Uttar Pradesh is a culturally loaded state and there are countless ways to turn your perfect weekend vacation. Regardless of the tourists’ needs and expectations – religious, historical, or gourmand – the state provides a vast choice of destinations. Hence, you can try multiple things to do in Uttar Pradesh. For historical lovers, there are well-preserved ancient temples to visit, for the shoppers there are colourful markets, and for the VPNs, nothing beats the beauty of lawns in Uttar Pradesh. Here is the list of the most interesting places in Uttar Pradesh that will be worth visiting during the upcoming weekend.
Popular Things To Do In Uttar Pradesh For A Unique Experience
Here are some of the most popular things to do in Uttar Pradesh:
1. Visit Taj Mahal
Photo: Jim Carter / Wikimedia Commons
Visits to the UNESCO World Heritage sites of Uttar Pradesh cannot be complete without the glorious white and marble Taj Mahal, created by Emperor Shah Jahan for his wife, Mumtaz Mahal, as a loving and magnificent gesture. It is one of the most awe-inspiring things to see in Uttar Pradesh, with grandeur and elegance portrayed in the white marble mausoleum, intricately carved, richly ornamented gardens, and reflecting pools. It is a must-visit destination for those who love history, photographers, and those looking for an experience they will never forget.
Location: Agra, Uttar Pradesh
2. Explore Chaukhandi Stupa
Photo: MaximusPrasad / Wikimedia Commons
Chaukhandi Stupa is another famous Buddhist landmark that indicates the place where it was to meet the first disciples. This stupa was also built as a terraced temple and in a later period it was extended by the Mughal emperor Akbar. Located in beautiful gardens, this tranquil place allows the guests to acquaint themselves with its history and the architectural sightseeing of Sarnath and it should not be missed out. Exploring Chaukhandi Stupa is the best thing to do in Uttar Pradesh as this will provide you with inner peace.
Entry Fee: Free
Location: Chaukhandi Stupa, Sarnath
3. Fatehpur Sikri
Photo: Diego Delso / Wikimedia Commons
One of the most beautiful cities to visit in Uttar Pradesh is the historical city Fatehpur Sikri, which Emperor Akbar built. This city is a UNESCO World Heritage site that epitomizes Mughal architecture at its best. Some of the main attractions are the Buland Darwaza, Jama Masjid, and Panch Mahal. This city is a treasure trove of architecture and culture that will reveal much about the magnificence of the Mughal period. It was briefly the capital of the Mughal Empire, and the ruins remind one of its former glory. It is one of the best things for history lovers and architecture enthusiasts to do in Uttar Pradesh.
Location: Fatehpur Sikri, near Agra
4. Explore Sarnath Archaeological Museum
Photo: Monsieurupanshu / Wikimedia Commons
Sarnath is famous for the Ashoka Pillar and the Sarnath Archaeological Museum contains a wide number of archaeological findings related to Buddhism. Alongside, there are historical artefacts, sculptures and inscriptions that signify the Buddhist history of the region are preserved in the museum. For those interested in the history of Buddhism especially, participating in this is one of the best things to do in Uttar Pradesh. Exploring the Sarnath Archaeological Museum is the best thing to see in Uttar Pradesh as this will provide you with knowledge of Uttar Pradesh.
Location: Sarnath Archaeological Museum, Sarnath
Nearest Station: Varanasi Junction
5. Dudhwa National Park
Photo: AlinSingh / Wikimedia Commons
Dudhwa National Park comes under the Terai region of Uttar Pradesh. It is a treasure trove for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts. It is rich in wildlife, featuring tigers, rhinoceros, and the swamp deer, one of the rarest species in the world. It is one of the best things to do in Uttar Pradesh for nature lovers seeking adventure. The dense forests and serene lakes provide ample opportunity for bird watching, safari tours, and photography. Dudhwa is an ideal weekend destination for wildlife and natural beauty lovers.
Location: Lakhimpur Kheri, Uttar Pradesh
6. Prayagraj Triveni Sangam
Photo: Timothy A. Gonsalves / Wikimedia Commons
It is regarded as one of the holiest places in India. At the confluence where the Ganges, Yamuna, and mythical Saraswati rivers meet is the Triveni Sangam at Allahabad, now Prayagraj. This pilgrimage destination provides one of the most profound experiences of doing anything in Uttar Pradesh. The Triveni Sangam attracts Indians from all walks of life as the water in this confluence cleanses all their sins if they bathe there. The Kumbh Mela is said to be the biggest congregation around the world; it takes place every 12 years. Take a boat ride at the Sangam when the sunrise peaks; it’s a sacred and peaceful exercise.
Location: Prayagraj
Entry Fees: Free
7. Visit Akbar’s Tomb Sikandra
Photo: Darshanavenugopal / Wikimedia Commons
Akbar’s Tomb in Sikandra, Agra, is a remarkable site that reflects the grandeur of Mughal architecture. The tomb, set amidst lush gardens, was built by Akbar himself and is the final resting place of the great Mughal emperor. The architectural style blends Persian, Hindu, and Mughal elements, making it one of the most beautiful things to see in Uttar Pradesh. The tomb’s serene surroundings and historical significance make it a must-visit for anyone exploring the best things to do in Uttar Pradesh.
Location: Sikandra, Agra
8. Visit The Tibetan Temple
Photo: Flying Pharmacist / Wikimedia Commons
The temple of Tibetan style in Sarnath has features related to Tibetan Buddhism. It has decorated lively interiors with interesting paintings of the Tibetan gods and also has a calm and collected wasteland zone. Sightseeing is not boring here as there are various traditional ways in which one can learn about Tibetan Buddhism, which makes it one of the most visited places in Sarnath. Of all the things to see in Uttar Pradesh, visiting the Tibetan temple is the most important that you should go to.
Location: Tibetan Temple, Sarnath
Nearest Station: Varanasi Junction
9. Varanasi Ghats
Photo: Aleksandr Zykov / Wikimedia Commons
Some of the most peculiar things to do in Uttar Pradesh are found in the oldest cities in the world. Visiting ghats in Varanasi would be an unforgettable experience. Imagine seeing thousands of pilgrims bathing in the river Ganges or offering prayers by the river. Rituals, ceremonies, or religious activities and practices are mainly carried out during the day, but the popular ghats for rituals and other activities are Dashashwamedh and Assi. Boat rides along the river also offer a tranquil way to experience the city’s spiritual essence.
Location: Varanasi
Entry Fees: Free
10. Visit The Ashoka Pillar
Photo: Bpilgrim / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
The Ashoka Pillar, an emblem of Indian tradition, was developed by eminent Ashoka during the third century BC. The specification does not reduce the importance of the pillar as an archaeological landmark for modern human civilization even though it has been split into several parts. Currently, the Lion capital on top of this pillar is the national emblem of India, and therefore, this is one place that people with history and Indian cultural background check into.
Entry Fee: Free
Location: Ashoka Pillar, Sarnath
Nearest Station: Varanasi Junction
Uttar Pradesh is undoubtedly filled with diverse experiences, from historic forts and temples to spiritual destinations and wildlife reserves. With so many places, you now know the answer to the question of what to do in Uttar Pradesh. Whether it’s Agra, Varanasi, or the Triveni Sangam, every place is a must-visit destination and leaves a mark for a lifetime of memories. So, plan your visit now and experience the magic of this vibrant state!
Cover Photo: Ku423winz1 / Wikimedia Commons