Often referred to as "U.P." and situated in the northern part of India, Uttar Pradesh is the most populous state in the country and is home to numerous historical monuments and places of religious significance.
Geographically Uttar Pradesh is very diverse, with Himalayan foothills in the north and the gangetic plain in the center, it's also known as the Heartland of India. Kathak- the Indian classical dance style had originated here.
To explore the glory of U.P., you must follow the Heritage Arc. Moving along with the arc from one end of the state to the other, takes travelers through Agra, Lucknow, and Varanasi covering several exciting destinations along the way. The Heritage Arc is a veritable treasure trove of sights and experiences.
Observed as the biggest tourist destination in India, Uttar Pradesh boasts of 35 million domestic tourists. Packed with tourist attractions across a broad spectrum for people with diverse interests, the state attracts a large number of visitors, both national and international.
The state is famed for its beautiful brassware, inlay, intricate woodcarvings and furniture, ceramics, glassware, carpets and cotton rugs called dhurries, leather goods, gold, inlaid jewelry, silks, and brocades.
Crowned by the holy rivers Ganga and Yamuna, the state is known for its ancient traditions. The two regions where the majority of the tourists visit - the Agra circuit and the Hindu pilgrimage circuit. The largest festival fair (Kumbh Mela) in India drawing millions of people is held here.
The best time to visit U.P. is during the winter months of October to March as the summers are too hot and dry for comfort. Also, all festivals and fairs take place during these months.
Agra has earned international fame for being home to one of the Seven Wonders of the World-Taj Mahal. A large number of tourist visit this city to get a glimpse of the magnificent white marble structure along with Fatehpur Sikri and Agra Fort.
Also, Allahabad is the place hosting the famous Kumbh Mela, where thousands of pilgrims gather on the banks of Ganges. The state is known for its historical monuments and places of religious significance including the holy city of Vrindavan, Mathura- the Janam Bhumi of Lord Krishna, and Ayodhya-the birthplace of god Rama. Kushinagar and Sarnath, part of the four sacred sites related to Buddhism.
Varanasi is known for its ghats and the winding lanes dotted with temples. Varanasi is unquestionably a must visit place.Moving on to the capital city, Lucknow is home many historical places from the era of British, Mughals and Nawabs of Awadh. Amongst other tourist attractions don't forget Aligarh,Kushinagar, Bareilly, Kanpur, Jhansi and Kaushambi.
By Air : The state has four domestic airports at Lucknow, Varanasi, Agra, and Kanpur. Lucknow -the capital city, is well connected to the major cities namely Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, and Patna as well as to other important tourist destinations of Khajuraho and Varanasi.There is no international airport.
By Rail : The train service is most convenient with superfast, express and mail trains linking all the major destinations in the state. Lucknow is the main junction of the northern network. Other are at Agra, Kanpur, Jhansi, Moradabad, Allahabad, Mughalsarai, Varanasi, Tundla, Gorakhpur, Gonda, Sitapur, Faizabad, and Bareilly. All cities, towns and almost all the villages of the state are connected through rail.
By Road : An extensive road network covers the state thoroughly. National Highways 2, 25, 45, 26, 27 and 29 and some state highways run through the state. Both government and private buses operate from main cities.