2 Days, 3 Nights Mathura-Vrindavan

This 2-day itinerary is perfect for devotees and travelers who want to explore the sacred cities of Mathura and Vrindavan. Both cities are closely associated with Lord Krishna and offer a spiritually enriching experience. The trip begins with an overnight journey to Mathura from either Delhi or Lucknow, allowing for two full days to explore the temples, ghats, and cultural heritage of the region.

Day 0: Departure from Delhi/Lucknow

• Evening: Board a bus or train from Delhi (approx. 3-4 hours) or Lucknow (approx. 5-6 hours) to Mathura.
• Recommended Transport:
  • From Delhi: Regular buses available from ISBT Kashmiri Gate or Anand Vihar. Trains like the Taj Express and Gatimaan Express are also good options.
  • From Lucknow: Buses from Alambagh Bus Stand or trains like the Gomti Express and Lucknow Mail.
• Overnight Journey: Arrive in Mathura early the next morning.

Day 1: Explore Mathura

• Morning:
  • Arrive in Mathura early and freshen up at your hotel/guesthouse.
  • Breakfast at a local eatery and prepare for the day.
• Visit Shri Krishna Janmabhoomi Temple:
  • Start your day with a visit to the Krishna Janmabhoomi Temple, the birthplace of Lord Krishna. Explore the complex and spend time in meditation or prayer.
• Dwarkadhish Temple:
  • Head to the Dwarkadhish Temple, known for its beautiful architecture and the daily ritual offerings to Lord Krishna in his royal form.
• Lunch: Enjoy a traditional vegetarian meal at a local restaurant or eatery. Try Mathura’s famous pede for dessert.
• Afternoon:
  • Visit Vishram Ghat on the Yamuna River, the sacred ghat where Lord Krishna is said to have rested after defeating Kansa. Take a boat ride on the river if time permits.
  • Explore the Mathura Museum, known for its collection of ancient sculptures, particularly from the Mathura School of Art.
• Evening:
  • Attend the Yamuna Aarti at Vishram Ghat, a spiritual and visually stunning ritual.
  • Return to your accommodation for dinner and rest.
• Overnight Stay: Mathura (Hotel or Guesthouse).

Day 2: Explore Vrindavan

• Morning:
  • After breakfast, travel to Vrindavan (approx. 30 minutes by car/taxi from Mathura).
  • Visit the Banke Bihari Temple, one of the most revered temples in Vrindavan, dedicated to Lord Krishna. The atmosphere here is vibrant, especially during the morning aarti.
• Prem Mandir:
  • Visit the Prem Mandir, a relatively new temple that is known for its stunning architecture, beautiful carvings, and illuminated evening light show.
• Lunch: Enjoy lunch at one of the many restaurants in Vrindavan. Try the traditional Chappan Bhog Thali at a local restaurant.
• Afternoon:
  • Visit ISKCON Vrindavan (also known as Sri Krishna-Balaram Mandir), which attracts international devotees and features vibrant bhajan sessions throughout the day.
  • Visit Nidhivan and Seva Kunj, both closely associated with the divine pastimes of Radha and Krishna.
• Evening:
  • If time permits, visit Govind Dev Ji Temple or Radha Raman Temple, both ancient temples that are a must-see for devotees.
  • After visiting temples, spend some time exploring the local markets of Vrindavan for religious souvenirs, sweets, and handicrafts.
• Evening Aarti: Attend the evening Aarti at ISKCON Vrindavan or Banke Bihari Temple.
• Night: Begin your return journey to Delhi or Lucknow by bus or train.

Day 3: Arrival in Delhi/Lucknow

• Morning:
  • Arrive back in Delhi or Lucknow early in the morning after an overnight journey.