry Fee: Free
- Timings: 6 AM – 6 PM
- Distance from Mathura: 24 km from centre of town
4. Kusum Sarovar
Located close to Govardhan Hill is this beautiful water reservoir known as Kusum Sarovar. It dates back to the era when the love of Radha and Krishna was blooming. It’s said that Krishna collected flowers from the surrounding shrubs and made garlands for Radha here.
The pond is bordered by several temples and chhatri-like structures. Pilgrims visit the place to explore the magnificent structures surrounding Kusum Sarovar. These monuments have beautiful paintings depicting the life of Krishna and his pastime activities.
A short flight of stairs takes you to the water, where you can take a dip. It’s probably one of the best places to visit in Mathura for couples.
- Entry Fee: Free
- Timings: 6 AM – 6 PM
- Distance from Mathura: 25 km from centre of town
5. Jama Masjid
Jama Masjid of Mathura isn’t only a place of worship for Muslims but an architectural spectacle as well. It features a large central dome, four tall minarets on each corner and a raised courtyard.
It was constructed in the 17th century under the rule of Aurangzeb. And it showcases the distinctive characteristics of traditional Mughal architecture. With its mosaic plastering and intricate carvings, the grandeur of the structure is sure to leave you spellbound.
Mathura’s Jama Masjid has a significant contribution to the diverse heritage of the town. And the aura of this shrine makes it one of the most revered tourist places in Mathura.
- Entry Fee: Free
- Timings: 5 AM – 9 PM
- Distance from Mathura: 2 km from centre of town
6. Vrindavan
Vrindavan (also pronounced as Brindaban) is a holy town stone-throw away from Mathura. It’s another of the oldest towns on the banks of River Yamuna. And it’s among the most popular pilgrimage destinations for the Krishna devotees.
The town is steeped in devotion and stories related to the love of Krishna and Radha. It’s famed as the playground of Lord Krishna. You’ll find several temples dedicated to Lord Krishna and Radha scattered throughout the town.
When you’re exploring Mathura, visiting Vrindavan can be a refreshing adventure. It’s one of the best places to visit near Mathura city.
- Entry Fee: Free
- Timings: 6 AM – 6 PM
- Distance from Mathura: 10 km from centre of town
7. Gokul
Located on the banks of River Yamuna, Gokul is another town near Mathura with immense religious significance. It’s closely associated with Krishna’s childhood. It’s among the most serene places to visit in Mathura with family.
Lord Krishna spent much of his childhood in Gokul with Yashoda and Nanda – his foster parents. Thus, you can get a glimpse of his childhood in several places to visit in Gokul.
Gokul has several temples and river ghats. And it offers a peaceful retreat to those looking to connect with the lord. You can also visit the place where little Krishna must have relished his favourite butter, made by Yashoda.
- Entry Fee: Free
- Timings: 6 AM – 6 PM
- Distance from Mathura: 10 km from centre of town
8. Kans Quila
The majestic Kans Quila is an ancient fortress on the banks of the serene River Yamuna. It’s said to be the fort of King Kans, who was an oppressive ruler and the maternal uncle of Lord Krishna. He was eventually killed by Krishna.
Even though Kans Quila is in a dilapidated state, it’s still among the main places to visit in Mathura. Its connection to Lord Krishna adds a religious dimension to it. Tourists interested in Hindu mythology regularly visit the fort and explore it.
It has undergone several modifications throughout its history. These have given the fort an interesting blend of Hindu and Islamic styles. Thus, it also attracts architecture geeks.
- Entry Fee: Free
- Timings: 8 AM – 5 PM
- Distance from Mathura: 2 km from centre of town
9. Vishram Ghat
One of the best sightseeing places to visit in Mathura is Vishram Ghat. It’s a sacred bathing ghat on the banks of River Yamuna. Pilgrims from all over the country come here to bathe in its holy waters. They also perform the traditional parikrama that takes them around the ghat.
Vishram means relaxation, and it’s believed that Lord Krishna rested at this place after killing Kans. That’s why a visit to Mathura would be incomplete without visiting Vishram Ghat.
Here, you can enjoy a calming boat ride throughout the day. The place also has several temples around it. And during the evening prayers, you can witness a spectacular display of clay lamps floating on the river.
- Entry Fee: Free
- Timings: 6 AM – 6 PM
- Distance from Mathura: 3 km from centre of town
10. Radha Vallabh Mandir
Radha Vallabh Mandir in Mathura is a sacred shrine dedicated to the divine love of Radha and Lord Krishna. It stands out due to its stunning architecture and beautiful decor.
While the temple is primarily dedicated to Radha, it doesn’t have her idol of Radha. Instead, its sanctum is enshrined by Lord Krishna as the consort of Radha. A crown is placed next to the lord to signify Radha’s presence.
Radha Vallabh Mandir holds a significant place in the heart of Radha-Krishna devotees. It’s decorated on several Hindu festivals, including Radha Ashtami. It was constructed in the 1600s, making it one of the longest-living temples in the region.
- Entry Fee: Free
- Timings: 7 AM – 12 noon and 6.30 PM – 9 PM
- Distance from Mathura: Close to centre of town
11. Rangji Mandir
Rangji Mandir (also known as Sri Ranganath Mandir) is a South-Indian-style temple close to Vrindavan. It’s dedicated to Goda Devi and Lord Ranganatha, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu.
It’s one of the 108 Divyadesams revered by the Vaishnava devotees. As per the legends, Goda (or Andal in South India) spent her time singing hymns in the praise of Lord Krishna. Seeing her dedication, Krishna answered her prayers and agreed to become her groom.
The temple is admired for its magnificent architecture, too, making it another of the famous places to visit in Mathura.
- Entry Fee: Free
- Timings: 5.30 AM – 10.30 AM and 4 PM – 9 PM
- Distance from Mathura: 12 km from centre of town
12. Birla Mandir (Gita Mandir)
Birla Mandir (also known as Gita Mandir) is a temple complex on the outskirts of Mathura. It’s on the way to Vrindavan, and it’s among the top places to visit in Mathura Vrindavan.
The temple is a prominent pilgrimage site dedicated to Lord Lakshmi Narayan – an avatar of Lord Vishnu. It also has two other sanctum rooms, enshrining Lord Krishna and Ram-Sita. The complex also houses Lord Krishna's chariot.
The highlight of the temple is the towering Gita Stambh. It’s adorned with all the scenes from Bhagavad Gita, a sacred Hindu scripture. You’ll also find paintings of gods and goddesses on the walls of the temple.
- Entry Fee: Free
- Timings: 5 AM – 12 noon and 2 PM – 8 PM
- Distance from Mathura: 5 km from centre of town
13. Mathura Museum
Among the best places to visit in Mathura other than temples is the government museum. With its extensive collection of ancient relics, coins and paintings, Mathura Museum is one of the finest museums in the country.
It’s famous for housing the ancient sculptures belonging to the Mathura School of Art. It’s one of the primary centres for the study, research and preservation of this art.
Mathura Museum also showcases archaeological discoveries from in and around Mathura. It attracts tourists and history buffs alike. And it’s a must-visit for art students and others who are inclined towards ancient arts.
- Entry Fee: ₹5 per person
- Timings: 10.30 AM – 4.30 PM
- Distance from Mathura: Close to centre of town
14. Dolphin Water World
Dolphin Water World is one of the most fun places to visit near Mathura Vrindavan. It's a water park laden with rides that you can enjoy with your friends and family.
The water park takes care of both fun and thrills. It offers a variety of rides and fun games for adults as well as kids. With its array of water slides, it's a haven for thrill-seekers. It falls midway on the road to Agra, and it's the best place to enjoy a day out with your group.
Dolphin Water Park has a row of attractions to keep you hooked for hours. It has a small amusement park, too, along with a play area for kids and other facilities for all-round fun.
- Entry Fee: ₹650 per person
- Timings: 11.30 AM – 6 PM
- Distance from Mathura: 40 km from centre of town
15. Chatta Bazar
If you’re looking for a good shopping destination in Mathura, Chatta Bazar (or Chowk Bazar) is the place to go. Located close to Vishram Ghat, Chatta Bazar provides a vibrant and lively shopping atmosphere.
In Chatta Bazar, you can buy religious artefacts, traditional attire and various local handicraft products. You can also savour local snacks and street food here.
It’s one of the most popular and bustling markets in Mathura, known for its diverse array of goods and traditional items. The narrow lanes are filled with shops selling the famous things to buy in Mathura.
- Entry Fee: Free
- Timings: 10 AM – 8 PM
- Distance from Mathura: 2 km from centre of town
16. Barsana
Barsana is a historical town near Mathura. It’s said to be the birthplace of Radha, the consort of Lord Krishna, and it’s an integral part of the Krishna pilgrimage circuit.
The town is nestled amidst the picturesque Braj region, and it’s a must-visit if you’re looking for sacred places to visit in Mathura and around. Barsana isn’t only a pilgrimage site but also a cultural hub. It has successfully preserved the traditions and legends of Krishna-Radha.
Devotees believe that Radha used to play Holi with Lord Krishna in Barsana. And the festival is still celebrated with immense enthusiasm, making Barsana one of the best places to visit in Mathura during Holi.
- Entry Fee: Free
- Timings: 6 AM – 6 PM
- Distance from Mathura: 45 km from centre of town
17. Nandgaon
Another among the important places to visit in Mathura is Nandgaon. It’s a quaint town close to Barsana. It’s said to be the home of Lord Krishna’s foster parents, who took him in before he could be killed by Kans, his maternal uncle.
The town has several temples dedicated to Krishna, Radha and Nanda-Yashoda. It also has a serene lake frequented by tourists regularly.
If you’re visiting Mathura to know more about Lord Krishna, Nandgaon is a must-visit. It’s one of the less-crowded holy places in Mathura.
- Entry Fee: Free
- Timings: 6 AM – 6 PM
- Distance from Mathura: 54 km from centre of town
Mathura isn’t only the birthplace of Lord Krishna, but it’s also a holy town. You can find many places to visit in Mathura amidst its narrow lanes. This historical town has several temples and religious sites connected with the Hindu mythology.
Krishna Janmasthan Temple is definitely the most popular tourist spot here. Mathura isn’t only about temples and shrines, though. When you get a chance, stroll along the banks of River Yamuna, check out its buzzing markets, and take home a little Mathura with you.
Take a trip in the winter season, between November and February, to explore all the places to visit in Mathura city and around. The weather is the most comfortable during that time.
