Uttar Pradesh
Welcome to Uttar Pradesh
Welcome to Uttar Pradesh – a colorful and culture-rich state in India. Every place here tells a story from the past and offers unforgettable experiences. Visit the world-famous Taj Mahal in Agra, a symbol of love. Feel the spiritual energy in Varanasi, the oldest city in the world where people still live. Walk through the beautiful buildings of Lucknow, also called the City of Nawabs. Or enjoy nature in Dudhwa National Park. Whether you’re looking for peace, history, or fun, Uttar Pradesh has something for everyone. Come and explore the heart of India!
Ayodhya – The Birthplace of Lord Rama
Ayodhya, a sacred city on the banks of the Sarayu River in Uttar Pradesh, is the birthplace of Shree Ram, the seventh avatar of Lord Vishnu. Its name means “a place that cannot be fought over” and it is one of the seven holiest cities (Saptpuris) in Hinduism. The grand Shree Ram Temple, currently under construction, will feature 318 intricately carved pillars and stand 161 feet tall. Other key sites include Hanuman Garhi, Kanak Bhawan, Nageshwarnath Temple, Treta Ka Thakur, and Valmiki Bhawan. The city also holds sacred ghats like Ram Ki Pairi, Guptar Ghat, and Ram Ghat, where evening aartis are held. Guptar Ghat is believed to be where Ram left Earth for Vaikunth. Nearby places of importance include Bharat Kund and Makhaura Dham. Rich in mythology and spirituality, Ayodhya is revered as the “city of gods,” attracting pilgrims from across the world.
Varanasi – The Oldest Living City
Varanasi, also known as Kashi or Benaras, is one of the world’s oldest living cities and a major spiritual center in India. It is believed that dying here grants moksha (freedom from the cycle of life and death). The city is sacred to Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati, and the Ganga River is believed to cleanse all sins. Varanasi is a hub of learning, spirituality, and culture, linked to Hinduism, Buddhism (Sarnath), and Jainism. Key landmarks include Kashi Vishwanath, Durga Temple, Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple, and the Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat. Banaras Hindu University, founded by Madan Mohan Malviya, and the Theosophical Society started by Annie Besant are renowned centers of learning. The city is also known for classical music, silk weaving, and Ayurveda. Unique spots include the Bharat Mata Temple, Dev Deepawali, Swarved Mahamandir Dham, and Ramnagar Fort, making Varanasi a profound blend of devotion, tradition, and history.
Mathura: The Birthplace of Lord Krishna
Mathura, located in Uttar Pradesh, is a sacred Hindu city, about 50 km from Agra and 145 km from Delhi. It is the birthplace of Lord Krishna and the heart of Braj-bhoomi, with Vrindavan and Govardhan nearby. In ancient times, Mathura was a major trade center at the crossroads of old routes. The city’s population was around 25.47 lakh as of 2011. The most revered site is the Shri Krishna Janmasthan Temple, built over the prison cell where Krishna was born. Other key sites include the Dwarkadhish Temple, known for its vibrant worship of Krishna as King of Dwarka, and Dauji Mandir, one of the oldest temples dedicated to Lord Balarama. Mathura also features sacred Shiva temples like Bhuteshwar Mahadev (a Shaktipeeth) and Rangeshwar Mahadev. The serene Birla Mandir (Gita Mandir) displays teachings of the Bhagavad Gita, making Mathura a deeply spiritual and historically rich city
Vrindavan: A City Full of Devotion
Vrindavan, located just 11 km from Mathura, is a sacred town where Lord Krishna spent much of his childhood. Known for his divine “leelas” with Radha and the Gopis, Vrindavan is dotted with temples celebrating their eternal love. Key attractions include the Banke Bihari Temple, dedicated to Krishna as Banke Bihari, where a curtain is drawn repeatedly over the idol due to its intense spiritual aura. Prem Mandir, built in 2012 by Jagadguru Kripalu Maharaj, is a marble temple that beautifully depicts Krishna and Radha’s life with lights and a musical fountain show. The ISKCON Temple, also called Krishna Balaram Mandir, is a global spiritual hub built in 1975, known for its constant chanting and global devotees. Major festivals like Janmashtami, Holi, and Diwali are celebrated with grandeur. Mathura is also famous for sweets like peda, and local shopping offers Krishna-themed items, idols, and traditional crafts.
Chitrakoot – A Peaceful and Holy Place
Chitrakoot is a sacred town spread across Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh, deeply linked to the Ramayana. Lord Rama, Sita, and Lakshmana spent over 11 years of their exile here. The town is known for its spiritual significance, natural beauty, and ancient temples. Key attractions include Hanuman Dhara, a hill temple with a sacred water stream and ropeway access; Bharat Milap Temple, where Bharat met Rama; and Gupt Godavari, two water-filled caves believed to be used by Rama and Lakshmana. Janki Kund is where Sita bathed, and Kamadgiri Hill is the most sacred spot, known for its 5 km parikrama. Ram Ghat is a vibrant riverside location for holy baths and evening aarti. Sita Rasoi shows stone utensils used by Sita, and Sati Anusuya Ashram is a peaceful retreat honoring the sage Atri’s wife. Chitrakoot is a perfect place for pilgrimage, peace, and spiritual reflection.
