Mathura and Vrindavan, two sacred towns in Uttar Pradesh, India, are the heart of the Braj region, steeped in the divine lore of Lord Krishna. Mathura, the birthplace of Krishna, and Vrindavan, where he spent his playful childhood, are pilgrimage hubs that attract millions of devotees and travelers seeking spiritual solace and cultural richness.
Traveling to these towns by train offers an affordable, scenic, and authentic experience, immersing you in the vibrant tapestry of India’s railway network and the devotional charm of Braj.
This comprehensive guide will walk you through how to plan a Mathura Vrindavan tour by train, including key train routes, temple highlights, local sweets, and practical tips for a seamless journey.
We’ll also highlight how Mathura Vrindavan Taxi Services can enhance your local exploration, ensuring you visit every sacred site comfortably.
Contact us at info@mathuravrindavantaxiservices.com, call +91-9759071258, or visit mathuravrindavantaxiservices.com for reliable taxi services in the region.
As a devotee from Varanasi shared, “Traveling to Mathura and Vrindavan by train feels like a pilgrimage even before you reach the temples. The journey sets your heart on Krishna’s path.” Whether you’re coming from Delhi, Agra, or beyond, this guide will help you navigate the train routes, explore must-visit temples, and savor the region’s famous sweets. Let’s embark on this divine adventure.
Why Choose a Train Journey to Mathura and Vrindavan?
India’s railway system is one of the largest and most affordable in the world, making it an ideal choice for pilgrims and budget travelers.
Trains to Mathura are frequent, well-connected, and offer a glimpse of India’s rural landscapes, with fields and villages passing by your window.
The journey is not just about reaching your destination; it’s about soaking in the anticipation of darshan (divine sighting) at temples like Shri Krishna Janmabhoomi in Mathura or Banke Bihari in Vrindavan.
Trains are also eco-friendly and less stressful than road travel for long distances, especially during peak seasons like Janmashtami or Holi.
Once you arrive, Mathura Vrindavan Taxi Services can take over, providing comfortable rides to temples, sweet shops, and other attractions.
Our air-conditioned vehicles and knowledgeable drivers ensure you maximize your time in these sacred towns. Book your local transport at mathuravrindavantaxiservices.com or call +91-9759071258.
Comparison Table of Train Options
| Departure City | Distance (km) | Travel Time | Sample Train | Approx. Cost (₹) | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Delhi | 160 | 1.5–3 hrs | Shatabdi Express | 500–700 (AC) | Fast, comfortable | Early departures |
| Agra | 55 | 50 min–1.5 hrs | Intercity Express | 60–400 | Short, cheap | Crowded locals |
| Mumbai | 1,200 | 16–20 hrs | August Kranti Rajdhani | 500–2,500 | Overnight, meals | Long journey |
| Jaipur | 240 | 4 hrs | Marudhar Express | 200–300 | Scenic | Limited AC options |
| Varanasi | 600 | 10–12 hrs | Kashi Vishwanath | 900–1,200 | Overnight | Book early |
Key Train Routes to Mathura
Mathura Junction (MTJ) is the primary railway station serving both Mathura and Vrindavan, located on major rail routes like the Delhi-Agra and Delhi-Mumbai lines.
Vrindavan has a smaller station (BDB), but most trains stop at Mathura, from where Vrindavan is just 12 km away (a 20-30 minute taxi ride).
Below are the main train routes from popular cities, with details on travel time, ticket costs, and train types.
1. From Delhi to Mathura
- Distance: ~160 km
- Travel Time: 1.5–3 hours
- Popular Trains:
- Shatabdi Express (12002): Departs New Delhi (NDLS) at 6:00 AM, arrives Mathura at 7:50 AM. AC Chair Car: ₹500-₹700.
- Taj Express (12280): Departs Hazrat Nizamuddin (NZM) at 6:55 AM, arrives Mathura at 9:25 AM. Second Sitting: ₹90-₹120; AC Chair Car: ₹400-₹600.
- Intercity Express (12420): Departs NDLS at 7:00 AM, arrives Mathura at 9:45 AM. Second Class: ₹100-₹150.
- Pros: Fast, frequent trains with AC and non-AC options. Shatabdi is ideal for comfort.
- Cons: Early morning departures require planning. Book in advance during festivals.
- Tip: Use IRCTC (Indian Railways’ official platform) to book tickets. Arrive at Mathura Junction and hire Mathura Vrindavan Taxi Services for temple visits.
A traveler from Delhi noted, “The Shatabdi to Mathura was quick and comfortable. I reached in time for the morning aarti at Krishna Janmabhoomi, thanks to a taxi waiting at the station.”
2. From Agra to Mathura
- Distance: ~55 km
- Travel Time: 50 minutes–1.5 hours
- Popular Trains:
- Intercity Express (12406): Departs Agra Cantt (AGC) at 8:45 AM, arrives Mathura at 9:40 AM. Second Class: ₹60-₹100.
- Avadh Express (19038): Departs AGC at 6:30 AM, arrives Mathura at 7:25 AM. Sleeper: ₹120-₹150; AC 3-Tier: ₹300-₹400.
- Pros: Short journey, ideal for combining with Taj Mahal visits.
- Cons: Limited superfast options; local trains may be crowded.
- Tip: Book a taxi with Mathura Vrindavan Taxi Services (info@mathuravrindavantaxiservices.com) to explore Vrindavan after arriving in Mathura.
3. From Mumbai to Mathura
- Distance: ~1,200 km
- Travel Time: 16–20 hours
- Popular Trains:
- Punjab Mail (12137): Departs Mumbai CST (CSTM) at 7:40 PM, arrives Mathura at 3:40 PM next day. Sleeper: ₹500-₹600; AC 2-Tier: ₹1,800-₹2,200.
- August Kranti Rajdhani (12953): Departs Mumbai Central (MMCT) at 5:10 PM, arrives Mathura at 7:56 AM next day. AC 3-Tier: ₹2,000-₹2,500.
- Pros: Overnight trains save time. Rajdhani offers meals and comfort.
- Cons: Long journey; book early for AC berths.
- Tip: Arrive refreshed and use Mathura Vrindavan Taxi Services for a full-day temple tour.
4. From Other Cities
- Jaipur: ~4 hours (e.g., Marudhar Express, Sleeper: ₹200-₹300).
- Varanasi: ~10-12 hours (e.g., Kashi Vishwanath Express, AC 3-Tier: ₹900-₹1,200).
- Kolkata: ~20-24 hours (e.g., Howrah-Jodhpur Express, Sleeper: ₹600-₹800).
Note: Always check train schedules on IRCTC or Indian Railways’ website, as timings may vary. Book AC classes for comfort, especially in summer. Mathura Junction is well-equipped with waiting rooms, food stalls, and ATMs.
Getting from Mathura Junction to Vrindavan and Key Attractions
Upon arriving at Mathura Junction, Vrindavan is a short 12-km ride, easily covered by taxi, auto-rickshaw, or shared tempo.
For a hassle-free experience, Mathura Vrindavan Taxi Services offers pickups directly from the station. Contact us at +91-9759071258 or mathuravrindavantaxiservices.com to book a sedan, SUV, or tempo traveler.
Our drivers can craft an itinerary covering these must-visit sites:
Mathura Highlights
- Shri Krishna Janmabhoomi Temple: The birthplace of Krishna, featuring a prison cell where he was born. Open 5 AM–12 PM, 4 PM–8 PM. Aarti at 6 AM is divine.
- Dwarkadhish Temple: Known for its intricate architecture and vibrant festivals. Try nearby jalebi stalls, as mentioned in our sweets blog.
- Vishram Ghat: A serene spot on the Yamuna River for evening prayers. Buy Mathura peda from shops here.
A local priest shared, “Krishna Janmabhoomi is where devotion begins. The energy here is unmatched, especially during Janmashtami.”
Vrindavan Highlights
- Banke Bihari Temple: Famous for its lively darshan and playful Krishna idol. Open 7:45 AM–12 PM, 5:30 PM–9:30 PM. Avoid peak hours for shorter queues.
- ISKCON Temple: A global Krishna hub with kirtan and vegetarian prasad. Try makhan mishri nearby.
- Prem Mandir: A stunning modern temple with light shows in the evening.
A devotee from Chennai said, “Banke Bihari’s darshan felt like Krishna himself was smiling at me. The taxi ride from Mathura made it so easy.”
For local travel, our taxis cost approximately ₹500-₹1,500 for a half-day tour, depending on the vehicle and itinerary. Email info@mathuravrindavantaxiservices.com for a customized plan.
Savoring Local Sweets
No Mathura Vrindavan tour is complete without indulging in the region’s famous sweets, as detailed in our previous blog.
In Mathura, grab peda near Holi Gate or gulab jamun at Vishram Ghat. In Vrindavan, try makhan mishri near Banke Bihari or rabri by the Yamuna.
“Our sweets carry Krishna’s love. One bite, and you’re part of Braj’s magic.”
Practical Tips for a Train-Based Tour
- Book Early: Reserve train tickets 60-120 days in advance via IRCTC, especially for AC classes during festivals like Holi or Janmashtami.
- Pack Light: Trains and temples involve walking; carry a small bag with essentials like water, snacks, and a shawl for temple visits.
- Temple Etiquette: Wear modest clothing (e.g., kurtas, sarees). Remove shoes before entering temples. Photography is often restricted.
- Local Transport: From Mathura Junction, auto-rickshaws to Vrindavan cost ₹50-₹100 (shared) or ₹200-₹300 (private). Taxis are safer and more comfortable; book with Mathura Vrindavan Taxi Services.
- Timing: Start early to cover temples before noon closures. Evening aartis are magical but crowded.
- Safety: Beware of pickpockets at stations and monkeys near temples. Keep valuables secure.
Sample 1-Day Itinerary by Train
- 6:00 AM: Board Shatabdi Express from Delhi to Mathura (arrive 7:50 AM).
- 8:00 AM: Hire Mathura Vrindavan Taxi Services from Mathura Junction. Visit Krishna Janmabhoomi Temple.
- 10:00 AM: Head to Vishram Ghat; enjoy peda and thandai.
- 11:30 AM: Drive to Vrindavan (20-30 min). Visit Banke Bihari Temple.
- 1:30 PM: Lunch at a vegetarian restaurant (e.g., ISKCON’s Govinda’s).
- 3:00 PM: Explore Prem Mandir and ISKCON Temple. Try makhan mishri.
- 5:30 PM: Evening aarti at Banke Bihari or Prem Mandir.
- 7:00 PM: Return to Mathura Junction via taxi. Board an evening train (e.g., Taj Express at 7:50 PM) back to Delhi.
Total Cost: Train (₹500-₹1,000 round trip), taxi (₹1,000-₹2,000), food/sweets (₹200-₹500).
Why Choose Mathura Vrindavan Taxi Services?
While trains get you to Mathura, navigating the towns’ narrow lanes and temple schedules requires local expertise. Mathura Vrindavan Taxi Services offers:
- Station Pickups: Direct from Mathura Junction to temples.
- Custom Itineraries: Visit Mathura, Vrindavan, and nearby Barsana or Gokul in one day.
- Comfort: AC vehicles for a relaxing experience.
- Affordability: Transparent pricing for solo or group travelers.
Book at mathuravrindavantaxiservices.com, email info@mathuravrindavantaxiservices.com, or call +91-9759071258. A driver shared, “We don’t just drive; we help you feel Krishna’s presence in every corner of Braj.”
Conclusion
A Mathura Vrindavan tour by train is a blend of affordability, adventure, and spirituality. From the rhythmic clatter of the rails to the divine chants at Krishna’s temples, every moment is a step closer to Braj’s magic.
As a pilgrim shared, “The train ride to Mathura felt like Krishna calling me home.” Pair your journey with Mathura Vrindavan Taxi Services for seamless local travel, ensuring you visit every temple and sweet shop without stress.
Contact us at info@mathuravrindavantaxiservices.com, +91-9759071258, or mathuravrindavantaxiservices.com. Plan your pilgrimage today, and let Krishna’s flute guide your way. Jai Shri Krishna!
FAQs
1. How can I reach Mathura and Vrindavan by train?
Mathura Junction (MTJ) is a major railway station connected to Delhi, Agra, Jaipur, Varanasi, and other Indian cities. From Mathura Junction, you can hire a taxi, auto, or take a local train to Vrindavan, which is just 12 km away.
2. Which train is best for visiting Mathura and Vrindavan from Delhi?
Popular trains include Taj Express, Gatimaan Express, Shatabdi Express, and Mathura Passenger Trains. These trains run daily from Hazrat Nizamuddin or New Delhi Railway Station, reaching Mathura in around 1.5 to 2 hours.
3. Is there a direct train to Vrindavan?
Yes, Vrindavan Railway Station (BDB) is connected to Mathura Junction by short-distance passenger trains. However, most long-distance travelers prefer getting off at Mathura and continuing by road or auto to Vrindavan for convenience.
4. What is the distance between Mathura Junction and Vrindavan?
Vrindavan is about 12 km from Mathura Junction. It takes around 20–30 minutes by cab, rickshaw, or local train to reach depending on traffic and travel mode.
5. What are the main attractions to visit in Mathura and Vrindavan?
Top attractions include:
- Shri Krishna Janmabhoomi and Dwarkadhish Temple in Mathura
- Banke Bihari Temple, ISKCON Temple, Prem Mandir, and Nidhivan in Vrindavan
- Yamuna Aarti at Vishram Ghat and evening light show at Prem Mandir
6. How many days are enough for a Mathura Vrindavan train tour?
A 2-day itinerary is ideal. Day 1 can be dedicated to Mathura and Gokul, while Day 2 covers Vrindavan and nearby attractions like Govardhan or Barsana. A same-day return from Delhi is also possible if you start early.
7. What is the best time to plan a Mathura Vrindavan tour by train?
The best time to visit is between October and March, when the weather is pleasant. Devotees also travel during Janmashtami, Radhashtami, and Holi, when Mathura and Vrindavan are beautifully decorated and full of festive energy.
8. Are cabs or autos easily available from Mathura station to Vrindavan?
Yes, shared autos, electric rickshaws, and private taxis are available right outside Mathura Junction. You can also pre-book cabs for temple tours and nearby sightseeing.
9. Can I complete the Mathura Vrindavan trip in one day by train?
Yes, you can take an early morning train from Delhi, explore Mathura and Vrindavan during the day, and return by evening. However, staying overnight allows you to attend evening aarti and experience the city’s peaceful spiritual vibe.
10. What should I carry for a spiritual tour to Mathura and Vrindavan?
Carry comfortable clothes, light footwear, a water bottle, and a scarf or dupatta for temple visits. Photography may be restricted in some temples, so always check local guidelines before taking pictures.
