Uttar Pradesh conjures up visions of huge swaying fields, ancient Hindu temples on the banks of meandering rivers, and culturally rich towns and cities. Uttar Pradesh, in northern India, is a must-see tourist destination, with one of the world’s oldest cities and the world-famous Taj Mahal; it is also the birthplace of two major religions and one of India’s most prominent traditional dance traditions.
Uttar Pradesh, the epitome of diversity, cordially invites you to explore its unrivaled region of rich history, culture, art, and customs. With a land area of 243,290 sq. km, this Indian state is the origin of two of the world’s most prominent religions: Buddhism and Jainism. Apart from the legendary Taj Mahal in Agra, which is, of course, the state’s most famous tourist destination, Uttar Pradesh appears to have a lot to offer.
The northern Indian state of Uttar Pradesh is also home to a number of famous Hindu temples, Muslim places of worship (Dargah and Masjid), and Christian pilgrimage sites, reaffirming its role as a significant religious destination in the country. Varanasi, the Hinduism’s sacred city and one of the world’s oldest inhabited cities, is in Uttar Pradesh. Varanasi’s lanes have a long list of stories to tell visitors, and its ghats may have you lost in contemplation for hours, and the gorgeous Banarasi Sarees, may truly exemplify what love at first sight means.
Prayagraj, formerly Allahabad, hosts the Kumbh Mela, one of the world’s greatest religious gatherings, providing a once-in-a-lifetime event. The confluence of three of India’s most sacred rivers, the Ganga, Yamuna, and Saraswati, blesses this pilgrimage destination in Uttar Pradesh. It also has a lengthy history of political involvement in India. The state is home to Lord Rama and Lord Krishna, and travelers flock to their sacred abodes in Ayodhaya, Vrindavan, and Mathura throughout the year.
Pilgrims can pay their respects to important holy sites such as Sarnath and Kushinagar in Uttar Pradesh, which is also a famous Buddhist and Jain pilgrimage destination. Food ranging from biryani to kebabs to korma and sweets keep you satiated on the one hand, while brass and bronze ware from Moradabad, bangles, and glassware from Firozabad, locks from Aligarh, and zardozi and silk sarees from Varanasi win accolades on the other.
One of India’s eight ancient dances, Kathak, was born in Uttar Pradesh, making it one of the country’s most prominent cultural centers. Throughout the state, there are numerous wildlife sanctuaries and fewer national parks, which are home to a vast range of flora and fauna.
Dudhwa National Park and Okhla Bird Sanctuary are two of Uttar Pradesh’s most popular wildlife destinations. From the capital city of Lucknow, which displays magnificent Mughal and British architecture, to Varanasi, which mixes Nagara and Mughal architecture, the state’s heritage tour traverses the length and breadth of the state. The fast-growing cities of Noida (Gautam Buddha Nagar), Ghaziabad, and Greater Noida, on the other hand, display another side of architecture with their sky-scraping housing societies and massive malls. The DLF Mall of India in Noida is not only one of the biggest malls in India, but also one of the largest in the world.
Uttar Pradesh promotes tourism by holding international events like the Kumbh Mela and the Taj Mahotsav, which are said to help visitors learn about the state’s rich history and culture. A travel to India on vacation here is truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Places to visit in Uttar Pradesh
Agra
The Taj Mahal, one of the world’s seven wonders, is located on the banks of the Yamuna River in Uttar Pradesh, making Agra a popular tourist destination. It offers a look into the architectural history and heritage of the Mughal dynasty, along with two other UNESCO World Heritage Sites, Agra Fort, and Fatehpur Sikri. The history, architecture, and romance of Agra add to its allure, making it a must-see for anyone living in or visiting India.
Agra is India’s 24th most populous city and one of Uttar Pradesh’s most populous cities. With such a long and rich history, it’s no surprise that Agra, along with Delhi and Jaipur, is part of the well-known Golden Triangle Circuit for tourists. The Uttar Pradesh Heritage Arc, which also encompasses Varanasi and Lucknow, includes it as well. History and architectural aficionados will have a field day with a broad expanse of Mughal art and culture on display.
Agra, in addition to its historical sites, has a lot to offer foodies. Petha (a pumpkin-based dessert with rose water and saffron) is as famous as the Taj Mahal. Marble artifacts are very popular in Agra and may be found in the Sadar Bazaar and Kinnari Bazaar neighborhoods.
- Time required to visit the site- 1 to 2 days
- Best time to visit the site- October to March
Varanasi
Varanasi is India’s spiritual center and the world’s oldest living city, also known as Kashi (City of Life) and Benaras. It is one of Hinduism’s seven holy cities. Varanasi’s medieval city is spread out along the Ganges’ western bank, in a maze of narrow galis. Prepare to walk a long distance and encounter some holy cows! There are temples on almost every corner of Varanasi, but the Kashi Vishwanath Temple is the most visited and oldest of them all. Benaras is referred to as Lord Shiva’s city for a reason, and rightfully so.
Varanasi is regarded to be a suitable place to die because it offers moksha or liberation from the cycle of life and death. The spiritually illuminating heart of the city pulsates around the ghats, which number over 80, and along the Ganges. Get ready for the sights, sounds, and smells that will greet you! Not to be missed are the spicy chaat and refreshing lassi. Just before dusk, the Ganga Aarti, a spectacular ceremony, brings the pandemonium and commotion on the ghats to a standstill.
In addition to being a prominent Buddhist pilgrimage destination, this holy city is also a popular Buddhist pilgrimage site. The first sermon of Gautam Buddha was delivered in Benaras, which is now part of Sarnath.
- Time required to visit the site- 2 to 3 days
- Best time to visit the site- October to March
Vrindavan
One of the most prominent pilgrimage locations for Krishna believers is Vrindavan, one of the oldest cities on the Yamuna’s banks. Vrindavan is the place where Lord Krishna is said to have spent his childhood. The name Vrindavan comes from the terms Vrinda (basil) and van (grove), which could relate to the two little groves at Nidhivan and Seva Kunj. Vrindavan is regarded as a sacred site, and many people come here to give up their material goods.
Hundreds of temples dedicated to Lord Krishna and Radha may be found throughout Vrindavan, the most prominent of which are the Banke Bihari temple and the world-famous ISKCON temple. The vibrant surroundings perfectly capture Lord Krishna’s jovial and compassionate demeanor. The main attractions here, which are located along the Yamuna’s waters, are the different temples situated inside the deep woodlands and the lovely foliage of Vrindavan.
- Time required to visit the site- 1 to 2 days
- Best time to visit the site- October to March
Prayagraj
Allahabad, currently officially known as Prayagraj, is a city in the Indian state of Uttar Pradesh. Triveni Sangam, or the confluence of three rivers: the Ganga, the Yamuna, and the Saraswati, is located in Prayagraj. It reminds me of everything spiritual and sacred about Hinduism. Since time immemorial, the Maha Kumbh Mela, the largest Hindu gathering on the banks of the Sangam, has been held in Prayagraj, which was established on the site of the ancient town of Prayag. While Prayagraj is sometimes disregarded in favor of more tourist-friendly places, it has much more to offer than its religion.
Triveni Sangam is one of the top places to visit in Prayagraj if you’re religious. Visitors and residents flock to Triveni Sangam all year. The Maha Kumbh Mela is a religious festival that takes place in this city every twelve years and draws millions of pilgrims from all over the world.
In Prayagraj, the Anand Bhavan, Among Saints Cathedral, Chandra Shekhar Azad Park, and Allahabad Museum are among popular tourist attractions.
- Time required to visit the site- 1 to 2 days
- Best time to visit the site- October to March
Sarnath
Sarnath is a historical wonderland with multiple Buddhist stupas, museums, unearthed old ruins, and gorgeous temples that inspire amazement and awe in visitors due to its mysterious and peaceful ambiance. Sarnath is a renowned pilgrimage destination for Buddhists, Jains, and Hindus alike, and is only 10 kilometers from Varanasi.
Sarnath is a Buddhist pilgrimage place with a number of temples, peaceful environs, and historically significant architectural marvels. Sarnath, the site of Lord Buddha’s first sermon, is now a renowned tourist attraction known for its cultural significance and mystical ambiance. Sarnath’s spiritual significance is enhanced by Ashoka’s Pillar, Emperor Ashoka’s Dharma Stupa, and many more attractions.
- Time required to visit the site- 1 day
- Best time to visit the site- October to March
Best Hotels in Uttar Pradesh
- The Oberoi Amarvilas, Agra
- Taj Mahal Lucknow
- Taj Ganges, Varanasi
- Kanha Homestay
- Radisson Lucknow City Centre
Frequently Asked Question
Sonbhadra and Chitrakoot cave paintings are depictions of life at the time. Those images depict wars, survival, victories, and losses. With the passage of time, this painting culture evolved. Lord Krishna's childhood and adolescence are shown in the ones at Mathura, Gokul, and Vrindavan. What a fantastic approach to save stories for future generations to tell visually!
Chikankari is one of Uttar Pradesh's most well-known crafts. It's the process of introducing elaborate designs to fabric via hand embroidery. These patterns are usually incredibly complex and intricate, and they are renowned to win people's hearts all over the world. Lucknow is known throughout the country for its chikan sarees, suits, and kurtas. Varanasi's zardozi is another well-known craft. In most cases, zardosi needlework is done in three dimensions.
Taj Mahotsav is an annual festival held in the majestic city of Agra from the 18th to the 27th of February. It is organised by Uttar Pradesh Tourism. The project began in 1992 and takes place in Shilpgram, near the Eastern Gate of the magnificent Taj Mahal. The festival's goal is to honour and celebrate the city's cultural heritage. Hundreds of local craftsmen join the Taj Mahotsav each year to exhibit their work, as it is a terrific opportunity for craft aficionados to meet creative artists and purchase for gorgeous handicrafts.
Visit this spiritual place of India and immerse yourself in the beauty of this place!!!
Image Source: Google