Mathura Junction Railway Station

Mathura Junction Railway Station: Visiting Hours, Tickets, Facilities, and Travel Guide

Date: 14/06/2025

Introduction

Mathura Junction Railway Station (station code: MTJ) is a major transit hub in Uttar Pradesh, India, and serves as the principal gateway to the historic and sacred city of Mathura, renowned as the birthplace of Lord Krishna. With its strategic location, extensive rail connectivity, and proximity to iconic pilgrimage sites like Vrindavan, Mathura Junction plays a pivotal role in facilitating religious tourism and cultural exploration across North India. This detailed guide covers everything from visiting hours and ticketing procedures to travel tips, accessibility, safety, and nearby attractions to help you plan a seamless and enriching journey to Mathura.

(Zee News; Academia.edu)

Mathura Junction railway station platforms with trains and overhead wires

Mathura Junction railway station platform with trains and signage

Mathura Junction railway station exterior with trains and platforms

Remodeled Mathura Railway Station platform and office buildings with roof cover in 1955

Introduction
History and Origins
Geographical and Strategic Significance
Visiting Hours
Ticketing Information
Station Facilities and Passenger Comfort
Travel Tips
Accessibility and Safety
Nearby Attractions
Transport and Connectivity
Accommodation
FAQ
Conclusion
References

History and Origins

Mathura Junction was established in 1875, marking the integration of Mathura into the rapidly expanding Indian railway network of the late 19th century. The station’s development was not only a logistical advancement but also a continuation of Mathura’s age-old role as a crossroads for traders, pilgrims, and travelers. For centuries, Mathura sat at the intersection of key trade routes, linking the northern plains with the western deserts, southern plateaus, and eastern river valleys. This historic legacy is still evident in the station’s enduring role as a major node in India’s rail infrastructure. (Academia.edu; Architectural Digest)

Geographical and Strategic Significance

Situated on the banks of the Yamuna River, Mathura has long served as a bridge between the fertile Gangetic plains and the arid regions of Rajasthan. Today, Mathura Junction is recognized as the only Indian station from which you can catch trains to nearly every corner of the country, with around 197 trains halting daily on its 14 platforms. This includes prestigious trains like the Rajdhani, Shatabdi, and Duronto Express, connecting Mathura to all major metros and pilgrimage centers. (Zee News; Mathura Tour; News9Live)

Visiting Hours

Mathura Junction Railway Station operates 24 hours a day, seven days a week, to accommodate its high passenger volume. However, key facilities have specific timings:

Reservation Counters: Open from 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM
Waiting Rooms: Accessible from early morning until late evening
Refreshment Stalls: Vary, but most are open from early morning to late night

During major festivals such as Janmashtami and Holi, it’s advisable to confirm timings as special arrangements and changes may occur. (Indian Railways)

Ticketing Information

Reservation & Booking: Tickets can be purchased at station counters or booked online via the official Indian Railways portal and authorized mobile apps. Automated ticket vending machines are also available to ease congestion.
Tatkal & Last-Minute Booking: Tatkal services are offered for urgent travel needs, subject to availability.
Unreserved Tickets: Available at dedicated counters, typically opening early in the morning.
International Travelers: Foreign tourists can use the International Tourist Bureau at select major stations; for Mathura, online booking is recommended.

(Indian Railways)

Station Facilities and Passenger Comfort

Waiting Rooms: Both general and first-class waiting rooms are available, with improved seating and amenities.
Restrooms: Clean and accessible, including Sulabh toilets and facilities for differently-abled passengers.
Food and Refreshments: Vegetarian and non-vegetarian refreshment rooms, tea stalls, snack kiosks, and local sweet shops (famous for Mathura Peda).
Bookstalls: Newspapers, magazines, and religious literature.
Drinking Water: Filtered water dispensers at multiple points.
Luggage Cloakroom: Secure storage available; keep your receipt safe.
Tourist Information Center: Guidance on local attractions, transport, and accommodations.
Security: CCTV surveillance, Railway Protection Force (RPF), and Government Railway Police (GRP) presence.
Accessibility: Ramps, handrails, reserved parking, and wheelchair access.

Travel Tips

Best Time to Visit: October to March offers pleasant weather and less congestion (except during major festivals).
Peak Periods: Janmashtami and Holi see heavy crowds; book tickets and accommodation well in advance.
Transport: Auto-rickshaws, taxis, and local buses are readily available outside the station.
Local Customs: Dress modestly and be respectful, especially in religious areas.
Health: Carry bottled water and use hand sanitizer. Eat at hygienic stalls and avoid raw or exposed foods.
Safety: Stay alert for pickpockets in crowded areas and keep valuables secure.

Accessibility and Safety

Mathura Junction has made strides in improving accessibility, especially for differently-abled travelers. However, some challenges remain:

Underpass Safety: The 400-meter underpass can be poorly lit due to rain covers, especially at night; use caution and consider carrying a flashlight. (Vrindavan Today)
Security Advice: Prefer secure waiting rooms and official prepaid transport, particularly after dark. Always request assistance from station staff if needed.

Nearby Attractions

Krishna Janmabhoomi Temple: 1.5–2 km from the station; accessible by auto-rickshaw, taxi, or a 20–25 minute walk.
Dwarkadhish Temple: 3 km away; a major pilgrimage site.
Vishram Ghat: On the Yamuna River, known for evening aarti ceremonies.
Vrindavan: 12 km from Mathura, with frequent buses and shared autos available.
Govardhan Hill: A significant pilgrimage site 23 km from Mathura.

(Facts.net; FabHotels)

Transport and Connectivity

Rail: Mathura Junction connects to all major Indian cities in all four directions, with 197 trains daily, including Rajdhani, Shatabdi, and Duronto Expresses. Regional EMUs also serve nearby towns.
Bus: The main Mathura bus stand is 3 km away, with state and private buses to Agra, Delhi, Aligarh, and other cities.
Road: Well-connected by road; taxis and app-based cabs available.
Airport: Nearest airport is Agra (65 km away).

(Mathura Tour; MathuraOnline)

Accommodation

Hotels and guesthouses of varying budgets are located close to the station and in the city center. Advance booking is advised during the high season.

(MathuraOnline)

FAQ

Q1: What are the visiting hours at Mathura Junction?
A1: The station is open 24/7, but reservation counters and waiting rooms generally operate from 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM.

Q2: How can I book train tickets?
A2: Book at the station counter, use automated vending machines, or online via the Indian Railways portal and apps.

Q3: Are there facilities for differently-abled travelers?
A3: Yes, ramps, reserved parking, accessible restrooms, and staff assistance are available.

Q4: What transport options are available from Mathura Junction?
A4: Auto-rickshaws, taxis, local buses, and shared autos to Vrindavan and other sites.

Q5: Is Mathura Junction safe for solo women travelers?
A5: Generally yes, but take standard precautions, travel during daylight, and use official transport services.

Q6: What are the top attractions near Mathura Junction?
A6: Krishna Janmabhoomi Temple, Dwarkadhish Temple, Vishram Ghat, and Vrindavan.

Conclusion

Mathura Junction Railway Station is more than a transit point; it is a vibrant hub that bridges Mathura’s ancient spiritual legacy with modern transportation convenience. With round-the-clock operations, extensive connectivity, and evolving facilities, the station streamlines journeys for millions of pilgrims and tourists every year. Awareness of visiting hours, ticketing procedures, safety, and local customs ensures a comfortable and rewarding experience. Plan ahead, use official resources, and embrace the unique cultural ambiance of Mathura for a memorable visit.

For real-time updates, ticket booking, and seamless travel assistance, download the Audiala app and explore our other guides on Indian railway journeys and Mathura’s spiritual heritage.