Mathura and Agra are two important cities in Uttar Pradesh, India. Agra is famous for the Taj Mahal, while Mathura is known as the birthplace of Lord Krishna. Many travelers visit both cities on the same trip due to their close proximity and cultural significance.

This guide will help you understand the best ways to travel from Agra to Mathura. You will learn about trains, buses, cars, and taxis, along with practical tips to plan your journey smoothly and comfortably.

Getting from Agra to Mathura – Main Options

Train

Traveling by train is a popular and convenient option for reaching Mathura from Agra. The rail network connects the two cities frequently, offering affordable and comfortable travel.

• Several trains run daily between Agra Cantt and Mathura Junction, covering about 60 km in approximately 1.5 to 2 hours depending on the train type and stops.

• Ticket prices range from ₹50 to ₹150 for second class and sleeper classes, making trains economical for budget travelers.

• Trains like the Taj Express and passenger trains operate frequently, but booking in advance via IRCTC is recommended during festivals and weekends to avoid last-minute rush.

• Agra Cantt station has good facilities including waiting rooms and food stalls, while Mathura Junction is well connected to local transport options for onward travel.

• During the monsoon season, occasional delays may occur due to waterlogging on tracks, so check train status before departure.

Bus

Buses offer a flexible and affordable way to travel from Agra to Mathura. Both government and private operators run services on this route.

• MSRTC and UPSRTC operate regular buses from Agra ISBT to Mathura bus stand, with journey times around 2 to 2.5 hours depending on traffic.

• Bus fares typically range from ₹70 to ₹150 depending on the type of bus, such as ordinary, semi-deluxe, or Volvo AC coaches.

• Buses run frequently from early morning till late evening, but can get crowded during holidays and weekends, so arriving early is advisable.

• The route follows NH19, passing through well-maintained highways with toll plazas; expect short stops for refreshments at highway dhabas.

• Local buses may not have reserved seating, so be prepared for standing room during peak travel times.

Car / Self-Drive

Driving from Agra to Mathura is straightforward and gives you flexibility to explore along the way. The route is well connected by national highways.

• The distance between Agra and Mathura is about 58 to 65 km via NH19, taking around 1.5 to 2 hours depending on traffic conditions.

• Driving yourself or hiring a taxi allows stops at roadside dhabas and attractions like Fatehpur Sikri en route.

• Toll charges apply on NH19, so keep some cash handy for toll plazas near Agra and Mathura.

• Traffic can be heavy during mornings and evenings, especially near city limits, so plan your departure accordingly to avoid peak hours.

• Car rentals and taxi services like Ola and Uber are available in Agra, offering hourly or one-way trips to Mathura with fares typically between ₹1200 and ₹1800.

Taxi

Hiring a private taxi or cab is a comfortable and hassle-free way to travel from Agra to Mathura, especially for groups or families.

• Prepaid taxis are available at Agra Cantt railway station and major hotels, with fixed fares around ₹1500 to ₹2000 for a one-way trip.

• App-based cabs like Ola and Uber operate on this route, providing easy booking and cashless payments with fare estimates visible before booking.

• Taxi travel time is about 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on traffic and route taken.

• Private taxis allow you to stop at tourist spots or rest stops, making the journey more flexible and comfortable.

• During festivals or weekends, taxi availability may reduce and fares can surge, so book in advance to secure your ride.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

This step-by-step plan is designed for first-time travelers going from Agra to Mathura. It covers essential actions to ensure a smooth journey.

• Book your train or bus ticket online in advance using IRCTC or UPSRTC websites to avoid last-minute unavailability and long queues at stations.

• Arrive at Agra Cantt railway station or Agra ISBT at least 30 minutes before departure to find your platform or bus stand easily and avoid rush.

• If traveling by car or taxi, confirm your booking and pickup time the day before, and check the vehicle’s condition for a safe trip.

• Carry bottled water and light snacks, especially if traveling during hot summer months or monsoon when delays are possible.

• On arrival at Mathura Junction or bus stand, use prepaid taxis or app-based cabs to reach your hotel or local attractions safely and affordably.

• Keep your phone charged and have offline maps ready to navigate local streets and find transport options in Mathura.

Practical Travel Tips

• Always use prepaid taxi counters or book Ola/Uber cabs to avoid overcharging and ensure safe travel from stations in both Agra and Mathura.

• Drink only bottled water and eat from clean, busy food stalls to avoid stomach issues during your journey.

• Book train and bus tickets well in advance during festival seasons like Holi and Diwali, as demand spikes sharply on this route.

• Carry light luggage for easier boarding and deboarding, especially on crowded trains and buses where space is limited.

• During monsoon, check weather and train/bus status online to avoid disruptions caused by rain or waterlogged roads.

• Use local auto-rickshaws or cycle rickshaws for short distances in Mathura, but agree on fares beforehand to avoid confusion.

Best Time & Travel Conditions

The best time to travel from Agra to Mathura is during the cooler months from October to March. This period offers pleasant weather and less travel discomfort.

Summer months from April to June can be very hot, making daytime travel tiring. The monsoon season from July to September may cause occasional delays due to heavy rains and slippery roads.

• Avoid traveling during major festivals like Holi and Janmashtami in Mathura, as transport becomes crowded and prices rise sharply.

• Fog in winters can cause train delays early in the morning, so plan to travel later in the day if possible.

• Start your journey early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid city traffic congestion around Agra and Mathura.

• Check weather forecasts and road conditions during monsoon to prepare for possible slowdowns or diversions.

Arrival at Mathura & What to Expect

Mathura Junction railway station and the central bus stand are well connected to the city center and major tourist spots. Upon arrival, you will find prepaid taxi counters and app-based cab services to reach your accommodation.

Popular areas to stay include near the railway station, Vishram Ghat, and the city market. Local transport options like auto-rickshaws and cycle rickshaws are available but always negotiate fares before boarding. The city is compact, so many attractions are within short travel distances.

Conclusion

Traveling from Agra to Mathura is easy and convenient with multiple transport options to suit different budgets and preferences. Trains offer a cost-effective and comfortable choice, while buses provide flexibility. Private cars and taxis add comfort and freedom to explore en route.

Planning ahead by booking tickets online, avoiding peak festival times, and choosing the right departure time will make your journey smooth. With this guide, you can confidently plan your trip from Agra to Mathura and enjoy the rich cultural heritage both cities offer.