Referred to as the cow belt or the Hindi belt, Uttar Pradesh has always played a significant role in Indian politics and cultural activities since the country got the taste of independence. This state has seven holy towns including Varansi, regarded as the holiest of the holies by the Hindu devotees. Uttar Pradesh is also sanctimonious to the Buddhists because Buddha first preached his message at Saranath in this state.
Most of Uttar Pradesh belongs to the vast Gangetic plain. This is the reason why many parts of Uttar Pradesh are inundated during the heavy shower in rainy season. In stark contrast to the plains is the breathtaking beauty of the scenic north-western hill stations which offer the adrenalin-pumping trekking opportunities for the adventure aficionados. Uttar Pradesh has a thick concentration of both Hindus and Muslims. People of other faiths also live here in harmonious gel with each other. Hindi, English and Urdu are the most spoken languages in this state.
Lucknow is the capital city of Uttar Pradesh. This city has rich cultural heritage. Lucknow was built by the Nawabs and may be this is the reason why royal manners are still taken on a serious note in this city. Bara Imambara, Chota Imambara, the Residency and Rumi Darwaza are some of the primary draws of Lucknow.
Another great city is Agra. It has earned name and fame due to Taj Mahal. The Agra Fort is another must-visit tourist spot. Sardar Bazar is an irresistible draw for those who like to go on shopping spree. The bazaar is full of emporiums and best known for leather items and jewelry pieces.
The best time to visit Uttar Pradesh is between October and March. Uttar Pradesh has many popular places of greater cultural and historical significance. Mussoorie, Naintal, Ranikhet and Kasauni are good getaways for the travelers. Their stunning beauties and cool climate are a welcome respite for the visitors coming from the diverse corners of the globe.
Places to visit:
Agra Fort – This massive red-sandstone structure stretches almost 2.5 km, dominating a bend in the river Yamuna, flowing northwest of the Taj Mahal. The foundation of this stunning citadel was laid by Akbar, the great Mughal emperor. However, the structure was finished by his grandson Shah Jahan. Agra Fort became a stronghold of the Mughal Empire under the successive rulers.
Taj Mahal – It is an architectural extravaganza and epitome of immortal love. Shah Jahan built this finest monument of eternal love in memory of his beloved, Mumtaz who died while giving birth to a baby. About 20,000 skilled craftsmen were engaged to build up this masterpiece. It took them 22 years to complete the complex in 1648. Taj Mahal stands tall on the brink of Yamuna in Agra, the capital of Mughal monarchs. The structure looks magnetic and majestic during full moon. Its gateway, long watercourse, minarets and shinning marble have made it a beauty forever.
Krishna Balarama Temple – It is Vrindavan’s most popular temple and was established in 1975 by ISKON. The devotees from around the globe throng the temple throughout the year, thereby bringing a truly ‘unity in diversity’ feel and flavor to this ancient holy city.
Fatehpur Sikri – 40 kms from Agra, Fatepur Sikri was made the capital of the Mughal Empire between 1570 and 1586 during Akbar’s reign. Unfortunately, it was abandoned within a quick span of time.
Sikandra – This mausoleum of Akbar is four kilometer from Agra. This structure has a perfect blending of Hindu, Christian, Islamic, Buddhist, Jain motifs and is in perfect keeping with the essence of Deen-e-Ilahi, a new religion started by Akbar. Though Akbar started Sikandra but he died before its completion and later his son, Jahangir finished it.
Almora – This picturesque district seats in the Kumaun region lying to the north of Uttar Pradesh.
Tapkeshwar Temple – This cave temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and situated in Dehradun. Here on a Shivling, droplets of water fall incessantly from a rock; hence the name Tapkeshwar. This temple is 5.5 km from the city bus stand and located in the Garhi Cantt. Every year, a fair is organized at the temple during Maha Shivaratri.
Bara Imambara – It was built in the year 1784 by Nawab Asaf ud Daula in Lucknow. When famine strikes Lunknow, this place provided food to the poor subjects of the Nawab. This monument is an attraction for its elegant simplicity, perfect proportion and symmetric style.
Varanasi Ghat – It is a holy place for the pious Hindus. It is an age-old tradition for the Hindu Pilgrims to flock the Ghats for a ritual bath and offer puja to the rising sun. The Dasashvamedh Ghat offers a wonderful view of the river front. According to Hindu mythology, 10 (Das) horses (shiva) were sacrificed (medh) here and hence the name Dasashvamedh.
Chota Imambara – Built by Mohammad Ali Shah as a mausoleum for himself, it is also known as Hussainabad Imambara. Chota Imambara is located in Lucknow and erected inside a beautiful garden with a raised water reservoir in front of it. The building has two replicas of Taj Mahal built inside it to commemorate Ali Shah’s loving daughter and her husband. The main building resembles a dome with many beautiful turrets and minarets.
Mussoorie – With its green hills and varied flora & fauna, this fascinating resort offers a panoramic view to feast one’s eyes on. With a vast sea of snow lying to the north-east, and exotic views of the Doon Valley and Shiwalik ranges in the south, the town is as majestic as a virtual fairyland.