The state of Uttar Pradesh has some of the most popular tourist destinations in India. Besides being home to world-famous treasures like the Taj Mahal and Fatehpur Sikri, it also houses spiritual centers like Varanasi, Vrindavan and Mathura.
The state's capital, Lucknow is famous for its sumptuous Mughlai cuisine as well as its indigenous art and crafts. Exquisite jewelry, cotton attires embellished with chikankari work and silk apparels with intricate zardozi work are made here, and exported all over world. Every year, in the months of November and December, a 10-day cultural festival is organized here, which attracts music and dance enthusiasts from far and wide.
Arguably the most famous city in India is Agra, home of the world-renowned Taj Mahal. Besides the Taj, Agra boasts of countless others historical assets like the Itmad-ud-daulah also called the mini-Taj and the Agra Fort, a spectacular creation which was home to the Mughal kings and has 16 breathtaking palaces. 45 kilometers from the city is the majestic Fort of Fatehpur Sikri. Built by Emperor Akbar, it is famous for the Buland Darwaza and the tomb of Sufi Saint, Salim Chishti. It is widely believed that at this mystical tomb all your mannats (prayers) are answered. As a result it attracts innumerable believers, all year round.
Settled on the banks of River Ganga is Varanasi. Believed to be the oldest city in the world, it is often described as 'the spiritual capital of the world.' Writer Mark Twain wrote that "Benares is older than history, older than tradition, older even than legend, and looks twice as old as all of them put together." In Varanasi, you will also find the Chandra Prabha Sanctuary and the Kachhua Sanctuary. The former is known for its panther and chinkara population, while the latter is home to the Ganga dolphin and many species of tortoises.
A three-hour drive from Delhi is Mathura, the birthplace of Lord Krishna. And 15 kilometers from Mathura is the enchanting city of Vrindavan. Texts dedicated to Lord Krishna are filled with references to these mystical cities, which are intimately connected due to their historical and religious significance. The cities are speckled with countless temples, which attract devotees from all walks of life.
With this wealth of history and varied experiences, Uttar Pradesh is not just a state but an experience unlike any other. Here, not only can you immerse yourself in millenia-old history, walk amongst wildlife but even share the land that was once home to Lord Rama, Krishna and Buddha.
Best time to visit Uttar Pradesh is all round the year except the months of April-July.
All major tourist destinations in Uttar Pradesh are connected by domestic airlines as well as by trains, which operate almost on daily basis.