Peaks of Uttar Pradesh

 Though more known for its grasslands and forests and iconic Indian structures, such as the Taj Mahal, Uttar Pradesh nonetheless contains 282 named mountains. The highest of these peaks is Amsot, at around 943m/3,093ft above sea level with 341m/1,119ft of prominence, and the most prominent is Kotadei Hill, with a prominence of 361m/1,184ft and a height of 605m/1,985ft.

The most notable feature of Uttar Pradesh, however, might be its rivers, with more than 30 spread throughout the land, resulting in rich and fertile valleys and thus intensive cultivation, as well as forests webbed by river streams.

.Highest Peaks in Uttar Pradesh

1) Amsot(957 m) 

2) Ranikothi Pahar(646m) 

3) Kotadei Hill(605m) 

4) Basai Pathar(602m) 

5) Kari Pathar(596m) 

6) Manjpara Pahar(559m) 

7) Jharara Pahar(559m) 

8) Patna(557m) 

9) Richhna Pahar(548m) 

10) Kutka Pathar(545m)

Fatehpur Sikri-Uttar Pradesh

 The District Fatehpur is lying in between two big holy rivers of India Ganga and Yamuna.

Here, a rich period of Mughal history comes alive through the ornate mix of marble and sandstone.Like the Agra Fort, this city is a fortress containing a series of royal palaces, harem, courts and the sprawling Jama Masjid mosque. There is reference about Asani and Bhitaura, nearby places to this city, in Lord Cunnigham’s writings when he discusses about the remnants of  Vedic times. Proofs of Chinese traveller Huen Tsang having visited Asani has also been found there.

 A number of archaeological findings from around 800 BC, Gupta Period, Kushana period and Maurya period have been unearthed all over the district of Fatehpur, which makes this region a place of great interest to tourists.

Cuisines of Fatehpur-
Fatehpur is very similar as those of any north Indian recipe preparation. Wheat being the staple food in Fatehpur hot and tasty chapatis for a main dish in Fatehpur locals meals. But, this City of Victory is also important to foodies, with Agra and Fatehpur Sikri one of the best places in the country and try the best of Mughlai Food, there’s plenty of places in Fatehpur Sikri that offers the best of Mughlai Cuisine.

So, here’s a list of the best among the best in Fatehpur Sikri to quench your Mughlai cravings.

1. Mughal Garden

2. Sher-e-Punjab Hotel and Restaurant

3. Lake View Restaurant

4. Jodha Restaurant

5. Joshi Restaurant

Beyond the beauty of Agra’s Taj Mahal, Fatehpur Sikri is another feather on the cap of the Mughal Emperors. Once considered to be the capital of the Mughal Empire, this medieval city holds a special place in the history of the Mughals. Let's witness the beauty of this city-

1) Jama Masjid

Jama Masjid is considered as one of the country’s largest mosque which was recognised as a world heritage site by UNESCO in 1986. The interior of the mosque is decorated with glazed tiles, inlaid stones and also paintings which are intricately carved with the Holy Quran.

Timings: 6AM-6PM
Distance from the city: 1 kms
Entry Fee: INR 20 for Indians and INR 260 for Foreigners

2) Buland Darwaza

Also called the Gate of Magnificence, the Buland Darwaza is the main entrance to enter the Jama Masjid complex located in Fatehpur Sikri.Rising at a height of 54m tall, this 15 storied gateway is the entrance to the city of Fatehpur Sikri. The most beautiful thing about this gateway is that the pillars and archway is inscribed with Holy Quran and Persian inscription.

Timings: 7AM-6PM
Entry Fee: INR 20 and INR 260 Foreigners

3) Birbal’s Palace

The Birbal palace was built around the time of 1571 which was the official residence of Raja Birbal who was Akbar’s Hindu Prime Minister.This palace is the true depiction of the Mughal architecture which can be witnessed through intricate carvings, surreal jharokhas and also elevated floral patterns.

Timings: 7AM-6PM (Closed on Friday)
Entry Fee: INR 20 for Indians, INR 260 for foreigners.

Image credits-Google

Kumbh Mela-Prayag-Uttar Pradesh

 Prayag in modern-day Allahabad is believed to be the most important pilgrimage centre for Hindus.

History of Kumbh-

According to legends, Vishnu was carrying a Kumbh (pot) of amrit (nectar), when a scuffle broke out and four drops were spilled. They fell to earth at the four Tirthas of Prayag, Haridwar, Nasik and Ujjain. A tirtha is a place where the devout can attain salvation. The event is commemorated every three years by the Kumbh Mela, held at each tirtha in turn; the Sangam is known as Tirtharaj, the ‘King of Tirthas’ and here the Kumbh is held once in every twelve years, which is the greatest and holiest of all.

Each site’s celebration is based on a distinct set of astrological positions of the Sun, the Moon, and Jupiter, the holiest time occurring at the exact moment when these positions are fully occupied. The Kumbh Mela at Prayag, in particular, attracts millions of pilgrims. In addition, a Great Kumbh Mela festival is held every 144 years at Prayag. The Kumbh Mela lasts several weeks and is one of the largest festivals in the world, attracting more than 200 million people in 2019, including 50 million on the festival’s most auspicious day.

How is Kumbh Mela Celebrated? 

The main ritual of Kumbh Mela is bathing in the rivers. Washing in holy waters is believed to deliver worshippers from their past sins and lead them to moksha, or liberation from the cycle of birth and death. Worshippers will line up before sunrise, and proceed into the water throughout the day. Ascetics known as sadhus also play essential roles in the tradition. There are a variety of sadhus, some of which are recognizable by their matted hair and naked bodies coated in ash. Although they generally lead lives of isolation, at Kumbh Mela these holy men come to together en masse in pursuit of enlightenment. 

Attractions at Kumbh Mela-

Akharas and Sadhus-

Akhara is the place for a religious meeting where sadhus carry out rituals. The saints are known to be followers of Lord Shiva and Vishnu. Some of them are a bare body while others are dressed in saffron. 

Satsangs

Satsangs are an integral part of Kumbh. Devotees sit for hours listening to devotional hymns and prayers.

Life at night during kumbh mela-

The city of Allahabad does not sleep during Kumbh. The pleasant view of the river with a gentle breeze and the mystical ghats 

Camp Life-

Camps are set up for Sadhus and people who wish to stay near the bathing area. Living in tents allows one to interact with people from all cultures and faiths and at times gives a new perspective on life.

Food-

The mouthwatering Langars (communal meals ) and Prasad (sacred offerings) are given to all devotees. 

Thus, the greatness of the Kumbh is reflected in the chanting of mantras, shahi snans of akharas, the brilliance of the earthen lamps and the history that is associated with it. The hearts of devotees are filled with joy and exultation whenever they visit the Kumbh Mela.

Taj Mahotsav-Uttar Pradesh

 Taj Mahotsav, one of the most eagerly awaited festivals, is celebrated from 20th to 29th March at Shilpgram near the Eastern gate of "Taj Mahal".

The Taj Mahal was built by the Mughal emperor Shah Jahān (reigned 1628–58) to immortalize his wife Mumtaz Mahal (“Chosen One of the Palace”), who died in childbirth in 1631, having been the emperor’s inseparable companion since their marriage in 1612. India’s most famous and widely recognized building, it is situated in the eastern part of the city on the southern (right) bank of the Yamuna (Jumna) River. 

Agra is home to 3 UNESCO Heritage Sites that draws major tourist footfalls throughout the year.

 

Celebrated every year with enthusiasm in Agra, Taja Mahotsav is a 10 days carnival organized by the Tourism Ministry of Uttar Pradesh. It aims at exceling Tourism of India for domestic as well as international tourists. Various artisans from different states set their stalls at the venue. Guests could pick the exquisite works of art, from handmade souvenirs to other artifacts. Foodies will be spoiled with a plethora of cuisines, from local Agra food to cuisines of different states under one roof!

Significance Of Taj Mahotsav-

Every year, the festival is celebrated on the basis of a theme or message wherein all the performances are given in accordance to the theme or in the remembrance of that particular message. Mostly the themes are regarding the heritage of India and how it should be preserved for the future generations. The fest is annually conducted in Silpagram which is near the eastern gate of Taj Mahal.The ten-day event is sponsored by Uttar Pradesh and is organized by Taj Mahotsav Committee under the authority of Commissioner, Agra Division. Taj Mahotsav can be called the “Gala Carnival” of Uttar Pradesh wherein the talents of our artisans is displayed at a public platform.

Events During Taj Mahotsav-

These parades actually depict the grandeur and valour of the Mughal Emperors and rulers who have contributed a lot to the history and evolution of India as a country. Elephants and camels are beautifully adorned; the drum beaters of the procession are also loaded with ornaments.

Even the trumpet players are wearing amazing costumes and the entire procession can be considered as whole of India walking towards its destination. These performances are so impactful, and action packed that leave a strong impression in every person’s soul. 

Entry Fees for Taj Mahotsav-

For Kids: Gear up for this fiesta and have loads of fun as the entry ticket for Taj Mahotsav 2022 is very reasonably priced. Kids below 5 years of age will get free entry.

For Adults: While adults have to pay 40 INR (approx.) per person for the entry.

For School Children: If a school group is coming to witness the flamboyance of arts and crafts and food, the group of students must be 100 children to get an entrance fee of 500 INR (approx.).

Location-

Shilpgram near the Eastern gate of “Taj Mahal”.

Image credits-google