Uttar Pradesh, rich in history, culture, and spirituality, offers a diverse range of destinations that attract travelers from all over the world. From majestic monuments to sacred pilgrimage sites, the state beautifully blends tradition and heritage with vibrant local life. Here are the most popular destinations to visit in Uttar Pradesh for an unforgettable journey.
1. Agra
Why visit: Home to the iconic Taj Mahal, Agra is a treasure trove of Mughal architecture and history.
Highlights: – Taj Mahal – Agra Fort – Fatehpur Sikri nearby
Timing: Taj Mahal: 6:00 AM to 6:30 PM
Entry: ₹60 (Indians), ₹1,100 (Foreigners) for Taj Mahal
Photo by Jovyn Chamb on Unsplash
2. Varanasi
Why visit: One of the world’s oldest living cities and a spiritual hub on the banks of the Ganges.
Highlights: – Ghats and evening aarti – Kashi Vishwanath Temple – Boat rides on the Ganges
Timing: Ghats open 24 hours; best to visit early morning or evening
Entry: Free for most sites
Photo by ADITYA PRAKASH on Unsplash
3. Lucknow
Why visit: The city of Nawabs is known for its rich culture, exquisite cuisine, and historic monuments.
Highlights: – Bara Imambara – Rumi Darwaza – Tunday Kababi food experience
Timing: Monuments generally open 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Entry: ₹30–₹50
Photo by Daniel Joshua on Unsplash
4. Mathura
Why visit: The birthplace of Lord Krishna, filled with temples and vibrant festivals.
Highlights: – Krishna Janmabhoomi Temple – Dwarkadhish Temple – Holi celebrations
Timing: Temples open early morning to late evening
Entry: Free
5. Prayagraj (Allahabad)
Why visit: Famous for the Triveni Sangam and the Kumbh Mela, a major Hindu pilgrimage site.
Highlights: – Sangam confluence – Allahabad Fort – Kumbh Mela festivities
Timing: Open year-round; Kumbh every 12 years
Entry: Free
Photo by Avinash Guruvayoor on Unsplash
6. Jhansi
Why visit: A historic city known for its role in India’s freedom struggle and ancient forts.
Highlights: – Jhansi Fort – Rani Mahal Museum – Nearby Orchha heritage site
Timing: Fort open 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Entry: ₹25–₹50
7. Kanpur
Why visit: An industrial city with emerging cultural attractions and historical sites.
Highlights: – Allen Forest Zoo – Kanpur Memorial Church – Moti Jheel Lake
Timing: Attractions open 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM
Entry: ₹10–₹50
Photo by Aradhya Kansal on Unsplash
8. Sarnath
Why visit: The place where Buddha gave his first sermon, a major Buddhist pilgrimage site.
Highlights: – Dhamek Stupa – Sarnath Museum – Ashoka Pillar
Timing: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Entry: ₹10–₹50
Photo by Braj Kishor on Unsplash
9. Fatehpur Sikri
Why visit: A UNESCO World Heritage site, once the capital of the Mughal Empire under Akbar.
Highlights: – Buland Darwaza – Jama Masjid – Panch Mahal
Timing: 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM
Entry: ₹40–₹600
Photo by Naveen Kumar Dusi on Unsplash
10. Gorakhpur
Why visit: Known for its spiritual sites and the famous Gorakhnath Temple.
Highlights: – Gorakhnath Temple – Kushmi Forest – Railway Museum
Timing: Temples open early to late evening
Entry: Free
Photo by Ashok Prajapati on Unsplash
Feature Image:- Photo by Naveen Kumar Dusi on Unsplash
