Purvanchal Travel Guide

Explore the culture, nature, and adventure in Purvanchal Uttar Pradesh. This comprehensive travel guide will help you plan your trip and make the most of your visit.


Introduction to Purvanchal

Purvanchal is a region in the state of Uttar Pradesh in India. It is located in the eastern part of Uttar Pradesh and is known for its rich culture and natural beauty. The region is blessed with scenic landscapes, historic sites, and unique cultural traditions. The name “Purvanchal” means “eastern region” in Hindi and is derived from the fact that it lies to the east of the central plains of India.

List of Places to Visit in Purvanchal

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Purvanchal is a culturally rich region, brimming with museums and historical sites that showcase the region’s unique history and heritage. Some of the must-visit cultural attractions include:

  • Sarnath Museum: Located in Varanasi, the Sarnath Museum is home to a collection of ancient artifacts and art from the Buddhist era.
  • Vishwanath Temple: This iconic temple in Varanasi is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is among the most revered Hindu shrines in India.
  • Rani Ki Vav: This well-preserved stepwell in Patan, Gujarat, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is renowned for its intricate carvings.

Natural Attractions of Purvanchal: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Purvanchal has a diverse range of natural attractions, from scenic landscapes to outdoor adventures. Here are some of the natural attractions that one must visit:

  • Vindhya Range: The region is blessed with the Vindhya Range, which is a series of plateau and hill ranges that stretch over 1,000 km
  • Lakhaniya Dari Waterfall: Located in Mirzapur, this waterfall is an excellent picnic spot and offers stunning views of the surrounding hills.
  • Kaimur Wildlife Sanctuary: This wildlife sanctuary is located in Mirzapur and is home to a wide range of flora and fauna, including tigers, leopards, and Indian bison.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Purvanchal

Purvanchal offers some of the best hiking and biking routes in India, with its diverse landscapes and scenic vistas. Some of the best routes include:

  • Purvanchal Ridge Trek: This five-day trek takes hikers through the scenic terrain of the Vindhya Range, offering stunning views of the surrounding hills and forests.
  • Varanasi Cycling Tour: This cycling tour takes visitors through the streets of Varanasi, showing them the city’s rich history and cultural heritage.
  • Mirzapur Trek: This trek takes visitors through the picturesque landscape of Mirzapur, offering breathtaking views of the region’s hills, forests, and waterfalls.

Best Things to Do in Purvanchal: Activities and Tours

Purvanchal is a treasure trove of exciting activities and tours that are perfect for adventure-seekers and culture enthusiasts alike. Some of the best things to do in Purvanchal include:

  • Boat Ride on the Ganges: Take a boat ride on the holy river Ganges and witness the mesmerizing Aarti ceremonies in Varanasi.
  • Visit a Silk Weaving Factory: Witness the art of weaving silk sarees in Varanasi and take home some of the finest silk products as souvenirs.
  • Taste the Local Cuisine: Savor the local cuisine of Purvanchal, which is an exquisite blend of spices and flavors.

Week-Long Itinerary for Purvanchal

Day 1: Arrive in Varanasi and explore the city’s iconic landmarks such as the Kashi Vishwanath Temple, Dashashwamedh Ghat, and Sarnath. Day 2: Take a boat ride on the Ganges and witness the mesmerizing evening Aarti ceremonies. Day 3: Explore the nearby city of Allahabad and visit the exquisite Anand Bhawan Museum. Day 4: Take a tour of the Kaimur Wildlife Sanctuary and witness the region’s rich flora and fauna. Day 5: Visit the historic city of Mirzapur and explore its scenic landscapes and waterfalls. Day 6: Take a day trip to Patna and witness the stunning stepwell, Rani Ki Vav. Day 7: Bid farewell to Purvanchal and head back home with memories that will last a lifetime.

Food and Drink Scene of Purvanchal

Must-Try Dishes

Purvanchal is known for its rich and spicy cuisine, which is an exquisite blend of flavors and spices. Here are some of the must-try dishes:

  • Chaat: This quintessential Indian street food is a crispy, tangy, and spicy snack that is perfect for any time of the day.
  • Lassi: This refreshing drink is perfect for hot summer days and is made by blending yogurt, water, and sugar.
  • Bati Chokha: This traditional dish is a staple of the region’s cuisine and is made with baked wheat flour dough and a spicy lentil curry.

Local Beverages

The region is famous for its tea culture, and a cup of hot tea with some local snacks is a must-try experience. Another drink that is unique to Purvanchal is “thandai,” which is a refreshing drink made by blending milk, almonds, and spices like cardamom and saffron.

Where to Stay in Purvanchal: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Purvanchal offers a wide range of accommodation options, from budget guesthouses to luxury hotels. Here are some of the best options:

  • Radisson Hotel Varanasi: This luxurious hotel is located in the heart of Varanasi and offers world-class amenities and services.
  • Brij Rama Palace: This heritage hotel is situated on the banks of the Ganges and offers a unique blend of tradition and luxury.
  • Banaras Haveli: This budget guesthouse is located in the old city of Varanasi and offers comfortable accommodations at affordable prices.

What to Buy in Purvanchal: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Purvanchal is known for its exquisite handicrafts and silk products, which are among the best in India. Here are some of the best souvenirs and local products to bring home:

  • Silk Sarees: Purvanchal is known for its high-quality silk sarees, which are available in a wide range of colors and designs.
  • Brassware: Handcrafted brassware products such as idols, lamps, and bowls are famous in the region.
  • Wooden Crafts: The region is famous for its intricately carved wooden toys and home décor items.

Local Culture and Customs of Purvanchal

Purvanchal has a unique blend of Hindu and Buddhist cultures, which is reflected in its temples, festivals, and traditions. The people of Purvanchal are warm, hospitable, and proud of their heritage. Visitors should be respectful of local customs and traditions, such as removing shoes before entering temples and dressing modestly while visiting religious places.

Best Time to Visit Purvanchal

The best time to visit Purvanchal is between October and March, when the weather is pleasant and dry. Summers can be scorching, with temperatures reaching up to 45 degrees Celsius. The monsoons, which last from June to September, can be unpredictable and may interfere with outdoor activities.

Do’s and Don’ts of Purvanchal

Do:

  • Respect local customs and traditions
  • Dress modestly when visiting religious places
  • Try local cuisine and delicacies

Don’t:

  • Disrespect local customs and traditions
  • Wear revealing clothing in public
  • Photograph people without their permission

Safety and Health

Safety in Purvanchal

Purvanchal is a safe region for travelers, but visitors should take basic precautions such as not traveling alone at night and avoiding deserted areas. It is recommended to keep valuables and important documents safe.

Health in Purvanchal

Visitors to Purvanchal should drink bottled water and avoid street food to prevent foodborne illnesses. It is recommended to carry a first aid kit and any necessary medication, as healthcare facilities outside major cities may be limited.

Getting to Purvanchal: Transportation Options and Logistics

Purvanchal can be easily accessed by air, train, and road.

Airports Near Purvanchal

The nearest airport to Purvanchal is Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport in Varanasi.

Bus Stations Near Purvanchal

Purvanchal is well-connected by road, and visitors can take buses from major cities like Delhi and Lucknow to reach the region.

Other Options

Visitors can also take trains to major cities like Varanasi and Allahabad, which are well-connected by rail to the rest of India.

How to Get Around in Purvanchal

Visitors can use taxis, auto-rickshaws, and buses to get around in Purvanchal. However, it is recommended to pre-book a taxi or auto-rickshaw to avoid any hassle.

Where to Go Next from Purvanchal: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Visitors can extend their trip by visiting nearby destinations like Lucknow, Ayodhya, and Agra. Each of these places offers unique cultural and historical experiences that are worth exploring.

Conclusion

Purvanchal is a treasure trove of culture, nature, and adventure. This travel guide will help visitors plan their trip and make the most of their visit to this fascinating region of India. Whether it’s exploring historic sites, indulging in local cuisine, or hiking through scenic landscapes, Purvanchal has something for everyone.



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