Mathura - Vrindavan Tourism

About Mathura - Vrindavan

Steeped in history and mythology, Mathura holds immense significance for Hindus as the birthplace of Lord Krishna, one of Lord Vishnu's most cherished incarnations. This city, considered the capital of Braj Bhoomi, is intricately linked to Lord Krishna's legend.

Millions revere Lord Krishna and his playful antics, keeping his stories alive through generations. Mathura's location along the Yamuna River proved advantageous, fostering its growth during the Mauryan era. Emperor Ashoka's reign further bolstered the city's prosperity. Later, under the Kushan Empire, Mathura transformed into a prominent centre for trade and learning. This strategic location at the intersection of numerous trade routes made Mathura a vibrant crossroads where diverse cultures mingled. It's here that Buddhist sculptural art blossomed, leaving behind a legacy of exquisite statues.

Just 15 kilometres from Mathura lies Vrindavan, Krishna's spiritual home. This sacred city is not only the place where Krishna's playful flute tunes were heard but also the stage for his divine acts (Leelas). The importance of the city is further enhanced by the poems of renowned Bhakti Movement poets like Surdas, Raskhan and Meerabai, who have immortalized Vrindavan in their verses.

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Vrindavan stands as a prominent religious centre in Braj Bhoomi and attracts devotees with its rich history. It was here that the famous saint Vallabhacharya and master of Indian classical music Swami Haridas stayed. Even Chaitanya Mahaprabhu, a revered saint, visited Braj Bhoomi on his pilgrimage. Braj Bhoomi includes more than just Mathura and Vrindavan.

This sacred area includes other holy places like Gokul, Barsana, Govardhan, Nandgaon, Radhakund, Baldeo and Mahavan. Apart from its famous temples, ghats and ashrams, Braj Bhoomi is known for its traditional Charkula dance and vibrant Raasleela festival.

Festivals: Rath-ka-Mela, Dauji-ka-Huranga, Lathmaar and Rangili Holi, Guru Poornima, Radha Ashtami, Krishna Janmashtami, Yamdwitiya, Annakoot, Basant Panchami,Akshay Tritiya, Phool Bangla, Hindole, Hariyali Teej, Nandotsav, Kans Vadh Mela, Akshay Navami, etc.

Vrindavan

Just an hour’s drive from Agra, on the banks of the river Yamuna, is situated the birthplace of Lord Krishna. The entire land is dotted with magnificent temples, dedicated to various aspects of his life. The twin cities of Mathura and Vrindavan, where he was born and where he grew up, still resound to the sound of his laughter, antics and his magical flute.

Some of the famous temples are : Govind Dev Temple, Rangaji Temple, Dwarikadhish Temple, Bankey Bihari Temple and the ISKCON Temple.

Gokul, Barsana and Goverdhan are the other township associated with the legend of Lord Krishna. Gokul is the hideout where Lord Krishna was secretly brought up- away from the eyes of his maternal uncle Kansa. His consort Radha belonged to Barsana, where the unique Holi festival Latthamar Holi is celebrated with great gusto. At Goverdhan, Krishna raised a mighty mountain on his little finger to protect the locals from the wrath of rain-god Indra.

he twin cities of Mathura and Vrindavan are about 56 km from Agra.

In and around this heart of Braj Bhumi are spots and symbols that may immerse your trip in spiritualism.

The twin cities personify the legend of Lord Krishna, with folklore, cultural traditions and even day-to-day life are imbued with a divine presence.