Exploring Mathura, Vrindavan, and Govardhan: A Family-Friendly 5-Day Itinerary
Experience the enchanting heritage and spiritual fervor of Mathura, Vrindavan, and Govardhan with this 5-day family-friendly itinerary. Delve into the rich culture, vibrant temples, and scenic landscapes that these holy towns have to offer. Start your journey on Tuesday, October 24, 2023, and get ready for a memorable adventure.
Tuesday, October 24: Arrival in Mathura
In the morning, arrive in Mathura and check into your hotel. Begin your exploration by visiting the Shri Krishna Janmabhoomi, the birthplace of Lord Krishna. Admire the intricately designed temples and immerse yourself in the spiritual aura. In the afternoon, head to Vishram Ghat along the Yamuna River, where you can take a boat ride and witness the famous Ganga Aarti. As the evening approaches, explore the bustling streets of Mathura and indulge in some local delicacies.
Shri Krishna Janmabhoomi: Estimated cost: Free, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Vishram Ghat: Estimated cost: Boat ride - INR 100 per person, Time spent: 1-2 hours
Exploring local markets and food: Estimated cost: Variable, Time spent: Flexible
Restaurants
A popular breakfast spot in Mathura, Shri Radheshyam Sweets offers a range of traditional Indian breakfast items such as kachori, jalebi, and samosas. A meal here would cost an average of Rs. 100 per person.
For lunch in Mathura, head to Brijwasi Mithaiwala, known for its delicious vegetarian thali meals. Indulge in a variety of curries, breads, and desserts for an average cost of Rs. 250 per person.
Finish your day with dinner at Brijwasi Royal Restaurant, a top choice for North Indian cuisine in Mathura. Savor dishes like butter chicken and paneer tikka, with an average cost of Rs. 400 per person.
Wednesday, October 25: Temples of Vrindavan
After breakfast, make your way to the spiritual town of Vrindavan. Begin your day by visiting the Banke Bihari Temple, one of the most revered shrines dedicated to Lord Krishna. Experience the lively atmosphere and participate in the mesmerizing bhajans (devotional songs). For lunch, savor a vegetarian meal at the famous Keshi Ghat, known for its unique and delicious food. Spend the afternoon exploring other significant temples like Prem Mandir and ISKCON Vrindavan. In the evening, witness the grand Aarti at the Banke Bihari Temple.
Banke Bihari Temple: Estimated cost: Free, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Keshi Ghat: Estimated cost: Lunch - INR 500 per person, Time spent: 1-2 hours
Prem Mandir and ISKCON Vrindavan: Estimated cost: Free, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Restaurants
Start your day with a hearty breakfast at the popular Govinda’s Restaurant. This vegetarian restaurant offers a wide variety of dishes, including dosas, parathas, and sandwiches. Average cost for a meal is about ₹200 per person.
For a delicious and authentic lunch experience, head to The Great Kabab Factory. Indulge in their mouthwatering kebabs, biryanis, and curries. Average cost for a meal is about ₹600 per person.
End your day with a delightful dinner at Brijwasi Mithai Wala. This cozy restaurant is known for its delectable Indian sweets, as well as a range of savory snacks. Average cost for a meal is about ₹400 per person.
Thursday, October 26: Goverdhan Parikrama
Embark on a spiritual journey today as you undertake the Goverdhan Parikrama, a circumambulation of the holy Govardhan Hill. Start early in the morning and take a leisurely walk around the hill, visiting various sacred sites and temples along the way. Take breaks at intervals to enjoy the picturesque views and indulge in local snacks. The parikrama culminates at the iconic Mansi Ganga Lake. After completing the parikrama, spend the evening relaxing and rejuvenating at your hotel.
Goverdhan Parikrama: Estimated cost: Snacks - INR 200 per person, Time spent: 4-6 hours
Restaurants
A popular breakfast spot near Govardhan Hill is Govardhan Lassi Centre, known for its delicious lassi and assorted breakfast options. Average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
For a satisfying lunch, head to Radha Raman Bhandar, a vegetarian restaurant offering a variety of dishes from North Indian cuisine. Average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
Indulge in a delicious dinner at Brijwasi Mithaiwala, famous for its mouthwatering Indian sweets and vegetarian delicacies. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
Friday, October 27: Temples and Yamuna Arti
On this day, continue your temple exploration by visiting the Sri Krishna Balaram Temple, also known as the ISKCON Temple. Immerse yourself in the peaceful ambiance and participate in the morning prayers and offerings. Afterward, visit the Radha Raman Temple, dedicated to Lord Krishna. In the afternoon, enjoy a leisurely boat ride on the Yamuna River and soak in the breathtaking views. As the sun sets, witness the captivating Yamuna Aarti at the Kesi Ghat. Wrap up the day with a serene evening walk near the riverbank.
Sri Krishna Balaram Temple: Estimated cost: Free, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Radha Raman Temple: Estimated cost: Free, Time spent: 1-2 hours
Boat ride on Yamuna River: Estimated cost: INR 200 per person, Time spent: 1-2 hours
Yamuna Aarti at Kesi Ghat: Estimated cost: Free, Time spent: 1 hour
Restaurants
Dwarka Das Seth & Sons: Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Dwarka Das Seth & Sons. This popular restaurant offers a variety of vegetarian breakfast options like puri sabzi, aloo paratha, and chole bhature. Enjoy a hearty meal for about INR 150 per person.
Brijwasi Mithaiwala: For a flavorsome lunch, head to Brijwasi Mithaiwala. Known for its authentic Indian sweets and snacks, this restaurant also serves a delectable thali meal consisting of various vegetarian dishes. Indulge in a satisfying lunch for around INR 200 per person.
Gopala 71: End your day with a delightful dinner at Gopala 71. This vegetarian restaurant offers a wide range of dishes including Indian, Chinese, and Continental cuisines. Relish a scrumptious dinner for approximately INR 400 per person.
Saturday, October 28: Departure
On your last day, take some time to explore the local markets and collect souvenirs representing the essence of Mathura, Vrindavan, and Govardhan. Indulge in a delicious breakfast and bid farewell to these sacred towns. As you depart, cherish the memories of your spiritual journey with your family.
Shopping for souvenirs: Estimated cost: Variable, Time spent: Flexible
Restaurants
A popular breakfast spot in Mathura is Shri Brijwasi Mithai Wala, known for their delicious traditional Indian sweets and snacks. Average cost for a meal is about 150 INR per person.
For lunch, head to Govardhan Bhojanalaya in Govardhan, which offers a wide variety of vegetarian dishes, including Rajasthani and Gujarati thalis. Average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
In Vrindavan, Krishna Bhavan is a must-visit restaurant for dinner, serving delectable North Indian and South Indian cuisines. Average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
If you have extra time, consider visiting Nidhivan in Vrindavan, a serene forest where it is believed that Lord Krishna and Radha perform their divine dance. Another off the beaten path attraction is Govardhan Eco Village near Govardhan, which offers a unique sustainable living experience and showcases the Vedic lifestyle. These hidden gems are perfect for families seeking a deeper connection with spirituality and nature.
For the best hotel and flight prices, check out Kayak.