It is hard to escape from the religious fervor that exists within the state of Uttar Pradesh. Be that as it may, the state is filled with other incredible sights of a historic nature.
The glorious marble beauty of the Taj Mahal arises from dusty earth of the state of Uttar Pradesh in Agra. It is impossible not to be impressed with the beauty that lies in the many historic buildings and monuments of Uttar Pradesh. Its history stretches back to a time when India was still in the Vedic Age. Royal kings, the Mughal emperors and the British Empire once walked on the earth of Uttar Pradesh along with the legendary Gautama Buddha, the founder of Buddhism.
Religion is ingrained within the very heartbeat of people in Uttar Pradesh. Buddhism was once the most popular religion here. Gautama Buddha used to preach his sermons in the cities of Uttar Pradesh such as Sarnath and Kushinagar. The ruins of Buddhist stupas showcase the glory of that ancient age beautifully.
Uttar Pradesh is however, famous for its association with the Hindu religion. Two of the most popular deities of Hinduism, Lord Ram and Lord Krishna, have their stories based within the glorious landscape of Uttar Pradesh. According to legends, both of these gods had their birthplaces in the cities of this great state. That has given rise to the uncountable number of temples in the state many of which are breathtaking in their beauty.
Uttar Pradesh is a great state where you will find a lot to admire. Its cuisine is delicious and the cultural heritage is remarkable.
The splendor of the Taj Mahal draws in tourists like moths to the bright flame of Agra. In fact, the Taj has become a common motif in Agra due to its incredible popularity. However, that is not the only thing that this historically beautiful city has to offer.Agra is the legacy of the glorious Mughal Empire. They have left behind not only one of the wonders of the world but also some incredible pieces of architecture. Weaving through these fascinating places will leave you enriched with a slice of Mughal history. Its importance in the annals of Indian history cannot be underestimated. At the same time, its ancient charm provides the perfect atmosphere to be lost in the stunning vistas that open up before you.
Taj Mahal
Agra Fort
Akbar’s Tomb
Itmad-ud-Daulah’s Tomb
Fatehpur Sikri
The serene landscape of Kushinagar is blessed with a tranquil atmosphere which is quite charming. Kushinagar happens to be quite important for followers of the Buddhist religion.
Kushinagar is one of the four major sites of pilgrimage in Buddhism as it is believed to be the place where Gautama Buddha died. In keeping with the peaceful principles of Buddhism, Kushinagar is filled with serene temples that exude an aura of tranquility. Some of these temples may be quite modern but they are still beautiful. It is easy to get lost in contemplation and mediation in the quiet beauty of the place
Parinirvana Stupa
Mathakuar Shrine
Ramabhar Stupa
Japanese Temple
During the times of Gautama Buddha, Shravasti was one of the biggest cities in India. The ancient beauty of the place has been preserved rather spectacularly in its ruins and monuments.
The history of Shravasti is fascinating as it has seen much of it itself. The city is believed to have been established in the Vedic times. The importance of Shravasti lies in its significance to the Buddhists and the Jains. Gautama Buddha spent quite some time here. It is also believed that the third Tirthankara of the Jains, Sambhavnath was born here. The rural feel of Shravasti makes it all the more pleasurable for you to rediscover these ancient ruins.
Anathapindika Stupa
Jetavana Monastery
Angulimala Stupa
Allahabad is a city of wonders. It holds an immensely important place in both Hindu mythology and Indian history. However, in spite of all the importance, Allahabad happens to be an extremely relaxed city quite surprisingly. Allahabad offers innumerable sights for you to enjoy that range from religion to history.It is believed that none other than Lord Brahma had descended to earth and landed in Prayag which is now called Allahabad. That makes the city an incredibly special pilgrimage center. It importance to Indian history cannot be underestimated either having been the site for numerous vital events in the freedom struggle.
The streets of Allahabad are littered with alluring buildings that were built by the colonialists. There are beautiful tombs and forts dating back to the Mughal era. Allahabad is also home to the historic legacy of the great Nehru family.
Allahabad Fort
Triveni Sangam
Khusrau Bagh
Anand Bhavan
Allahabad Planetarium
Nag Vasuki Temple
The city of Lucknow has been liberally dotted with some of the most spectacular historical monuments to be found in India. The history of the city is reflected gloriously in it heritage and culture.
The city of Lucknow is filled to the brim with glorious buildings some of which were the creation of the Nawabs of Oudh while others were the efforts of the British Raj. However, it is the association with the Nawabs that has made an indelible mark on the landscape and culture of Lucknow. The grand monuments and stunning parks are the results of that association. Additionally, the Nawabs were patrons of art especially the culinary arts. Even now, the delicious aroma of the famous Lucknow style of biryani wafts down its meandering streets.
Bara Imambara
Jama Masjid
Lucknow Residency
Chota Imambara
Clock Tower
Chatter Manzil
Aminabad
A visit to Varanasi can be an exciting experience. The city can blind you with its incredible array of colors and can be unrelentingly chaotic at times. Yet, Varanasi is spectacularly captivating and you will soon come to love its charms.Alternatively known as Kashi and Benaras, the city of Varanasi is one of the seven most sacred sites of the Hindu religion. It is also one of the oldest cities to have been continuously inhabited in its history. Lined by the ever graceful and generous holy river Ganga, Varanasi can be overwhelming with its sights, sounds and smells. According to the Hindu religion, it is believed that people who die here will achieve moksha, the complete freedom from the cycle of life and death.
The city can be a maze at first and easy to get lost but that is a part of its charm. You can enjoy a walk by the ghats which can relax you and give you a fascinating glimpse into the lives of the locals and pilgrims. You will also love the cityscape which is replete with innumerable temples.
Kashi Vishwanath Temple
The Ghats of Varanasi
Benaras Hindu University
Tulsi Manas Temple
Ram Nagar Fort
Bharat Mata Temple
Ayodhya is an amazing place filled with quirky and interesting sights. However, it is most famous for being the birthplace of Lord Ram, the hero of the epic Ramayana. As such, the place is one of the most auspicious and holiest sites of Hinduism.
The influence of the Hindu mythology is hard to escape from in Ayodhya. Apart from being considered among the seven holiest cities of Hinduism, it is special to the Jains as well. It is believed to be the birthplace of not one but four of the 24 Tirthankars of Jainism. The city of Ayodhya has many beautiful temples that are worth a visit.
Hanuman Garhi
Ramkot
Kanak Bhawan
The major interest in Mathura is the Hindu god Krishna who was believed to have been born here. Apart from the regions side, Mathura is quite a colorful place which can be perfect for a lovely trip.Considered to be the birthplace of Lord Krishna, the popular god of the Hindus, Mathura is among the seven holy cities of the religion. The entire landscape of Mathura is dotted with incredible temples that were created in various eras. The city is blessed by the waters of the holy river Yamuna. The river lights up spectacularly in the evening when the faithful send out thousands of candles over the waters after the evening prayer ceremonies.
The history of Mathura is also quite interesting. It was once a major center for the Buddhists as well. Later it was overrun by the Mughal and the Afghan invaders. The rich history is beautifully showcased by the sculptures that still exist from those periods.
Krishna Janmabhoomi Temple
Vishram Ghat
Potara Kund
Kusum Sarovar
Kesava Deo Temple
Gita Mandir
Dwarkadheesh Temple
Vrindavan was site of a quaint village that was surrounded lush green forests. Now, it is a bustling town.The history of Vrindavan lies within the Hindu mythologies. It is believed to be the place where the young Lord Krishna had spent his childhood. Due to this association, Vrindavan has become a site filled with innumerable temples, big and small. Some of them are quite old while others are modern and most of them are replete with some unique features.
Govind Dev Temple
Bankey Bihari Temple
Madan Mohan Temple
Shahji Temple
Rangaji Temple
Pagal Baba Temple
The town of Jhansi may seem nondescript at first but it has been the scene of a crucial event in the Indian History.Jhansi is famous for its queen, Rani Laxmi Bai who lived during the British era. On the death of her husband, the British tried to take away her kingdom. However, the brave lady fought valiantly. Her battles against the British are among the most important ones to take place during the First War of Independence in 1857. Apart from its place in history, Jhansi is quite a beautiful place to relax.
Jhansi Fort
Rani Mahal
Government Museum
Sarnath reveals itself to be a pleasant place punctuated with ruins and shrines. It is closely associated with the life of Gautama Buddha, the founder of Buddhism. It is one of the four holy sites of Buddhism.
After attaining enlightenment, Lord Buddha visited Sarnath to preach his first sermon. That first sermon paved the way for Buddhism. Later, the emperor Ashoka erected some amazing monasteries and spectacular stupas here in the 3rd century. Sarnath once boasted of possessing a stupa that was a 100 meters high. However, this glory has been lost to the ravages of time when the popularity of Buddhism declined. Later, Muslim invaders sacked and looted the city stripping its beauty further. Now, the ruins stand, a proud reminder of its former beauty.
Dhamek Stupa
Chaukhandi
Mulagandha Kuti Vihar
Ashoka Pillar
