Perched alongside the banks of River Yamuna, Vrindavan and Mathura are two towns that we all have heard of. These are also two of the oldest towns in India which are related to the religious history of the land. You can come across a number of temples and religious structures in both towns. It is believed that Lord Krishna was born in Mathura around 5000 years ago. Once you visit these two towns, you will be able to do lots of things. Let us check out some of the best things to do in Mathura and Vrindavan.
Kusum Sarovar is one of the most important things to see in Mathura-Vrindavan. The 450 feel long water reservoir is 60 feet deep. Believing the legends, Lord Krishna and Radha used to have their secret meetings at the banks of Kusum Sarovar. The water reservoir is surrounded by several Kadamb trees, which is also considered to be the favorite tree of Lord Krishna. While you are here, you can actually feel serenity. And if you manage to spend your evening here, you can also witness the evening aarti at Kusum Sarovar.
Opening and closing time: 24X7
One of the places to visit in Mathura-Vrindavan that you must not miss out on, no matter what is the Kans Qila. The attraction in Mathura was named after the maternal uncle of Lord Krishna, King Kans. Believing the Hindu mythology, the fort is as old as the Mahabharata. This is a major attraction for both history lovers and religious people. The attraction is also called Purana Quila, so you must not get confused. The fort is the best example of both Hindu and Mughal architecture. Apart from being one of the most prominent attractions in the town, Kan Qila also saved many people’s lives during the Yamuna floods.
Opening and closing time: 6 am to 8 pm
Mathura is not only about temples, you can even go trekking here. You can choose to trek for around 21km in the Govardhan hills. It is a long trekking trail and you can find several roadside eateries here. Therefore, you can take a break in between and get something to munch. If we believe the Hindu mythology, Lord Krishna once lifted this hill to save the village from an enormous thunderstorm. Ever since then, the mountain is considered sacred by the locals here.
Opening and closing time: 24X7
Are you still wondering about what to do in Mathura-Vrindavan? Well, if you happen to visit the places around the month of March, you will be able to indulge in the colorful festival of Holi. The festival here is not celebrated like the rest of the country. In Mathura-Vrindavan, it is called Lathmar Holi and is played in a different way in which women beat, though gently, the men with sticks. Men try to save themselves from the beatings. Apart from this fun way of celebrating Holi here, you can also try the very delicious Thandai here.
Opening and closing time: 24X7
This is a ghat located on the banks of River Yamuna. The ghat was named after the horse-demon, Kesi, who was sent by Kans to kill Lord Krishna. However, Lord Krishna killed the demon and then took a bath in this ghat. Since then, the place is considered sacred. The evening aarti here looks marvelous and witnessing this is one of the interesting things to do in Mathura-Vrindavan.
Opening and closing time: 24X7
This is one of the most prominent temples in Mathura and is dedicated to Lord Shiva. This place holds a lot of importance in Hindu mythology as it is believed that the ringlet of Mata Sati fell here after her body was destroyed. While you are here, you will be able to witness the cave of Patal Devi, who King Kans used to worship. The temple is a shaktipeeth.
Opening and closing time: 5 am to 1 pm; 4:30 am to 10:30 pm
One of the top things to do in Vrindavan is to visit the Banke Bihari Temple. Apart from the religious point, this temple is also popular for its Rajasthani style of architecture and arched windows. You can even find beautiful stonework in the temple. As you come close to the temple, you can hear the chants of Radha Krishna. Although crowded, you can find this temple peaceful.
Opening and closing time: 7.45 am to 8.30 pm
The best time to travel to Mathura and Vrindavan is the winter season that starts in late November and ends in February. However, to see the extraordinary beauty of both these places, you can plan your trip during March, on Holi. As you visit Mathura and Vrindavan, you can take tours of the nearby places also such as Gokul, and even Agra.
There are several modes of transport to visit Mathura-Vrindavan. However, if you want to make your trip convenient, you can opt for a self-drive car rental service. You can hire a car from Delhi through Revv. You can download the Revv app on your smartphone and anytime and from anywhere book a car of your choice. You will get several options of cars and brands to choose from. You can use the car for as many days as you want and once your trip is over, you can drop the car at any place in the city, which will then be picked up by the executives of the company.
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