North Indian state Uttar Pradesh which reflects best the vivid hues by blending of cultures. It is a land of Lord Krishna, Rama, Buddha and Taj Mahal, this state is a perfect canvas painted in different colors to bring out a picture that is loved by all. Across the state, there are a plethora of cosmopolitan cities and ancient towns that boast stories of love, valor, spirituality, and glory. Being the most populous state in India, Uttar Pradesh is home to numerous religions, castes and creeds and hence, it is the best representative of the nation. Uttar Pradesh also specializes in aromatic and delectable Awadhi cuisine, the fine Chicken and brass work and majestic architecture.

Let’s see some most popular travel destinations in Uttar Pradesh.

1. Agra
Located on the banks of River Yamuna in Uttar Pradesh, Agra is a popular tourist destination as it is home to one of the 7 wonders of the world, the Taj Mahal. Apart from this, Agra Fort and Akbar’s Tomb, Jama Masjid, Moti Masjid, Jahangiri Mahal, etc. are certain other destinations in Agra where you can find the immortal chronicles of its history.

2. Prayagraj
This historical city is famous for Triveni Sangam or the meeting point of three rivers – the Ganga, the Yamuna, and the Saraswati. It is a place where Maha Kumbh Mela takes place every 12 years since time immemorial.

3. Sarnath
Sarnath is one of the most important Buddhist sites in India, where Lord Buddha gave his first sermon. Every year, during Buddha Purnima (Buddha’s birthday in April/May), hordes of people from across the world flock here to take part in the celebration.

4. Mathura
One of Hinduism’s seven sacred cities, Mathura is the birthplace of the very beloved Lord Krishna. Mathura is a small town dotted with temples from various ages and attracts a horde of pilgrims from all over the world.

5. Varanasi
This religious city in Uttar Pradesh is said to be one of the oldest continually inhabited places in the world. Sitting on the bank of River Ganges. For centuries, culture, religion, history, art and education have thrived here, and that’s exactly what makes it one of the most visited cities in the country.

6. Lucknow
This capital city and land of Nawabs truly has royal touch to it. Lucknow has the reputation of proffering finger licking good Awadhi cuisine, whose aroma fills the air and satisfies the soul of any food lover.

7. Ayodhya
The birthplace of Lord Rama, Ayodhya is also one of the seven sacred places for Hindus. With temples on almost every corner, Ayodhya is a spiritual seeker’s paradise. Other significant temples worthy of a visit include Nageshwarnath temple, Hanuman Garhi, Treta Ke Thakur, Kanak Bhawan and Ram Janmabhoomi temple.

8. Kanpur
Nestled on the banks of the Ganges river, Kanpur is a beautiful city in its own right, brimming with religious and historical sites. Kanpur Gardens, Allen Forest Zoo, Shri Radhakrishna temple, Kanpur Memorial Church, Kamla Retreat, Moti Jheel (reservoir), JK temple and Jajmau (one of the largest tanneries in India) are some of the must-visit spots.

9. Kushinagar
Kushinagar is an important destination of Buddhist Circuit in India. It is recognized as a place where Lord Buddha breathed his last. There are several temples where one can stay, chat with monks or simply contemplate one’s existence in the world. There are three main historical sites, including Stupa, which is erected at a place where Buddha is said to have been cremated.

10. Dudhwa National Park
The place inhabits plethora of rare and endangered species including Tiger, Hispid hare, Swamp deer, Bengal Florican and Leopard etc. Dudhwa Tiger Reserve is one of the finest tiger reserves where one can also witness the spellbinding herds of Barasingha in the grassy wetlands.