Tour overview

Mathura and Vrindavan form the sacred heartland of Krishna devotion, where every stone and pathway echoes with stories of Lord Krishna's birth and childhood escapades. Located in Uttar Pradesh, these twin pilgrimage destinations attract millions of devotees who come to walk in the footsteps of Krishna and Radha.

Mathura, birthplace of Lord Krishna, houses the magnificent Krishna Janmasthan Temple complex built around the prison cell where Krishna was born to Devaki and Vasudeva. The city's ghats along the Yamuna River buzz with devotional activities, while ancient temples preserve traditions dating back thousands of years.

Day 1: Arrival and Mathura Exploration

Arrive in Mathura and check into your accommodation. Visit Shri Krishna Janmabhoomi Temple complex, the birthplace of Lord Krishna, and explore the museum displaying artifacts from the ancient city. Continue to Dwarkadhish Temple, renowned for its exquisite architecture and daily rituals. Evening visit to Vishram Ghat on the Yamuna River to witness the mesmerizing Yamuna Aarti ceremony. Experience the spiritual ambiance while listening to devotional music and bhajans (devotional songs).

Day 2: Sacred Mathura Sites

Begin with an early morning boat ride on the Yamuna, viewing the historic ghats as devotees perform rituals. Visit Gita Mandir with its carved pillars depicting scenes from the Bhagavad Gita. Continue to Kusum Sarovar, a magnificent sandstone monument surrounded by gardens. Afternoon exploration of Mathura Museum housing exceptional sculptures from the Kushan and Gupta periods. Visit Potara Kund and Rangji Temple, a South Indian style temple dedicated to Lord Ranganatha. Evening cultural program featuring Raas Leela performances depicting Krishna's divine play.

Day 3: Vrindavan Temples and Sacred Groves

Travel to Vrindavan (15km from Mathura). Visit Banke Bihari Temple, famous for its unique darshan with curtains opening and closing every few minutes. Continue to ISKCON Temple and Prem Mandir, a stunning white marble temple illuminated beautifully at night. Afternoon visit to Nidhivan, the sacred grove where Krishna performed Raas Leela with gopis, and Seva Kunj, where Radha and Krishna's divine love is celebrated. Evening participation in devotional kirtan at Radha Raman Temple, known for its ancient deity and traditional worship.

Day 4: Govardhan and Barsana

Excursion to Govardhan Hill (22km from Vrindavan), where Krishna lifted the mountain to protect villagers from Indra's wrath. Perform the traditional Govardhan parikrama (circumambulation) of part of the 21km path. Visit Kusum Sarovar and Radha Kund, sacred bathing places. Continue to Barsana (47km from Vrindavan), Radha's birthplace, to visit Radha Rani Temple set atop a hill and Prem Sarovar. Return to Vrindavan for evening aarti at Banke Bihari Temple.

Day 5: Final Explorations and Departure

Morning visit to Radha Damodar and Radha Shyamasundar Temples in Vrindavan. Explore Krishna Balaram Tree, believed to be 5,000 years old. Visit local markets to purchase spiritual items, handcrafted deity dolls, and traditional clothing. Final stop at Akshaya Patra temple project to learn about their charitable work. Time for personal reflection by the Yamuna before departure, carrying the divine love of Radha-Krishna in your heart.