Uttar Pradesh Travel Guide

Explore the culturally rich and historically significant state of Uttar Pradesh in India through this comprehensive travel guide. Discover the best places to visit, things to do, local culture, and travel tips.


Introduction to Uttar Pradesh

Uttar Pradesh, one of the largest states in India, is located in the northern part of the country. It is home to a rich cultural heritage, an impressive history, and some of the most stunning landscapes in India. With cities that have played a crucial role in the country’s past, like Agra, Lucknow, and Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh attracts numerous tourists from all over the world every year. The state is also known for its lively street markets, delicious food, and warm hospitality.

List of Places to Visit in Uttar Pradesh

Here are some of the most popular places to visit in Uttar Pradesh:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Taj Mahal: A UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the Seven Wonders of the World, the Taj Mahal is a magnificent mausoleum that attracts millions of tourists every year.
  • Agra Fort: Another UNESCO World Heritage site, the Agra Fort is a stunning red sandstone structure that covers an area of approximately 94 acres.
  • Fatehpur Sikri: This abandoned city was built during the Mughal Empire and is another UNESCO World Heritage site.
  • Bara Imambara: Located in Lucknow, the Bara Imambara is an incredible structure that is famous for its unique architecture.
  • Allahabad Fort: Built in the 16th century by Emperor Akbar, the Allahabad Fort is one of the oldest forts in India.

Natural Attractions of Uttar Pradesh: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Dudhwa National Park: This national park is located in the Terai region of Uttar Pradesh and is home to some of India’s rarest species, including the Bengal tiger and the Indian rhinoceros.
  • Chambal Safari: A jeep safari along the Chambal River is an unforgettable experience, where you’ll have the opportunity to spot gharials, mugger crocodiles, and endangered freshwater dolphins.
  • Varanasi Ghats: The ghats of Varanasi are a series of stairs leading down to the Ganges River. They are a significant cultural hub, particularly for spiritual rituals and bathing.
  • Kumbh Mela: The largest gathering of humans in the world, the Kumbh Mela is held every 12 years in Allahabad.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Uttar Pradesh

Uttar Pradesh has several great hiking and biking trails, from the mountains of the Himalayas to the forests of the national parks. Some of the best hiking and biking routes include:

  • Himalayas: Trekking in the Himalayas is a dream come true for many hiking enthusiasts. Some popular routes include the Roopkund trek, the Kuari Pass trek, and the Valley of Flowers trek.
  • Dudhwa National Park: The park offers several trails of different levels of difficulty, including the Shuklaphanta trek, the Kishanpur trail, and the Katarniaghat trek.
  • Jhansi and Orchha: This trail offers a fascinating glimpse into the rich history and culture of the region, with stops at various monuments and temples along the way.

Best Things to Do in Uttar Pradesh: Activities and Tours

Here are some of the best things to do in Uttar Pradesh:

  • Take a heritage walk in Lucknow and explore the city’s beautiful monuments, mosques, and museums.
  • Attend a classical Indian music concert in Varanasi, considered the cultural capital of India.
  • Enjoy a hot-air balloon ride in Agra, and get a unique view of the city and its iconic monuments.
  • Take a night safari in Dudhwa National Park to spot the animals that come out after dark.

Week-Long Itinerary for Uttar Pradesh

Here’s a suggested itinerary for a week-long trip to Uttar Pradesh:

Day 1: Arrive in Agra and visit the Taj Mahal Day 2: Explore the Agra Fort and enjoy a hot-air balloon ride Day 3: Take a train to Lucknow and spend the day exploring the city Day 4: Visit the Bara Imambara and other historical attractions in Lucknow Day 5: Drive to Varanasi and spend the day exploring the city and its many ghats Day 6: Take a morning boat ride on the Ganges and visit Sarnath, the birthplace of Buddhism Day 7: Head to Allahabad and explore the Allahabad Fort and the Kumbh Mela site

Food and Drink Scene of Uttar Pradesh

Must-Try Dishes

Uttar Pradesh is famous for its mouth-watering delicacies that are made with aromatic spices and herbs. Some of the must-try dishes include:

  • Galouti Kebab: A melt-in-the-mouth kebab made with minced meat and a blend of spices.
  • Dum Biryani: A rice-based dish that is slow-cooked with meat and a rich array of spices.
  • Chaat: A popular street food, chaat is a savory snack made with chickpeas, potatoes, and various chutneys.
  • Lassi: A refreshing drink made with yogurt, sugar, and spices.

Local Beverages

  • Chai: The famous Indian tea, which is usually made with milk, sugar, and spices.
  • Sugarcane Juice: A refreshing drink made by squeezing sugarcane juice and adding a splash of lemon juice.

Where to Stay in Uttar Pradesh: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Uttar Pradesh has a vast range of accommodation options, catering to every budget and taste. Some of the best hotels, hostels, and guesthouses in the state include:

  • The Oberoi Amarvilas, Agra: Located a mere 600 meters from the Taj Mahal, this luxury hotel offers stunning views of the monument.
  • Radisson Hotel, Varanasi: A modern hotel located close to the main ghats, offering panoramic views of the Ganges River.
  • Dreamzz Inn, Lucknow: A cozy guesthouse located in the heart of the city, offering a tranquil stay in the bustling metropolis.

What to Buy in Uttar Pradesh: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Chikankari Embroidery: A traditional embroidery craft that is popular in Lucknow and Agra.
  • Banarasi Sarees: A traditional silk saree that is handwoven in Varanasi.
  • Handmade Paper Products: Made by artisans in the state, these products include journals, notebooks, and greeting cards.

Local Culture and Customs of Uttar Pradesh

Uttar Pradesh has a rich and diverse cultural heritage that is influenced by its past and present. Some common customs and traditions of the state include:

  • Language: The official language of the state is Hindi, but other languages like Urdu, Awadhi, and Bhojpuri are also spoken.
  • Festivals: Uttar Pradesh is famous for its colorful festivals and events, including Holi, Diwali, and Kumbh Mela.
  • Clothing: Traditional clothing for men includes a kurta-pajama or dhoti, while women wear sarees or salwar-kameez.

Best Time to Visit Uttar Pradesh

The best time to visit Uttar Pradesh is between October and March when the weather is pleasant and dry. Summers in the state can be hot and humid, while the monsoon season can bring heavy rainfall and flooding.

Do’s and Don’ts of Uttar Pradesh

Do:

  • Respect local customs and traditions
  • Bargain in markets and street shops
  • Try local foods and drinks

Don’t:

  • Wear revealing clothing in public spaces
  • Disrespect religious sites and monuments
  • Drink tap water without filtering or boiling

Safety and Health

Safety in Uttar Pradesh

Generally, Uttar Pradesh is safe to visit, but visitors should take common sense precautions like staying aware of their surroundings, not flashing valuables, and taking safe modes of transport.

Health in Uttar Pradesh

It’s essential to take adequate precautions regarding food and water, as Uttar Pradesh is known for its stomach bugs. Additionally, malaria is a risk in some parts of the state, so it’s best to take precautionary steps like using mosquito repellent and mosquito nets.

Getting to Uttar Pradesh: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Uttar Pradesh

Uttar Pradesh has several domestic and international airports, making it easy to reach the state by air. Some of the major airports include the Indira Gandhi International Airport in Delhi and the Chaudhary Charan Singh International Airport in Lucknow.

Bus Stations Near Uttar Pradesh

Uttar Pradesh is well-connected by road, and there are numerous bus stations across the state. Some of the major bus stations include the Agra Bus Stand, the Kaiserbagh Bus Stand in Lucknow, and the Varanasi Bus Stand.

Other Options

Other options for reaching Uttar Pradesh include taking a train, hiring a private car or taxi, or using a ride-sharing service like Uber or Ola.

How to Get Around in Uttar Pradesh

The best ways to get around in Uttar Pradesh include taxis, auto-rickshaws, buses, and trains. It’s essential to negotiate fares in advance, particularly in taxis and auto-rickshaws.

Where to Go Next from Uttar Pradesh: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Uttar Pradesh is well-connected to several other popular tourist destinations in India, including:

  • Delhi: The capital city of India is a sprawling metropolis and a hub of culture, history, and food.
  • Rajasthan: The state of Rajasthan is famous for its magnificent palaces, forts, and vibrant culture.
  • Nepal: The neighboring country of Nepal is home to some of the most stunning landscapes in the world, including the Himalayas and the Chitwan National Park.

Conclusion

Uttar Pradesh is a state that surprises and captivates visitors with its rich history, stunning landscapes, and cultural variety. From the Taj Mahal to the city of Varanasi, this state has something to offer every kind of traveler. With this comprehensive travel guide, you can plan your trip to Uttar Pradesh and make it an unforgettable experience.

Map of India showing Uttar Pradesh's location Map of India showing Uttar Pradesh's location


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    Doab
    Purvanchal
    Rohilkhand