MATHURA VRINDAVAN

I visited the place Mathura-Vrindavan and as we know Mathura and Vrindavan are not new names in the tourism industry. The Hindi deity Krishna was born and grew up here he places still resounds to the sound of his laughter, antics, and his magical flute. Mathura and Vrindavan are two heavens on earth, and this is the reason why millions of people visit these places every year. Mathura city is mentioned in the oldest epic, the Ramayana. It was first known as Madhuvan because of the thick and dense forests that were once there. Later it was renamed Mathura. This history of Mathura is inextricably associated with lord Krishna.

Day-1 

There are a hundred places to be and things to do in Mathura and Gokul Vrindavan. Here is a carefully curated itinerary making the best out of my trip. My trip began from Mathura on the first day as we scout the city for its cultural and religious heritage, Krishna Janamabhoomi Temple. This temple is the official highlight of the tour as people for a Vrindavan opt for a Vrindavan Mathura tour to visit the birthplace of lord Krishna. There is a massive temple where we attend a puja and pray. The surrounding complex offers holy memoirs threads and more for me to carry back home.

Mathura museum

 After paying homage to the birthplace of Krishna, I visited the Mathura museum which is filled with artifacts and historical assets. Kans quils is of both historical as well as archaeological importance and an absolute must in the Mathura and Gokul Vrindavan tour. The fortified castle is believed to have been built during 5500 BC and is named after Krishna's uncle, Kans. Then I visited Kusum Sarovar the sacred water reservoir located in Govardhan hills. It is situated between Radha Kund and Mansi Ganga and is an excellent place to end my day trip by witnessing the extraordinary view of the sunset.

Krishna Nagar market

After spending the day roaming around the most vibrant and important place needless to say that I must attend the Krishna Nagar market for some shopping of local goods and memoirs for me. It is also famous for its exquisite collection of bright glass bangles, jewelry, handcrafts, antiques, and woodwork.

Vishram ghat

Vishram ghat is the result of a history-induced nomenclature. 'vishram' literally translates to rest, and as per the legend of lord Krishna, vishram ghat served as his resting place after defeating Kans, the wicked demon ruler. Hence, a journey to Mathura indeed calls for a visit to the vishram ghat. It is present in the center of the ghat system, with 12 Ghats each in the north and south directions. Pilgrims from all over the country come to vishram ghat to bathe in its holy waters and complete the customary parikrama. In vishram ghat, we spend some time roaming the river by boat (the charge for the boat is 20-50 rs), and then we attended the aarti.

Agrawal restaurant since 1969 Mathura

Locals like Indian and vegetarian dishes at this restaurant. Agrawal- the best restaurant in Mathura serves nicely cooked raita, malai kofta, roti, etc. The good staff welcomes guests all year. If you want to enjoy fast service, you should go to this place. We ate dinner in Agrawal, "lacha paratha and Kadai paneer". I loved it. I think the price was quite high if we compare it with Delhi's Agrawal food price.

Day 2

 The first half of my second day was spent covering a few must-visit places in Mathura before I travel to Vrindavan later. I started the second day of my Vrindavan Mathura tour by visiting vishram ghat very early in the morning to witness the mesmerizing sunrise view it offered. I am in the quiet ghat and enjoy a cup of sweetened milk tea. My day started by visiting the Barshana Shri Radha Rani temple built to celebrate and remember Radhi and her life. The temple is famous among pilgrims and tourists alike due to its historical importance of being a temple dedicated solely to Radha. When I visited Mathura I forgot every problem of my life. Every time there I just hear the same words Radha-Radha and lots of positive vibes.

Radha kund and shyam kund

Then I visited Radha Kund and Shyam Kund are famous water reservoirs that tourists never miss. Legend has it that Radha and Krishna bathed in these water bodies during their time. I enjoyed the scenic beauty as well as the mythological significance of the location.

Nand gaon

 I had my lunch and packed my bags to travel to Nandgaon by bus. Nandgaon is of utmost mythological importance as it is known to be the home of lord Krishna when he lived with his parents for a decade. It was a one-hour drive from Mathura and make the end of the second day.  

Day 3 

The final day of my trip consists of rivers, mountains, and good food.

Keshi ghat

 I started the day by watching the sunrise from Keshi ghat. It is among the top tourist destination at Vrindavan and get a great view of the river Yamuna from the banks. People also take baths in the ghat to purify themselves. 

Momo's cafe

I ate the momos in the momo's cafe. If there is anything that makes cold winters warm, it is juicy and flavorsome momos filled with onion, cilantro, and spices that salivate your mouth wanting for more.

Prem mandir

Then I visited the prem mandir, this temple is a massive structure dedicated to both Radha-Krishna and Sita-Ram. With terra cotta exterior and river views. The Madan Mohan temple in Vrindavan ranks high among the most popular tourist spots. It is believed to be built in the 16th century and is among the oldest temples in the city. After visiting multiple holy temples one must stop to visit ISKCON.

ISKCON

A true wonder. ISKCON also offered accommodation services, within 12:00-2:00 PM you will be able to avail of their free and delicious food. After roaming the city for an entire day I relax at Seva Kunj and watch the sunset from there, as the location promises to breathe views of the sunset before returning home and boarding a UPSRTC bus the next day. If you want to squeeze in the best parts of Vrindavan and Mathura in your trip, there is something we can't afford to miss. Book your tickets for the Mathura Vrindavan trip by bus because you are all covered on the itinerary.

BY RAGI