Uttar Pradesh is a prominent state of India, that offers a rich tapestry of history, spirituality, and cultural experience to everyone living or visiting. Many famous cities like Mathura, Vrindavan, Agra, Lucknow, Varanasi, Prayagraj, etc., are all in Uttar Pradesh, each famous either for their religious references, spiritual calling or architectural excellence. Each destination in Uttar Pradesh tells a unique story, making it a must-visit for history buffs, pilgrims, and explorers. A journey through this vibrant state is sure to leave you inspired and enriched. Let’s look at some of the popular tourist places to visit in Uttar Pradesh.
Varanasi:
It is the spiritual capital of our country that holds immense important for Hindus due to various reasons. Also known as Kashi, this city is mentioned in various scriptures and puranas for its worth. Situated near Ganga, it is also said to be the city of scholars and literates.
Top Attractions:
- Kashi Vishwanath Temple: A prominent Shiva temple and one of the twelve Jyotirlingas.
- Dashashwamedh Ghat: Famous for the mesmerizing evening Ganga Aarti.
- Sarnath: A Buddhist pilgrimage site where Lord Buddha delivered his first sermon.
Things to Do:
- Take a boat ride on the Ganges during sunrise.
- Witness the vibrant Ganga Aarti.
- Explore the narrow lanes of Varanasi for local silk sarees and street food.
Prayagraj:
The holy place of Prayagraj is famous due to Triveni Sangam, where three rivers, Ganga, Yamuna and the never-worldly Saraswati flow together.
Top Attractions:
- Triveni Sangam: Dipping here is sacramental.
- Allahabad Fort: An archaeologic monument of the Mughal period.
- Anand Bhavan: The birth place of the cramp Nehru family. Nowadays a museum.
What to Do:
- Kumbh Mela, one of the largest gatherings of humanity, every 12 years.
- View Khusro Bagh, the most historic building.
- Ride on a boat at the Sangam.
Lucknow:
The Nawabi city of India, Lucknow also serves as the capital of Uttar Pradesh and is best known for the fusion of various cultures, enriched history, and delicious food options to suit various tastes.
Best Places to visit:
- Bara Imambara: A stunning architectural site known for its famous Bhool Bhulaiya (a maze).
- Chota Imambara: Most known for its beautiful design and hanging lanterns/chandeliers.
- Hazratganj Market: Another beautiful and historic market in the city.
Areas of interest:
- Try some of the famous kebabs and biryanis that Lucknow has to offer.
- Appreciate a nostalgic walk around the old part of the city.
- Visit local shops and buy Chikankari clothes.
Mathura and Vrindavan:
Mathura and Vrindavan are revered as the birthplaces of Lord Krishna and are among the most respected cities in India, and are visited by millions of people worldwide.
Top Attractions:
- Shri Krishna Janmabhoomi: Let`s go high here, this is Lord Krishna`s home.
- Banke Bihari Temple: For the followers of Lord Krishna, this is the temple.
- Prem Mandir: What impresses people most are its richly detailed carvings and nighttime illumination.
What to Do:
- Join the festive and boisterous manners of celebrating Holi.
- Descend the ghats of Mathura for the holy experimentation.
- Ras Leela performances.
Agra:
With the iconic Taj Mahal situated in this city, Agra is recognised as UNESCO World Heritage city and epitomizes love and architectural grandeur. The monument proclaims and showcases the splendour of the Mughal era.
Top Attractions
- Taj Mahal: Constructed by Shah Jahan in memory of his beloved wife Mumtaz, Taj is one of the Seven Wonders of the World.
- Agra Fort: A remarkable castle and a designated UNESCO World Heritage site.
- Fatehpur Sikri: A Mughal city left in ruins, famed for its artistic structures.
Things to Do
- See the Taj Mahal at sunrise.
- Get some marble ornaments and leather products as souvenirs.
- Taste some Mughlai delicacies, such as the famous petha (sweet) in Agra.
Jhansi:
This city is rich in historical significance and gallantry because of its link with Rani Laxmi Bai, the queen of Jhansi.
Top Attractions
- Jhansi Fort: A sea fort that was paramount during the first struggle of this subcontinent.
- Rani Mahal: A splendid building that has been turned into a museum with objects typical of that period.
- Government Museum: Contains collection and displays of the history of Bundelkhand.
Things to Do:
- Experience history as a local while touring the magnificent Jhansi Fort.
- Relish Bundeli dishes.
- Visit the neighbouring Orchha for its exquisite buildings.
Sarnath:
Located near Varanasi, Sarnath is one of the major Buddhist pilgrimage sites, as Lord Buddha is said to have delivered his first ‘Sermon’ here.
Top Attractions
- Dhamek Stupa: The superstructure of this building is a burial mound that expands around 160 feet in diameter.
- Chaukhandi Stupa: A mound built to commemorate an important event or a person’s life related to Buddhism.
- Ashokan Pillar: The Ashokan’s piller symbolizes the supremacy and the lessons of the emperor Ashoka.
Things to Do
- Go to the Sarnath museum to find one of the four lion heads of the Lion Capital of Ashoka.
- Stroll amid the quiet verdant landscapes and the hermitages.
- Retreat in the peaceful atmosphere of the cult.
Dudhwa National Park:
Dudhwa National Park provides birds and animal lovers an opportunity to look into the wilderness and the picturesque nature of UP. It is a national park in the terai belt of marshy grasslands in northern Uttar Pradesh. It is a part of the Dudhwa Tiger Reserve in the Kheri and Lakhimpur districts.
Most Noteworthy Features
- UNESCO World Heritage Site
- Known for its rich biodiversity and wildlife
- Home to various reptiles, mammals, and birds
- A crucial habitat for Bengal Tiger and a sanctuary for endangered species
Where to Go
- Kishanpur Safari Zone
- Tharu villages
- Shiv temple at Gola Gokarannath
Ayodhya:
Ayodhya is revered as Lord Rama’s birthplace, one of the most important deities in Hinduism, making it a historical and holy site for all pilgrims.
Top Attractions:
- Ram Janmabhoomi Temple: A temple at the heart of every Shree Ram devotee.
- Hanuman Garhi: Famous temple of Lord Hanuman.
- Kanak Bhawan: The temples of India with a crown superbly made of gold.
What to Do:
- Partake in the evening aarti on the banks of the Saryu River.
- Walk through the colourful lanes selling lots of spiritual artifacts.
- Mark your presence at the grand Deepotsav festival during Diwali.
Also Read – Best Places to Visit in India by Foreign Tourists
Uttar Pradesh is not just this, but many more places and cities, each holding a uniqueness to themselves. The people of this state are hospitable and enjoys the local cuisine comprising various authentic spices and herbs. You must plan to visit the prominent ones and experience the warmth and spirituality spread across.
