Places To Visit in Uttar Pradesh is a state in northern India known for its rich cultural heritage, history, and architecture. Here are some of the popular tourist places to visit in Uttar Pradesh:
Table of Contents
General Information
- Capital: Lucknow
- Largest City: Kanpur
- Population: Approximately 200 million
- Area: Around 243,286 square kilometers
Geography
- Borders: Uttar Pradesh shares its borders with several states including Uttarakhand and Himachal Pradesh to the north, Haryana, Delhi, and Rajasthan to the west, Madhya Pradesh to the south, Chhattisgarh to the southeast, and Bihar to the east.
- Rivers: The state is traversed by several major rivers, including the Ganges (Ganga), Yamuna, Sarayu, and Ghaghara.
Economy
- Agriculture: Uttar Pradesh is a major agricultural state, producing significant quantities of wheat, sugarcane, and rice.
- Industries: It has a diverse industrial base including textiles, leather, sugar, engineering goods, and handicrafts.
Culture
- Language: The official language is Hindi, and Urdu is also widely spoken.
- Cuisine: UP has a rich culinary tradition with famous dishes like kebabs, biryani, chaat, and sweets like petha and jalebi.
- Festivals: The state celebrates a variety of festivals, including Diwali, Holi, Eid, and the Kumbh Mela, which attracts millions of pilgrims.
Tourist Places To Visit in Uttar Pradesh
1. TAJ MAHAL
The Taj Mahal is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in Agra, Uttar Pradesh, India. It is a white marble mausoleum built by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal. The Taj Mahal is considered one of the most beautiful buildings in the world and is a masterpiece of Mughal architecture. It is visited by millions of tourists every year from all over the world. The Taj Mahal is not only a symbol of love but also represents the rich history and cultural heritage of India.
2. VARANASI
Varanasi, also known as Kashi or Benares, is a city located on the banks of the Ganges River in the state of Uttar Pradesh, India. It is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world and is considered the spiritual and cultural capital of India. Varanasi is a major pilgrimage site for Hindus, who come here to take a dip in the holy waters of the Ganges and perform religious rituals.
The city is also known for its numerous ghats (riverfront steps) that lead down to the Ganges, where people can witness various cultural and spiritual activities. Varanasi is also famous for its exquisite silk sarees, Benarasi paan (a type of betel leaf), and mouth-watering street food. The city has a rich history and is home to numerous temples, palaces, and forts that reflect the glory of the bygone era.
3. LUCKNOW
Lucknow is the capital city of the state of Uttar Pradesh, India. It is known for its rich cultural heritage, elegant architecture, and delicious cuisine. The city has a long history of royal patronage and is famous for its exquisite monuments like Bara Imambara, Chota Imambara, Rumi Darwaza, and the British Residency. Lucknow is also known as the ‘City of Nawabs’ due to its association with the Nawabs of Awadh who were known for their refined culture and patronage of the arts.
The city is renowned for its Awadhi cuisine which is a fusion of Mughlai and traditional Indian dishes. Some of the popular dishes include biryani, kebabs, and Lucknowi chaat. The city also has a vibrant marketplace where one can buy Lucknowi chikan embroidery work, jewelry, and handicrafts. Overall, Lucknow is a city that is steeped in history and culture, and is a must-visit for anyone interested in exploring the cultural heritage of India.
4. AYODHYA
Ayodhya is a city located in the Faizabad district of Uttar Pradesh, India. It is known as the birthplace of Lord Rama, one of the most revered Hindu deities. Ayodhya is considered a holy city by Hindus and is an important pilgrimage site. The city is home to numerous temples, including the Ram Janmabhoomi temple, which is believed to be the birthplace of Lord Rama. The temple complex also includes the Hanuman Garhi temple, the Kanak Bhawan temple, and the Nageshwarnath temple. Apart from the religious significance, Ayodhya is also known for its rich history and cultural heritage.
The city was once the capital of the ancient kingdom of Kosala and has been mentioned in several ancient Hindu texts. Ayodhya is also famous for its handloom products like sarees and dhotis, which are made using traditional techniques. Overall, Ayodhya is a must-visit destination for those interested in exploring the religious and cultural heritage of India.
5. ALLAHABAD
Allahabad, officially known as Prayagraj, is a city located in the state of Uttar Pradesh, India. It is situated at the confluence of the Ganges, Yamuna, and Saraswati rivers, which is considered a sacred site in Hinduism. Allahabad is an important pilgrimage site for Hindus and hosts the Kumbh Mela, the world’s largest religious gathering, every 12 years. The city is also known for its beautiful architecture, with landmarks such as the Allahabad Fort, the Akbar Fort, and the Anand Bhavan. Another significant attraction in Allahabad is the Allahabad Museum, which houses a collection of ancient artifacts and manuscripts.
The city is also home to several prestigious educational institutions, including the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) and the Motilal Nehru National Institute of Technology (MNNIT). Overall, Allahabad is a city that is steeped in history and culture, and is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in exploring the religious and cultural heritage of India.
6. MATHURA
Mathura is a city located in the state of Uttar Pradesh, India. It is considered a holy city by Hindus and is believed to be the birthplace of Lord Krishna, one of the most revered deities in Hinduism. Mathura is home to several ancient temples dedicated to Lord Krishna, including the Sri Krishna Janmasthan temple and the Dwarkadhish temple. The city is also known for its vibrant Holi celebrations, which attract visitors from all over the world. Apart from the religious significance, Mathura is also known for its rich history and cultural heritage.
The city has been mentioned in several ancient Hindu texts and was once a center of the Maurya and Gupta empires. Mathura is also famous for its handicrafts, including the Mathura-style bronze and silver sculptures. Overall, Mathura is a must-visit destination for those interested in exploring the religious and cultural heritage of India, especially Hinduism.
7. SARNATH
Sarnath is a small town located in the Varanasi district of Uttar Pradesh, India. It is a significant Buddhist pilgrimage site and is considered one of the four holiest sites in Buddhism. It is the place where Lord Buddha gave his first sermon after attaining enlightenment, known as the Dhammacakkappavattana Sutta, or the Turning of the Wheel of Law. Sarnath is home to several ancient Buddhist temples and monuments, including the Dhamek Stupa, which is believed to mark the spot where Buddha gave his first sermon.
Other significant landmarks in Sarnath include the Chaukhandi Stupa, the Mulagandha Kuti Vihar, and the Sarnath Archaeological Museum, which houses a collection of ancient Buddhist artifacts and sculptures. Sarnath is a must-visit destination for those interested in exploring the history and philosophy of Buddhism, and for those who seek spiritual solace.
8. AGRA FORT
Agra Fort is a historical fort located in Agra, Uttar Pradesh, India. It was built by the Mughal Emperor Akbar in the 16th century and served as the main residence of the Mughal emperors until the capital was shifted to Delhi in the 17th century. The fort is built using red sandstone and has several palaces, mosques, and other buildings within its walls. The fort is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is considered an important landmark of Mughal architecture.
Some of the notable structures within the fort include the Jahangir Palace, the Khas Mahal, and the Diwan-i-Khas. The fort also offers breathtaking views of the nearby Taj Mahal, another important Mughal monument located in Agra. Agra Fort is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in the rich history and architecture of India, particularly during the Mughal era.
9. JHANSI
Jhansi is a historic city located in the state of Uttar Pradesh, India. It is known for its association with Rani Lakshmi Bai, one of the leading figures of the Indian Rebellion of 1857 against British colonial rule. Jhansi Fort, a massive 17th-century fortification located in the heart of the city, is closely associated with Rani Lakshmi Bai and her heroic resistance against the British forces. The fort houses several ancient temples, including the Ganesh Mandir, the Shiva Mandir, and the Kalika Mandir. Other significant landmarks in Jhansi include the Rani Mahal, a palace built for Rani Lakshmi Bai, and the Government Museum, which houses a collection of ancient artifacts and historical exhibits.
Jhansi is also known for its vibrant culture and cuisine, which is influenced by the local Bundeli and Marathi cultures. Overall, Jhansi is a must-visit destination for those interested in exploring the history and culture of India, particularly the struggle for independence against colonial rule.
10. FATEHPUR SIKRI
Fatehpur Sikri is a historical city located near Agra in the state of Uttar Pradesh, India. It was built in the 16th century by the Mughal Emperor Akbar and served as the capital of the Mughal Empire for a brief period. The city is known for its exquisite Mughal architecture, with notable structures such as the Jama Masjid, the Buland Darwaza, and the Diwan-i-Khas.
The city also houses several palaces and royal residences, including the Panch Mahal and the Birbal Bhavan. Fatehpur Sikri is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is considered one of the finest examples of Mughal architecture in India. The city is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in exploring the rich history and cultural heritage of India, particularly during the Mughal era.
11. HASTINAPUR
Hastinapur is an ancient city located in the Meerut district of Uttar Pradesh, India. It is closely associated with the Hindu epic Mahabharata and is believed to be the capital of the Kuru Kingdom, where the events of the epic took place. The city is home to several ancient temples and monuments, including the Karna Temple, the Pandaveshwar Mahadev Temple, and the Shri Digamber Jain Mandir. Other significant landmarks in Hastinapur include the Jambudweep Jain Tirth and the Hastinapur Wildlife Sanctuary, which is home to several endangered species of animals and birds. Hastinapur is a must-visit destination for those interested in exploring the rich history and mythology of India, particularly the stories and legends associated with the Mahabharata epic.
12. VRINDAVAN
Vrindavan is a holy town located in the Mathura district of Uttar Pradesh, India. It is a significant pilgrimage site for Hindus, particularly followers of Lord Krishna, who is believed to have spent his childhood and early youth in Vrindavan. The town is home to several ancient temples and shrines dedicated to Lord Krishna, including the Banke Bihari Temple, the ISKCON Temple, and the Prem Mandir. Other notable landmarks in Vrindavan include the Radha Kund and the Govardhan Hill, both of which are associated with Lord Krishna and his legends.
Vrindavan is known for its vibrant culture and is a hub for traditional music, dance, and arts. The town is also famous for its delicious vegetarian cuisine, particularly the local sweets and snacks. Overall, Vrindavan is a must-visit destination for those interested in exploring the rich culture and mythology of India, particularly the legends associated with Lord Krishna.
13. GARHMUKTESHWAR
Garhmukteshwar is a small town located in the Hapur district of Uttar Pradesh, India. It is a significant pilgrimage site for Hindus, particularly those who worship the river Ganges. The town is home to several ancient temples and shrines, including the Mukteshwar Mahadev Temple, the Ganga Temple, and the Meerabai Temple. The town is also famous for its annual bathing festival, known as the Garhmukteshwar Ganga Fair, which is held during the Hindu month of Kartik (October-November) and attracts thousands of devotees from across the country.
Garhmukteshwar is also known for its handicrafts, particularly its brassware and pottery, which are popular among tourists. The town is located on the banks of the river Ganges and offers scenic views of the surrounding countryside. Overall, Garhmukteshwar is a must-visit destination for those interested in exploring the rich culture and traditions of India, particularly the worship of the river Ganges.
14. DUDHWA NATIONAL PARK
Dudhwa National Park is a protected area located in the Lakhimpur Kheri district of Uttar Pradesh, India. It is known for its diverse flora and fauna, particularly its population of tigers and swamp deer. The national park covers an area of over 880 square kilometers and is home to several endangered species, including the Indian rhinoceros, the Bengal florican, and the hispid hare. The park also houses several species of birds, reptiles, and mammals, making it a popular destination for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers. Visitors to the park can enjoy jeep safaris, elephant rides, and nature walks to explore the park and its wildlife.
Dudhwa National Park is also home to several indigenous tribes, including the Tharu and the Boksas, who have a rich cultural heritage and unique way of life. Overall, Dudhwa National Park is a must-visit destination for those interested in exploring the rich biodiversity and cultural heritage of India.
15. KUSHINAGAR
Kushinagar is a small town located in the Kushinagar district of Uttar Pradesh, India. It is a significant pilgrimage site for Buddhists, particularly followers of Lord Buddha, as it is believed to be the place where he attained Parinirvana (enlightenment) and passed away. The town is home to several ancient temples and stupas, including the Mahaparinirvana Temple, the Ramabhar Stupa, and the Matha Kuar Shrine.
The town is also known for its beautiful gardens and parks, including the Nirvana Park and the Japanese Garden, which are popular among tourists. Visitors to Kushinagar can also explore nearby Buddhist sites, such as the Kapilavastu Museum, the Lumbini Garden, and the Sarnath Stupa. Overall, Kushinagar is a must-visit destination for those interested in exploring the rich history and culture of Buddhism, particularly the life and teachings of Lord Buddha.
16. NAWABGANJ BIRD SANCTUARY
Nawabganj Bird Sanctuary is a wildlife sanctuary located in the state of Uttar Pradesh, India. It is situated on the banks of the river Yamuna in the district of Unnao, around 45 kilometers from the city of Lucknow.
The sanctuary covers an area of around 3 square kilometers and is home to a variety of bird species, including migratory birds that come here during the winter season. Some of the birds that can be spotted here include Siberian cranes, pochards, gadwalls, tufted ducks, pintails, shovellers, and many others.
Apart from birds, the sanctuary is also home to a number of animals like sambar, spotted deer, blue bull, wild boar, and jackal. Visitors can explore the sanctuary on foot or on a boat ride. The best time to visit the Nawabganj Bird Sanctuary is between November and March, when the migratory birds are present in large numbers.
The sanctuary is also a popular destination for birdwatchers and photographers, who come here to capture the stunning sights of the avian fauna in their natural habitat.
These are just a few of the many tourist places to visit in Uttar Pradesh. The state is rich in history, culture, and spirituality and offers a unique experience for travelers.
