Adorned with palaces, museums, and monuments that carry the state’s rich history, Uttar Pradesh is a region that overflows with cultural vibrancy and carries forward the legacy of the Mughal Era. Here are 10 places to visit in Uttar Pradesh that allow you to experience the city’s spiritual and historical wonders to the fullest.
- Lucknow
The state’s capital and largest city, Lucknow, is divided into two parts.With streets bustling with traditional eateries and shopping outlets spanning across one, the other has adopted a contemporary style, teeming with modern buildings, shopping malls, and parks. Holding significant spots such as Dr Ambedkar Park and Lucknow Zoo, Lucknow is perfect for history enthusiasts who want to immerse themselves in the state’s culture.
- Agra
This historic city, mostly known as the home of the Taj Mahal, is located on the banks of the Yamuna River. With the Marble monument attracting crowds every year, the Agra Fort is also a popular historical site, with its awe-inspiring red stone architecture.
- Allahabad
Also known as Prayagraj, this city is the point where the three rivers Ganga, Yamuna, and Saraswati converge. With a rich religious and cultural background, Allahabad has a lot to offer, such as the Allahabad Museum, the New Yamuna Bridge, and the Jawahar Planetarium.
- Mathura
Located on the banks of the Yamuna River, this religious site is also known as the birthplace of Lord Krishna. It consists of 23 ghats, where pilgrims can dip in the holy water and witness the daily ceremonies. The Mathura Museum, Dwarkadheesg Temple, and Shri Krishna Janamsthan Temple are some of the most popular attractions.
- Aligarh
For history buffs who are interested in India’s culture and heritage, Aligarh is the ideal location to visit. Significantly influenced by its past, including the Mughals and the British, this city carries its telling architecture with pride. There are also many locations to explore in the vicinity, such as Naqvi Park, Gokulesh Temple, and Aligarh Fort.
- Hastinapura
On the banks of the Ganga River, Hastinapura is mentioned in the Mahabharata and is also known as the city of elephants. Significant to both Hindus and Jains, this city has a rich religious heritage and has various attractions such as Pandeshwar Temple, Hastinapur Wildlife Sanctuary, and Jambudweep Jain Tirth.
- Firozabad
The backbone of India’s glass-blowing industry, the city is renowned for its production of glass bangles. However, it also has an extensive array of historical sites, including the Tomb of Firoz Shah, Kotla Fort, and Chandravar Gate.
- Barsana
A deeply spiritual city in Uttar Pradesh, Bardana is famous for being the birthplace of Lord Krishna’s companion, Radha. The city, which holds a number of temples, is well-known for its celebration of the Holi Festival, where women carry sticks to playfully strike men in the nearby village during the traditional practice known as Lathmar Holi.
- Jhansi
Jhansi, a city located between the rivers Pahunj and Betwa, is wealthy in history. Famous for a Maratha queen from a revolt that took place in 1875, the region’s deep heritage and history make Jhansi a must-visit place for history enthusiasts and regular travellers alike. With various monuments such as Rani Mahal, Chirhaon, Parichha, and the stunning Jhansi Fort, this city is a historical goldmine.
- Kanpur
Like most cities in Uttar Pradesh, Kanpur is also filled with various historical and religious sites. Located along the banks of the Ganga River, this industrial centre also makes it possible for all sorts of travellers to enjoy a visit. From the Green Park stadium to the Blue World Theme Park to the Kanpur Zoological Gardens, the city offers a range of activities to suit whoever ventures in.
