Exploring the High Peaks and Rivers of Uttar Pradesh

 

Though widely celebrated for its iconic structures like the Taj Mahal, Uttar Pradesh also boasts a diverse landscape featuring grasslands, forests, and numerous mountains. The state is home to 282 named peaks, with Amsot standing as the highest and Kotadei Hill as the most prominent.

Mountains of Uttar Pradesh

• Amsot: The highest peak in Uttar Pradesh, Amsot reaches an elevation of approximately 957 meters (3,140 feet) with a prominence of 341 meters (1,119 feet).
• Kotadei Hill: The most prominent peak, Kotadei Hill, stands at 605 meters (1,985 feet) with a prominence of 361 meters (1,184 feet).

Here are some of the highest peaks in Uttar Pradesh:

1. Amsot: 957 meters
2. Ranikothi Pahar: 646 meters
3. Kotadei Hill: 605 meters
4. Basai Pathar: 602 meters
5. Kari Pathar: 596 meters
6. Manjpara Pahar: 559 meters
7. Jharara Pahar: 559 meters
8. Patna: 557 meters
9. Richhna Pahar: 548 meters
10. Kutka Pathar: 545 meters

Rivers of Uttar Pradesh

Arguably, the most notable feature of Uttar Pradesh is its extensive network of rivers, which significantly contribute to the state's fertile valleys and intensive agricultural activities. With over 30 rivers crisscrossing the state, Uttar Pradesh is endowed with rich, alluvial plains that support diverse flora and fauna.

Conclusion

Uttar Pradesh is not just a land of historical and cultural monuments but also a region with significant natural beauty, featuring both mountains and rivers. The state's highest peaks and extensive river systems highlight its diverse geographical landscape, making it a fascinating area for both nature enthusiasts and travelers.

Keywords: Uttar Pradesh mountains, Amsot peak, Kotadei Hill, highest peaks in Uttar Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh rivers, fertile valleys, Uttar Pradesh geography, Indian landscapes

Discovering the Historical Wonders of Fatehpur Sikri

 

Nestled between the two holy rivers, the Ganga and the Yamuna, the district of Fatehpur is a treasure trove of historical and cultural heritage. This region offers a fascinating glimpse into India's Mughal era through its impressive architecture and archaeological significance.

Historical Significance

Fatehpur boasts a rich Mughal history, with stunning structures made of marble and sandstone reminiscent of the Agra Fort. The city is like a fortress, encompassing royal palaces, harems, courts, and the sprawling Jama Masjid mosque. Nearby places like Asani and Bhitaura are mentioned in Lord Cunningham’s writings, highlighting remnants from Vedic times. Additionally, evidence of the Chinese traveler Huen Tsang visiting Asani has been discovered here.

Archaeological findings from around 800 BC, spanning the Gupta, Kushana, and Maurya periods, have been unearthed across Fatehpur, making it a site of great interest to tourists and historians alike.

Culinary Delights

Fatehpur's cuisine is typical of North Indian fare, with wheat as the staple food, making hot and tasty chapatis a common dish. However, Fatehpur Sikri, part of the district, is also renowned for its Mughlai cuisine. Here are some top places to savor Mughlai delights:

1. Mughal Garden
2. Sher-e-Punjab Hotel and Restaurant
3. Lake View Restaurant
4. Jodha Restaurant
5. Joshi Restaurant

Top Attractions in Fatehpur Sikri

1. Jama Masjid

Recognized as one of the country's largest mosques and a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1986, the Jama Masjid features an interior adorned with glazed tiles, inlaid stones, and intricate carvings of the Holy Quran.

• Timings: 6 AM - 6 PM
• Distance from the city: 1 km
• Entry Fee: INR 20 for Indians, INR 260 for foreigners

2. Buland Darwaza

Also known as the Gate of Magnificence, this 54-meter-high gateway is the main entrance to the Jama Masjid complex. Its pillars and archway are inscribed with verses from the Holy Quran and Persian inscriptions.

• Timings: 7 AM - 6 PM
• Entry Fee: INR 20 for Indians, INR 260 for foreigners

3. Birbal’s Palace

Built around 1571, this palace was the official residence of Raja Birbal, Akbar’s Hindu Prime Minister. The palace showcases Mughal architecture through its intricate carvings, surreal jharokhas (overhanging enclosed balcony), and elevated floral patterns.

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

Plan Your Visit

Fatehpur's rich historical tapestry and culinary delights make it a must-visit destination for history enthusiasts and foodies alike. Beyond the famed Taj Mahal in Agra, Fatehpur Sikri adds another feather to the cap of Mughal splendor.

Location: Fatehpur District, Uttar Pradesh

Contact for Tours: Various tour operators and local guides available for booking

Image Credits: Google

Keywords: Fatehpur tourism, Mughal history, Jama Masjid, Buland Darwaza, Birbal's Palace, Mughlai cuisine, North Indian food, historical sites in Uttar Pradesh

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