3 Days in Mathura for a Food Trip

Mathura isn't just about temples—it's a food lover's paradise with flavors that tell stories of tradition and devotion. I've spent years tasting my way through its narrow lanes, and this itinerary covers the best bites, from crispy kachoris to creamy pedas. You'll eat where locals eat, try dishes you won't find elsewhere, and leave with a happy stomach.

Uttar Pradesh, uttar-pradesh
3 Days
Food
Custom Trip

Trip Highlights

Breakfast at a 100-year-old kachori stall near Dwarkadhish Temple
Tasting fresh, warm pedas straight from the halwai's kadhai
A thali lunch with seasonal specialties at a family-run eatery
Evening chai with crispy samosas by the Yamuna riverside

Best Time to Visit

OctoberMarch

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Day 1

Day 1 in Mathura

Start your Mathura adventure with its most iconic temples and vibrant street food scene, soaking in the spiritual and culinary heart of the city.

Activities

Visit Shri Krishna Janmabhoomi Temple

Begin your day at the birthplace of Lord Krishna, a sacred site bustling with devotees. The temple complex includes the prison cell where Krishna was born and several shrines. The energy here is palpable, especially during morning aarti.

Janmabhoomi Marg, near Holi Gate5:00 AM - 12:00 PM, 4:00 PM - 9:30 PM (best visited early morning)Free (donations accepted)
Tips:
  • Leave shoes at designated stalls (₹10-20 fee)
  • Avoid weekends if you prefer fewer crowds
Explore Vishram Ghat and Yamuna Aarti

Stroll along the serene Vishram Ghat where Lord Krishna is believed to have rested after defeating Kansa. The ghat comes alive in the evening with lamps, bhajans, and the mesmerizing Yamuna Aarti ceremony - a less crowded alternative to Varanasi's Ganga Aarti.

Vishram Ghat Road, along Yamuna RiverEvening aarti at 6:30 PM (timings vary seasonally)Free (boat rides available for ₹100-200)
Tips:
  • Try the peda sellers near the ghat
  • Bargain firmly for boat rides
Street Food Crawl in Holi Gate Area

Dive into Mathura's legendary street food around Holi Gate. Watch jalebi makers swirl golden batter in giant kadais, taste freshly fried kachoris at iconic stalls, and don't miss the unique Mathura peda - softer and less sweet than the Vrindavan version.

Holi Gate MarketLate morning (10 AM) or early evening (5 PM)₹100-300 per person
Tips:
  • Look for stalls with the longest queues
  • Try the 'kachori-subzi' combo at Shankar Mithai Wala

Must Try Foods

Mathura peda (fresh from Bharti Bhandar)
Bedai with aloo sabzi (spicy potato curry)
Rabri jalebi (hot jalebis dipped in cold rabri)

Transportation

Nearest Railway Station
Mathura Junction (2 km from city center, 10 min by auto)
Nearest Bus Stop
Mathura Bus Stand (frequent buses to Vrindavan and nearby towns)
Metro Station
Not available
Cab Availability
Auto-rickshaws widely available (agree on fares beforehand), Ola/Uber operates but less reliable

No destinations found for this itinerary

Day 2

Day 2 in Mathura

A mix of spiritual sites, local markets, and hidden culinary gems to dive deeper into Mathura's culture.

Activities

Explore Dwarkadhish Temple

This stunning temple, dedicated to Lord Krishna, is a visual treat with its intricate carvings and vibrant paintings. The morning aarti here is a serene experience, with devotees singing hymns and the scent of fresh flowers filling the air. Don’t miss the temple’s small museum showcasing ancient artifacts.

Dwarkadhish Temple, near Holi Gate7:00 AM - 9:00 AM (best for aarti)Free (donations welcome)
Tips:
  • Dress modestly as it’s a religious site
  • Visit early to avoid crowds
Stroll through Kans Qila

This lesser-known fort offers a quiet escape with panoramic views of the Yamuna River. Legend says it was built by Kansa, Krishna’s uncle, and the ruins have a rustic charm. The nearby ghats are perfect for a peaceful walk or just sitting by the river.

Kans Qila, near Yamuna River10:00 AM - 11:00 AM (before it gets too hot)Free
Tips:
  • Wear comfortable shoes for uneven paths
  • Carry water as there are few vendors nearby
Lunch at Brijwasi Mithai Wala

A legendary spot for authentic Mathura sweets and snacks. Try their famous 'peda' (a milk-based sweet) and 'kachori-sabzi' combo. The thali here is a hearty meal with local flavors like 'dal makhani' and 'aloo jeera'.

Brijwasi Mithai Wala, near Holi Gate12:30 PM - 1:30 PM (peak lunch hours, but worth the wait)₹200-₹400 per person
Tips:
  • Try their 'malai peda'—it melts in your mouth
  • Cash is preferred

Must Try Foods

Peda (sweet)
Kachori with aloo sabzi
Dal makhani

Transportation

Nearest Railway Station
Mathura Junction (3 km, 10-15 mins by auto)
Nearest Bus Stop
Mathura Bus Stand (2 km, frequent buses and autos)
Metro Station
Not available
Cab Availability
Autos and cycle rickshaws are easily available; cabs can be booked via apps

Day 3

Day 3 in Mathura

A relaxed day exploring hidden gems and local flavors, from serene gardens to bustling markets and iconic sweets.

Activities

Morning at Kusum Sarovar

Start your day with a peaceful visit to Kusum Sarovar, a stunning historical water tank surrounded by sandstone pavilions. This lesser-known spot is perfect for a quiet stroll, with its serene atmosphere and beautiful architecture. Legend says Radha and Krishna used to meet here, adding a romantic touch to the place.

Kusum Sarovar, near Radha Kund6:30 AM - 8:00 AM (best in the early morning light)Free (donations welcome)
Tips:
  • Carry a hat or umbrella—shade is limited.
  • Visit the nearby Radha Kund afterward for a quick dip if you’re up for it.
Shopping at Loi Bazaar

Head to Loi Bazaar, a vibrant market filled with colorful textiles, brass idols, and traditional souvenirs. This is where locals shop, so you’ll find everything from fragrant incense to handcrafted toys. Bargaining is expected, so don’t shy away from haggling politely.

Loi Bazaar, near Dwarkadhish Temple10:00 AM - 12:00 PM (before the afternoon heat)Varies (budget around ₹500-2000 for souvenirs)
Tips:
  • Look for the famous Mathura ke pede (milk sweets) sold in small shops here.
  • Wear comfortable shoes—the lanes can get crowded.
Late Lunch at Shankar Mithai Wala

Wrap up your trip with a hearty meal at Shankar Mithai Wala, a local favorite known for its thalis and sweets. Their aloo puri and kachori are legendary, and the mithai platter is a must-try. The no-frills setting lets you focus on the flavors.

Shankar Mithai Wala, near Holi Gate1:00 PM - 2:00 PM (peak lunch hours, but worth the wait)₹200-400 per person
Tips:
  • Try the rabri—it’s thick, creamy, and unforgettable.
  • Cash is preferred; ATMs are nearby if needed.

Must Try Foods

Mathura ke pede (milk sweets)
Aloo puri at Shankar Mithai Wala
Rabri

Transportation

Nearest Railway Station
Mathura Junction (3 km, 10-15 mins by auto)
Nearest Bus Stop
Mathura Bus Stand (2 km, frequent buses and autos)
Metro Station
Not available
Cab Availability
Autos and cycle rickshaws are easy to find; Uber/Ola available but less reliable.

Travel Tips

Start early—many iconic shops sell out by noon
Carry cash—most legendary spots don't accept cards
Try the lesser-known malai peda—it's richer than the regular version
Don't skip the radha ballabhi—a Mathura specialty you won't find elsewhere

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