Planning a weekend getaway from Delhi and in search of a serene spot abounding in culture and spirituality? A road trip to Mathura from Delhi is one of the best choices. Mathura is Lord Krishna’s birthplace and holds significant importance for pilgrims. It’s also a destination where you can spend time on history, temples, local cuisine, and river ghats in a single trip. If you’re organizing your travel by road, this guide will provide you with all the necessary details that will be of use to you.
Distance from Delhi to Mathura
Mathura is approximately 180 kilometers from Delhi if you are using the Yamuna Expressway. The actual distance will depend on the location you start from in Delhi. If you are starting from East Delhi or Noida, the distance might be slightly shorter.
Time Taken from Delhi to Mathura by Road
It will take 3.5 to 4 hours by car or tempo traveller to reach Mathura. If you travel early morning, you can escape from traffic and reach early. In weekends or festival time, there may be slight traffic around temple complexes.
Best Route to Reach Mathura from Delhi

The most convenient and best way is through the Yamuna Expressway. It is a six-lane toll highway connecting Greater Noida to Agra and runs close to Mathura.
Route Option 1 (Fastest & Best) – Yamuna Expressway
Delhi → Noida → Greater Noida → Pari Chowk → Yamuna Expressway → Mathura Exit → Mathura City
Distance: Approx. 180 km
Time: 3.5 to 4 hours
Road condition: Excellent
This is the most preferred route. It is a toll road but is smooth, safe, and has clear signboards. The journey is hassle-free and perfect for families, senior citizens, and first-time travelers.
Route Option 2 – NH19/Agra-Delhi Highway
Delhi → Faridabad → Palwal → Mathura (via NH19)
Distance: Approx. 185 km
Time: 4.5 to 5 hours
Road condition: Average to good
This route passes through towns and highways but can be used if you want to avoid tolls. However, it may have more traffic.
Read More: A Road Trip From Indore to Omkareshwar
Toll Charges
If you are traveling on the Yamuna Expressway, you will have to pay toll fees. For a one-way trip by car, it is approximately ₹250 to ₹270. Charges for larger vehicles such as tempo travellers might be a bit more. FASTag and cash are both accepted at toll booths.
Travel Options
You have various options to travel to Mathura:
Self-Drive Car – Ideal for couples or families.
Cab or Taxi – Relaxing for groups and hassle-free.
Tempo Traveller – Ideal for large groups of friends or family.
Private Bus – Can be arranged but not highly flexible.
Train – Quick and economical but no good for sightseeing during transit.
In case you are traveling with children or senior citizens, reserving a tempo traveller is always advisable. It provides room, comfort, and convenience.
Best Time to Visit Mathura
Mathura can be traveled to at any time of the year, but ideally between October and March when the climate is pleasant and cool.
Avoid Peak Summer (May-June)
Summer sees temperatures reaching over 40°C, making temple visits and walks outside bothersome.
Festivals to Experience in Mathura
Janmashtami – Grand celebration of Krishna’s birthday.
Holi – Lathmar Holi in Barsana and Vrindavan is world-famous.
Govardhan Puja – Celebrated just after Diwali near Govardhan Hill.
During festivals, the city becomes very crowded. If you love festive vibes, it’s worth visiting then. But for a peaceful visit, choose non-festival dates.
Best Places to Visit in Mathura

1. Shri Krishna Janmabhoomi Temple
This is Mathura’s most significant temple. It is said to be the birthplace of Lord Krishna. The temple complex includes the original prison cell. Bags and mobile phones are prohibited, and there is maximum security.
2. Dwarkadhish Temple
This is one of the most ancient temples in Mathura. The Lord Krishna idol here is revered as Dwarkadhish, king of Dwarka. This temple is situated at Vishram Ghat and is famous for its stunning architecture and morning aarti.
3. Vishram Ghat
This is a serene ghat by the Yamuna River. It is said that Lord Krishna slept here after slaying Kansa. You can ride a boat and enjoy the serene evening aarti which is devout.
4. Gita Mandir (Birla Mandir)
This temple lies on the Mathura-Vrindavan highway. It has shlokas from the Bhagavad Gita etched on the walls. It’s neat, well-kept, and serene.
5. Govardhan Hill
Situated about 25 km from Mathura, it is believed that Lord Krishna raised this hill to protect villagers from rain. Devotees trek 21 km around the hill during parikrama. You can also tour Radha Kund, Shyam Kund, and Kusum Sarovar there.
6. Radha Kund and Shyam Kund
These sacred ponds are situated close to Govardhan. Individuals take a dip here to seek blessings. It is peaceful and filled with anecdotes from Krishna’s life.
7. Kusum Sarovar
A lovely stepwell with clean water, arches, and carvings. It’s wonderful to sit here in silence, meditate, or for photo shoots.
8. Vrindavan (12 km from Mathura)
As it’s very nearby, do not miss out on Vrindavan. Visit:
Banke Bihari Temple
ISKCON Temple
Prem Mandir
These temples are steeped in devotion and beauty. Prem Mandir light shows in the evening are very popular.
Famous Food of Mathura

Mathura is not only temples but also delicious and traditional food. Some dishes and snacks you must try are:
1. Mathura Peda
This is the most popular sweet of Mathura. Prepared using khoya and sugar, it’s easy but yummy. Don’t miss buying some while going home.
2. Kachori with Aloo Sabzi
Kachoris with a spicy and crispy taste with a side of potato curry is the best breakfast food. They’re available in every local sweets shop in the morning.
3. Jalebi
Hot jalebis served with fresh rabri are a local favorite and an excellent snack after darshan at the temple.
4. Lassi
Thick and creamy lassi served in a clay cup. It’s refreshing and rich in flavor.
5. Malpua and Rabri
A classic sweet dish deep-fried and bathed in syrup, accompanied by cold rabri. Must try during celebrations.
6. Street Food
Golgappas to aloo tikki and dahi bhalla, Mathura is a treat for street food enthusiasts. Holi Gate and Dwarkadhish Temple area has plenty of stalls.
Where to Stay in Mathura?
Hotels, guest houses, and dharamshalas abound in Mathura for all budgets.
Budget Options:
Hotel Mayur
Hotel Ganpati Palace
Mid-range Options:
Hotel Brijwasi Lands Inn
Hotel Sheetal Regency
Close to Janmabhoomi
Walking distance to temples. This is a good area for walking to temples. Rooms get booked in advance during festivals, so book ahead.
Vrindavan Stay
If you want quiet surroundings, stay in Vrindavan. Some of the best places are:
MVT Guest House
ISKCON Guest House
Useful Travel Tips
- Plan your trip early to avoid Delhi traffic
- Pack light bags and dress comfortably
- Keep photocopy of ID proof – compulsory for hotel and temple entry
- Mobiles and leather products are forbidden within Krishna Janmabhoomi
- Drink water and have walking shoes – most destinations involve a lot of walking
- Keep cash for small shops and daan – not all establishments accept cards
- During a festival visit, pre-book hotel and transportation
Places Around You Can Include in Your Trip
If you have extra time, go to places nearby:
Barsana – 45 km, where Radha Ji is said to be born
Nandgaon – Krishna’s boyhood abode
Agra – Only 60 km away from Mathura. You can see the Taj Mahal and Agra Fort
These destinations can be covered in one additional day if you’re going to make a 2-day trip.
Conclusion
A Delhi to Mathura road trip is short, easy and filled with significance. If you’re going for darshan or simply want a relaxing weekend, Mathura is a lovely place to visit. With good roads, well-known temples, delicious food and a strong religious atmosphere, it gives you a total travel experience in one or two days. You can travel with family, friends or even solo. So whenever you want a break from urban life, just pack your bags and go to the Lord Krishna city.