Famous Temples in Mathura You Must Visit

Mathura, the legendary birthplace of Lord Krishna as told in Hindu scriptures, is a city with many temples that attract devotees from around the world. Visiting these temples gives a spiritual experience and a look into India’s cultural heritage. Over time, Mathura has gone through renovations and improvements, protecting its sacred history. Here are some famous temples in Mathura:

1. Shree Krishna Janmabhoomi Temple: The Krishna Janmabhoomi Temple is the most famous in Mathura. It marks the birthplace of Lord Krishna and attracts many devotees and tourists throughout the year. It is considered the holiest spot in Mathura and is an important pilgrimage site for Hindus. The temple is said to have been built by the Hindu god Krishna’s grandson, Vajra. According to legend, Mathura is said to be the birthplace of Lord Krishna, and locals believe that the temple was made 5,000 years ago. You can still see the ancient prison cell where it is believed that Krishna was born.

2. Dwarkadhish Temple: Dwarkadhish Temple is one of the biggest and oldest temples in Mathura. It is one of the most popular locations in Mathura and is close to Vishram Ghat and the Yamuna River. The main attraction of the temple is Lord Dwarkadheesh, another form of Lord Krishna. This temple is also known as Jagat Mandir or Nija Mandir. The temple was built by Seth Gokuldas Parikh, a devotee of Lord Krishna, who erected the shrine to commemorate the deity. It is known for its architecture, carvings, and paintings. The building has five storeys and is supported by seventy-two pillars. Intricate carvings whisper stories of the past, while the captivating black marble idol of Krishna radiates a sense of peace.

3. Gita Mandir: Gita Mandir, also known as Birla Mandir, is on the Mathura-Vrindavan road. It features inscriptions from the Gita. The central chamber has the ornamented statue of Lord Krishna, as well as statues of Lord Rama, Devi Sita, Lord Narayan, and Devi Laxmi. Built with red sandstone, Gita Mandir displays a blend of Hindu and western styles of architecture, where the holy idols of Lord Krishna, Narayana, Rama, Goddess Lakshmi, and Sita are placed. At the entrance, you can witness 18 chapters of Bhagavad Gita inscribed on the pillars.

4. Bhuteshwar Mahadev Temple: Bhuteshwar Mahadev Mandir is a Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, also known as Bhuteshwar Mahadev. It is also a Shaktipeeth where the ringlet of Mata Sati fell after her body was destroyed. The shrine is considered unique as it is one of the few temples in the city not dedicated to Lord Krishna. After the defeat of Madhu demon, the temple of Shri Bhuteshwar Mahadev ji was established. There is also a shaktipeeth of Devi inside the temple campus where ringlet of Mata Sati fell. In Shri Bhuteshwar Mahadev Temple, Mother Kali, Shri Patal Devi, Shri Giriraj Maharaj and other beautiful temples are situated. Pilgrims visit the shrine to offer prayers on auspicious occasions, such as Shivratri.

5. Chamunda Devi Temple: Situated on the Chamunda Devi Marg in Mathura, Chamunda Devi Temple is one of the 51 Shaktipeeth. It is believed that a strand of hair of Maa Gayathri fell on the place where the temple stands. It is said that Sage Shandilya meditated here and Sri Gorakhnath also attained knowledge here.

6. Dauji Mandir: The Dauji Mandir in Mathura is a Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Balarama, the elder brother of Lord Krishna. Built around 1535 AD, it’s one of Mathura’s oldest temples. Worshiped here as Dauji Maharaj, Lord Balarama is a popular pilgrimage destination, especially during Holi.

7. Shri Adi Varaha Temple: Shri Adi Varaha Temple is one of the oldest in the city. The presiding deity i.e. Shri Adi Varaha is red in colour and is called ‘Lal Varaha’.

When visiting temples, it’s advisable to dress modestly and remove footwear before entering as a sign of respect. Additionally, refrain from touching idols or taking photographs where it’s prohibited. Besides temples, Mathura has museums, ghats along the Yamuna River, and nearby pilgrimage sites like Vrindavan and Govardhan Hill.