Leave Delhi early by express train or private car to reach Mathura mid-morning (approx 2–3 hours). This gives you the afternoon to start exploring Krishna-related sites in comfort.
Visit the birthplace complex of Lord Krishna with several shrines and a small museum; an essential spiritual stop for devotees and history-minded visitors. Check opening hours (usually morning till early afternoon).
Visit the ISKCON temple for a calm and well-run temple complex with regular services and a simple prasadam (check opening hours, usually early morning to night).
Explore Banke Bihari’s lively darshan and the quieter Radha Raman shrine nearby; note that Banke Bihari can be very crowded and has specific darshan windows, often in mornings and evenings.
Prem Mandir is known for its detailed marble work and spectacular evening lights; open evenings often show a light/music display (check timings: lights after sunset, generally 6:30–9:30pm).
Explore the vast red-sandstone Agra Fort with its palaces and historic viewpoints looking toward the Taj; check opening hours (commonly 6:00am–6:00pm).
Arrive well before sunrise for cooler light and fewer crowds; Taj opening typically around 6:00am (closed on Fridays), so confirm dates and ticket times in advance.
Head to the UNESCO site Fatehpur Sikri (approx 40 km, ~1 hr) to explore Akbar’s red-sandstone capital and its sweeping courtyards (open roughly 7:00am–5:00pm).
Head to Connaught Place for shops and cafés, or choose an Old Delhi food walk (Chandni Chowk) to sample street food — note some markets close by 8–9pm.
Visit Humayun’s Tomb (spectacular Mughal gardens) or Qutub Minar (tall minaret and archaeological complex); both are open during daylight hours (check exact opening times).