5 must-visit spiritual destinations in Uttar Pradesh for your travel itinerary

Uttar Pradesh is a land of epics, rich in history and spirituality, and is dotted with ancient cities that lure travellers from across the world. From ancient temples to sacred rivers, this region attracts millions of visitors seeking spiritual enrichment. Here, take a look at the five must-visit places in Uttar Pradesh for your travel itinerary.

This list cannot be complete without mentioning Varanasi. It’s one of the oldest living cities in the world, and serves as a significant spiritual hub for Hindus. It is well-known for its ghats, where pilgrims conduct ceremonies and rituals. A must-see site here is the Kashi Vishwanath Temple, which is devoted to Lord Shiva. Witness the captivating aarti (prayer ceremony) that takes place every evening, which creates a genuinely spiritual environment, by taking a morning boat trip on the Ganges.

Ayodhya is another sacred city that needs to be in your travel itinerary, as it's believed to be the birthplace of Lord Rama. Devotees from across the nation go to the Ram Janmabhoomi location. Temples abound throughout the city, such as Nageshwarnath Temple and Hanuman Garhi. In addition, visitors can explore the stunning Saryu River, where many people engage in rituals and experience the historic city's spiritual atmosphere.

Another crucial destination for Uttar Pradesh's spiritual tourism is Mathura, the birthplace of Lord Krishna. The city is also known for its colourful celebrations, particularly Janmashtami, which commemorates the birth of Krishna. Places such as the Krishna Janmabhoomi Temple and the Dwarkadhish Temple are a must-visit. Another tourist destination is the nearby town of Vrindavan, which is well-known for its picturesque gardens and temples dedicated to Lord Krishna.

Lord Buddha's first sermon upon enlightenment was given at Sarnath, a major Buddhist pilgrimage site close to Varanasi. The Ashoka Pillar and the Dhamek Stupa are two important historical sites in Sarnath. For tourists, the Sarnath Archaeological Museum offers a culturally stimulating experience with its beautiful sculptures and Mauryan artefacts.

Formerly known as Allahabad, Prayagraj is well-known for the meeting point of the Ganges, Yamuna, and Saraswati rivers. Triveni Sangam, a holy location, is a popular destination for pilgrims, particularly during the Kumbh Mela, one of the biggest religious festivals worldwide. The Nehru family's ancestral house, the Anand Bhavan, is worth a visit and provides insights into India's freedom struggle.