Temples in Mathura: Exploring the Holy Land of Lord Krishna 

 Step into Mathura, a city rich in history and faith where every spot echoes stories of devotion and godly love. Many devotees who travel there for spiritual purposes have a particular place in their hearts for Mathura, the birthplace of Lord Krishna. As we join the Soil2Soul Expeditions, let's go on a journey through Mathura's famous temples and dive into the deep mix of myths, building styles, and worship that make this holy city unique. 

The Spiritual Core of Mathura: A Quick Look Back 

One of the seven holy towns of Hinduism is Mathura, which is located in the northern part of the state of Uttar Pradesh. This age-old town serves as both Lord Krishna's birthplace and the setting for his youthful escapades. Mathura's roots stretch back more than 3,000 years, with mention in numerous Hindu texts and writings. Hindu legend tells us that Mathura saw Lord Krishna's birth over 5,000 years ago during the Dwapara Yuga, which makes it a key spot for Vaishnavism devotees. 

There are numerous temples in Mathura, each with a unique story and significance. The city's temples stand as proof of the lasting impact of one of Hinduism's most cherished gods, from Lord Krishna's birthplace to the sites where he carried out his divine leelas (pastimes). These sacred structures in Mathura offer a peek into bygone times, highlighting the area's deep-rooted cultural and religious background. 

Let's explore some of Mathura's most renowned temples that you shouldn't miss on your temple tour of the city

1) Shri Krishna Janmabhoomi Temple 

Location: Mathura city centre

Significance: Regarded as the exact birthplace of Lord Krishna, this is the most revered shrine in Mathura. 

The Shree Krishna Janmabhoomi Temple, or simply Krishna Janmasthan, comes as the heart of Mathura's spiritual heritage. It is mentioned that Lord Krishna was born here in the prison cell of the evil King Kansa. A prison cell where Devaki, the mother of Krishna, gave birth to Krishna, is housed in the Garbha Griha within the complex of temples. 

The Shree Krishna Janmabhoomi Temple, or simply Krishna Janmasthan, comes as the heart of Mathura's spiritual heritage. It is mentioned that Lord Krishna was born here in the prison cell of the evil King Kansa. A prison cell where Devaki, the mother of Krishna, gave birth to Krishna, is housed in the Garbha Griha within the complex of temples. 

2) Dwarkadhish Temple 

Location: Near Vishram Ghat, Mathura 

Significance: Dedicated to Lord Krishna as the King of Dwarka, showcasing his royal aspect. 

The Dwarkadhish Temple is a notable temple located in Mathura, known for its exquisite architecture and serene atmosphere. Built in 1814 by a devotee of Lord Krishna named Seth

Gokul Das Parikh, it showcases a blend of Gujarati and Rajasthani architectural styles. The primary deity housed here is Lord Krishna, who is revered as the King of Dwarka and is decked out in regal attire and decorations. 

The temple complex is well ornamented with beautiful courtyards, pillars, and a big hall, hosting a number of religious and cultural events throughout the year. In fact, it is during festivals such as Janmashtami and Holi that colourful decorations and jovial celebration adorn the temple, drawing devotional activities from corners of the world. 

ALSO READ: Ayodhya Ram Mandir: Guidelines for devotees

3) Gita Mandir 

Location: On the outskirts of Mathura, towards Vrindavan 

Significance: a temple that emphasises the philosophical side of Krishna's teachings and is devoted to the teachings of the Bhagavad Gita

The Gita Mandir also called the Birla Mandir is one of the finest temples devoted to the Bhagavad Gita, a holy book. The temple was constructed by the Birlas; it displays an absolutely unique architecture that is partially rooted in tradition and partially modern. On its walls are engravings and beautiful carvings of the Gita's verses. This main shrine houses a big idol of Lord Krishna, who accompanies other deities belonging to Hindu mythology. 

Devotees and guests can find a tranquil haven within the temple complex, which also houses a museum and lovely garden. Not only a place of worship, it greatly serves as a learning and contemplation centre on the Bhagavad Gita's teachings. 

4) Jugal Kishore Temple 

Location: Keshi Ghat, Vrindavan (near Mathura) 

Significance: One of the oldest temples in the region, dedicated to Lord Krishna and Radha. 

Another famous temple on the banks of the Yamuna River at Vrindavan, near Mathura, is Jugal Kishore Temple, or the Keshi Ghat Temple. It is supposedly one of the oldest and most ancient temples in the area, with its date of construction put at least during the 17th century by the King of Jaipur

The architecture is purely in Rajasthani style, and the intricate carvings and beautiful paintings depict pastimes associated with Krishna and Radha. It is this serene atmosphere of the temple, along with the gentle sound of the Yamuna River nearby, that makes up the perfect environment to meditate and be devoted

5) Kesava Deo Temple 

Location: Mathura city centre, near Krishna Janmabhoomi

Significance: Another temple dedicated to Lord Krishna, known for its historical and religious importance.  

Next to the Krishna Janmabhoomi Temple is another one of the prime temples in Mathura, the Kesava Deo Temple, said to have been built by Raja Vir Sinh Bundela of Orchha in the 17th century. 

The architecture involves a work incorporating both Hindu and Mughal architecture, wherein a huge courtyard enters before a gorgeously embellished sanctum where the principal deity of the temple is seated in his form as Kesava, the lord of the universe. The temple is crawling with a terrible hustle-bustle during the festive seasons, particularly during the festival of Janmashtami when thousands of Banaras disciples land in the temple to commemorate the birth of Lord Krishna

6) Banke Bihari Temple 

Location: Vrindavan, near Mathura 

Significance: One of the most popular temples in the region, dedicated to Lord Krishna in his form as Banke Bihari. 

One of the most well-known temples in Vrindavan, which is located just a few kilometres from Mathura, is the Banke Bihari Temple. The temple has been dedicated to Lord Krishna, who appears here as Banke Bihari, a more playful and naughty personality of Lord Krishna. The main idol of this temple is that of black stone but picturesquely clad in colourful clothes and jewellery. 

What sets the temple apart is its style of worship, wherein the deity is treated as a child and devotees offer him sweets, toys, and flowers. Joyous hearts and ambiance are filled in the atmosphere of this temple by devotees singing and dancing in praise of Lord Krishna. The Banke Bihari Temple is one of the most famous and visited temples in Mathura. 

7) Bhuteshwar Temple 

Location: Bhuteshwar Road, Mathura 

Significance: A temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, one of the few temples in Mathura not dedicated to Krishna.

One of the major temples in Mathura belongs to Lord Shiva and is known as the Bhuteshwar Temple. For pilgrims travelling to Mathura, it is quite special because it is one of the few temples dedicated to Lord Shiva located inside the city. The temple is considered to be one of the ancient temples of Lord Shiva in the region and has a history of several hundred years

Lord Shiva is the reigning deity of the temple and is revered as a lingam. It is a self-manifested swayambhu lingam. Within this temple complex, there are other temples that are dedicated to other deities, such as Goddess Parvati and Lord Ganesha. The Bhuteshwar Temple represents a peaceful retreat yard for the devotees until they seek the blessings from Lord Shiva.

8) Chamunda Devi Temple 

Location: Chamunda Devi Marg, Mathura 

Significance: A temple dedicated to Goddess Chamunda, a form of Goddess Durga. 

 Another notable temple in Mathura is the Chamunda Devi Temple. It is dedicated to the fierce form of Goddess Durga, Chamunda, and is considered one of the 51 Shakti Peethas where the parts of Sati, the Goddess, fell. Many followers of the Goddess Chamunda come to this temple in search of blessings for her power and protection.

The temple is beautifully ornamented with flowers and jewellery of Goddess Chamunda. Followers throng the place in numbers, especially during the festival of Navratri.