Adventure in Mathura: 7-day Itinerary for June 2023

1. Day 1: Explore the Krishna Janmasthan Temple Complex
   10 minutes (2.9 km) from Mathura Junction Railway Station

   Start your adventure by visiting the birthplace of Lord Krishna. The temple complex features multiple shrines and a museum. Take a guided tour to learn about the rich history and mythology of the site. In the evening, attend the grand aarti ceremony.

2. Day 2: Visit the Kusum Sarovar
   15 minutes (9.5 km) from Krishna Janmasthan Temple Complex

   Head to Kusum Sarovar, a picturesque lake surrounded by stunning architecture. Take a dip in the holy waters, and then climb the stairs to the nearby Radha Madan Mohan Temple. In the evening, enjoy a boat ride on the lake and witness the sunset.

3. Day 3: Go on a Jungle Safari in Kakanmath Wildlife Sanctuary
   1 hour 10 minutes (43.5 km) from Kusum Sarovar

   Spend the day on an exhilarating jungle safari in Kakanmath Wildlife Sanctuary. Spot endangered species such as the Bengal tiger and Indian rhinoceros. Enjoy a picnic lunch and then head back to Mathura in the late afternoon.

4. Day 4: Trek to the Top of Govardhan Hill
   50 minutes (23 km) from Mathura Junction Railway Station

   Embark on a challenging trek to the top of Govardhan Hill, a sacred site associated with Lord Krishna. Take in breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside and visit the nearby Mansi Ganga Lake. In the evening, attend the aarti ceremony at the Govardhan Temple.

5. Day 5: Explore the Bateshwar Temples
   1 hour 20 minutes (53.4 km) from Govardhan Hill

   Visit the Bateshwar Temples, a complex of more than 100 temples dedicated to Lord Shiva. Explore the intricate carvings and architecture of the temples, and then head to the nearby Yamuna River for a picnic lunch. In the evening, attend the aarti ceremony at the main temple.

6. Day 6: Take a Cooking Class and Visit Barsana's Lathmar Holi
   1 hour 20 minutes (49.5 km) from Bateshwar Temples

   Learn to cook traditional Indian dishes in a hands-on cooking class. Enjoy your creations for lunch, and then head to Barsana to witness the Lathmar Holi festival. Watch locals dress in colorful clothes and engage in a playful battle with sticks. In the evening, return to Mathura for dinner.

7. Day 7: Go on a Hot Air Balloon Ride
   40 minutes (18 km) from Mathura Junction Railway Station

   End your adventure with a thrilling hot air balloon ride over Mathura. Take in panoramic views of the city and surrounding countryside. After the ride, head back to the city for lunch and then spend the afternoon shopping for souvenirs and exploring local markets.

Recommendations

Consider taking a day trip to Agra to see the beautiful Taj Mahal. You can also visit the nearby city of Vrindavan, which is home to many important religious sites and temples. Don't forget to try the local street food, such as kachori and samosas. For an additional adventure, consider renting a bike or motorcycle to explore the area on your own.

Time and Costs Estimates

• Krishna Janmasthan Temple Complex (2 hours, Free)
• Kusum Sarovar (3 hours, Free)
• Kakanmath Wildlife Sanctuary Jungle Safari (6 hours, INR 2000 per person)
• Govardhan Hill Trek (5 hours, Free)
• Bateshwar Temples (4 hours, Free)
• Cooking Class and Barsana's Lathmar Holi (8 hours, INR 5000 per person)
• Hot Air Balloon Ride (2 hours, INR 10000 per person)
• Total Estimated Costs: INR 17000 per person