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"In Mathura, every breath feels like a whisper of Krishna’s flute, every corner sings the tale of love and divinity."

Mathura is located in the western region of the Indian state of Uttar Pradesh, about 150 kilometers south of the densely populated city of Delhi and about 50 kilometers north of the historically important city of Agra. This ancient city is beautifully situated on the banks of the holy river Yamuna, which flows through the area, and is therefore a land of great spiritual significance. It is famous as one of the seven holy cities, Sapta Puris, in the rich tapestry of Hinduism, and it enjoys a special place being known as the birthplace of Lord Krishna, one of the main deities worshipped by millions.

Importance:

• Revered and honoured as Shri Krishna Janmabhoomi, this is the holy and sacred place where the beloved Lord Krishna was born 5,000 years ago, a pivotal moment in history and spirituality.
• The land of Krishna's life, one of the holiest pilgrimage sites in Brajbhoomi.
• At the heart of Vaishnavism, it attracts followers from all over the world.

Significance of Mythological Stories

• As the eighth incarnation or avatar of Lord Vishnu, Krishna was born in the city of Mathura when he was born to his mother Devaki and father Vasudeva.
• Krishna's birth, his early life and miracles are stories that begin here and go on to Vrindavan and Gokul.
• In the city of Mathura, the courageous Krishna defeated his evil uncle Kansa, thereby re-establishing the principles of Dharma and justice.

Major temples and places to visit:

1. Shri Krishna Janmabhoomi Temple Complex

• Built on the prison cell (garbhagriha) where Krishna was born.
• Contains Keshavdev Temple, Bhagwat Bhavan and several temples.
• Tightly guarded due to its religious importance.

2. Dwarkadhish Temple

• Built in 1814 by Seth Gokul Das Parikh.
• Lord Krishna is remembered in his Dwarka Raja avatar.
• Decorated with elaborate Rajasthani architecture.

3. Vishram Ghat

• The holiest ghat in Mathura.
• Believed to be where Krishna slept after killing Kansa.
• Daily Yamuna Aarti and Deepdaan ceremony are performed here.

4. Gita Temple

• Shlokas from the Bhagavad Gita are carved on its walls.
• Found on the outskirts of Mathura.

5. Jama Masjid, Mathura

• An ancient mosque built by Nabir Khan in 1661.
• Found near the Janmabhoomi complex.

Key Ghats on the Yamuna:

Vishram Ghat:

• The most sacred of all.
• Water here is thought to wash away sins.
• Home to exciting Kartika Snan and Parikrama activities.

Bengali Ghat:

• Connected to Chaitanya Mahaprabhu.
• Calm, peaceful, and less busy.

Bhed Ghat:

• Historical ghat and stories of Krishna's leelas.

Rituals and devotion:

• Abhishekam (ceremonial bathing of Krishna idols).
• Participation in aarti at Janmabhoomi and Vishram Ghat.
• Celebration of Janmashtami, with large celebrations of Krishna's birthday.
• Parikrama (circumambulation) of the Mathura-Vrindavan region.
• Offering of Makhan (butter), Mishri (sugar) and Tulsi leaves.

 Weather Note:

• Summer (Apr-Jun): Hot and dry; can reach 45°C.
• Monsoon (Jul-Sep): Humid, occasional flooding near ghats.
• Winter (Oct-Mar): Pleasant and ideal for travel and exploration.

Famous foods of Mathura:

• Peda: Sweet made from khoya; offered as prasad everywhere.
• Kachori-Jalebi: Popular snack combo.
• Chena sweet and lassi in Kulhad.
• Try Mathura ke Dubki Wale Aloo with puris.

Bonus Points:

• Krishna Janmashtami is celebrated with unparalleled grandeur.
• Immerse yourself in Brajbhasha folk culture and ras-leelas.
• A chance to witness Holi, a festival of colours and flowers.

Devotees' Beliefs:

• A visit to Mathura is incomplete without a heartfelt darshan at the Janmabhoomi.
• Devotees believe that Krishna's energy is eternally present in the city.
• People leave behind burdens and return with a sense of divine connection.

Nearby Attractions:

• Vrindavan (12 km): Krishna's childhood playground, full of temples.
• Govardhan Hill: The sacred hill where Krishna is said to have been lifted on his finger.
• Gokul: Krishna's foster home with Nanda-Yashoda.
• Barsana and Nandgaon: The lush green villages of Radha and Krishna.

Travel Tips & Advice:

• Best Time: October to March for pleasant weather.
• Book accommodation near the Janmabhoomi.
• Respect religious customs and dress modestly.
• Try to watch the evening aarti and morning temple rituals at Vishram Ghat.
• Use local e-rickshaws or walking tours to explore.

Things to do:

• Take a boat ride on the Yamuna at sunrise.
• Visit temples at dawn for morning darshan.
• Buy Krishna idols, flutes, brass vessels and spiritual books.
• Attend a Ras Leela performance.
• Savor sweets and participate in local Bhajan-Kirtan.

 When in Mathura, don't just look around - listen to its silence, savor its devotion, and experience Krishna in the smile of every devotee.

Jai Shri Krishna!