Must See Tourist Destinations In Uttar Pradesh

Uttar Pradesh is a state that is steeped in history and culture. With influences from several cultures, the cuisine, the architecture and the beautifully blended way of life attract tourists from all over the globe. The state is home to some of the most spiritually and culturally significant destinations and monuments in India. Here are some of the most popular tourist destinations in Uttar Pradesh that you should not miss in this state trip:

Agra

Tajmahal

This is the home of the grand Taj Mahal. What more can you ask for than visit the most glorious symbol of love and one of the most spectacular creations by man. Besides that, this city that stands on the banks of River Yamuna is home to beautiful forts, mausoleums, gardens and mosques that are reflective of the Mughal era. Make sure you visit the Itmad Ud Daula, the Chhatri of Raja Jaswant Singh, Fatehpur Sikri, Sorr Sarovar and Chini ka Rauza while you are here.

Varanasi

Varanasi Ganga Ghat

Located on the banks of River Ganga and most popular tourist destinations in Uttar Pradesh. This religious city is said to be one of the oldest places in the world that has been inhabited continually. The winding lanes and the beautiful temples and shrines add to its beauty. You can also find some sadhus who are dressed in the most unique clothes, sitting by these roads, often posing for pictures with the tourists. The Dasaswamedh Ghat, the Kathwala Temple, the Alamgir Mosque and the Monkey temple are among the several attractions in Varanasi.

While you are here, you can also visit the neighboring town of Saranath. It is believed to be the place where the Buddha peached the first ever sermon. It is dotted with monasteries and stupas and is the most popular destination for Buddhist devotees.

Prayagraj

Allahabad is the most important tourist spots in India thanks to the annual Kumbh Mela. The sangam or confluence of rivers holds great spiritual value. The historical diversity of this town is reflected in the mix of Mughal tombs and forts and buildings from the British Era. While you are here, do not forget to taste the popular red guavas.

Mathura

Kusum Sarovar, Mathura

Also known as Krishnabhoomi, this is where Lord Krishna lived and spent years in merriment. The sacred River Yamuna flows right through the town and it is located near the popular vrindavan. You can also witness glimpses of the Buddhist community that thrived here once upon a time through the ruins of beautiful monasteries. While you are here, pay a visit to the Krishna Janma Bhoomi Mandir, The Radha Kund, The Jama Masjid, The Kans Qila and the Vishram Ghat.

Ayodhya

Ayodhya has been a town of several controversies but has managed to remain the most sacred towns in India. While it became infamous for communal issues for close to two decades, the fact that it is the birthplace of Lord Rama makes it a spiritually revered place. There are several temples like the Ram Lalla Temple, the Kanak Bhavan Temple, the Hanuman Garhi and the Nageshwarnath Temple that offer peace and solace to thousands of visitors each year. You can plan a temple tour while you are here and witness some of the finest examples of ancient architecture.

Lucknow

Bada Imambara, Lucknow

If you love food, you will love Lucknow. Make sure you try the delicious Awadhi cuisine while you are here. The town itself is filled with the aroma of spices that floats through the air. Lucknow, the capital city of Uttar Pradesh is a reflection of the best Mughal architecture that blends into a thriving cosmopolitan city. The Bada Imambara, the Chota Imambara, The Chattar Manzil, the Begum Hazrat Mahal Park, the Constantia House and Hazratganj are among the most popular tourist destinations in Lucknow.

Vrindavan

Iskcon temple, Vrindavan

Vrindavan is one of the most popular destinations for Hindu devotees. This is the place that Krishna devotees go to to seek blessings of the Lord. There are several narrow roads that lead to some of the most popular temples like the Govind Dev Temple, the Shahji Temple, Madan Mohan Temple, The Hare Rama Hare Krishna Temple and the Prem Mandir. You can buy beautiful worship items from roadside stores. Of course, you can even taste a variety of sweets in small shops that dot the lanes of Mathura.