HAPPY TRAVELLING
A complete tourist and cultural guide of
Uttar Pradesh
A historic heartland known for its sacred cities, architectural wonders, and vibrant traditions
Uttar Pradesh, often called the soul of India, is a state where history, spirituality, and culture converge. From the divine ghats of Varanasi to the grandeur of the Taj Mahal, it offers timeless beauty and cultural richness. The birthplace of Lord Rama and Lord Krishna, and the epicenter of the Ganga and Yamuna rivers, UP’s spiritual significance is unparalleled. Whether you’re a pilgrim, history lover, or cultural explorer, Uttar Pradesh has something for everyone.
Discover Uttar Pradesh - Tourist Attractions
Uttar Pradesh is a blend of spiritual mystique, historical splendor, and natural beauty. With sacred temples, bustling cities, and serene landscapes, it promises a diverse travel experience. Explore the major tourist destinations:
Varanasi
Agra
Ayodhya
Mathura-Vrindavan
Prayagraj (Allahabad)
Lucknow
Jhansi
Sarnath
Heritage of Uttar Pradesh
From Mughal architecture to Hindu and Buddhist heritage, Uttar Pradesh is steeped in history: Taj Mahal in Agra – A UNESCO World Heritage Site and symbol of eternal love. Fatehpur Sikri – A red sandstone Mughal marvel and historic capital of Akbar. Sarnath – Ancient Buddhist site with the Dhamek Stupa. Ayodhya – A holy city with newly built Ram Mandir and rich mythological significance. Chunar Fort, Jhansi Fort – Monuments of historical and military legacy. Uttar Pradesh has 3 UNESCO World Heritage Sites and several state-protected monuments reflecting its glorious past.
The Performing Art of Uttar Pradesh
Uttar Pradesh is a vibrant hub of traditional performing arts that reflect its rich cultural heritage. The state is renowned for its classical dance forms like Kathak, graceful and rhythmic, which originated here. Music, both classical and folk, plays a vital role, with Hindustani classical music flourishing in cities like Varanasi and Lucknow. Folk traditions like Ramlila, Nautanki, and Birha are still actively performed, especially during festivals, retelling epics and folk tales with song, dance, and drama. These performing arts are not just entertainment but deeply rooted expressions of devotion, history, and everyday life.
Music Form
Uttar Pradesh boasts a rich musical heritage, blending classical and folk traditions. The state is a major center for Hindustani classical music, with iconic gharanas like Gwalior and Banaras shaping its evolution. The soulful Thumri, Dhrupad, and Khayal styles are widely performed. Folk music, including the Chaiti and Birha genres, tells tales of love, devotion, and daily life, often accompanied by traditional instruments like the tabla and sitar. This musical legacy continues to thrive, deeply embedded in the culture of the state.
Hindustani Classical Music
Varanasi and Lucknow gharanas are famed for Dhrupad and Khayal.
Thumri & Dadra
Light classical forms often performed in dance settings.
Bhajans & Qawwalis
Devotional and Sufi music echoing through temples and dargahs.
Others Music forms – Birha & Kajri – Popular folk songs with deep emotional and cultural roots.
Dance Form
Uttar Pradesh is renowned for its classical and folk dance forms, with Kathak being the most prominent. Known for its intricate footwork, spins, and storytelling, Kathak has its roots in the temples of Varanasi and Lucknow. The state also celebrates vibrant folk dances like Ramlila, a dramatic performance of the Ramayana, and Rasiya, which is performed during festivals, especially in the Braj region. These dances not only showcase the region’s artistic beauty but also embody its deep spiritual and cultural connections.
Kathak
One of the eight classical dance forms of India, it flourished in the courts of Lucknow.
Raslila
Dramatic dance performance depicting Krishna’s divine play in Mathura-Vrindavan.
Nautanki & Ramlila
Traditional folk theatre celebrating epics and local legends.
Festivals and Celebrations
Uttar Pradesh is a land of vibrant festivals, each reflecting its rich cultural and spiritual heritage. The state celebrates Diwali with grand fervor, especially in Varanasi, where the ghats are illuminated with thousands of lamps. Holi, the festival of colors, is celebrated with immense joy in cities like Mathura and Vrindavan, where the streets come alive with music, dance, and playful color throws. Kumbh Mela, held every 12 years in Allahabad, draws millions of devotees for spiritual purification. Other significant festivals include Eid, Raksha Bandhan, and the Navratri celebrations, each marked by unique rituals, processions, and community gatherings that embody the essence of Uttar Pradesh’s diverse culture.
Diwali
Holi
Kumbh Mela
Others Festivals and Celebrations – Ram Navami & Krishna Janmashtami, Taj Mahotsav
Uttar Pradesh’s Cuisine
Lucknowi Biryani & Kebabs
Puri-Aloo, Kachori-Sabzi
Malaiyo (Winter Dessert)
Uttar Pradesh offers a diverse and rich culinary heritage:
- Lucknowi Biryani & Kebabs – Delicacies from Awadhi cuisine.
Puri-Aloo, Kachori-Sabzi – Popular street food across cities.
Malaiyo (Winter Dessert) – Specialty of Varanasi.
- Lassi & Rabri – Refreshing and rich dairy-based drinks.
- Tunday Kabab – A must-try from Lucknow’s royal kitchens.
Famous sweets include Peda (Mathura), Balushahi, Imarti, and Gujiya.
Popular Shopping Items
Uttar Pradesh is known for its fine artistry and local crafts:
- Chikankari Embroidery – Elegant hand embroidery from Lucknow.
- Banarasi Sarees – Rich silk sarees with golden zari from Varanasi.
- Marble Handicrafts – Miniature Taj Mahals and inlay work from Agra.
- Brassware – Decorative items from Moradabad.
- Terracotta & Woodwork – From Gorakhpur and Saharanpur.
Best shopping destinations: Aminabad & Hazratganj (Lucknow), Chowk (Varanasi), Sadar Bazaar (Agra).
Chikankari Embroidery
Banarasi Sarees
Marble Handicrafts
Brassware
Evolution of Tamil Nadu
⇒ Ancient Civilization – Roots in the Indus Valley Civilization and Vedic Age.
⇒ Mythological Significance – Central to the Ramayana and Mahabharata epics.
⇒ Medieval Period – Flourished under Delhi Sultanate and Mughals.
⇒ British Rule – Played a key role in 1857’s First War of Independence (Jhansi, Meerut).
⇒ Post-Independence – Became the most populous and politically influential Indian state.
Safety Measures and Tips
Temple Visits – Respect customs; remove shoes, and avoid photography in sacred zones (e.g., Kashi Vishwanath Temple).
Holy Rivers – Exercise caution while taking dips in the Ganges during crowded festivals.
Winter Travel – Northern UP can get foggy; check train/flight schedules in advance.
Street Food Safety – Prefer freshly made food and bottled water.
Transport – Use authorized taxi apps or state-run transport; avoid unlicensed vehicles.
Shopping Awareness – Bargain in local markets, but fixed-price government emporiums offer genuine products.
Festival Crowds – During events like Kumbh, Janmashtami, and Diwali, expect large crowds. Keep essentials and valuables secure.
Emergency Contacts – Police (100), Ambulance (108), and Tourist Helpline (1363). Major cities have good medical facilities.