When you think of the most typical idea of “Indian-ness”, you think of Uttar Pradesh. The states very name give away its location, uttar meaning northern and pradesh meaning region. At a time Uttar Pradesh, colloquially known as “U.P.” was the northernmost province in India. In 2000, the state was divided into Uttar Pradesh and Uttrakhand, a mountainous state to the North of UP. Even after the division, in today’s date Uttar Pradesh is not only the most populous state in India with over 200 million inhabitants, but is also the most populous country-subdivision in the world. Uttar Pradesh’s size has both historically and more recently politically made it a very important state in India, apart from having great economic and spiritual significance.
Topographically, Uttar Pradesh is a state that is predominantly plains, with some areas at a higher elevation. Its most significant attractions are two of the most revered holy rivers in India, the Ganges and the Yamuna, which unify in UP and continue on as the Ganges. Being the land irrigated by numerous rivers and their tributaries, UP is an extremely fertile land, and though it had long been known for its sugarcane production, it is now a state hinged on its services industries. All of these attractions has also made UP a significant historical state, with some of the most prominent dynasties in Indian history (Mauryas, Harsha, Mughal, Delhi Sultanate, Guptas) having all presided over it at some point or the other. The region also head much noteworthiness during the British era in India. Historically, UP has also been a religiously diverse region, those it has been a hotbed for turbulent sentiments in more recent times.
Here are 8 major cities in Uttar Pradesh that every traveller must visit:
- Agra
- Varanasi
- Vrindavan
- Lucknow
- Allahabad
- Sarnath
- Mathura
- Jhansi
Besides the major cities, Uttar Pradesh also boats of a number of iconic day trips that can be made from its bigger cities. Here are 27 day trips you shouldn’t miss in UP:
- Fatehpur Sikri
- Vindhyachal
- Chitrakoot
- Ayodhya
- Dudhwa National Park
- National Chambal Wildlife Sanctuary
- Hastinapur
- Noida
- Kanpur
- Muzaffarnagar
- Ghaziabad
- Meerut
- Aligarh
- Firozabad
- Loni
- Kushinagar
- Barsana
- Shravasti
- Garhmukteshwar
- Pilibhit
- Bateshwar Temple
- Dewa Sharif
- Bithoor
- Nawabganj Bird Sanctuary
- Fort of Unchagaon
- Naimisharanya
- Sonbhadra
Agra
Agra is a city that lies on the banks of the River Yamuna. It is also one of the most popular tourist locations in the world, being as it is the location for one of the most famous wonders of the world, the Taj Mahal. The Taj Mahal is actually a tomb made by the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan for his beloved wife, Mumtaz Mahal. Not just a monument to love, this UNESCO World Heritage site is one of the finest specimens of Mughal architecture, art and culture. Folklore of the region suggests the emperor cut off the hands of the artisans who created the monument, preventing its awe-striking beauty from ever being replicated. The giant structure is surrounded by gardens and water displays said to rival the beauty of the Taj Mahal itself.
Not just the Taj Mahal, Agra is also known as a hub for foodies, with some of Uttar Pradesh’s most iconic snacks originating from here. Tiny models of the Taj Mahal, the Pethas (sweets made from pumpkin, saffron and rose water) and marble artefacts sold in Sadar Bazaar or Kinaari Bazaar are the regions most popular souvenirs.
While breathtakingly beautiful, all tourists visiting the city of Agra are told to be wary of conmen posing as faux tour guides and handicraft sellers!
Visit if:
There is no kind of person who should not visit Agra, and of course, the Taj Mahal. Whether you’re a bucket-lister, a traveller doing a trip all around India, or a family on vacation, Agra is a must-go you shouldn’t miss out on!
Stay for:
Ideal for a day trip
Best time to visit:
October to March
Reach via:
The country’s capital, Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport is 220 kilometres from Agra. The city is also well connected by rail via the Agra Cantt and the Agra Fort railway Stations.
Regardless of its various modes of travel, driving into the city from Delhi remains the most affordable and convenient way to visit Agra. A number of car rental services ply in the region.
Don’t miss out on:
- Taj Mahal
- Agra Fort
- Itimad-ud-daulah’s Tomb
- Mehtab Bagh
Varanasi
Varanasi may be the city’s name on paper, but it is locally known as ‘Kashi’ (City of Life) or Banaras. One of the most sacred and spiritual sites in India, it is said to be the world’s oldest living city as well as the spiritual capital of India. Varanasi is divided into the ‘old city’ and the more metropolitan ‘new city’ areas. The old city sits on the western banks of the Ganges or locally called the ‘Ganga’. This region is a dense and confusing labyrinth of narrow streets called ‘gallis’ that end suddenly and unexpectedly into one of the hundreds temples that dot the region, or open up into one of the ‘ghats’ (stepped sacred platforms at the river banks). In some regions of the city, you are sure to encounter the stereotype of holy cows on the street and are sometimes required to walk barefoot as you cross the sacred ground that surrounds its manifold temples.
Spiritually, for Buddhists, the city is said to be the region where Gautum Buddha preached his first sermon. For those who practise the religion of Hinduism, Varanasi is considered the most sacred place to die, or pass to the realm beyond. Every year, thousands of people bring their loved ones to the city to reward them ‘moksha’ or liberation, and many of the ghats are allocated for ceremonial pyres and last rites. The city carries within its hustle, bustle and jest for life an undercurrent of longing to wash away ones sins by all those who pass through it, and a daily celebration of the life of those who have passed on. Banaras is one of the 3 main ‘houses’ of schools of teaching for the traditional Indian dance form, Kathak.
Visit if:
A traveller is search of spiritual serenity
Stay for:
2-3 days
Best time to visit:
October to March
Reach via:
Varanasi Airport is well-linked to most major Indian cities. The region also boasts of many well-connected railway stations.
Don’t miss out on:
- Kashi Vishwnath Temple
- The Ganga Aarti (ceremonial prayer) at dusk
- Hot chaat (street food) and cool lassi (dairy drink)
- Dashashwamedh Ghat
- Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple
- Assi Ghat
- New Vishwanath Temple
- Tulsi Manasa Temple
- Durga Temple
- Tibetan Temple
- Manikarnika Ghat
- Nepali Temple
- Kedar Ghat
- Batuk Bhairav Mandir
- Bananas Hindu University building
- Bharat Mata Mandir
- Alamgir Mosque
- Shivala Ghat
- Manmandir Ghat
- Ramnagar Fort
- Chunar Fort
- Vishwanath Gali
- Mary’s Church
- Vindham Waterfalls
- Rajdari Waterfalls
- Devdari Waterfall
- Ramnagar Ramilla (seasonal festival)
- Ganga Mahotsav (seasonal festival)
- Sita Samahit Sthal
Vrindavan
One of the oldest cities in India, Vrindavan sits on the banks of the River Yamuna. The city derives its very name from indicators of holiness; vrinda referring to the holy Indian basil plant tulsi and van meaning sacred grove, referring to the two sacred groves in the region, Nidhivan and Seva Junj. Vrindavan is said to be the city where one of the most popular and revered Hindu Gods, Krishna, lived in his childhood. The city is a significant pilgrimage site for Hindus, and many even come here to abandon their worldly possessions and life to live like ascetics. This makes Vrindavan also a charitable hub in India.
Being the birthplace of Krishna, Vrindavan hosts hundreds of temples devoted to Lord Krishna and Radha, his childhood beloved and consort (but not wife). Lord Krishna is said to have been a playful and full-of-life youth and every atom of Vrindavan believes in bringing that to life. Every temple has a unique aesthetic and reason to visit it! Set amongst dense greenery, the city is fun, vibrant, and a constant source of the stimuli of tastes, sounds and sights.
Visit if:
A spiritual travelller hoping to interact with Hinduism in a fun and unique way
Stay for:
1-2 days
Best time to visit:
October to March
Reach via:
Vrindavan is 128 kilometers from Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport while also being accessible from the domestic airport in Kheria. Unfortunately, not many frequent rail and bus routes exist, but the road services in the region and abundant, affordable and reliable.
Don’t miss out on:
- Banke Bihari Mandir
- Prem Mandir
- Radha Raman Temple
- ISKCON Temple
- Sri Raganatha Temple
- Navratri at Katyayani Peeth (seasonal festival)
- Shahji Temple
- Govind Devji Temple
- Nandgaon
Lucknow
Lucknow is the capital city of Uttar Pradesh, also being the largest in the state. As you enter the city, a sign welcomes you with the greeting, Muskuraiyein, kyunki aap Lucknow mein hai which means, “Smile, because you’re in Lucknow!” And the city definitely lives up to that spirit. Lucknow has a unique atmosphere – while parts of the city feel as if they have been frozen in time, the city in its entirety is quite metropolitan and modernised. Lucknow combines some of the most historically spectacular architecture from the era of nawabs (religious regional rulers) with diverse culture, finger-licking delicacies, iconic literature and a rich colonial past. It’s modernised museums and abundance rich artistic activities remind you of the many many layers that make up India’s tumultuous history.
Lucknow, like many historical cities in UP, is divided into ‘Old Lucknow’ and ‘New Lucknow’ by the Rupi Darwaza, an intricate gateway built by the Mughal dynasty. While Old Lucknow is known for its narrow but vibrant streets, the smells of Lucknowi cuisine (kebabs, biryani, lakhnavi chicken) and its shimmering jewellery stores. This area also has some of the most beautiful textile merchants in India. In stark contrast to Lucknow’s older part, ‘New Lucknow’ is one of Inidas best planned cities, with wide roads, shopping malls, and diverse opportunities for entertainment. Hazratganj is a popular shopping distract in New Lucknow is known not only for its amazing deals and iconic street food, but also for its perfectly preserved colonial era Victorian architecture.
Culturally, Lucknow is one of the 3 main ‘houses’ of schools of teaching for the traditional Indian dance form, Kathak. The grace and elegance of Kathak also translates to Lucknowi manners, which are legendarily known even within India, with the Hindi language spoken with perfect grammar and some of the most courteous behaviour – making it a wonderful hospitable city for tourists.
Visit if:
A traveller hoping to explore India with one foot in the past, and the other in the present.
Stay for:
2-3 days
Best time to visit:
October to March
Reach via:
Lucknow’s Charbagh railway Station sits in the heart of the city and has excellent connectivity with most cities in India. Lucknow’s airport is also just 12 kilometres from the city.
Don’t miss out on:
- Bara Imambara
- Chota Imambara
- British Residency
- Hazratganj Market
- Lucknow Zoo
- Ambedkar Memorial Park
- Rumi Darwaza
- Constantia (La Martiniere School)
- Moti Mahal Palace
- Dilkusha Kothi
- Firangi Mahal
- The waterbody at Janeshwar Mishra Park
- Husainabad Clock Tower
- Indira Gandhi Planetarium
- Ramakrishna Math
- Shah Najaf Imambara
- Jama Masjid (Lucknow)
- Begum Hazrat Mahal Park
- Ram Manihar Lohiya Park
- Chattar Manzil
- 1857 Memorial Museum Residency
- Hussainabad Picture Gallery
- Shaheed Smarak
- Safed Baradari
- Shahi Baoli
- Tomb of Saadat Ali Khan
- Kaiserbagh Palace
Allahabad
Recently renamed to Prayagraj, Allahabad is a city famous of being the place where three of India’s most sacred rivers meet – the Ganges, the Yamuna, and the Saraswati. This point of meeting is called the Trivedi Sangam and is a very spiritual spot for Hindus. Allahabad derives its new name by the ancient town on which it was built, called Prayag and is know for the single largest Hindu gathering festival – the Maha Kumbh Mela. The festival takes place every 12 years and at the last Prayag Kumbh Mela in 2013, an estimated 120 million people visited over two months, with 30 million of those on a single day (February 10th, the auspicious day of Mauni Amavasya). Given the scale and significance of the Maha Kumbh Mela, Allahabad is often regarded as just a spiritual site, but the city has much more to offer.
Post the Mughal invasion, Allahabad or at the time, “Illahabas”, was an important city to the favoured Emperor Akbar. The Allahabad Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is one of the finest examples of Mughal curation and craftsmanship. The region is also significant in its recurring mention in Hindu scripture as the Kaushambi.
Visit if:
A traveller who wishes to visit the more traditional and authentic part of Uttar Pradesh
Stay for:
2-3 days
Best time to visit:
October – March
Reach via:
Though Allahabad has its own airport, the frequency of flights is dismal, with only one a day flying to Delhi, India’s capital. By rail, the city hosts 4 extremely well-connected, frequent and reliable railway stations – Allahabad Junction, Prayag Station, Rambagh, Daraganj Station – with connections to every major Indian city.
Don’t miss out on:
- Trivedi Sangam
- Khusro Bagh
- Anand Bhawan
- Allahabad Museum
- Allahabad Fort
- Allahabad Pillar
- Magh Mela (seasonal festival)
- All Saints Cathedral
- New Yamuna Bridge at sunset
- Allahabad University
- Allahabad High Court
- Minto Park
- Jawahar Planetarium
- Allahabad Public Library
- Boating on the Ganga
Sarnath
In the middle of the densely populated, loud, vibrant, and busy state of Uttar Pradesh is the quaint town of Sarnath. A spiritual hub for Buddhists, and one of the most ancient sites in India, Sarnath is a breath of fresh air from the cacophony of wonders that is Uttar Pradesh. Just 10 kilometres from Varanasi (they were historically one region), Sarnath is beautiful historical town of numerous Buddhist stupas (dome shaped shrine), museums, excavation sites, ancient ruins, and amazing temples. It is a popular pilgrimage site for Buddhists, Hindus, Jains and even the agnostic.
Sarnath is also the site for Ashoka’s Pillar and as well the Dharma Stupa built Emperor Ashoka, who is said to have devoted his life to Buddhism and the teaching of Gautum Buddha after witnessing the atrocities of a war ignited by him.
Visit if:
A traveler seeking peace, solitude and enlightenment
Stay for:
2 days
Best time to visit:
October to March
Reach via:
Sarnathi si best accessed by taking a road trip from Varanasi. Varanasi airport is just 24 kilometres from the city and a few trains on the Varanasi route also stop here. Road travel by government-operated buses and private car rental services are the most popular means of transport here.
Don’t miss out on:
- Chaukhandi Stupa
- Ashoka’s Pillar
- Thai Temple
- Tibetan Temple
- Archealogical Museum
- Buddha Purnima (seasonal festival)
Mathura
The seven sacred cities of India are collectively called Mokshapuris. Of them, Mathura is one of the prominent cities. Mathura is said to have been the birthplace of the Lord Krishna, and the prison where he born is now a popular tourist spot. Mathurs and Vrindavan are often considered twin cities, and indeed many similarities exist between them. Like Vrindavan, Mathura features numerous temples devoted to Lord Krishna, and welcomes hordes of pilgrims every year.
Mathura sits on the banks of the holy River Yamuna and it is said that taking a dip in its holy waters purifies the soul and rids it of past sins. At dawn, just after the sacred aarti (prayer), hundreds of diyas or earthen lamps are seen floating on the water, especially during the festivals of Janmashtami (Lord Krishna’s birth day in August/ September) and Holi (a colourful festival celebrating the victory of good over evil in February/ March).
We recommend taking a walk around this beautiful city, experiencing its old world charm and touching its crumbling walls that hold stories from centuries past.
Visit if:
A traveler hoping to explore a spiritual city in an out of the box way
Stay for:
2-3 days
Best time to visit:
October to March
Reach via:
Don’t miss out on:
- Lathmar Holi (seasonal festival)
- Govardhan Hill
- Shri Krishna Janmasthan Temple (the birthplace of Lord Krishna)
- Dwarkadheesh Temple
- Vishram Ghat
- Birla Mandir
- Rangji Mandir
- Radha Kund
- Kusum Sarovar
- Mathur Museum
- Jama Masjid
- Kokilavan
- Kans Qila
- Jai Gurudev Mandir
- Potara Kund
- Dauji Mandir for Holi (seasonal festival)
Jhansi
Khoob ladi mardaani voh toh Jhansi wali rani thi!
She fought gallantly like a man, that’s how the Queen of Jhansi was
An excerpt from the poem by legendary poet Subhadra Kumari Chauhan, this poem has immortalised the bravery of the queen of Jhansi during the freedom struggle against the British. A prominent city in Uttar Pradesh for even more than its iconic queen, Jhansi is paradise to any history buff. The capital to the erstwhile Bundelkhand region, Jhansi sits between the banks of the Betwa and Pahunch rivers. The city gets its name from the Jhansi Fort built by Raja Bir Singh Deo and has been the seat of reign for many dynasties.
Just by looking at the names and signage in the city, one can gauge the historical significance of every turn, every brick in tis old walls, and explains why thousands of history buffs, both international and Indian, are drawn to it every year.
Visit if:
A history buff hoping to enjoy a much learned about region
Stay for:
2 days
Best time to visit:
November to March
Reach via:
An adjoining state, Madhya Pradesh’s city Gwalior’s airport is 99 kilometres from Jhansi. The region also lies on the National Highway Development Project, resulting in wide, clean and readily accessible road travel.
Don’t miss out on:
- Rani Mahal
- Jhansi Fort
- Jhansi Museum
- Cenotaph of Raja Gangadhar Rao
- Orchha Fort Complex
- Jude’s Shrine
- Barua Sagar
- Mahalakshmi Temple
- Rai Parveen Mahal
- The statue at Rani Lakshmi Bai Park
- Parichha Dam
- Bundelkhand Circuit
The day trips –
Ideal time: 5-6 hours each
How t travel: UP offers a wide network of buses and car rental services between cities
Fatehpur Sikri
Located 40 kilometres from Agra, Fatehpur Sikri is a hidden gem that most travellers pass over whilst making plans. A UNESCO Heritage spot, most of the city is made of red sandstone and is immaculately preserved. Made by the Mughal Emperor Akbar, this fortified city is a unique blend of fine, intricate architecture and the beliefs of Islam. The regions most popular monument are the tree palaces Akbar built for his multi-religious wives, and the Jama Masjd, which is use even today.
Best time to visit: October to March
Vindhyachal
Located on the banks of the River Ganges, Vindhyachal is a famous Hindu pilgrimage sport close to Varanasi and the city of Mirzapur. The town has many temples dedicated to various Gods and even boasts special sites where pilgrims take a dip in the Ganga and they worship its namesake Goddess. The pilgrims here perform the sacred ceremony of trikona parikrama, covering prayers at the three most important temples – Vindhyavasini, Ashtabhuja and Kali khoh.
Best time to visit: October to March
Chitrakoot
One of the few hill stations in Uttar Pradesh, Chitrakoot sits at the foothills of the Vindhyan Range. A significant location in the HIndu mythological epic, the Ramayan, Chitrakoot is said to have been the place where Lord Rama, his wife Sita, and his brother Lakshmana stayed for the eleven and a half year so their exile. This is the region where Goswami Tulsidas, author of ‘The Ramcharitmanas’, spent many years of his life.
Best time to visit: July to March
Ayodhya
Located on the banks of River Sarayu, Ayodhya is one of the seven sacred Hindu cities (Mokshapuri). Ayodhya is said to have been the birthplace and kingdom of Lord Rama, and is the setting for most of the epic, The Ramayan. The town is also the birthplace of four of Jainism’s 24 Tirthankaras (religious teachers), making it a spiritual hub for those of many religions. Ayodhya is also the site of one of India’s most controversial religious skirmishes, the Babri Masjid fiasco. The incident remains a sore spot for many Indians, nationwide.
Best time to visit: November to March
Dudhwa National Park
A perfect getaway for nature lovers and bird watchers, Dushwa National Park in the Northern part of Uttar Pradesh is an ideal place to view a wide variety of Indias flora and fauna. The area is home to many endangered species like the Tiger, Hispid hare, Swamp deer, Bengal Florican and Leopard etc and even includes a specialised tiger reserve. Cautiously, safaris are allowed here.
Best time to visit: December to April
National Chambal Wildlife Sanctuary
Just an hours drive from Agra, this area around the famous Chambal river is a secluded and special habitat for protected species like Gharial, Red crowned turtles, Gangetic Dolphins, and Indian skimmers. Besides the fauna, you can also explore the regions ancient ruins by renting a boat to take on the river. The area is a popular romantic spot.
Best time to visit: November to March
Hastinapur
The ancient town of Hastinapur was the setting for most of the HIndu mythology, the Mahabharata. The town is close to Meerut and sits on the banks of the Ganga. The town is also the birthplace of three of Jainism’s 24 Tirthankaras (religious teachers), making it a spiritual hub for those of many religions.
Best time to visit: October to March
Noida
If you ask the locals, few would say that Noida is a tourist destination. This dense, vibrant, busy, beautiful city lies just outside Delhi in the ‘NCR’ or National Capital Region. Noida though does have a lot to offer with its many shopping malls, clubs, restaurants, stree-food, and the famous Sunburn Arena where many international artists perform.
Best time to visit: September-December, February-March
Kanpur
Created by the king Hindu Singh Chandel and located on the banks of the River Ganges, Kanour is an industrial and cultural hub of Uttar Pradesh. The town is known for its chemical, textile, and leather industries. The town was a significant British garrison (then, Cawmpore), and going further back, has also been the seat of many famous dynasties. The city is known for its architecture and cultural diversity.
Best time to visit: October to March
Muzaffarnagar
Part of the ‘NCR’ or National Capital Region, Muzaffarnagar is a prosperous, fertile town known for its paper mills, sugar industry, and beautiful Mughal era monuments and temples. The town was known as Sarwat, and gifted to Muzaffar Khan by Emperor Shah Jahan. The local language Khari Boli, like the city, is crude but musical.
Best time to visit: November to February
Ghaziabad
Located in the ‘NCR’ or National Capital Region, Ghaziabad is called the ‘Gateway to Uttar Pradesh’. The town is a beautiful fusion on the more urbane lifestyle of the neighbouring city of Delhi and the more traditional culture of its own area. It is a major transport hub for North India.
Best time to visit: October to December, February to March
Meerut
Some of India’s most beautiful monuments and finger-licking cuisine is available in Meerut. Given its proximity to Delhi, the city sometimes gets passed over for more flashy destinations, but is. Ages in itself. Said to have been created by Sita’s (Lord Ram’s wife) father, the historical city is known for its Holi celebration on Nauchandi grounds every year.
Best time to visit: October to March
Aligarh
Historically known as Koli or Koi, today Aligarh is an educational and commercial hub in Uttar Pradesh. Deriving its glory from the famous Aligarh Muslim University, the region draws the learned from all over. The Aligarh Fort, built during Ibrahim Lodi’s reign has been must coveted by many dynasties, making Aligarh a seat of many dynasties like the Lodis, Mughals and even the British East India Company.
Best time to visit: October to February
Firozabad
Located just 40 kilometres from Agra, Firozabad is a hidden gem with a thriving economy. The region is known for its superior glass industry and creates everything from fine jewellery and glass beads to dainty glassware. The region is also a hub for chemical, packaging, and service industries. A quick trip is a great place to pick up truly unique souvenirs as you appreciate the architecturally fascinating mosques, ancient ruins, and temples or the area.
Best time to visit: October to March
Loni
A surprisingly less explored town in Uttar Pradesh. Loni is of mythological significance Apart from its many spiritual sites, it is also a beautiful place to explore the ruins of the Loni Fort, believed to have been patricianly destroyed by the invasion of Mohammed Shah in the 18th century. Many of the monuments here are over 500 years old.
Best time to visit: October to March
Kushinagar
Closer to the North-east of Uttar Pradesh, Kushinagar is culturally more diverse that many UP towns, as well as being a prominent Buddhist pilgrimage site. Known as the town where Buddha attained Mahaparinirvana (passed away), the Emperor Ashoka had built a stupa here to mark the parinirvana site. The town has many Buddhist temples where people from all over come to meditate and often, chat with the monks.
Best time to visit: November to February
Barsana
Located close to Mathura, Barsana is said to be the birthplace of the Hindu goddess Radha (Lord Krishna’s consort). It is popularly visited during the Holi festival (February/ March). The region is said to have been an extremely prosperous kingdom under Radha’s father, Vrishabhanu Maharaj’s rule and the architecture and general splendour of the town reflects that. The Brahma Hill and Vishnu Hill and the temples atop them are of great religious significance.
Best time to visit: October to March
Shravasti
A multi-cultural, multi-religious town like none other, Shravasti lies n the heart of Uttar Pradesh and is the site of some of the most breathtaking Thai, Tibetan and Korean monasteries. This architectural wonderland is a hidden gem that not many know about. The region is a significant religious site for Buddhists, Jains (it is the birthplace of Tirthankar – the founder of Jainisn), and Hindus (a popular location in the Ramayan).
Best time to visit: September to November
Garhmukteshwar
A 110 kilometres road trip from Delhi, Garhmukteshwar is a heritage town in India that sits on the banks of the over Ganges. The region is primarily known for its many dolphin sightings and opportunities to dip in the River Ganges safely.
Best time to visit: March to May
Pilibhit
Nestled amongst some of the dentist forests int he country, Pilibhit is a quaint little town also known as Basuri Nagari, that is, the land of flutes due to their high production rates here. The picturesque beauty of the city is made only more magical by the ancient temples and beautiful carvings that dot its landscape. Pilibhit is the perfect location to relax and enjoy a weekend getaway from the hustle and bustle of city life.
Best time to visit: September to March
Bateshwar Temple
The Bateshwar temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, is a monument to irony in the Chambal region of Uttar Pradesh. The uninformed tourist would never be able tot tell that this deeply serene and calming complex of sacred ground and over 200 temples was once the hiding place of India’s most notorious dacoit. The complex draws both spiritual pilgrims and criminology and mystery buffs.
Best time to visit: October to March, during the early day
Dewa Sharif
Located in the Barabanki area (close to Lucknow) of Uttar Pradesh, the Dewa Sharif is one of the most revered shrines from the Muslim community. The whole town is dedicated to and hosts the shrine of the world renowned Haji Waris Ali Shah. While the shrine is a significant part of Muslim heritage in India, it is also known for having one of the most grand Holi celebration in India. Because of this, it draws people of all religions, architecture buffs, and those looking for spiritual serenity.
Best time to visit: October to March, on a full moon day
Bithoor
Close to Kanpur, Bithoor is a popular Hindu pilgrimage site. The town is said to have been the residence of Luv and Kush (Lord Ram’s twin sons) as well as the Lord Bhramha (from which it derives its traditional name, Brahmavarta). The town was also the site of one of Init’a most known freedom struggles against British rule.
Best time to visit: October to March
Nawabganj Bird Sanctuary
Also known as the Shahid Chandra Shekhar Azad Bird Sanctuary, this sanctuary is located close to Unnao in UP, and is the protected natural habitat of over 250 unique domestic Indian species of birds like the Peafowl, Sarus Crane, King Crow. The Sanctuary also contains a deer park within it. The region is paradise for avid bird watchers.
Best time to visit: October to March, open between 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM. The entire trip generally lasts for about 2 to 4 hours.
Fort of Unchagaon
More than just an architectural weekend getaway, the fort is also an exceptional heritage resort. Close to Garhmukteshwar, and on the Moradabad – New Delhi National Highway, the area is an easily accessible and scenic roadtrip. Built in the 1850s by Rajput Zamindars and later inherited by local royalty, the fort is reflective of all the architectural splendour of the time.
Best time to visit: October to March, in the cool afternoon hours
Naimisharanya
Seated on the banks of the River Gomti, Naimisharanya derives its name from the ‘Divya Desams’ that is, one of the 108 Vishnu temples mentioned in the works of the scholarly Alvars (saints) and is also called Nimsar, Neemsar or Nimkhar. The central temple’s main attraction is the holy tank that is said to have been created with the Chakra- sacred weapon of God Vishnu and is a spot where many sages and people alike have said to have received Moksha (liberation from earthly sins and life).
Best time to visit: October to March
Sonbhadra
A hidden gem that even few locals know about, Sonbhadra is of both historical and religious significance. The main attraction of the region is actually Fossil Park, Lakhaniya Dari, and Mukka Falls where you can take a dip in the cool waters even in the height of summer and then dry off at the nearby Vijaygarh falls as you appreciate one of the best sunsets Uttar Pradesh has to offer.
Best time to visit: October to March
While Uttar Pradesh’s people are definitely known for their open-heartedness, welcoming nature and hospitality, there are some hacks for non-natives to assimilate in the region and have a more authentic experience. For example, the region comprises of a diversity of sub-cultures, all of which have unique and varied dialects. Many anglicised words, when pronounced in the region, have a different intonation. For example, the word “garh” (meaning fort), is not pronounced “gu-rr” but actually, “ga-dd-h”. Another ‘travel hack’ would be how you pronounce a city’s name. Many of the names used for cities in UP are called differently by natives. For example, Meerut is actually “May-rat” and calling the city “Varanasi” instead of “Banaras” is a dead giveaway of a foreign visitor.
To this land of spirituality and splendour, many make a pilgrimage, seeking to find themselves, or something greater. Whatever your preference, Uttar Pradesh is a state that you must visit!
