Start your trip to Mathura by immersing yourself in the rich cultural heritage of this ancient city. In the morning, visit the Shri Krishna Janmasthan Temple, believed to be the birthplace of Lord Krishna. Experience the spiritual atmosphere as you witness the morning aarti (prayer ceremony) at the temple.
In the afternoon, head to the Dwarkadhish Temple, dedicated to Lord Krishna. Marvel at the stunning architecture and intricate carvings adorning the temple. Take part in the afternoon bhajan (devotional singing) to feel the devotion of the locals.
As the evening sets in, make your way to Vishram Ghat, located on the banks of the Yamuna River. Witness the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti (river worship) ceremony, where devotees offer prayers with lit lamps. Take a peaceful boat ride on the river to soak in the serene ambiance.
For breakfast, head to The Brijwasi Mithai Wala, a popular local sweets shop serving delicious breakfast items like kachori, jalebi, and aloo puri. The average cost for a meal is about INR 100 per person.
For lunch, try out Radhe Radhe Brajwasi Dhaba, a rustic roadside eatery known for its authentic North Indian cuisine. Enjoy their thali meal which includes a variety of vegetarian dishes. The average cost for a meal is about INR 200 per person.
For dinner, visit Bharti Bhojanalaya, a family-friendly restaurant offering a wide range of traditional Indian dishes. From flavorful curries to aromatic biryanis, they have something to satisfy every taste. The average cost for a meal is about INR 300 per person.
Restaurants
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Bansal Bakers. This bakery offers a wide range of freshly baked goods and tasty sandwiches. Average cost for a meal is about 150 INR per person.
For a satisfying lunch, head to Brijwasi Mithai Wala. This vegetarian restaurant serves delicious North Indian dishes like paneer tikka and dal makhani. Average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
In the evening, enjoy a delightful dinner at Radhe Shyam Brijwasi Restaurant. This rooftop restaurant offers a beautiful view of Mathura and serves mouthwatering traditional Indian dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
Restaurants
The Banke Bihari restaurant offers a delicious breakfast menu with traditional Indian options such as parathas and dosas. The average cost for a meal is about $5 per person.
For lunch, head to Brijwasi Restaurant which specializes in vegetarian North Indian cuisine. Try their thali meal for a variety of flavors. The average cost for a meal is about $7 per person.
In the evening, visit Shri Radha Raman Bhandar for a delightful dinner. This restaurant serves authentic Mathura dishes like Mathura ke Dubki Wale Aloo and Bedmi Puri. The average cost for a meal is about $8 per person.
Monday, November 20: Exploring Vrindavan
On the second day, venture to the neighboring town of Vrindavan, known for its association with Lord Krishna. Start your morning by visiting the Banke Bihari Temple, one of the most revered temples in Vrindavan. Witness the morning aarti and seek blessings from the deity.
In the afternoon, explore the Prem Mandir, a magnificent temple dedicated to Lord Krishna. Admire the intricate marble work and beautiful sculptures depicting the life of Lord Krishna. Take a leisurely walk in the meticulously maintained gardens surrounding the temple.
As the day progresses, visit the ISKCON Temple, also known as the Krishna Balaram Mandir. Attend the evening aarti and take part in the soul-stirring kirtan (devotional chanting) session. Explore the temple complex and enjoy a delicious vegetarian meal at the Govinda's restaurant.
While in Mathura, don't miss the opportunity to visit the Kusum Sarovar, a beautiful reservoir surrounded by lush greenery. It is believed to be the place where Lord Krishna used to meet Radha and his gopis (cowherd girls). Spend some peaceful moments by the serene waters of the sarovar.
Another hidden gem is the Mathura Museum, which houses a vast collection of artifacts and sculptures dating back to ancient times. Explore the museum to learn about the rich history and art of the region.
For a local favorite, head to the Chhappan Bhog, a renowned sweet shop in Mathura. Indulge in mouthwatering sweets like peda, rabri, and gulab jamun, which are famous delicacies of the city.
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