Mathura Tour Packages

Rooted deep in history, devotion, and timeless charm is the very Mathura. Book Thomas Cook Mathura tour packages to explore the spiritual heart of India. Popular as the birthplace of Lord Krishna, Mathura is a sacred city situated on the banks of the River Yamuna. It has multiple ancient ghats and temples that still preserve the age-old traditions of India. A Mathura tour plan is enriching for the soul.

The Mathura holiday package is perfect for those who want to explore the spiritual and cultural essence of the place. From a spiritual getaway to a short heritage escape, Mathura offers attractions for all. Visit Mathura to discover ancient rituals and age-old stories while you soak in the divine energy of Mathura. While Thomas Cook takes care of every detail of your trip, you get to relax and focus on a journey that matters.

Introduction to Mathura

Mathura is one of the oldest cities in India. The history of this city dates back 2500 years. Hailed as the birthplace of Lord Krishna, it is one of the most spiritual cities of India. You can explore a variety of temples situated along the roads during your Mathura tour. Located in Uttar Pradesh, Mathura is one of the seven holy cities of India. It attracts thousands of tourists and devotees every year.

Most people book Vrindavan Mathura tour packages during Holi and other festive seasons to experience the beauty of this place in all its glory. The city is on the banks of the River Yamuna and has many historical and mythological connections. The mention of Mathura appears in one of the oldest epics of Hinduism, the Ramayana. In ancient times, Mathura was known as Madhuvan for its dense forests.

The history of Mathura is mainly linked to Lord Krishna. Lord Krishna defeating the evil King Kansa and winning over him accurately represents the victory over evil in Mathura. Most of the temples in Mathura are dedicated to Lord Krishna and Radha Rani. A visit to Mathura is incomplete without a stop in Vrindavan.

You can book a Mathura holiday package with Vrindavan to soak in the spiritual essence of the place. Often referred to as the twin City of Mathura, Vrindavan is also a must-visit religious place in India. On your trip to Mathura and Vrindavan, you must visit the following places:

• Bankey Bihari Temple
• Govind Dev Ji Temple
• Dwarkadhish Temple
• Radha Ballabh Temple
• Nidhi Van Temple
• Vrindavan Forest

As you step into Mathura, you'll be surprised by the charm and beauty of the place—the narrow streets and lanes of Mathura house various ancient stories. The ancient houses will transport you back in time during the tour. You can hear soothing, pleasant religious chants.

Why Choose Mathura for Your Spiritual & Cultural Journey?

If you're starting your spiritual and cultural journey, Mathura may be one of the best places to begin. Being the birthplace of Krishna, Mathura is of great importance as a Hindu pilgrimage site. From deep religious history to multiple temples, there's a lot to explore during your Mathura tour.

Here's why you must choose Mathura for your spiritual and cultural journey:

Home to Various Temples

The temples of Mathura are more than just monuments. They're a sign of love and positive energy. A visit to these temples on your Mathura tour offers long-lasting peace. Given the religious sanctity of the place, there are several temples you can visit here. Some popular temples to visit in Mathura include Radha Raman Temple, ISKCON Temple, Govind Dev Ji Temple, Rangji Temple, and Bankey Bihari Temple.

Experience the Festivals of Mathura

Want to experience the vibrant culture of India at its best? Visit Mathura during the festive season. Book your Mathura trip package in advance to experience the beauty. The festivals in Mathura are no less than spiritual awakenings. This city celebrates festivals like no other city in India. Some of the key festivals in which Bhakti becomes a celebration include Govardhan Puja, Janmashtami, and Radhashtami. Also, do not miss out on enjoying Holi in Vrindavan and Barsana.

Participate in Parikrama

Participating in Parikrama is one of the most important spiritual practices in Hinduism. There are multiple places for Parikrama in Mathura. After booking Mathura tour packages, you can undertake any of the parikramas for a profound internal spiritual awakening. The key parikramas that you must take in Mathura and surrender to the eternal divine love include:

• Govardhan Parikrama
• Barsana and Nandgaon Parikrama
• Vrindavan Parikrama
• Kartika Maas Parikrama
• Learn About the Saints

Several saints have lived some of the most important parts of their lives in Mathura. As part of your Mathura holiday package, you will learn in depth about the history of the place and its saints. Some saints who visited Mathura lived here for a long time. Saints like Mirabai, Swami Haridas and Chaitanya Mahaprabhu have lived here. Even today, you'll find some priests walking by the dusty route of Mathura to explore divine bliss.

Explore Ancient Scriptures

Mathura has always had its roots in ancient Hindu scriptures. The Bhagavata Purana unfolds in Mathura. Mathura is mentioned as a divine city in the Harivamsha and the Vishnu Purana. Many believe that the Gaudiya attained their spiritual calling in this place. Walk by the forests and temples to complete your tour religiously.

Planning Your Mathura Trip: Essential Information

Best Time to Visit Mathura

October to March is usually the best time to book a Mathura trip package. Because it is peak travel season, most of the sightseeing destinations are likely to be crowded. Therefore, you must visit the temples and other tourist destinations a little early. The weather is pleasant and low-humidity, making it the perfect time for outdoor sightseeing. You can explore the temples and the ghats.

How to Reach Mathura?

By Air:

Mathura does not have an airport of its own. The closest airport to Mathura is Agra, about 50 km away. You can book a flight from any part of India to Agra. Then, you can take a bus or a private taxi to reach Mathura.

By Train:

Mathura is well-connected to major Indian cities via the Central and Western Railways. You can book a train from your city to Mathura. Upon arrival at the Mathura junction, you can visit the nearby places.

By Road:

Undertaking a road trip as part of your Mathura travel package can be a fun experience. However, the journey can be tiring. You can book a bus from Jaipur, Delhi or Agra to reach Mathura. If you're taking a car or private vehicle, you must take National Highway 44 or National Highway 10.

Weather & Travel Tips

The key to exploring Mathura at its best is to book the Mathura trip package at the right time. Below are some weather and travel tips to follow for a hassle-free experience:

• Winter offers the most incredible, most pleasant weather for exploring the temples. It's an ideal time for outdoor activities. Avoid visiting during the monsoon as it can be rainy and hamper your plans.
• Irrespective of when you're visiting Mathura, pack light, breathable clothing. Be sure to wear modest clothing that covers your knees and shoulders for temple visits.
• Stay hydrated while exploring the place. Make sure to carry water when you're out and about.
• Adopt the place's spiritual vibe and devotional atmosphere. It is a key destination for the Krishna pilgrimage.

Local Travel & Darshan Guidelines

For local travel in Mathura, it is best to opt for auto-rickshaws or local taxis. However, the Mathura holiday package by Thomas Cook does cover sightseeing in private AC vehicles. For your leisure time, you can use the auto-rickshaws.

The temples in Mathura are very strict, so make sure to adhere to the darshan guidelines:

• Shri Banke Bihari Temple: Online booking is recommended for a smooth darshan. Select the date and time for your visit and receive your Darshan ID.
• Dwarkadhish Temple: Do not carry mobile phones, cameras or electronic devices in the main temple premises. Locker facilities are available; make sure to use them.
• Always dress modestly when visiting the temples. Remove your footwear before entering the temple.
• Respect the local traditions and customs. Be extra cautious when entering crowded areas.

Curated Mathura Tour Packages by Thomas Cook

Overview of Mathura Tour & Holiday Packages

Explore the divine beauty of Mathura with Thomas Cook's best tour and holiday packages. All the packages are carefully crafted to ensure you have the best experience on your trip. As the Mathura travel package is flexible, you can customise it as well.

On your Mathura travel package, you explore the top tourist attractions, like the temples and ghats. These packages are ideal for solo travellers, family vacations or those who want to explore the culture of India. Experience the rich beauty of the breathtaking monuments and sculptures, or relax by the ghats. A trip to India's spiritual heartland can truly be a life-changing experience. Balancing spirituality, comfort and convenience, this is an ideal trip you must be taking.

The Mathura holiday package by Thomas covers major destinations like Vishram Ghat and Sri Krishna Janmabhoomi. Tourists booking these packages get a chance to immerse themselves in spirituality. The tour package covers a variety of accommodation options, sightseeing for iconic destinations and seamless transfers. First-time visitors have nothing to worry about as Thomas Cook takes care of it all.

The Mathura trip package is designed to suit different travel styles and budget preferences. Whether you want an immersive spiritual journey or a weekend getaway, you can book a trip that suits your preferences. Enjoy a peaceful temple visit during your trip or walk through the majestic ancient streets. Attend a relaxing evening aarti by the ghats of the Yamuna. Every detail in the trip package is crafted to suit the interests of different travellers.

A Mathura holiday package from Thomas Cook promises a spiritually fulfilling experience like no other. Set out on the tour for cultural discovery or attending inner moments of peace. Each of these experiences that you have during the trip is likely to stay with you for a long time. Thus, it won't be a surprise if you come back as a different person with new and fulfilling experiences.

Mathura Darshan & Spiritual Package Options

The Mathura Darshan package by Thomas Cook has been designed to ensure that you get a fulfilling and enriching experience. The spiritual package options are available for group tours and family travellers alike. Starting from a mere ₹14,300 per adult, the packages are super affordable and offer all comforts and luxuries.

The most prominent Mathura Darshan package that you can choose from is as follows:

• Mathura, Vrindava, and Agra with Bateshwar Dham Tour

This 5 Nights 6 Days package offers an all-inclusive experience for your Mathura tour. Accommodation, sightseeing, and meals are included in the Mathura travel package with optional flights. As a value tour type, the accommodation is at a 4-star hotel, ensuring comfort and convenience. On the trip, you'll explore Agra, Vrindavan and Mathura. Private AC transfers are available for sightseeing as per the itinerary. Moreover, standard travel insurance is provided for the entire trip.

Top Attractions & Sacred Places to Visit in Mathura

The Mathura travel packages by Thomas Cook offer numerous opportunities to explore the surrounding areas. From temples to ghats, there are multiple places for you to visit. Here are some of the top tourist attractions in Mathura that you must visit:

Shri Krishna Janmasthan Temple

Located in the holy city of Mathura in Uttar Pradesh, Shri Krishna Janmasthan Temple is one of the most prominent places to visit. It is located 1km from the city centre. The temple is built around a prison believed to be the birthplace of Lord Krishna. Other temples are also located around the temple. As soon as you enter the temple, you will feel a strong divine presence. The temple had been destroyed multiple times by several Kings. However, it was rebuilt to uphold the sanctity of the place.

Govardhan Hill

Also known as Giri Raj, Govardhan Hill is actually located 22 km from Vrindavan. The mention of Govardhan Hill can be found in the holy Bhagavad Gita. In the Gita, Lord Krishna mentions that the Govardhan Parvat is no different from him. The rocks of the hill are considered to be pious. All the devotees worship the stones of the mountain just like they worship the Krishna idol. The hill stands 80 ft tall.

Vishram Ghat

Vishram Ghat is one of the most popular ghats of Mathura, located on the banks of the River Yamuna. As the main ghat of Mathura, it is central among the other 25 ghats. Pilgrims from all over the country visit Vishram Ghat to bathe here. The traditional parikrama of Mathura begins and ends at Vishram Ghat.

Radha Kund and Shyam Kund

Located very close to the Govardhan Hill, you must visit the revered Radha Kund on your Mathura travel package. It is one of the holiest places in Braj, along with Shyam Kund. These two holy water bodies are situated next to each other. Devotees believe that these ponds contain sacred, pure water. Furthermore, many devotees also believe that the waters have magical healing properties.

Kans Qila

One of the top tourist attractions to visit on the banks of the River Yamuna is Kans Qila. It is an ancient fort dedicated to the maternal uncle of Lord Krishna, Kans. This ancient fort has a very key attraction near Gau Ghat and Krishna Ganga Ghat. This tourist attraction has been constructed by fusing elements of Hindu and Muslim architecture.

Birla Mandir

During your Mathura tour, you should make it a point to visit Birla Mandir. Located on the Vrindavan-Mathura road, this temple is popularly known as Gita Mandir. Dedicated to Lord Lakshmi Narayan, the Birla Mandir is a key tourist attraction in Mathura. The temple features intricate architecture, exquisite carvings, and grand paintings.

Things to Do in Mathura Beyond Temple Visits

The exclusive Mathura tour packages offer experiences beyond just temple visits. From trying new experiences to enjoying the delicious foods, there's a wide range of things to do in Mathura.

If you're not visiting the temples, here are a few things you must do on your Mathura holiday package:

Try Bhaang

You will have the time of your life on your Mathura tour if you have the right dosage of bhang in the morning. This often tends to be a unique experience for many. While bhang is illegal in many parts of India, it is still legal in places like Mathura, Varanasi and Jaisalmer. You must visit the temples early in the morning to get freshly-crushed bhang.

Explore the Street Food

The food in Mathura will leave you licking your fingers. From delicious meals to scrumptious street foods, you can try it all in Mathura. Kachodis and Jalebis are the most popular foods you must not miss in Mathura. Most shops serving savouries and sweets open early in the morning. Therefore, you can plan your trip to these places early to try freshly cooked food.

Watch the Doors of Mathura

One of the most fascinating facts about Mathura is its doors. This historical town is full of houses with absolutely gorgeous doors. The houses in lanes and across the ghats usually have the most beautiful doors. Not only homes but also various temples and havelis have intricately crafted wooden doors. However, make sure that you don't click pictures of these doors without permission.

Witness Kushti in an Akhara

Kushti is a legendary sport, but unfortunately, it is a dying art in India. You can only witness Kushti in specific parts of India. Well, Mathura is one of those places. You can visit the different akharas in Mathura to witness Kushti. Shivalay Pehelwanji Akhara is the most popular one in Mathura to witness Kushti live.

Visit Mathura Museum

Mathura Museum is an archaeological storehouse that you must visit during your Mathura tour. It was constructed in 1874 and houses a fine collection of art, paintings, ancient manuscripts and pottery. Most of the art and scriptures belong to the Gupta and Maurya period, dating back to the 3rd century. 1-2 hours is enough to explore this museum.

Take a Dip in Potara Kund

Potara Kund is an ancient, sacred pond located in Mathura. Locals believe that Lord Krishna's mother used to wash clothes in this pond. Therefore, the pond holds great spiritual and religious significance in Hinduism. Many devotees visit the pond to seek spiritual solace. The pond is surrounded by numerous ancient temples- Dwarkadhish Temple and Gita Mandir being the most prominent ones. Devotees believe that taking a dip here will wash away their sins.

Mathura Trip Cost & Budget Planning Tips

Thomas Cook has the most affordable Mathura tour packages. Whether you want a short trip of 3 days or a comprehensive experience of Mathura and Vrindavan in 6 days, there's a Mathura holiday package for all. While planning your trip to Mathura, it is also crucial to budget it carefully. This plays an important role in avoiding the additional costs.

Below are some of the key tips for planning your budget smartly for the Mathura tour:

• If you're okay with bearing a little summer heat, you can plan your trip to Mathura off-season. April to June is usually the off-season, unless you're visiting during any major festivals. You get great off-season deals and discounts on the accommodations and packages.
• Always budget the Mathura trip cost in advance and stick to it. Choose between the budget, standard, and premium packages. Upon your visit to Mathura, avoid impulsive street-side shopping.
• Mathura is well-connected to key cities across India. The Mathura Junction is the central railway station. It is best to avoid flights and take state-run buses or trains. If travelling by bus to Mathura, you can board from Agra, Jaipur, or Delhi.
• If you do not opt for flights on the Thomas Cook trip package, you should book your train tickets in advance. It is best to book the tickets at least 3-4 weeks before your trip. Sleep and AC chair car seats are usually more affordable. In fact, these are available at the lowest fare on the packages.
• During your leisure time, you must avoid using private taxis for transfers or sightseeing. These private taxis tend to dupe tourists and charge more than the actual cost. To get the best essence of your Mathura travel package, you can either walk along the streets or use local transport options like e-rickshaws. Most of the ghats and temples are located close to each other. Therefore, it will be better to explore on your own.
• Many vendors may not accept UPI or cash payments instantly. Therefore, when visiting temples, you should buy cash in small denominations.
• If buying souvenirs and prasad, purchase them from shops adjacent to the temple. Many shops will try to extort money by charging extra- it is best to avoid them.

Essential Tips for a Smooth Mathura Tour

Booking a Mathura trip package with Thomas Cook can be an exciting one. While Thomas Cook handles end-to-end planning, you also need to follow specific tips. This ensures that you don't face any challenges during your trip. From planning your wardrobe to respecting local traditions and customs, there are a variety of tips to follow.

Below are some of the essential tips to follow for a smooth Mathura trip:

• For Mathura tour packages, Thomas Cook usually offers flights as an option. If you're not taking the flight, you can plan your trip to Mathura by finding the best way to reach it. The railway is often the most convenient way to reach Mathura when you're travelling within India.
• Winter is one of the best times to visit Mathura. Therefore, you can book your Mathura holiday package during this time. You should avoid visiting Mathura during the summer months, from May to June, as temperatures can soar. It is quite an unpleasant time to be going on a trip to Mathura. Moreover, you won't get to indulge in sightseeing either during this time.
• Accommodation is usually included in your Mathura travel package with Thomas Cook. However, the accommodation varies from being affordable to luxurious. You can choose between the budget hotels and luxury guesthouses. The details of your accommodation are usually provided in the itinerary. Thus, if you want to change, you can customise the package.
• During your Mathura tour, you should always wear traditional and modest attire. This is crucial for upholding the religious sanctity of the place. Whenever visiting the local markets or temples, do not wear flashy or short clothes. It is best to carry shawls or scarves for temple visits.
• It is nearly impossible to see all the temples and tourist attractions in Mathura in a single day. You should book Mathura tour packages for at least 2-3 days so that you have sufficient time to explore.
• Irrespective of when you're visiting Mathura, make sure to stay hydrated. Consume light, sattvic meals. You can enjoy the local milk sweets and traditional thalis.
• Make sure to visit the temples early in the morning or late in the evening to avoid the rush and crowds.

Why Book Your Mathura Tour Package with Thomas Cook?

Booking a Mathura travel package with Thomas Cook allows you to explore iconic destinations. Thomas Cook offers a well-managed, convenient and memorable pilgrimage experience for all.

Some of the main reasons to book Mathura tour packages with Thomas Cook include:

Customisation:

You can tailor your itinerary to your budget and needs. You can choose from value packages to luxury ones. Moreover, you can also customise the theme if you want.

Well-planned itineraries:

The Thomas Cook trip package is well-planned by the tour managers. The travel experts cover the key areas and experiences, ensuring you get the best during your trip. The package includes not only Mathura but also Vrindavan and the surrounding Braj region.

End-to-end solutions:

Thomas Cook offers comprehensive solutions for all the Mathura tour packages. The travel package usually includes meals, sightseeing, transfers and optional flights.

Easy cancellation:

Thomas Cook has a straightforward cancellation policy for the Mathura holiday package. You can contact the team to cancel your trip, and a refund will be initiated immediately. It's a completely hassle-free process.

Pay in instalments:

The Mathura travel package from Thomas Cook is available at very affordable rates. Furthermore, to offer greater affordability, the team also offers easy EMI options. You can book your trip, enjoy it and start paying on a monthly basis. This puts less strain on your finances. Thus, you get to enjoy the journey at your own pace.