Delhi to Mathura Road Trip

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India is a country of incredible diversity and that’s visible in its cultures, landscapes and history. Among all the amazing journeys you can take in India, the Delhi to Mathura road trip is one of a kind. Located in Uttar Pradesh, Mathura is the birthplace of Lord Krishna, one of the most worshipped gods in Indian mythology and spirituality. The city is also famous for its ancient temples, ghats and stories of devotion.

This is not going to be just a holy city visit. Instead, it’s a chance to experience North India’s cultural heritage. The modern highway (NH 19) is in great condition and connects Delhi to Mathura faster. Because of the feasibility of travelling, it becomes a perfect weekend getaway from Delhi. This blog has all the details you need such as routes, travel options and famous tourist places so that you can have a seamless experience on your trip.

Why Travel from Delhi to Mathura?

The Delhi to Mathura road trip has become popular because of its proximity and ease of travel. The destination itself is of great religious and cultural importance. Mathura has countless historic temples, ghats and spiritual centres. Some of the Famous Festivals in Mathura that are celebrated with great fervour, for example, Janmashtami and Deepaval. So who does not want to experience all this?

But what makes this trip even more fun is the travel itself. The 162 km drive on the Yamuna Expressway has smooth roads, good en-route stops and food points, and quick access to all the hotspots. For history, culture and food lovers this route is a treat.

Best Time to Visit Mathura

To enjoy the trip and explore Mathura at ease you should know the timing. The best time to plan this trip is between October and March when the weather is cool and pleasant. During this time outdoor sightseeing is more enjoyable and the winter air adds to the charm of the ghats and temples.

Summers (April to June) are harsh in North India with temperatures soaring above 40°C. If you are planning to visit during monsoon (July to September) be prepared for occasional rain which adds to the greenery of the landscape but in some areas you can find water clogs on roads.

If you love cultural events then visit during Holi in March. Mathura’s Holi is famous all over the world.

Popular Routes from Delhi to Mathura

There are two routes to reach Mathura from Delhi and you can choose the best one based on your comfort and places to visit along the routes:

Route 1 (Via Yamuna Expressway)

After covering a distance of 162 km and driving for approx 3 hrs you will reach Mathura through this route. It is a 6-lane world-class highway and is disruption-free. Well-maintained stretches and facilities like rest areas and fuel stations make the journey smooth. There are tolls but it’s worth it for the convenience and safety this route provides.

  • Route Map: Delhi → Noida → Dankaur → Hamidpur → Sikanderpur → Javara → Mathura
  • Sights Along the Way: Yamuna Expressway is not just about speed it also has some interesting places to see on the way.
  • Botanic Garden of Indian Republic: Located in Noida, this green lung is popular among nature lovers. It has medicinal and ornamental plants and is perfect for a nice break.
  • Okhla Bird Sanctuary: Just off the expressway, this is a birdwatcher’s heaven. In winter it becomes a home to many migratory birds so it’s a great place for photography and relaxation.
  • Stellar Children’s Museum: If you are travelling with kids then visit this museum in Greater Noida. It’s a combination of fun and learning through interactive exhibits.

Where to eat on route:

Food is a must on any road trip and this route has plenty of options:

  • Haldiram’s, Noida: For a quick bite or a full meal, this place has a wide variety of hygienic vegetarian options.
  • Shiva Dhaba, Jewar: Hot chai and crispy paneer pakoras are a must-try for a taste of North Indian cuisine.
  • Highway Masala, Jewar: For South Indian food like dosa and idli, this is a traveller’s favourite.

Route 2 (Via NH 44 and Mathura Road)

Even though this route is shorter with a distance of just 147 km but still it takes more than three and a half hours to reach Mathura. Potholes and rough patches may slow you down but the scenic views and stops are worth the trouble. So always check the road updates before travelling through this route.

  • Route Map: Delhi → Badarpur → Faridabad → Sikri → Palwal → Akbarpur → Mathura
  • Sights Along the Way: This route passes through towns and villages that give you a glimpse of the cultural and historical heritage of the place. Notable attractions
  • Raj Ghat, Delhi: Start your journey by visiting this peaceful memorial of Mahatma Gandhi. The calm atmosphere will give you a moment to pause before you hit the road.
  • ISKCON Temple, Faridabad: A spiritual haven for devotees and tourists, this temple has beautiful architecture and a peaceful environment. A great place to stop and recharge your mind.
  • Panchwati Mandir, Palwal: This temple is mythologically significant and is believed to be one of the Pandavas' shelters during their exile.

Where to Eat:

This route has many eating options, both local and full meals:

  • D.K. Fast Food, Badarpur: Great for quick bites or light meals, a local favourite.
  • Anand Family Dhaba, Palwal: Family friendly dhaba that serves North Indian meals in a cosy atmosphere.
  • Yaariyan Restaurant, Hodal: This place has a mix of traditional flavours and great hospitality.

Which Route Is Better?

Choosing the best route between Delhi and Mathura depends on your preferences. For speed and comfort, Yamuna Expressway is the best. Modern infrastructure, less traffic and smooth roads make it the preferred choice for those who want to reach Mathura fast and comfortably. But for a traditional road trip experience, NH 44 is the way to go. Ultimately it depends on whether you want a fast and comfortable journey or an interesting drive with opportunities to stop and explore.

Travelling from Delhi to Mathura by Car

Driving from Delhi to Mathura gives you flexibility and opportunities to stop at attractions and eateries en route. Before you start a trip you have to make sure your vehicle is in good condition by checking the tyres, brakes and fluids and fill the fuel tank. Pack essentials like water, snacks and a first aid kit is a must for a smooth journey. Follow the speed limits and use offline maps or GPS to stay on track. If you want to have a relaxed journey, you can hire a car or Tempo Traveller Service and enjoy the ride without worrying about navigation or road conditions.

By Train

Mathura is well connected with all the major cities in India. You can take the Ghaziabad Mathura Emu (64904) which takes only 4 hours to reach Mathura from Ghaziabad. Apart from this, you can also choose from the train options like Shatabdi Express and Taj Express. We suggest you go through the IRCTC official website for the correct pricing, duration and train lists.

By Flight

There are no direct flights from Delhi to Mathura. The nearest airport is in Agra, Kheria Aiport which is 60 km from Mathura. From Agra you can hire a taxi or take a bus, the drive takes around 1-1.5 hours. For International travellers, New Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport would be the best option located only 170 km from Mathura.

Top Attractions in Mathura

Mathura is a city of history and spirituality. Here are some of the must see’s:

Shri Krishna Janmabhoomi Temple

Shri Krishna Janmabhoomi Temple is the birthplace of Lord Krishna. This temple complex is a hotbed of devotion and activity. The highlight of the site is the small cell where Krishna was born. Visiting this temple is a very moving experience which is enhanced by the peaceful atmosphere and exquisite carvings.

Dwarkadhish Temple

One of the biggest temples in Mathura, Dwarkadhish Temple is famous for its architecture and energy. Dedicated to Lord Krishna it attracts both devotees and tourists. You can see the huge crowd of devotees during Janmashtami. The carvings and decorations during festivals are a visual treat.

Govardhan Hill

Govardhan Hill is a sacred site in Hindu mythology, the hill that Krishna lifted to save his devotees from the rains. Pilgrims do the Govardhan Parikrama, a circumambulation of the hill as an act of devotion. The path is dotted with small temples and shrines adding to the spiritual atmosphere of the place.

Vishram Ghat

On the banks of the Yamuna River, Vishram Ghat is a peaceful spot. This is where Lord Krishna is said to have rested after killing Kansa. The highlight of visiting here is the evening aarti, where hundreds of lamps float on the river.

Extending Your Trip and Explore Vrindavan

Vrindavan is just 11 km from Mathura and is another heritage destination. Famous for Lord Krishna’s childhood, Vrindavan has a lot to offer in a short trip.

Prem Mandir is a modern wonder, with beautiful marble work and an evening light show that will leave you spellbound. ISKCON Temple is a peaceful place for meditation and Banke Bihari Temple is full of life. The streets of Vrindavan are lined with small shops selling traditional handicrafts, so it’s a great place to shop for souvenirs.

The Food Culture of Mathura

Mathura is as much about food as it is about spirituality. The city’s culinary heritage is deeply rooted in its culture and the dishes are simple yet full of flavor.

Pedas

No trip to Mathura is complete without trying the famous Pedas. Made from condensed milk and sugar, these sweet treats are available at every shop in the city. The best Pedas can be found at Brijwasi Sweets and Shankar Mithaiwala.

Aloo Puri

Breakfast staple in Mathura, Aloo Puri is spicy potato curry served with deep fried bread. The tanginess of this dish is loved by both locals and tourists.

Street Food

Kachoris filled with spiced lentils to samosas with tamarind chutney, Mathura’s street food is a foodie’s heaven. The narrow lanes of the city have small vendors who make fresh and hot snacks all day.

Festivals and Celebrations in Mathura

Mathura comes alive during festivals and that’s when you get to experience the real culture.

Holi

Holi in Mathura is like nowhere else. The festival of colours is celebrated with unparalleled fervour in Barsana. The unique Lathmar Holi where women hit men with sticks is the highlight of the celebrations.

Janmashtami

Celebrating the birth of Lord Krishna, Janmashtami is another big festival in Mathura. The temples are decorated and the city is filled with devotional songs and dances. Visit Mathura during this festival and you will feel more connected to its spiritual side.

Conclusion

The Delhi to Mathura road trip is a trip of culture, history and spirituality. From the smooth drive on the Yamuna Expressway to the colourful streets of Mathura, every moment is to explore and connect.

Whether you’re visiting for the temples, the food or the festivals, Mathura will leave you with a memorable experience that will stay with you long after the trip. So plan your route, pack your bags and hit the road for a trip of history, culture and spirituality.