Mathura and Vrindavan, the twin holy cities in Uttar Pradesh, are renowned as the birthplace and divine playground of Lord Krishna. These sacred towns are home to some of the most significant temples in Hinduism, attracting millions of devotees and spiritual seekers. In this blog, we list the must-visit Mathura Vrindavan temples, along with their locations, historical significance, and how to reach them.
1. Shri Krishna Janmabhoomi Temple – The Birthplace of Lord Krishna
- Location: Deeg Gate, Mathura, Uttar Pradesh
- Built in: Ancient period, reconstructed multiple times
- Importance: The temple is built over the prison cell where Lord Krishna was born to Devaki and Vasudeva. It is the holiest shrine for Krishna devotees.
- How to Reach:
- By Air: Nearest airport – Agra (60 km) and Delhi (160 km)
- By Train: Mathura Junction (4 km away)
- By Road: Well-connected via NH-2 from Delhi, Agra, and Jaipur
2. Dwarkadhish Temple – A Stunning Architectural Wonder
- Location: Vishram Ghat, Mathura, Uttar Pradesh
- Built in: 1814 by Seth Gokul Das Parikh
- Importance: Dedicated to Lord Krishna as Dwarkadhish (King of Dwarka), this temple is known for its striking architecture and grand celebrations of Holi and Janmashtami.
- How to Reach:
- By Train: 3 km from Mathura Junction
- By Road: Auto-rickshaws and cycle rickshaws are easily available
3. Banke Bihari Temple – The Heart of Vrindavan
- Location: Banke Bihari Colony, Vrindavan, Uttar Pradesh
- Built in: 1864 by Swami Haridas
- Importance: This temple is one of the most revered Mathura Vrindavan temples, where the idol of Krishna appears in the Tribhanga posture, captivating devotees with its beauty.
- How to Reach:
- By Train: 12 km from Mathura Junction
- By Road: Auto-rickshaws and e-rickshaws operate frequently in Vrindavan
4. ISKCON Temple – The Global Hub of Krishna Devotion
- Location: Bhaktivedanta Swami Marg, Vrindavan
- Built in: 1975 by A. C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada
- Importance: This international Krishna temple attracts devotees from across the world. It is a center for spiritual learning, bhajans, and Bhagavad Gita discourses.
- How to Reach:
- By Train: 10 km from Mathura Junction
- By Road: Accessible by local rickshaws
5. Prem Mandir – The Temple of Divine Love
- Location: Chhatikara Road, Vrindavan
- Built in: 2012 by Jagadguru Kripalu Maharaj
- Importance: This grand white marble temple is dedicated to Radha Krishna and showcases mesmerizing light and sound shows depicting Krishna’s leelas.
- How to Reach:
- By Train: 11 km from Mathura Junction
- By Road: Easily accessible by local transport
6. Nidhivan – The Mystical Raas Leela Spot
- Location: Vrindavan
- Built in: Ancient period
- Importance: Nidhivan is believed to be the place where Krishna performs the Raas Leela with Radha and the gopis at night. Entry after sunset is restricted due to its mysterious aura.
- How to Reach:
- By Train: 12 km from Mathura Junction
- By Road: Local autos and rickshaws are available
7. Radha Raman Temple – The Self-Manifsted Deity
- Location: Vrindavan
- Built in: 1542 by Gopal Bhatta Goswami
- Importance: The temple houses a self-manifested (Swayambhu) idol of Lord Krishna, making it one of the most revered temples in Vrindavan.
- How to Reach:
- By Train: 12 km from Mathura Junction
- By Road: Easily reachable by rickshaws
8. Govardhan Hill – The Hill Lifted by Krishna
- Location: Govardhan, near Mathura
- Built in: Ancient natural formation
- Importance: The sacred hill Krishna lifted to protect the villagers from Indra’s wrath. Pilgrims perform Govardhan Parikrama (21 km walk) to seek blessings.
- How to Reach:
- By Train: 26 km from Mathura Junction
- By Road: Taxis and local buses available
9. Shri Radha Kund – The Sacred Pond of Radha
- Location: Govardhan, Mathura
- Built in: Ancient period
- Importance: The holiest of all water bodies, Radha Kund is believed to be formed by Radha herself and is visited by thousands of devotees.
- How to Reach:
- By Train: 24 km from Mathura Junction
- By Road: Accessible by taxi or auto-rickshaw
Best Time to Visit Mathura Vrindavan Temples
- Holi (March): Experience the vibrant celebrations in Banke Bihari Temple and Barsana.
- Janmashtami (August-September): Witness the grand festivities of Krishna’s birth.
- Radha Ashtami: Celebrate the divine birth of Radha Rani.
- Winter (October to March): Ideal weather for a peaceful pilgrimage.
Conclusion
Mathura and Vrindavan are the epitome of spirituality and devotion. Each temple holds immense significance and narrates tales from Krishna’s life. Whether you’re a devotee or a history enthusiast, exploring the Mathura Vrindavan temples is a journey of peace, faith, and divine love.
Plan your trip today and experience the magic of Krishna’s land!