History of Mathura

Mathura and Vrindavan, two of the most sacred cities in India, are intertwined in their historical, cultural, and religious significance. Mathura is renowned as the birthplace of Lord Krishna, while Vrindavan is celebrated as the site of his childhood exploits. Together, they represent a vibrant tapestry of devotion, tradition, and art that continues to attract millions of pilgrims and tourists each year. This article delves deep into the rich history, key temples, local cuisine, and travel logistics for both Mathura and Vrindavan.

Mathura in the Vedic Period

The roots of Mathura can be traced back to the Vedic period, around 1500 BCE, when it was a flourishing settlement. Its significance in the early Vedic period is highlighted in ancient scriptures, which frequently mention Mathura as "Madhupuri," a thriving settlement on the banks of the Yamuna River. The early Vedic texts, including the Rigveda and the Atharvaveda, mention the presence of various dynasties and communities that populated this region.

The Growth of Urbanization and Trade Routes

Mathura’s geographical position along the Yamuna River made it a focal point of trade and commerce. Situated along crucial trade routes connecting Northern India with the western and southern regions, it became a center for the exchange of goods, ideas, and cultural influences. The city's prosperity attracted settlers, artisans, and traders, turning it into a bustling urban center.

Mathura in the Epic Age: The Mahabharata Connection

Mathura is irrevocably linked with one of the most celebrated epics of Indian history—the Mahabharata. This ancient city was ruled by the Yadava clan, and its most notable ruler was Kansa, who was the tyrant king of Mathura. According to legend, it was during his reign that Lord Krishna was born in the dungeons of the Mathura palace.

Krishna’s early life revolved around Mathura and nearby Gokul. He is said to have spent his childhood here, overthrowing Kansa and liberating Mathura from his despotic rule. These mythological events form the bedrock of Mathura's spiritual and religious identity.

Mathura in the Maurya and Gupta Periods

Mathura’s prominence continued to grow under the rule of various ancient Indian empires. During the reign of the Mauryan Empire (321–185 BCE), Mathura became a significant center of political and military power. Archaeological evidence indicates that Mathura was a garrison town under the Mauryan emperor Ashoka.

The city’s association with Buddhism is also noteworthy during this period. Ashoka, a staunch patron of Buddhism, erected several stupas and monasteries in Mathura. These Buddhist monuments stood alongside the city's flourishing Brahmanical and Jain traditions, showcasing Mathura’s inclusive religious and cultural ethos.

The golden age of the Gupta Empire (circa 4th to 6th centuries CE) saw Mathura reach new heights of prosperity. Mathura’s artistic and cultural achievements during this period are particularly significant. The city became a renowned center of sculpture and fine arts, with artisans creating some of the finest examples of Gupta art. Mathura’s distinctive style of sculpture, which combined Buddhist, Jain, and Hindu motifs, had a profound influence on the development of Indian art.

Mathura’s Role in the Spread of Buddhism and Jainism

Apart from Hinduism, Mathura played a pivotal role in the dissemination of Buddhism and Jainism. The Kushan emperor Kanishka, a patron of Buddhism, held the city in high regard. The Mathura School of Art emerged as a major force during his reign, contributing to the creation of some of the most iconic Buddhist and Jain statues.

Mathura Under Medieval Dynasties

The medieval period saw Mathura under the rule of various dynasties, including the Rajputs, Delhi Sultanate, and the Mughals. Despite political upheavals, Mathura retained its cultural and religious significance. The temples and ghats of Mathura continued to attract pilgrims and devotees.

The Mughals and Mathura’s Temples

The Mughal period was marked by a tumultuous relationship between the ruling powers and Mathura’s religious institutions. While Emperor Akbar encouraged religious tolerance and commissioned the construction of temples and ghats, his successor Aurangzeb ordered the destruction of many temples in Mathura, including the grand Keshav Dev Temple, which was replaced by the Shahi Eidgah mosque. Despite this, Mathura’s religious fervor remained undiminished, with the city continuing to attract pilgrims from across India.

Mathura During the British Colonial Era

With the advent of British rule in India, Mathura witnessed significant socio-political changes. The British recognized Mathura’s religious significance and established it as an important center for pilgrimage tourism. They built modern infrastructure, including roads, railways, and postal services, to facilitate easier access to the city for pilgrims and travelers.

The 19th and 20th centuries also saw the revival of the Krishna Bhakti movement, with Mathura at its epicenter. The construction of the new Krishna Janmabhoomi temple complex, dedicated to Lord Krishna, symbolized this resurgence of devotion.

Modern Mathura: A Pilgrimage Center

In contemporary times, Mathura has grown into a major pilgrimage destination for Hindus, attracting millions of devotees annually, particularly during the festivals of Janmashtami and Holi. The Krishna Janmabhoomi temple is the focal point of religious activity, while the Yamuna ghats continue to be an integral part of spiritual practices.

Key Temples in Mathura

Mathura is home to numerous temples, each with its unique history and significance. Here are some of the must-visit temples:

1. Krishna Janmabhoomi Temple

Visiting Hours: 5:00 AM - 12:00 PM, 4:00 PM - 9:00 PM

The Krishna Janmabhoomi Temple is the most revered site in Mathura, marking the birthplace of Lord Krishna. The temple complex houses several shrines, including the original birthplace of Krishna, which is believed to be located in a small cell beneath the temple.

Pros:

1. Rich historical and religious significance.
2. Beautiful architecture.

Cons:

1. Often crowded, especially during festivals.

2. Dwarkadhish Temple

Visiting Hours: 8:00 AM - 12:00 PM, 4:00 PM - 10:00 PM

Dedicated to Lord Krishna, this temple is known for its exquisite carvings and vibrant festivals. It is named after Dwarka, the city associated with Krishna's later life.

Pros:

1. Artistic architecture.
2. Peaceful ambiance.

Cons:

1. Limited parking space.

3. Vishram Ghat

Visiting Hours: Open all day

Vishram Ghat is a sacred bathing spot on the banks of the Yamuna. It is believed that Lord Krishna rested here after killing Kansa. The ghat is lined with temples and is a serene place for meditation and reflection.

Pros:

1. Spiritual and tranquil environment.
2. Beautiful views of the Yamuna.

Cons:

1. The water quality can be poor.

4. Keshav Dev Temple

Visiting Hours: 6:00 AM - 8:00 PM

This temple is dedicated to Lord Krishna and is known for its historical significance. The temple was originally built on the site of the Shahi Eidgah mosque.

Pros:

1. Important historical site.
2. Spiritual ambiance.

Cons:

1. Limited facilities for tourists.

5. Radha Kund

Visiting Hours: Open all day

Radha Kund is a sacred pond believed to have been created by Radha’s tears. It is surrounded by several temples and is a popular spot for devotees.

Pros:

1. Serene environment.
2. Important religious site.

Cons:

1. Accessibility can be challenging.

Local Food in Mathura

Mathura is also famous for its delectable cuisine, particularly its sweets and local delicacies.

Must-Try Dishes

1. Peda: A traditional sweet made from khoya (dried milk) and flavored with cardamom, it is a specialty of Mathura.
2. Brijwasi Kachori: Spicy kachoris filled with a mixture of lentils and spices, often served with tamarind chutney.
3. Aloo Tikki: Fried potato patties served with chutneys, a popular snack among locals and tourists alike.
4. Chaat: Various types of chaat are available, offering a burst of flavors with crispy textures.
5. Dahi Bhalle: Soft lentil dumplings soaked in yogurt, topped with chutneys and spices.

Local Food Pros and Cons

Pros:

1. Rich culinary heritage.
2. Wide variety of vegetarian dishes.

Cons:

1. Limited options for non-vegetarian cuisine.
2. Some street food may not meet hygiene standards.

How to Reach Mathura

By Air

The nearest airport to Mathura is the Agra Airport (about 60 km away), which has regular flights connecting major Indian cities. From Agra, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to Mathura.

By Train

Mathura Junction is well-connected by rail, with frequent trains from major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Jaipur. The railway station is just a few kilometers from the city center, making it convenient for travelers.

By Road

Mathura is accessible via a network of roads. Regular bus services operate from Delhi, Agra, and other nearby cities. Renting a car or taking a taxi is also an option.

Best Places to Visit in Mathura

In addition to the temples, Mathura offers several attractions worth visiting:

1. Gokul

Visiting Hours: Open all day

Gokul, located about 15 km from Mathura, is associated with Krishna's childhood. It is home to several temples and is a serene place to explore.

Pros:

1. Calm atmosphere.
2. Beautiful temples.

Cons:

1. Less crowded, which may not appeal to everyone.

2. Barsana

Visiting Hours: Open all day

Barsana, known as the birthplace of Radha, is famous for its temples and beautiful landscapes. It is approximately 50 km from Mathura.

Pros:

1. Scenic views.
2. Rich in cultural heritage.

Cons:

1. Travel time from Mathura may be considerable.

3. Vrindavan

Visiting Hours: Open all day

Just a few kilometers from Mathura, Vrindavan is another important pilgrimage site dedicated to Lord Krishna. It is filled with temples, ghats, and ashrams, making it a must-visit.

Pros:

1. Historical significance.
2. Vibrant spiritual life.

Cons:

1. Can be quite crowded during festivals.

4. Yamuna River

Visiting Hours: Open all day

The banks of the Yamuna River offer a peaceful setting for boating and spiritual activities. Visitors can enjoy scenic views and participate in evening aarti ceremonies.

Pros:

1. Beautiful sunset views.
2. Spiritual atmosphere.

Cons:

1. Pollution levels in the river.

5. Mathura Museum

Visiting Hours: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM (closed on Fridays)

The Mathura Museum houses an extensive collection of sculptures and artifacts from the ancient history of Mathura, showcasing its rich artistic heritage.

Pros:

1. Insight into Mathura’s history.
2. Educational experience.

Cons:

1. Limited interactive exhibits.

Temples in Vrindavan

Vrindavan is home to numerous temples, each steeped in history and spirituality. Here are some of the key temples worth visiting:

1. Banke Bihari Temple

Visiting Hours: 6:00 AM - 12:00 PM, 5:00 PM - 9:00 PM

Dedicated to Lord Krishna, the Banke Bihari Temple is famous for its unique idol and vibrant atmosphere. The temple is known for its lively celebrations during festivals.

Pros:

1. Popular among devotees.
2. Rich cultural experience.

Cons:

1. Crowded during peak hours.

2. ISKCON Temple (Sri Sri Radha Vrindavanchandra Temple)

Visiting Hours: 4:30 AM - 9:00 PM

The ISKCON temple in Vrindavan is dedicated to Radha and Krishna. It provides a serene environment for devotees to engage in spiritual practices and learn about the teachings of Krishna.

Pros:

1. Peaceful ambiance.
2. Various programs for spiritual learning.

Cons:

1. Limited traditional architecture compared to older temples.

3. Radha Raman Temple

Visiting Hours: 7:00 AM - 12:00 PM, 5:00 PM - 9:00 PM

This temple is dedicated to Radha Raman, a form of Lord Krishna. It is known for its ancient deity and is a favorite among locals and pilgrims.

Pros:

1. Less crowded, allowing for a more personal experience.
2. Beautiful architecture.

Cons:

1. Limited facilities for tourists.

4. Radha Vallabh Temple

Visiting Hours: 6:30 AM - 12:00 PM, 5:00 PM - 9:00 PM

The Radha Vallabh Temple is unique in its worship of Radha and Krishna together. The temple’s architecture and intricate carvings attract many visitors.

Pros:

1. Rich in tradition and rituals.
2. Offers a glimpse into Vaishnav culture.

Cons:

1. Limited accessibility for differently-abled individuals.

5. Nidhivan

Visiting Hours: 6:00 AM - 8:00 PM

Nidhivan is a sacred grove where it is believed that Lord Krishna performed Ras Leela with Radha and the gopis. The place has a mystical ambiance, especially at night.

Pros:

1. Serene environment.
2. Significant spiritual importance.

Cons:

1. Restricted entry at night.

Local Food in Vrindavan

Vrindavan’s culinary offerings are a delightful extension of its cultural richness. Here are some must-try dishes:

Must-Try Dishes

1. Rabri: A sweet made from condensed milk, flavored with cardamom and garnished with nuts.
2. Paneer Tikka: Grilled paneer cubes marinated in spices, a popular appetizer.
3. Lassi: A refreshing yogurt drink available in sweet and salted varieties.
4. Mathura Ke Pede: The famous sweet from Mathura, available in various flavors.
5. Chaat: A popular snack featuring a mix of savory and sweet flavors.

Local Food Pros and Cons

Pros:

1. Abundance of vegetarian options.
2. Rich flavors and variety.

Cons:

1. Street food hygiene can be a concern.
2. Limited options for international cuisine.

Conclusion: Mathura and Vrindavan – A Pilgrimage Beyond Time

Mathura and Vrindavan are not merely geographical locations but are spiritual realms steeped in history, devotion, and culture. From the majestic temples to the serene ghats along the Yamuna, every corner of these cities resonates with the divine past of Lord Krishna and his teachings. As a significant pilgrimage center, Mathura and Vrindavan continue to inspire millions with their timeless legacy, ensuring that the essence of devotion remains vibrant and alive for generations to come. Whether you seek spirituality, history, or culinary delights, Mathura and Vrindavan offer an enriching experience that transcends time.