Welcome to Uttar Pradesh, a state steeped in history, spirituality, and culture, where every corner tells a story of ancient traditions and timeless legacies. Uttar Pradesh is home to some of the country’s most iconic landmarks and sacred pilgrimage sites, drawing millions of visitors from around the world seeking enlightenment, inspiration, and cultural immersion.
Uttar Pradesh is far beyond than just Taj Mahal, Agra. From the timeless beauty of Vrindavan, to the cultural richness in Ganga Aarti in Varanasi and the royalty of Shree Ram Lalla (a Hindu God who is an incarnation of Lord Vishnu according to Indian History), Uttar Pradesh has a lot to offer. So gear up as we explore the place and find out the best destinations to visit.
1. Prem Mandir, Vrindavan
Prem Mandir, meaning “Temple of Love,” is a stunning white marble temple dedicated to Lord Krishna and Radha . Situated in Vrindavan, Uttar Pradesh, it is a significant pilgrimage site for devotees of Lord Krishna.
History: Established by Jagadguru Kripalu Maharaj, the temple’s construction began in 2001 and was completed in 2012. It is adorned with intricate carvings depicting scenes from Hindu scriptures like the Shreemad Bhagvat Geeta and Mahabharata.
Significance: Prem Mandir is renowned for its stunning marble architecture and intricate carvings depicting scenes from the lives of Lord Krishna and Radha.
Why Visit: Tourists visit Prem Mandir to experience its serene ambiance, participate in devotional activities, and witness the mesmerizing light and sound show that narrates the divine love story of Radha and Krishna. This is just a drop in the ocean. You can explore rest of Vrindavan too with numerous other temples like Banke Bihari Temple, Radha Damodar Temple, Madan Mohan Temple, Pagal Baba Temple, Shree Radha Ras Bihari Ashta Sakhi Temple, Nidhivan etc.
2. ISKCON Vrindavan
TAyodhya, revered as the birthplace of Lord Rama, recently witnessed the inauguration of the Grand Shree Ram Mandir, a monumental temple dedicated to the deity.he International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON) temple in Vrindavan, also known as Sri Krishna-Balaram Mandir, is dedicated to Lord Krishna and his brother Balaram.
History: Established in 1975 by the followers of Srila Prabhupada, the temple is a hub of spiritual activities and devotional practices.
Significance: ISKCON Vrindavan is renowned for its vibrant festivals, devotional music, and spiritual teachings based on the Bhagavad Gita.
Why Visit: Tourists visit ISKCON Vrindavan to immerse themselves in the devotional atmosphere, participate in soul-stirring kirtans (devotional chants),daily aarti ceremonies and enjoy the delicious vegetarian Prasadam(Food after offering to the God) served at the temple.
3. Shree Ram Mandir, Ayodhya
Ayodhya, the birthplace of Lord Rama, recently witnessed the inauguration of the Grand Shree Ram Mandir, a monumental temple dedicated to the deity. From day one of its inauguration, it is attracting the visitors from all around the world.
History: The construction of the temple marks the end of a centuries-long struggle and decades-long legal disputes and fulfills the aspirations of millions of Hindu devotees.
Significance: The Grand Shree Ram Mandir symbolizes the reinstatement of Lord Rama’s divine presence in Ayodhya and holds immense religious importance for Hindus.
Why Visit: Tourists offer prayers at the newly constructed temple, witness the elaborate architecture adorned with intricate carvings, and participate in the joyous celebrations marking the significance of this historic occasion. This temple is a must visit to feel the Indian Culture and enjoy your travel.
4. Shree Krishna Janmbhumi, Mathura
Shree Krishna Janmbhumi is a sacred complex in Mathura, the birthplace of Lord Krishna according to the Indian History and religious texts.
History: The temple stands on the site where Lord Krishna was born roughly over 5,000 years ago, according to Indian History.
Significance: It is one of the holiest pilgrimage sites for devotees of Lord Krishna, attracting visitors seeking spiritual enlightenment and divine blessings.
Why Visit: Tourists offer prayers at the sanctum sanctorum, witness the vibrant festivities during Janmashtami, and explore the surrounding area dotted with temples dedicated to Lord Krishna. You can also explore rest of Mathura like Dwarkadhish Temple, Kusum Sarovar, Radha Kund, Kans Qila, Mathura Museum, Govardhan Hill, Vishram Ghat, Rangbhoomi etc.
5. Kashi Vishwanath, Varanasi
Kashi Vishwanath Temple is one of the holiest Hindu temples dedicated to Lord Shiva, located in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh.
History: The temple has been destroyed and rebuilt several times throughout history, with the current structure dating back to the 18th century built by Queen Ahilyabai Holkar of Indore.
Significance: Kashi Vishwanath is believed to be one of the twelve Jyotirlingas (lingams representing Lord Shiva) and holds immense spiritual importance for Hindus.
Why Visit: Tourists visit Kashi Vishwanath to seek blessings, witness the elaborate rituals and ceremonies, and experience the spiritual energy of one of the oldest and most revered temples in India.
6. Ganga Aarti, Varanasi
Ganga Aarti is a means to worship the river goddess Ganga. Numerous ghats offer you a view of the mesmerizing ganga aarti, Assi Ghat is one of the oldest and most revered ghats (riverfront steps) on the banks of the River Ganges in Varanasi. You can enjoy the aarti there.
History: The ghat is mentioned in ancient scriptures and has been a center for spiritual activities and rituals for centuries.
Significance: The Ganga Aarti (ritual of worship) held at Assi Ghat is a mesmerizing spectacle where priests offer prayers to the River Ganges, accompanied by chants and music.
Why Visit: Tourists visit Assi Ghat to witness the Ganga Aarti, experience the spiritual ambiance, and take part in boat rides and other activities along the sacred river.
7. Manikarnika Ghat, Varanasi
Manikarnika Ghat is one of the oldest and most sacred ghats in Varanasi, located along the banks of the River Ganges.
History: According to Hindu mythology, it is believed to be the place where Lord Shiva’s earrings (manikarnika) fell while he was performing the cosmic dance.
Significance: Manikarnika Ghat is the primary cremation ghat in Varanasi, where Hindus believe that cremation at this sacred site leads to moksha (liberation from the cycle of birth and death).
Why Visit: Tourists visit Manikarnika Ghat to witness the cremation rituals, gain insight into Hindu beliefs surrounding death and the afterlife, and experience the spiritual intensity of Varanasi’s ghats.
8. Triveni Sangam, Prayagraj
Triveni Sangam is the confluence of three sacred rivers—Ganges, Yamuna, and mythical Sarasvati—located in Prayagraj (formerly Allahabad).
History: Prayagraj has been a revered pilgrimage site for thousands of years, with the Triveni Sangam being the focal point of religious activities and rituals.
Significance: Bathing in the waters of Triveni Sangam is believed to cleanse one of sins and bestow spiritual merit, making it a highly auspicious site for Hindus.
Why Visit: Tourists visit Triveni Sangam to take part in holy dips, witness the vibrant religious ceremonies, and experience the spiritual fervor of one of India’s most sacred pilgrimage destinations.
9. Sarnath
Sarnath is a significant Buddhist pilgrimage site located near Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh.
History: It is the place where Lord Buddha is said to have delivered his first sermon after attaining enlightenment, known as the Dhammacakkappavattana Sutta.
Significance: Sarnath is revered by Buddhists as the site of the turning of the wheel of Dharma and is home to numerous ancient stupas, monasteries, and archaeological ruins.
Why Visit: Visitors can explore the ancient ruins, visit the Dhamek Stupa and the Mulagandha Kuti Vihara, and gain insights into the life and teachings of Lord Buddha through the numerous monasteries and archaeological sites.
10. Chitrakoot
Chitrakoot is a sacred town in the Vindhya mountain range, the place where Lord Rama, his wife Sita, and his brother Lakshmana spent a significant portion of their exile period during the Ramayana.
History: It holds immense significance in Hinduism and has been mentioned in various ancient texts and scriptures for its association with the epic Ramayana.
Significance: Chitrakoot is revered by Hindus as a divine abode where Lord Rama’s presence is believed to be eternal, and it is dotted with numerous temples, ashrams, and natural wonders.
Why Visit: Visitors can explore the Ramghat where Lord Rama is said to have bathed, visit the Bharat Milap Temple where the reunion of Lord Rama and his brother Bharata is celebrated, and immerse themselves in the serene beauty of the surrounding forests and waterfalls, experiencing a spiritual and tranquil retreat.
Also Read – Rajasthan Travel Guide: Places, Food, Fairs & More