What Is Uttar Pradesh Famous For? Top 26 Popular Places & Things

When planning a trip to North India, one name you cannot miss is Uttar Pradesh. This ancient city is home to a few UNESCO World Heritage Sites and is also important religiously for being the origin places of Hinduism and Buddhism.

Wondering what to include in your trip to Uttar Pradesh? Find help from our list as we have sorted the names of all the places that pop up when you search ‘what Uttar Pradesh is famous for’.

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List of Famous Places in Uttar Pradesh

Here is a list of the top 20 famous places in Uttar Pradesh.

1. Agra

Agra is home to three UNESCO World Heritage Sites - Agra Fort, The Taj Mahal and Fatehpur Sikri.

This city is important not only for the Mughal dynasty but for Hindus, as it has been mentioned in the Mahabharata. In addition, Agra is a part of the Golden Triangle Circle with Jaipur and Delhi, meaning people travelling to the North must visit the three together.

2. Lucknow

The city of Nawabs, or the Capital of Uttar Pradesh, has quite surprisingly maintained its old charm throughout these years. Lucknow had served as the capital of Nawab of Awadh. Further, the city flourished in literature, arts, crafts and music while enjoying the generosity of the Nawabs. Apart from that, a few tourist attractions in Lucknow that you must visit are Bara Imambara, Lucknow Zoo, British Residency and Chhota Imambara.

3. Varanasi

Among the famous places to visit in Uttar Pradesh, you must include Varanasi. Pilgrims from all across the world frequently visit the Religious Capital of India. A few top spots you can visit in Varanasi are Kashi Vishwanath Temple, Man Mandir Ghat, Sarnath, Mani Karnika Ghat, Chaumsathi Ghat and Chunar Fort.

4. Allahabad

Allahabad serves as an important pilgrim centre for all those who follow Hinduism. It also witnesses the Kumbh Mela, one of the largest gatherings of religious nature, once every 12 years. Apart from that, a few top tourist attractions in the city are Triveni Sangam, Allahabad Fort, Allahabad Museum, and Anand Bhavan.

5. Kanpur

Kanpur, the biggest city in the state of Uttar Pradesh, lies on the Banks of the River Ganges and was earlier known as the Manchester of the country. Moreover, Kanpur is now a major industrial hub and is also called the Commercial Capital of Uttar Pradesh. Nevertheless, a few of the major tourist attractions in Kanpur are Jajmau, Kanpur Gardens, Mecca Masjid, Allen Forest Zoo, and Bithoor.

6. Mathura

Mathura is one of the seven sacred cities for followers of Hinduism, as Lord Krishna was born here. Before Hinduism gained popularity, this city was a Buddhist centre and consisted of 20 monasteries. However, Mathura now has numerous temples belonging to a different age. Some popular places in Mathura are Krishna Janma Bhoomi Mandir, Radha Kund, Mathura Museum, Dwarkadhish Temple, and Kusum Sarover.

7. Fatehpur Sikri

Renowned Mughal emperor Akbar built the famous city of Fatehpur Sikri in the 16th Century. Here you will find various palaces which are sure to leave you astonished by the architectural brilliance of the past. Moreover, a few spots that must be on your list for a trip to Fatehpur Sikri are Diwan-i-Khas, Johbhai Palace, Lotus Throne, Panch Mahal, Buland Darwaza and Khawabgah.

8. Ayodhya

Uttar Pradesh is famousfor being one of the sacred cities for the followers of Hinduism, Ayodhya. This is because it is said to be the place where Lord Rama was born. Besides being an important pilgrimage site for Hindus, this place is also important for Muslims as this place was home to the 16th- Century old Babri Masjid. Other top attractions in Ayodhya include Ramkot, Gulab Bari, Faizabad Museum, Moti Mahal, Hanuman Garhi, Treta Ke Thakur and Guptar Ghat.

9. Vrindavan

Vrindavan is a pilgrim site and holy city on River Yamuna's banks. It attracts tourists from all over the world as it possesses the deity Lord Krishna. A few must-visit tourist attraction spots on your trip to Vrindavan include Govind Dev Temple, Kesi Ghat, Shahji Temple, Rangaji Temple, and Iskcon Temple.

10. Jhansi

One of the well-known and less popular tourist destinations in Uttar Pradesh is Jhansi. This historic city lies on the riverbanks of Pahujor Pushpavati. A few tourist attractions in Jhansi include Rani Mahal, Chirgaon, Jhansi Fort, and Maharaja Gangadhar Rao Ki Chatri.

11. Kushinagar

Kushinagar is a city that holds extreme importance for Buddhists as this is the place where Lord Buddha performed his last sermon. This place's historical importance can be traced from the various archaeological evidence discovered here. Further, this place also finds importance in Hieun Tsang's travelogues.

Apart from that, some of the must-visit places here are the Sun Temple, Ramabhar Stupa, Wat Thai Temple, Pawanagar and Mahaparinirvana Temple.

12. Sarnath

Sarnath is one of the most famous places to visit in Uttar Pradesh and holds huge importance for Buddhists and Jains. This is believed to be the place where Buddha performed his first sermon. Later, Ashoka built several monasteries and stupas to make it a popular pilgrimage site. Apart from that, the Thai Temple, Chaukhandi Stupa, Dhammek Stupa, Tibetan Temple and Deer Park are a few of the must-visit attractions of this city.

13. Meerut

Meerut holds historical importance and is an ancient city with historical buildings dating back to the Indus Valley Civilisation era. Meerut rose to popularity under the rule of the Mughals and was an important site during the 1857 revolt. In addition, visit the various memorials and monuments you can find here to get lost in the rich history and culture.

14. Aligarh

Aligarh is a city in Uttar Pradesh famous for its 'Locks' and holds extreme historical importance. Some top tourist attractions which you must visit on your trip to Aligarh include Aligarh Muslim University, Khereshwar Temple, Jama Masjid, Shree Varshney Mandir and Dor Fortress.

15. Kapilavastu

Kapilavastu is an important place for Buddhist pilgrims as this is the place where Lord Buddha was born. There are several villages in Kapilvastu, like Salagarh, Ganvaria and Piprahwa, along with some top tourist attractions like Lumbini Saraswati and the Main Stupa.

16. Garhmukteshwar

Individuals looking for a serene and peaceful location should definitely visit Garhmukteshwar. Some of the places you can visit when you come here are Vedant Mandir, Ganga Temple, Sati Pillars, Brij Ghat and Hanuman Temple.

17. Deogarh

Deogarh is one of the must-visit places in Uttar Pradesh, where you can find the legacy of several dynasties like the Guptas, Gurjara, Pratiharas and Gondas. A few tourist places you can visit here are Mahavir Swami Wildlife Sanctuary, Tribal Museum, Tigawa Temple, Deogarh Fort and the Jain Temples.

18. Chitrakoot

Chitrakoot, one of Uttar Pradesh's ideal holiday destinations, is also one of the holy places in India. As per legends, Lord Rama, Sita and Lakshman spent eleven years of their 14 years' exile in this place. Apart from that, Chitrakoot is a peaceful, tranquil place dotted with several temples. Chitrakoot's other tourist attractions include Ram Dhara, Janki Kund, Sphatik Shila and Kamadgiri.

19. Pilibhit

Pilibhit, also known as the land of flutes, is a town surrounded by dense forests all around. If you want to enjoy an awesome Wildlife holiday, then don't forget to visit the Tiger reserve of Pilibhit. Your curious mind will be amazed by the birds, plant species, a few endangered animals and 36 tigers you find here.

20. Sardhana

Sardhana holds historical significance as this place was the capital of the Kauravas of the Mahabharat epic. It was also believed that this was where the Pandavas prayed before leaving for Lakshagrah. Apart from that, a few tourist attractions here include Shahid Smarak, Victoria Park, and Baba Aughar Nath Temple.

List of Famous Things in Uttar Pradesh (Food, Culture and Activities)

Other than being popular for historical monuments and temples, and Stupas, Uttar Pradesh is also famous for various other things. Find the list here.

21. Chikan Embroidery

Chikankari Embroidery is popular embroidery from Lucknow, and it deserves all the praise due to it being delicate and beautiful. These designs are mostly visible on Kurtis. Further, it consists of intricate designs while keeping the wearable lightweight. In addition, it makes an ideal wearable for women to beat the scorching heat of North India.

22. Banarasi Saree

Varanasi is famous for two things - one, its Ghats and second, its marvellous silk sarees. It is one of the most beautiful sarees that all Indian women should own. So find a few authentic stores in Varanasi and pack a few gorgeous Benarasi sarees for the women in your family.

23. Brass and Metalware

The brass and metalware of Lucknow and Moradabad are famous across India for their exquisite beauty. Moreover, you can buy silver jewellery boxes, diyas, statues or containers like Paandaan, which usually have Meena work in them.

24. Perfumes or Attar

If you are bored of using the commercial perfumes which are usually available in the market, try using authentic Indian perfumes or Attar for a change. These are made with organic ingredients and have been in use for centuries. Further, find some of the most authentic Indian perfumes in the ancient city of Kannauj. Apart from it, you can also try buying rose water from Kannauj.

25. Zardozi

During the rule of the nawab of Awadh, this embroidery became very popular as he was very fond of this embroidery work. It is a type of delicate embroidery which is done on expensive clothes like velvet, satin or silk using pure golden or silver threads. So you can find Zardozi embroidery on different clothes, cushion covers, carpets, etc.

26. Lucknowi Food

Lucknow is a paradise for food lovers as one can find various meat, sweet and pickle delicacies here. A few famous food items you can try in Lucknow are Malai Gilori, kebabs, and not to forget the famous Lucknowi Biryani also has its foundations here.

So, now that you know what Uttar Pradesh is famous for, start planning your trip. Whether you visit this place for religious reasons or to witness India's rich history and past, this state will not fail to amaze you.

Frequently Asked Questions

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What is the best time to visit Uttar Pradesh?

The best time to visit Uttar Pradesh is between October and March, as the climate remains pleasant and cool during this time.

What is the harvest festival of Uttar Pradesh?

The harvest festival of Uttar Pradesh is Makar Sankranti, an auspicious day for Hindus.