Uttar Pradesh also referred to as the “Heartland of India,” boasts a rich and diverse heritage deeply rooted in religious beliefs and practices. This article will guide you through a vivid exploration of famous religious places in Uttar Pradesh.
Each location offers a unique blend of traditions, and spiritual fervor, making Uttar Pradesh a religious state.
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popular rELIGIOUS pLACES iN Uttar Pradesh To Visit
14 Famous Religious Places In Uttar Pradesh
Varanasi
Varanasi, known as Kashi or Benaras, holds the distinction of being the world’s oldest living city and the spiritual capital of India. It sits on the western banks of the Ganges. Temples grace every corner, with the Kashi Vishwanath Temple being the oldest and most frequented.
Varanasi is also popular as the city of Lord Shiva. It is a place where people seek spirituality and aspire for moksha, liberation from the cycle of life and death. The Ganga Aarti, a majestic ceremony, marks a moment of serenity amidst the lively chaos, and you must not miss the chance to savor hot chaat and cool lassi here.
- How to reach Varanasi? By Train: The best mode to reach Varanasi is by train. The closest railway station to Varanasi is Manduadih railway station, situated around 2 km away. By Bus: The nearest bus stand is Varanasi Cantt bus stand, located around 2 Km away.
- What is Varanasi famous for? Varanasi boasts more than 2,000 temples, among which is the renowned Vishwanath Temple, counted among the 12 sacred Jyotirlingas.
- Best time to visit Varanasi: The best time to visit Varanasi is from October to March when the weather is dry and not too hot.
Sarnath
Sarnath, a peaceful spiritual town nestled amidst Uttar Pradesh’s bustling landscape, boasts historical treasures like Buddhist stupas, ancient sites, museums, and temples that captivate and astonish visitors with their mystical and peaceful ambiance.
Sarnath, where Lord Buddha delivered his inaugural sermon, holds a cultural and spiritual prominence, highlighted by attractions such as Ashoka’s Pillar and Dharma Stupa, both testaments to its historical and spiritual importance.
- How to reach Sarnath? By Train: If you are traveling by train, the Varanasi Junction is the nearest major railway station, about 9 km from Sarnath. By Bus: Varanasi Bus Stand is the nearest bus stand. It is around 8 Km away.
- What is Sarnath famous for? Sarnath is famous for the Dhamek Stupa, Chaukhandi Stupa, Ashoka Pillar, and Mulagandha Kuti Vihar.
- Best time to visit Sarnath: The best time to visit Sarnath is during the winter months, from October to March, when the weather is pleasant.
Chitrakoot
Chitrakoot carries immense significance in Hindu mythology and the epic Ramayana. It is believed to be where Lord Rama, Sita, and Lakshmana spent a substantial portion of their life, adding to its reverence for pilgrims. According to the Ramayana, it is the place where Bharata, Ram’s brother, prayed for him to return and rule Ayodhya.
Chitrakoot is revered as the ‘Hill of Many Wonders,’ a fitting title considering its numerous sites of religious importance like Bharat Milap Temple, Hanuman Dhara, and Janki Kund, making it a divine and natural gift.
- How to reach Chitrakoot? By Train: The most convenient way to reach Chitrakoot is by rail. Karvi is the nearest railway station located around 8 Km away from the Chitrakoot. By Bus: Chitrakoot Bus Stand is the nearest bus stand, located around 2.5 Km away.
- What is Chitrakoot famous for? Chitrakoot is famous for its natural beauty, surrounded by lush forests, hills, and the calm Mandakini River.
- Best time to visit Chitrakoot: October to February is the best time to visit Chitrakoot.
Deva Sharif
Deva Sharif, a pilgrimage town 25 km from Lucknow, is the seat of the renowned shrine of Sufi Saint Haji Waris Ali Shah. It’s famous for its annual 10-day fair, Dewa Mela, held in October-November.
Apart from the shrine, Deva Sharif is popular for its natural beauty, surrounded by lush green fields and a serene atmosphere. Visitors can explore the local handicrafts and relish the delicious local cuisine.
- How to reach Deva Sharif? By Train: If traveling by train, the nearest railway station is Barabanki Junction, situated approximately 13 kilometer Kmrs away. By Bus: Located around 12.5 Km away, Barabanki Bus Stop is the nearest bus stop to reach Dewa Sharif.
- What is Deva Sharif famous for? Deva Sharif is particularly famous for the annual Urs festival, dedicated to Syed Haji Waris Ali Shah.
- Best time to visit Deva Sharif: The best time to visit Deva Sharif is during the Urs festival, which usually occurs in the Islamic month of Safar.
Vindhyachal
Vindhyachal is one of the popular religious places in Uttar Pradesh. Situated on the banks of the sacred Ganga River, it attracts devotees who seek spiritual comfort by taking a dip and offering prayers to Goddess Ganga.
The town witnesses a continuous influx of pilgrims, during Navratra, when the atmosphere is adorn with illuminated diyas, vibrant flowers, and the melodious chants of hymns. The trikona parikrama, containing Vindhyavasini, Ashtabhuja, and Kali Khoh temples, is a significant pilgrimage here.
- How to reach Vindhyachal? By Train: If you are traveling by train, the Mirzapur railway station is the nearest railway station situated around 1 km. By Bus: Vindhyanchal Bus Stand is the nearest bus stand, located around 1.7 Km away.
- What is Vindhyachal famous for? Vindhyachal is famous for its sacred Vindhyavasini Devi Temple, dedicated to Goddess Vindhyavasini, an incarnation of Goddess Durga.
- Best time to visit Vindhyachal: The ideal time to visit Vindhyachal is from the month of October to March.
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Prayagraj
Prayagraj, also popular as Allhabad, is famous for its spiritual roots in Hinduism and the revered Triveni Sangam, where the Ganga, Yamuna, and mythical Saraswati rivers meet. Maha Kumbh Mela, a massive Hindu gathering, takes place here every twelve years, drawing millions of pilgrims.
Besides its religious significance, Prayagraj showcases historical gems like the UNESCO-recognized Allahabad Fort, a marvel from Akbar’s reign, and Anand Bhavan. The city holds a blend of spirituality and history, making it a must-visit religious place in Uttar Pradesh.
- How to reach Prayagraj? By Train: To reach Prayagraj, the train is the most convenient way. Prayagraj railway station, about 3 km away, serves as the nearest railway station. By Bus: Civil Lines Bus Stand is the nearest bus stand. It is around 3 Km away from the city’s heart.
- What is Prayagraj famous for? It is famous for being the site of the holy Triveni Sangam, where the Ganga, Yamuna, and Saraswati rivers converge.
- Best time to visit Prayagraj: November to February is a great time to explore this religious place.
Ayodhya
Ayodhya, located along the Sarayu River in Uttar Pradesh, stands as one of Hinduism’s sacred cities. It is intimately relate to the epic Ramayana and is regarded as Lord Rama’s birthplace. Additionally, Ayodhya holds significance in Jainism, being the birthplace of four Tirthankaras, attracting visitors to its peaceful ghats.
With its vibrant spirituality and diverse temples, Ayodhya has evolved into a prominent spiritual hub. Its traffic-free streets and rich religious tapestry make it a compelling destination for travelers seeking serenity and a blend of faiths.
- How to reach Ayodhya? By Train: If you are traveling by train, Ayodhya Junction is the nearest railway station located about 1 km away from the city center. By Bus: Ayodhya Bus Depot is the nearest bus stand loacted about 2 Km away.
- What is Ayodhya famous for? Ayodhya is famous for its religious significance in Hinduism. It is popular to be the birthplace of Lord Rama, a central figure in the Hindu epic Ramayana.
- Best time to visit Ayodhya: October to March Is the best time to explore spirituality in Ayodhya.
Mathura
Mathura is a city popular for being the birthplace of Lord Krishna. It boasts several ancient temples, among which Krishna Janmabhoomi Temple, Dwarkadhish Temple, and Banke Bihari Temple are the most famous. Mathura is also famous for its sweet dish, pedas, which is made from condensed milk.
“Mathura ke Pede” is a popular sweet all over India. The city has many tourist attractions, such as Kusum Sarovar, a picturesque lake surrounded by lush green trees and flowers, and Govardhan Hill, which is popular to be a sacred hill in Hindu mythology.
- How to reach Mathura? By Train: For train travelers, Mathura Junction is conveniently located only 1 km from the city center. By Bus: Mathura Bus Stand is the nearest bus stand, located around 2 Km from the city’s heart.
- What is Mathura famous for? Mathura is a special place because it is where Lord Krishna was born. It is also well-known for a fun and colorful celebration called Holi.
- Best time to visit Mathura: It is a good idea to plan your trip during the months of October to March.
Vrindavan
Vrindavan, on the Yamuna River, is a revered city for Lord Krishna’s devotees. It has numerous temples, including the Banke Bihari temple and the ISKCON temple. The city’s name is derived from the words “Vrinda” and “Van,” meaning basil and grove, respectively.
Vrindavan is a sacred place attracting pilgrims seeking spiritual solace and a chance to immerse themselves in devotion.
- How to reach Vrindavan? By Train: Travelers opting for trains will find Mathura Junction, only 17 km from the city center, to be the closest railway station. By Bus: Vrindavan Bus Stand is the nearest bus stand in the town. It is 5 Km away from the town’s heart.
- What is Vrindavan famous for? Vrindavan is popular for its association with Lord Krishna. It is believed to be where Lord Krishna spent his early years.
- Best time to visit Vrindavan: Plan to visit Vrindavan from the month of October to March.
Kushinagar
Kushinagar is an ideal religious places in Uttar Pradesh. It is a popular Buddhist pilgrimage site and a must-visit place in Uttar Pradesh Tour Packages. It is popular for being the place where Gautam Buddha delivered his last sermon, attained salvation, and was cremated.
Among the many beautiful stupas and temples in the city, the Mahaparinirvana Temple, home to the world-famous reclining nirvana statue of Buddha is a must-visit site.
- How to reach Kushinagar? By Train: If traveling by air, the nearest airport is the Kushinagar Airport. It is about 7 kilometers away from Kushinagar. By Bus: The nearest bus stand is Kasya Bus Stand. It is about 3.3 Km away from the heart of the city.
- What is Kushinagar famous for? Kushinagar is famous for being the place where Lord Buddha attained Mahaparinirvana.
- Best time to visit Kushinagar: The ideal months to explore Kushinagar is from November to April.
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Hastinapur
Hastinapur is a historical city. Situated by the Ganges about 14 Km from Meerut, Hastinapur is ancient and holds deep significance due to its association with the Hindu epic Mahabharata. Known as the capital of the Kauravas, it is revered by Hindus, Jains, and Sikhs.
Some key attractions include Pandeshwar Temple, Karna Temple, Bada Digambar Jain Temple, and Kailash Parvat. Hastinapur is also a popular destination near Delhi for history enthusiasts.
- How to reach Hastinapur? By Train: For train travelers, Meerut Cantt railway station is the nearest railway station located around 41 Km from Hastinapur. From there, you can hire a taxi to get there. By Bus: Hastinapur Bus Stand is the nearest bus stand situated about 1 Km away from the city’s center.
- What is Hastinapur famous for? The city is famous for its ancient temples, including Pandeshwar Temple, Bada Digambar Jain Temple, and more.
- Best time to visit Hastinapur: It can be visited anytime throughout the year.
Shravasti
Shravasti is a significant Buddhist pilgrimage site. Shravasti is one of the ancient largest cities and holds deep connections with Gautama Buddha, who spent 25 rainy seasons here. Additionally, it is popular in Jainism, consider to be the birthplace of Tirthankara Sambhavanath.
Key attractions include Anathapindika Stupa, Angulimala Stupa, Jetavana Monastery, Shobnath Temple, and Vibhuti Nath Temple. The vibrant Shravasti Mahotsav, celebrated in January, is a major cultural event showcasing local artistic talents.
- How to reach Shravasti: By Train: If you are traveling by train, the nearest railway station is Balrampur Railway Station. It is situated around 17 kilometers from Shravasti. By Bus: Balrampur Bus Stand is the closest bus stand. It is about 16 Km away from the city’s heart.
- What is Shravasti famous for? Shravasti is popular for its association with Gautama Buddha and Tirthankara Sambhavanath.
- Best time to visit Shravasti: You can dive in the spirituality of Shravasti during the month of October to March.
Brahmavart Ghat
Brahmavart Ghat in Bithoor, Kanpur, is a popular river ghat along the Ganges. Dedicated to Lord Brahma, it is a place where he began creating mankind. A Shiva Linga called Brahmeshwar Mahadeva and a horseshoe nail from Lord Brahma’s horse adorn the ghat.
Devotees ritually bathe in the Ganga and offer prayers at the temple. Besides its religious significance, it is becoming a popular tourist and picnic spot for families, offering a serene escape from the city’s hustle-bustle.
- How to reach Brahmavart Ghat? By Train: If your mode of travel is by train, Kanpur Central Railway Station is the closest railway station situated a mere 1 km from the city center. By Bus: Bithoor Bus Stand is the nearest bus stand, located around 1 Km away.
- What is Brahmavart Ghat famous for? It is famous for being the place where Lord Brahma, a revered deity, started the creation of mankind.
- Best time to visit Brahmavart Ghat: You can visit the ghat anytime throughout the year.
Chandrika Devi Temple
Chandrika Devi Temple is a 300-year-old Hindu temple dedicate to Goddess Chandrika Devi, a form of Goddess Durga. It is located in Lucknow around 30 Km from the city centre. It is also associated with Barbreek, son of Ghatotkach, who worshipped Goddess Chandrika Devi here to acquire power.
The original grand temple was destroyed by invaders in the 12th century, and the present temple was discovered around 250 years ago by nearby villagers in a dense forest along the banks of the Gomti River.
- How to reach Chandrika Devi Temple? By Train: Manak Nagar Railway Station is the nearest railway station located about 5.6 Km away. By Road: Chandrika Devi Temple is accessible by road. The temple is 30 Km away from the city center and you can reach there by taking Jail Road.
- What is Chandrika Devi Temple famous for? Chandrika Devi Temple is famous for being a sacred Hindu temple dedicated to Goddess Chandrika Devi, a form of Goddess Durga.
- Best time to visit Chandrika Devi Temple: The best time to visit Chandrika Devi Temple is during the winter months, from October to March.
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In conclusion, Uttar Pradesh is a treasure of spirituality. From peaceful ghats of Varanasi to the temples of Ayodhya, this state welcomes all to experience the beauty of devotion. Plan your spiritual journey and immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of religious diversity that Uttar Pradesh has to offer.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
Varanasi is popular as the spiritual capital of India and holds great religious importance in Hinduism. It is popular to be the place of Lord Shiva and the sacred Ganges River, offering moksha or liberation.
Chitrakoot is a place where Lord Rama, with Sita and Lakshmana, spent a significant portion of their exile.
Sarnath is where Lord Buddha delivered his first sermon, setting in motion the wheel of Dharma. It holds immense significance in Buddhism and attracts pilgrims and tourists.
The name change from Allahabad to Prayagraj was influence by its historical identity as ‘Prayag,’ denoting the confluence of rivers. It was rename to reflect its cultural and religious heritage.
Kushinagar is famous for being the place of Lord Buddha’s Mahaparinirvana, making it a crucial pilgrimage site for Buddhists. The Mahaparinirvana Temple and the reclining Buddha statue are key attractions.
