Lesser Known Places To Explore In Uttar Pradesh

Beauty is in the eye of the beholder, they say. But some eyes are more discerning than others. Some eyes can see the hidden splendour of a city, beyond its obvious attractions. Uttar Pradesh, a state that holds the secrets of ancient civilizations and modern marvels, has many cities that can dazzle your eyes and stir your soul.

Don't be fooled by the common misconception that Uttar Pradesh is only worth visiting for its famous trio of Varanasi, Lucknow and Agra. There are many more jewels in this state's crown, waiting to be discovered by you. Read on and explore the hidden gems of Uttar Pradesh, a land of beauty and mystery.

1. Chitrakoot

Chitrakoot is a serene town that rests on the lap of the Mandakini River. It is the sacred land where Lord Rama and his companions lived in seclusion during their exile years. The town is encapsulated by ancient caverns, holy shrines, and scenic landscapes. It is a paradise for those who seek nature with a touch of divine grace.

2. Barsana

Near the city of Mathura, there is a town called Barsana, where people celebrate Holi in a special way. They play with colours and music, and they also have a unique tradition to enjoy. The women of Barsana chase the men with sticks and the men have to run or dodge their hits. This is called Lathmar Holi, a spectacle that attracts many visitors from near and far. But that's not all! Barsana has a temple of Radha Rani, the divine lover of Lord Krishna. And her temple is a place of devotion and grace. Many pilgrims come to her temple to seek her blessings and peace.

3. Mathura

Mathura is a quaint town where Lord Krishna was born. The town is dotted with countless of old temples, and the most revered one is the Krishna Janmabhoomi Temple. This place is also famous for its one-of-a-kind Holi and Janmashtami, when people from all corners of the globe, flock here to join the festivities with happiness and devotion.

4. Chambal Ravines

The Chambal Ravines are a sprawling maze of cliffs and canyons, carved by the infamous Chambal River. This region is a hidden gem that invites you to discover pristine natural beauty of Uttar Pradesh. The ravines are home to rare landscapes, wildlife, and the elusive gharials and river dolphins that are on the brink of extinction.

5. Bateshwar

Bateshwar is a town that lies on the edge of the Yamuna River, with a cluster of temples surrounding its circumference, and some of them dating back to centuries ago. Every year, during the Bateshwar Annual Fair in November, it attracts a large number of devotees and tourists alike who come here to have fun and be blessed.

6. Sarnath

Sarnath is a hidden gem for Buddhist pilgrims and history buffs. It is here that the enlightened Buddha first shared his wisdom with his disciples. The site is dotted with relics of the past, such as the majestic Dhamek Stupa, that evoke a sense of awe and reverence. Sarnath is adorned by visually appealing Buddhist structures and cultural significance that deserve a special mention in your itinerary.

7. Mirzapur

Mirzapur, the city behind the Netflix sensation, is a fusion of natural and historical splendor, where culture and tranquility harmonize in a melody of pure bliss. Here, you can have a relaxing boat ride on the holy Ganges, discover some old temples, and marvel at some stunning sites like Vindhyachal and Chunar Fort. Mirzapur is a city that will captivate you with its charm and diversity.

8. Mahoba

If you are a nature seeker and a history buff, you will love Mahoba. It’s a quaint district in Uttar Pradesh, capable of whisking you away with the charm of the bygone era; it is unarguably one of the best-kept secrets of the state because of its forts and temples. Many moons ago, Mahoba belonged to the Chandela Kings, and the hill-top forts that showcase the amazing engineering of the past, still scream of their glorious legacy. To get a taste of the old-world charm, you can also visit the Sun Temple at Rahila that dates back to the 9th century.

9. Sravasti

Sravasti is a treasure island of Buddhism in the Bahraich district of Uttar Pradesh. It is famous as the place where Lord Buddha showed his miraculous powers and shared his profound insights. Sravasti has many old sites, such as the Jetavana Monastery, Anathapindika’s Stupa, and the Gandhakuti (Buddha’s hut). Visiting these sites lets visitors immerse themselves in the life and wisdom of Lord Buddha while enjoying the peaceful atmosphere of Sravasti.

10. Barabanki

Barabanki is a district that sparkles with history and culture, located near the capital city of Lucknow. It showcases many architectural masterpieces, such as the Sufi shrine of Dewa Sharif, which magnetizes pilgrims from diverse faiths. Barabanki also harbors the Siddheshwar Temple, a sacred site, celebrated for its splendid stone carvings and soothing ambiance. Furthermore, the district is renowned for its lively handicrafts and traditional art forms, presenting visitors with a glimpse of the local flair.

So, what do you think? Which of these places would make it to your bucket list for an enticing trip to Uttar Pradesh beyond the famous trio of Banaras, Lucknow and Agra? Let us know in the comments.

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