Things to Do in Uttar Pradesh

Visit the Radha Vallabh Mandir in Mathura to worship Krishna as Shri Radha Vallabh. You can admire the stunning architecture carved out from red sandstone at this temple, which was constructed in 1585. Plan your visit during festivals like Hitotsav, Radhashtami, Krishna Janmashtami and Vyahlu Utsav for the most vibrant ambience. 

• Timings: 5:00 AM to 9:00 PM
• Location: Radha Vallabh Temple Rd, Gotam Nagar, Vrindavan

Also called Sri Ranganath Temple, this temple is dedicated to Sri GodaRangamannar, a famous 8th-century Vaishnava saint from South India. You can see the idol of Lord Krishna dressed as a groom with Goda as his bride. Art lovers can admire the superb blend of north and south Indian temple architecture with seven-storeyed gopuram and Jaipuri-style stone gates. 

• Timings: 5:30 AM to 11:00 AM, 4:00 PM to 9:00 PM
• Location: Sri Rangji Mandir, Vrindavan

Enjoy a soulful retreat at Kusum Sarovar, one of the best places to see in Mathura for breathtaking sunsets. The reservoir is surrounded by heritage buildings and is an ideal spot to enjoy calm evenings in Mathura. You can admire the panelled walls that run about 60 feet into the water and are adorned by beautiful paintings of Krishna and Radha. 

• Timings: 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM
• Location: Kusum Sarovar, Govardhan, Mathura

Originally believed to be constructed 5000 years ago, Sri Krishna Janmasthan is a famous temple in Mathura. It is supposed to be built around the prison cell where Lord Krishna was born. You can explore the Garbha Griha Shrine, the Potra Kund and the Bhagvata Bhavan which are located inside the temple. 

• Timings: 5:00 AM to 12:00 PM and 4:00 PM to 9:30 PM 
• Location: Mathura- Deeg Marg, near Deeg Gate Chouraha, Janam Bhumi, Mathura

Worship Lord Krishna as Dwarkanath at Dwarkadheesh Temple in Mathura. It is among the prominent places to see in Mathura and is famous for its detailed architecture and paintings depicting Lord Krishna’s life. You can come early in the morning to offer prayers and spend time at the banks of River Yamuna at Vishram Ghat beside the temple. 

• Timings: 6:30 AM - 10:30 AM and 4:00 PM - 7:00 PM,
• Location: Sri Rajendra Pathak, Pathak Gali, Vishram Ghat, Vishram Bazar, Mathura, Uttar Pradesh

Explore Govardhan Hill, one of the top tourist places in Mathura and learn the legend of Lord Krishna saving his village from thunderstorms. It is believed that the lord lifted this hill on one finger and later asked everyone to worship the hill like they worship his idol. When you are here, you can see the Giriraj Temple, Mansi Ganga Lake and Kusum Sarovar Lake. 

• Timings: 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM
• Location: Aanyor, Mathura, Uttar Pradesh

Dedicated to Lord Lakshmi Narayan - an avatar of Vishnu, Birla Mandir was built by Jugal Kishore Birla in 1988. You can see the entire Bhagavad Gita inscribed on the temple’s pillars and admire the craftsmanship on the marble walls. While visiting the temple, you can see Lord Krishna's chariot, a towering Gita Stambh and a small temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman. 

• Timings: 5:00 AM to 12:00 PM and 2:00 PM to 8:00 PM
• Location: Mathura - Vrindavan Marg, Anand Nagar, Mathura 

Believed to be the place where Lord Krishna rested after killing the demon Kansa, Vishram Ghat is an important pilgrimage site. It is among the top places to visit in Mathura to experience a scenic boat ride on River Yamuna during the evenings. In addition to taking a holy dip, devotees also enjoy attending the morning and evening arti for a spiritual experience at Vishram Ghat. 

• Timings: 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM 
• Location: Chhonka Pada, Choubey Para, Mathura

Radha Kund is one of the most sacred water tanks in Mathura and is considered a symbol of the undying love between Lord Krishna and Radha. You can take a dip in its sacred waters which are supposed to have healing and medicinal properties. It is among the top places to visit in Mathura where you can relax on its serene banks or meditate in the spiritual surroundings. 

• Timings: 6:00 AM to 7:00 PM
• Location: Radha Kund, Mathura 

Also called the Purana Qila of Mathura, Kans Qila is believed to date back to the times of the Mahabharata. The ancient fortress is dedicated to Kans, the maternal uncle of Lord Krishna and is perched on the banks of River Yamuna. If you love history and architecture, the intriguing blend of Hindu and Islamic elements of this fort’s structure is a beautiful sight to witness. 

• Timings: 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM
• Location: Ratankund, Chowk Bazar, Mathura

One of the popular tourist places in Mathura, Nandgaon is believed to be the home of the foster parents of Lord Krishna- Shri Nandji and Yashoda Maiyya. You can visit the Nandagram Temple to enjoy 360-degree views of the town or spend time at the serene lake- Pan Sarovar when you are here. Other spots to explore here include Nandisvara Temple and Charan Pahari. 

• Timings: 24 hours 
• Location: Nandgaon, Mathura 

Situated in the small town of Fatehpur Sikri, Buland Darwaza is a remarkable structure that offers a glimpse into the rich history of Mughals. ‘Buland Darwaza’ translates to ‘Gate of Victory’ as it was built by Akbar to commemorate his victory over Gujarat. It is an architectural marvel which stands as a symbol of power, wealth and conquest.

The Tomb of Salim Chishti is situated in Fatehpur Sikri, in the premises of the Jama Masjid, facing the main entrance of the mosque courtyard, Buland Darwaza. It is a renowned UNESCO World Heritage Site, established by Mughal emperor Akbar to honour the famous Sufi saint Salim Chisti between the years 1571 and 1580. 

The architecture of this splendid monument reflects a combination of Hindu, Jain, and Islamic elements. The original structure built by Emperor Akbar is believed to have been a smaller, red sandstone structure, consisting of today's inner tomb chamber. Jahangir later introduced the verandah, the southern porch, and the extensive marble cladding.

The immense respect and the highest place that it occupies in the hearts of its devotees are reflected in its aesthetics and proportions. Visitors are often captivated by the peaceful ambience and the charming courtyards that surround the tomb, making it a perfect spot to include in your Agra tour package.