Top-10 Tourist Places in Uttar Pradesh, Check the List

Uttar Pradesh, a state in northern India, is home to many famous tourist attractions. From ancient temples to historical monuments, the state offers a rich cultural experience for travelers. Here is a list of the top-10 tourist places in Uttar Places to explore.

An Overview of Uttar Pradesh

Uttar Pradesh is a state in northern India with over 241 million people, making it the most populated state in India and the most populated subdivision in the world. It makes up 16.5% of India’s population and about 3% of the world’s population. Uttar Pradesh is bordered by Rajasthan, Haryana, Himachal Pradesh, Delhi, Uttarakhand, Nepal, Bihar, Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh and Jharkhand.

Top-10 Tourist Places in Uttar Pradesh to Visit

Uttar Pradesh is home to many famous tourist spots, offering a blend of history, culture and spirituality. From the iconic Taj Mahal to ancient temples, here are the top-10 must-visit places in the state.

Ayodhya

Ayodhya is a city in Uttar Pradesh, India, located on the banks of the Sarayu River. It is known as the birthplace of the Hindu god Rama, making it an important pilgrimage site. Historically, the city was called Saketa. Ayodhya is famous for the Babri mosque, which was demolished in 1992. In 2019, the Supreme Court ruled that the land should be used to build the Ram Mandir, which was consecrated in 2024.

The Taj Mahal

The Taj Mahal is a beautiful white marble mausoleum in Agra, Uttar Pradesh, built by Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his wife Mumtaz Mahal. Completed in 1653, it is a symbol of love and an example of Mughal architecture. The complex includes a mosque, a guest house and gardens. It attracts millions of tourists annually and was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1983.

Varanasi

Varanasi, also known as Benares or Kashi, is one of the oldest cities in the world, located on the Ganges River in Uttar Pradesh, India. It is a major pilgrimage site, famous for its ghats, temples and rituals. The city is known for its rich history, religious significance and cultural heritage, including music, education and crafts. Varanasi is home to notable institutions like Banaras Hindu University and has been an important center of learning and spirituality.

Lucknow

Lucknow, the capital of Uttar Pradesh, is known for its rich history and culture. Famous for its Mughal-era landmarks like the Bara International and the Rumi Darwaza, the city showcases stunning architecture. Lucknow is also renowned for its Awadhi cuisine, especially Kebabs and biryanis. In 2024, the city attracted 48 million visitors, including 1.2 million international tourists, drawn by its heritage, vibrant markets and unique culinary delights.

Mathura

Mathura, located in Uttar Pradesh, is the birthplace of Lord Krishna and a major Hindu pilgrimage site. The Krishna Janmabhoomi Temple, marking his birth, attracts thousands of devotees daily. Visitors can also explore Vrindavan, known for its connection to Krishna’s childhood. Mathura is famous for its local sweet “peda” and vibrant festivals like Janmashtami. In 2024, the city welcomed 45 million visitors, drawn by its temples, rituals, and cultural significance.

Fatehpur Sikri

Fatehpur Sikri, located in Uttar Pradesh, was founded by Emperor Akbar in 1571 as the Mughal capital. It served as the capital until 1585 before being abandoned in 1610. The city, known for its historical and architectural significance, was built to commemorate Sheikh Salim Chishti, who predicted the birth of Akbar’s son. Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1986, Fatehpur Sikri attracts visitors for its rich Mughal heritage and stunning monuments.

Sarnath

Sarnath, near Varanasi in Uttar Pradesh, is an important Buddhist pilgrimage site where Buddha gave his first sermon after enlightenment. The Dhamek Stupa, known for its beautiful carvings, marks this historic event. The Sarnath Archaeological Museum displays artifacts and sculptures related to Buddha’s life. In 2024, Sarnath attracted 12 million visitors, including pilgrims and history enthusiasts, drawn by its spiritual and historical significance.

Prayagraj

Prayagraj, formerly Allahabad, is a key religious site located at the confluence of the Ganges, Yamuna and mythical Saraswati rivers. The city is famous for the Kumbh Mela, held every 12 years, drawing millions for ritual bathing. Attractions include the Triveni Sangam, Anand Bhawan and Allahabad Fort. In 2024, Prayagraj welcomed around 10 million visitors, mainly for the Kumbh Mela and other religious events.

Vrindavan

Vrindavan, near Mathura in Uttar Pradesh, is a sacred town, connected to Lord Krishna’s childhood. It is home to many temples like Banke Bihari and ISKCON, attracting pilgrims year-round. The town is known for its vibrant festivals, especially Holi and lively evenings filled with devotional songs. Visitors can enjoy traditional crafts and sweets like “laddoo.” In 2024, Vrindavan welcomed around 8 million visitors, drawn by its spiritual significance and festivities.

Jhansi

Jhansi, in Uttar Pradesh, is famous for its role in India’s fight for independence, especially the bravery of Rani Lakshmibai during the 1857 rebellion. The Jhansi Fort, perched on a hill, is a key attraction, showcasing ancient architecture. Visitors can explore palaces, temples, and learn about the legends of Rani Lakshmibai’s leadership. In 2024, Jhansi attracted about 5 million visitors, drawn by its rich history and connection to India’s struggle for freedom.