Mathura, Ancient religious city in Uttar Pradesh, India
Mathura is a city on the Yamuna River in Uttar Pradesh state, India, known for its many religious sites and bathing steps along the water. The old town lanes wind between close building fronts toward temple compounds and markets where vendors sell flower garlands and incense.
The settlement arose more than 2,500 years ago and became an important trade center on routes between northwest and central India. In the 2nd century BCE the Kushan period brought a distinct art school here, with sculptors creating deity figures in red sandstone.
The name derives from Sanskrit "Madhuvana," meaning honey forest, and pilgrims walk barefoot through temple complexes where priests conduct continuous worship. Local artisans continue crafting religious objects in brass and stone using techniques passed down through generations.
Arrival is usually through Mathura Junction railway station, from where rickshaws run into the city center. Most religious sites lie within walking distance in the old town, where paths between temples can be covered easily on foot.
The Archaeological Museum preserves red sandstone sculptures showing Buddhas and Hindu deities from over 2,000 years ago. Some of these figures were found during excavations near the ghats and still carry traces of original paint.
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