What to Wear in Mathura

Temple dress

Every temple here expects shoulders and knees to be covered. A cotton kurta with loose trousers or a salwar, or a long skirt with a sleeved top, works for women. Men do well in trousers or a dhoti with a kurta or a shirt. Shorts, sleeveless tops and short skirts draw looks at the gate and may be turned away at the busier temples. A light scarf or stole helps in the sun and inside.

Shoes off, many times a day

You will leave your shoes at almost every temple, often at a free counter, sometimes in a pile by the door. Slip-on sandals or flats save a lot of time. Marble courtyards at ISKCON and Prem Mandir get very hot in summer and cold in winter, so socks are useful where they are allowed.

Season by season

From April to June, days pass 40 °C. Wear loose, light-coloured cotton, a hat and sunglasses, and carry water. In the monsoon, from July to September, pack quick-dry clothes and shoes with grip, because the lanes and ghat steps get slippery and muddy. From December to February, nights are cold and mornings often foggy, so bring a warm layer, a shawl and socks for early darshan.

Dressing for Holi

For Holi week wear something you are happy to throw away. White kurtas are the classic choice because the colour shows up well in photos. Add old sneakers, sunglasses to protect your eyes, and a cap or scarf for your hair. Oil your skin and hair beforehand so the colour washes out more easily.

Braj colours and local wear

Yellow and saffron are Krishna's colours here, and you will see them everywhere. Many pilgrims wear a tulsi-bead mala and a tilak on the forehead. The Vrindavan bazaar also sells poshak, the small, bright outfits made for temple deities, which make a good souvenir. See photo spots for colours that stand out against white marble.