Mathura

Mathura, in Uttar Pradesh, the nucleus of Brajbhoomi, is located at a distance of 145 km south-east of Delhi and 58 km north-west of Agra, the city of Taj. Covering an area of about 3,800 sq. km., today, Brajbhoomi can be divided into two distinct units - the eastern part in the trans-Yamuna tract with places like Gokul, Mahavan, Baldeo, Mat and Bajna and the western side of the Yamuna covering the Mathura region that encompasses Vrindavan, Govardhan, Kusum Sarovar, Barsana and Nandgaon.

A long stretch of beautiful ghats - with their steps leading to the water's edge, arched gateways and temple spires extending along the right bank of the River Yamuna, enhances the sacred character of the town of Mathura. The birth place of Lord Krishna - Mathura is today an important place of pilgrimage, flocked by thousands of pilgrims daily.

Shri Krishna Janma Bhoomi
The birth place of Lord Krishna. It is believed that this is the place where about 5,000 years ago lord Krishna was born in the prison of King Kansa. While excavating this area, many old statues were found which are now displayed in the museum. At present this place has a beautiful temple of lord Krishna.

Dwarkadheesh Temple
The Dwarkadish Temple, built in 1814, is a popular temple in the center of town. It is the main temple of the town, during the festive days of Holi, janmashtami and Diwali. Situated on the city outskirts, the temple carving and paintings are major attraction. This is the most visited temple in Mathura. This temple is managed by followers of Vallabhacarya. Once you enter this temple from the street, it is fairly interesting architechually and there is a lot of activity inside. It is located in the eastern part of Mathura, not far from the Yamuna River.

Jamma Masjid
Built by Nabir -Khan in 1661 A.D. the Mosque has 4 lofty minarets, wit bright coloured plaster mosaic of which a few panels currently exist. Vishram Ghat

Archeological Museum
Located at Dampier Park, it has one of the finest collection of archaeological interest. Rare items from the Gupta and Kushan period (400 B.C.-1200A.D.) are on display. The museum has the richest and by far the most important collection of Mathura School of Sculptures of c. 3rd cent. B.C. to c. 12th cent. A. D. which attained the pinnacle of glory during the reign of Great Kushan and Gupta Emperors. With the most impressive quantum of plastic forms with vast and varied meaning on display, the museum provides perhaps the best material available for the study of Indian Art and Iconography.

By Air
The nearest airport is Agra, at a distance of 47 km. There are regular flights from Agra to several cities of India, including Delhi, Khajuraho and Varanasi.

By Rail
The Mathura has its own railway station. Mathura is well connected by train with Agra (1 hour), Bharatpur, Sawai Madhopur and Kota. The Taj Express runs daily between Mathura and Delhi (2½ hours). Mathura is an important railway junction with direct trains to many places.

By Road
Mathura is very well connected by a network of roads and road transport to all major towns of Uttar Pradesh and surrounding areas. Mathura is 141 km south of Delhi and 47 km northwest of Agra.