Mathura-Vrindavan

Mathura is the birthplace of Lord Krishna; Vrindavan, a few kilometres away, is where he spent his childhood. Together with Gokul, Barsana, Nandgaon and Govardhan they form Braj — a region where the Krishna story is not so much remembered as continuously re-enacted.

This is one of the most joyful pilgrimages in India. The temples are lively, the kirtan is constant, and the calendar is full of festivals that draw visitors from across the world.

What to see

Shri Krishna Janmasthan, Mathura

The temple complex built around the prison cell where Krishna is believed to have been born. Security is strict and phones are not permitted.

Banke Bihari Temple, Vrindavan

The most visited temple in Vrindavan. The curtain before the deity is drawn and closed at intervals rather than left open — a distinctive darshan. Extremely crowded on festival days.

Prem Mandir

A modern marble temple set in gardens, illuminated in changing colours after dark. The evening light display is a highlight for families.

ISKCON Vrindavan

The Krishna Balaram Mandir, with daily kirtan and a well-run guest facility and prasadam hall.

Radha Raman and Nidhivan

Among the oldest and most atmospheric sites in Vrindavan, steeped in local legend.

Govardhan Hill

The parikrama around Govardhan is roughly twenty-one kilometres and is walked barefoot by many devotees, often overnight.

Dwarkadhish Temple, Mathura

The centre of Mathura’s festival life, particularly during Holi and Janmashtami.

Festivals

• Holi — Braj celebrates for close to two weeks. Lathmar Holi at Barsana and Nandgaon and Phoolon Ki Holi at Banke Bihari fall on different days from the main festival, so check dates carefully.
• Janmashtami — Krishna’s birth, in August or September, the biggest night of the year in Mathura.
• Radhashtami — Radha Rani’s appearance day, centred on Barsana.
• Govardhan Puja — the day after Diwali.

Best time to visit

October to March is the comfortable window, with Holi in March the peak draw. Summer is very hot. Book two to three months ahead for Holi and Janmashtami — accommodation fills completely.

Getting there

Mathura Junction is well connected by rail from Delhi, Agra and Jaipur. By road Delhi is around three to four hours and Agra about an hour. Vrindavan is a short drive from Mathura; we arrange a vehicle for the out-of-town temples at Barsana, Nandgaon and Govardhan.