Delhi To Mathura Vrindavan Road Trip This Long Weekend
Holi 2025 is just around the corner, and you know what that means? It means that it’s time for colours, music, and unfiltered fun. The festival is all about drenching your friends in gulal, dodging water balloons, and dancing to dhol beats. But if there is one place which doesn’t just observe the festival but lives it, then it is Holi in Mathura Vrindavan.
Why? Because this is where everything started. Mathura, the birthplace of Lord Krishna, and Vrindavan, where he spent his childhood, turns into a grand stage for the Holi celebration in Mathura. From the iconic Lathmar Holi in Barsana to the flower Holi at Banke Bihari Temple, every corner here bursts with devotion and colours alongside tradition. And you know what the best part is? It’s that the festivities begin weeks in advance.
Now, try to imagine experiencing this magic with a thrilling road trip from Delhi to Mathura Vrindavan. It’ll be crazy, trust us. A few hours on the highway and you will be in the heart of Krishna’s land geared up to soak into the most electrifying Holi of your life. So, let’s now map out your perfect journey to Mathura and Vrindavan for Holi 2025.
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But, why a Delhi to Mathura Road Trip and Not Other Modes?
A Delhi to Mathura road trip gives you the freedom to travel at your own pace, make scenic pit stops, and indulge in local treats along the way. No crowded stations, no rigid schedules—just you, the open road, and the anticipation of an unforgettable Holi celebration in Mathura. Plus, who doesn’t love a good road trip playlist?
Sure, you could take a train or a bus, but where is the fun in that? A Delhi to Mathura road trip allows you to travel comfortably at your own pace, make some scenic pit stops, and indulge on some local food as you drive. No overcrowded stations, no time-bound restrictions. Just you, the open road, and an unbelievable Holi celebration in Mathura waiting for you. Plus, who doesn’t appreciate a good road trip playlist?
Now, Let’s Talk Popular Routes from Delhi to Mathura
There are two major routes that you can take to reach Mathura from Delhi. Whether you prefer a fast and smooth drive or a scenic journey with interesting stopovers, here’s what you need to know:
Route 1: Via Yamuna Expressway
Distance: 162 km
Time: Approx. 3 hours
Why Choose This Route? This route is considered to be the fastest because of it’s 6-lane, world-class expressway with minimal disruptions, well-maintained roads, and plenty of rest areas.
Route Map: Delhi – Noida – Dankaur – Hamidpur – Sikanderpur – Javara – Mathura
Sights Along the Way: While you’re travelling this route you will come across the Botanic Garden of Indian Republic (Noida), Okhla Bird Sanctuary, and Stellar Children’s Museum (Greater Noida).
Route 2: Via NH 44 & Mathura Road
- Distance: 147 km
- Time: 3.5+ hours (slower due to rough patches, so check road conditions before travelling)
- Why Choose This Route? This road offers a peek into small-town life and cultural landmarks along the way.
Route Map: Delhi – Badarpur – Faridabad – Sikri – Palwal – Akbarpur – Mathura
Sights Along the Way: During your road trip from Delhi to Mathura via the scenic and cultural route, you will come across Raj Ghat (Delhi), ISKCON Temple (Faridabad), Panchwati Mandir (Palwal).
Which Route Is Better?
If you are looking for speed, comfort, and an easy drive, take the Yamuna Expressway. If you also want to see some small towns when you drive, take NH 44. Regardless, your road trip from Delhi to Mathura will serve as the best start to a fantastic Holi in Mathura Vrindavan.
Other Ways to Reach Mathura-Vrindavan for Holi 2025
While a road trip from Delhi to Mathura Vrindavan is amazing, but it’s not the only way to get to this town. For those who don’t want to drive, they can travel using other accessible methods.
Mathura by Train
Travelling from Delhi to Mathura by train is perfect for those looking for a comfortable and stress-free journey. The Delhi to Mathura distance by train is about 160 kilometre and can be covered in 1.5 to 2.5 hours based on the train chosen. On top of that, there’s nothing like seeing the countryside while enjoying hot tea. Here are some of the top trains from Delhi to Mathura on this route:
Gatimaan Express
Taj Express
Shatabdi Express
Since Mathura Junction is a major railway station, you’ll find plenty of trains running throughout the day. However, since Holi is a peak season, book your tickets well in advance to avoid hassle.
Delhi to Mathura by Flight
Now, technically, Delhi to Mathura by flight isn’t a direct option since Mathura doesn’t have an airport. But if you’re coming from another city, here’s what you can do:
The nearest airport to Mathura is Kheria Airport in Agra, which is about 60 km away. From there, you can take a cab to Mathura, which will take around 1-1.5 hours. Another option is to land in Delhi (Indira Gandhi International Airport) and then take a train or hire a taxi for the road trip to Mathura.
If you’re flying into Agra, taxis from the airport to Mathura generally cost ₹1500-₹2000. Alternatively, there are frequent trains from Agra to Mathura that are cheap and convenient.
Image credit: Maksim Tarasov via Unsplash
