Last Updated on by Manmeet Kaur
“Milega yaha sara desh, yeh hai Uttar Pradesh.”
It simply translates to ‘you will find the entire nation in Uttar Pradesh’. And that is absolutely true!
The Land of Ram, Lord Krishna, the Buddha, and one of the Seven Wonders of the World, Uttar Pradesh is a culturally rich state. It transcends all boundaries of art and tradition and brings together people from all around the country.
Widely known for its handicrafts, royal feasts, and kebabs, this Indian state boasts of religious fests. Not just this, it has massive expertise in the fields of dance and music, and is home to one of the first classical dances of India, Kathak.
Without bragging about the place anymore, let’s find out which places you should visit on your next trip to ‘Soul of India’.
Agra – City of Love
I’m Shah Jahan, you’re Taj Mahal
Do you remember that night at the Minah Bazaar
You were meant to be mine
You were meant to be mine
This beautiful song by Canadian singer, Sam Roberts sums up the Agra we have known. Apart from being one of the Seven Wonders of the world, the Taj Mahal has two UNESCO World Heritage sites. Millions of tourists visit this city for its rich history, architecture, and delicious petha. It is one of the most populous cities of Uttar Pradesh and a part of the tourists’ favorite – Golden Triangle.
Tourist Attractions: Taj Mahal, Agra Fort, Fatehpur Sikri, Mehtab Bagh, Tomb of Itmad-ud Daulah, Akbar’s Tomb, and Moti Masjid.
Things to do: Savour lip-smacking delicacies, soak in the spirituality at Jama Masjid, take a nature walk at Taj, enjoy the sunset at Yamuna river, shop at Kinari bazaar, and enjoy the Mughal era at Kalakriti Dance Drama Show.
Best time to visit: November to February
Also Read: 8 Best Places to Visit in Agra
[ Plan your Agra trip with Indian Holiday. ]
Varanasi – The holiest place for Hindus
Want to feel the spirituality of India at its best? Visit Varanasi in Uttar Pradesh. With continuously inhabiting people for some 2,800 years, it is one of the oldest cities in the world. This holy place for Hindus is believed to break free of the cycle of rebirth and unite with the divine upon death. Do not forget to visit the Banaras Ghats – a series of giant steps that lead to the holy river, Ganges. Many people come to this city to wash away their sins in the river followed by a fire-fueled prayer at night. It is a crowded city with narrow lanes that every traveler must stroll through for an authentic experience.
Tourist Attractions: Dashshwamedh Ghat, Assi Ghat, Manikarnika Ghat, Shri Kashi Vishwanath Temple, Ramnagar Fort, and Banaras Hindu University.
Things to do: Boat ride at the Ganges, Ganga Aarti, try Bhang from Godowlia, and relish mouth-watering foods.
Best time to visit: November to February
Also Read: 11 Must Things to do in Varanasi
Mathura – Birthplace of Lord Krishna
Jai Kanhaiya Lal ki! The Janmabhoomi of Lord Krishna, Mathura is dotted with beautiful temples and religious structures. It holds a deep cultural heritage that is formed through thousands of legends and myths. No wonder, it is known as one of India’s seven holy cities by Hindus. The charm of Mathura fascinates Hindu pilgrims from all parts of the country and beyond. An array of sacred temples, religious places, famous landmarks, and serene ghats make Mathura a surreal beauty that is hard to find elsewhere.
Tourist Attractions: Shri Krishna Janmabhoomi Temple, Dwakradhish Temple, Vishram Ghat, Kans Qila, Mathura Museum, and Jama Masjid.
Things to do: Dip in the holy waters of Kusum Sarovar, indulge in photography at Kesi Ghat, trek to Govardhan Hill, and witness the craziness at Lathmar Holi.
Best time to visit: October to November
Also Read: Best Places to Visit in Mathura
[ Take a look at our exclusive Mathura tour packages ]
Sarnath – Where Buddha taught Dharma
Home of some of the most famous Hindu, Jain, and Buddhist temples, Sarnath lies around 15 km from the city of Varanasi. It is one of the most popular pilgrimage sites in India. Millions of pilgrims visit this place to seek blessings at its ancient temples. Sarnath is also an important city as Buddha first taught Dharma here. Tourists must visit the popular attractions in the city as well as plan an excursion to Singhpur. It is the place where the eleventh Tirthankara of Jainism, Shreyasnath was born. Just like Varanasi, Sarnath is also one of the oldest cities in India, which makes it one of the must-visit places to visit in Uttar Pradesh for Buddhism and Jainism.
Tourist Attractions: Dhamek Stupa, Chaukhandi Stupa, Mulaghnda Kuti Vihar, Sarnath Museum, Ashoka Pillar, Thai Temple, Tibetan Temple.
Things to do: Witness the majestic Bodhi Garden, visit places where Buddha rests in peace, enjoy Buddha Purnima celebrations (in May), and savor the local food.
Best time to visit: November to February
Vrindavan – Architectural Marvel
Vrindavan is filled with Lord Krishna’s childhood memories. His Raas Leela with his love Radha is captivated beautifully in the small city of Vrindavan. The architecture of temples like Banke Bihari temple and Rang Nath Jee Jee temple displays the wealth and glorious tales that have lived in for ages in India. Dotted with several historical sites, this city attracts numerous devotees from all around the country. The intricate temples and well-manicured gardens make this place one of the best places to see in Uttar Pradesh. If you are looking for a refreshing change, visit Vrindavan for its admirable location and peace of mind.
Tourist Attractions: Banke Bihari temple, Prem Mandir, Sri Krishna Balram Temple, Shree Rang Nath Ji temple, Seva Kunj, and Keshi Ghat.
Things to do: Stroll Vrindavan and interact with the locals, soak in different shades of color at the Holi festival, participate in the largest festival in Vrindavan – Brahmotsavam, relish the most delicious pedas, and enjoy the melodious rhythms of kirtan at ISKCON Vrindavan.
Best time to visit: September to March
Fatehpur Sikri – The City of Victory
A testimony to several tales of glory, Fatehpur Sikri gives you an insight into the rich heritage and history of the Mughal empire. It was mysteriously abandoned soon after Akbar left. It is now regarded as one of the finest examples of Mughal architecture in India. This red sandstone city served as the capital for 10 years before being abandoned in 1610. Apart from this, Fatehpur Sikri is an architectural marvel exhibiting unique forms and styles.
Tourist Attractions: Buland Darwaza, Diwan-I-Khas, Jodha Bai Palace, Tomb of Sheikh Salim Chisti, Panch Mahal, Hiran Minar, Birbal’s Palace, and Jama Masjid.
Things to do: Visit Archeological Museum, plan a trip to Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary Keoladeo National Park), and visit Korai village for an authentic Indian village experience.
Best time to visit: October to March
Ayodhya – Birthplace of Lord Ram
The ‘Festival of Lights’, Diwali began in Ayodhya. People lit several diyas and candles when Lord Ram returned from his exile of 14 years after slaying Ravana. Ayodhya has been described as a ‘City built by Gods’ and is considered one of the most sacred places for Hindus in India. You will find mentions of this city in various stories including the epic Ramayana. Not only Hinduism, but the influence of Jainism, Buddhism, and Islam in Ayodhya makes it one of the must-visit places in Uttar Pradesh.
Tourist Attractions: Ram Janambhoomi, Hanuman Garhi, Kanak Bhawan, Nageshwarnath Temple, Gulab Bari, and Treta Ke Thakur.
Things to do: Witness Ram Leela (late-September and October), participate in Ram Navami celebrations (April), stroll through the shopping markets, and do not forget to buy idols of Lord Ram.
Best time to visit: October to December
[ Take a look at our exclusive Uttar Pradesh tour packages ]
Manmeet Kaur
A Content Writer with 2+ years of experience, Manmeet dropped out of B.Tech to fulfill her dream of travelling and writing. Her social media lets people discover her love for food, travel and indulgences. She has a passion for exploring and writing about new destinations and will soon discover the nooks of India as well.
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