Gorakhnath Temple

 Gorakhpur city in Uttar Pradesh has been named after the medieval saint Guru Gorakhnath. It forms an important administrative and industrial landmark of Uttar Pradesh that is dominated by locals and visitors alike. Number of shrines including mosques and monasteries have pulled in a major chunk of pilgrim tourists to Gorakpur. 

 The famous Gorakhnath Temple epitomizes the identity of Gorakhpur. This is one of the prominent tourist attractions that enjoys a legendary location in the old part of the city on Gorakhpur Sunauli National Highway. One of the popular legend associated with this temple and Guru Gorakhnath is that devotees chanting Gorakhnath chalisa 12 times are blessed with the divya jyoti or the miraculous flame.

History of Gorakhpur Temple-

The temple was built on the spot where Gorakhnath did meditation in Treta Yug. 

In the records of the temple it is revealed that the Gorakhpur Gorakhnath Temple structure and shape was transformed over the period of time. In fact many attempts were made to destroy this temple during the rule of the Sultanate and Mughal era. First it was the Alaudin Khilji who destroyed the Gorakhnath temple in 14th century and later it was destroyed by yet another devout Islamic ruler of India Aurangzeb in 18th century.

The design of this temple seen today is conceptualized by late Mahant Digvijaynath and the current Mahant Avedyanathji during the 19th century. The large complex of Gorakhnath Temple houses some shrines, temples, cowshed and pond.

Festivals celebrated here include-

The Khichdi Parv is observed every year on Makar Sankranti. Devotees visit the temple on the occasion of Makar Sankranti and offer khichdi to Gorakhnath Baba.Khichdi Parv is celebrated every year with dedication.

The beautiful structure of Gorakhnath temple-

The temple grounds reach across 52 acres of land in the heart of Gorakhpur. Within the temple are various hallways and rooms celebrating a variety of deities. First is Gorakhnath's personal chamber samadhi. The room once housed a statue of him but has since been replaced with footprints.Leading out of the chamber is a gallery of statues including Siva, Ganesh, Kali and Bhairav. Another room contains the nine Naths found in statue form accompanied with other statues.

 When exiting the gallery surrounding Gorakhnath temple, there are other rooms and portraits allocated for other Hindu deities. Not only is the seat of Gorakhnath a defining feature of the temple, the eternal flame (Divya Jyoti) is also held in the temple. The temple maintains a cow shed Goshala on the premises as one of the many references to the life of Gorakhnath and the goals of maintaining the animal life. Away from the main temple, the residential spaces for current practicing ascetics can be found.

Gorakhnath Idol-

Important information-

Timings- 3AM to 10PM

Open- All days of week

After visiting the most prominent Gorakhdham Mandir in Gorakhpur, you can also explore other famous places that fall within the range of 5 kilometres and include Vishu Mandir, Kushmi Forest, Ambedkar Park, Railway Museum, and Nir Nikunj. 

Image credits- google

Waterfalls of Uttar Pradesh/Uttar Pradesh Paradise of Pristine waters

 One of the biggest states in the country is actually blessed with some pretty, free-flowing waterfalls such as the Vindham Waterfall, Lakhaniya Dari Falls and Sidhnath Dari Falls, among others.

 Uttar Pradesh, as a state, is mostly recognised for its religious places, agricultural land, political hub and River Ganga.Now, how about we connect the marvellous Uttar Pradesh with the sensational waterfalls! 

Let the glistening white waters take you away on a pleasure trip of ecstasy while you are in Uttar Pradesh and rejuvenate your soul to such an extent that you keep planning to visit around here and amaze yourself to the fullest!

Let us begin our soul-soothing session together by venturing into the showers of pure happiness.

1) Lakhaniya Hills and Waterfalls-Lakhaniya Dari is a breathtaking waterfall situated near Ahraura in Mirzapur district of Uttar Pradesh.Lakhaniya Dari waterfalls cascades down from a height of about 150 m into a pool.

2) Rajdari and Devdari Waterfalls-Rajdari Waterfalls is situated in Chandauli, 60 kms from Varanasi. The beautiful waterfalls are a popular picnic spot among the city dwellers. The huge waterfalls gushing down the cliffs are a visual delight to the eyes. The top spot of the falls also offer beautiful views of the valley below.

3) Mukkha Falls-This gorgeous fall lies on the Robertsganj-Ghorawal-Mukha Dari Road which is around 55 km in the west of Robertsganj and 15 km from Shivdwar, in the Sonbhadra district of Uttar Pradesh. It is in close proximity to a Devi Mandir and the lake on the Belan River. Make note of the best time to visit this breathtaking waterfall i.e. the wonderful monsoons.

4) Tanda Falls-Tanda Falls in Mirzapur is one of the most scenic picnic spots in the region. The natural water stream and water reservoir are major tourist attractions because of their peaceful atmosphere and abundant beauty.The falls offer a refreshing change from the hustle and bustle of the city. 

5) Wyndham Falls.-Wyndham Falls is one such beauty that is located in the vicinity of Mirzapur which is well known as one of the most beautiful excursion venues. Located at a distance of about 15 km from Mirzapur, the Wyndham waterfall always has a plethora of viewers around. The Wyndham waterfall also has a zoo on the side which although small in size, is a great entertaining place.

 

6) Chunadari Falls-Chunadari's location is in close proximity to the Lakhiyana Dari falls but mind you the approach is not very smooth via road. The height of the pristine waters is about 165 ft and it allows its water to gush into the Lakhania Dari. 

Image credits-google

Vrindavan-The Land of Lord Krishna

 Vrindavan is the place where Lord Krishna was born. It is the place where Lord Krishna performed his divine activities and played tricks with the gopis (the milkmaids).The presence of Lord Krishna is something you will instantly grasp from the very moment you step foot into Vrindavan. From the walls to the gardens, to the roads, everything here feels as if it has been touched by Lord Krishna. The name 'Vrindavan' is a derivative of the term 'Vrinda', which is akin to Tulsi plant that grows profusely throughout the length and breadth of the city. Legend says that the entire surroundings were a tulsi coppice at one time. Some others believe that the term Vrindavan stands for Vrinda Devi, one among the milkmaids. Lets explore some of the places and temples to visit in this spiritual and peaceful place-

1.Prem Mandir-Radha & Krishna Sita & Ram the epitome of eternal love and unfathomed devotion! Prem Mandir Vrindavan is an ode to their celestial love, reflecting unprecedented beauty and marvel. The beautiful Prem Mandir emanates exactly what it is named as. Love or Prem, this temple is located on the outskirts of Vrindavan. The temple is a true delight for Lord Krishna’s followers, exhibiting supreme power and devotion. The magnificent abode of love is a must visit on your tour to Vrindavan.

2.Banke Bihari Mandir-Banke Bihari temple is one of the most revered temples of Vrindavan. Banke Bihari, the presiding deity, means bent in three places. The idol of Lord Krishna at this temple can be seen standing in a unique posture, justifying the naming of this temple.Swami Harida installed this idol in Nidhivan an he was also the Guru of iconic singer Tansen. It was later brought to Banke Bihari Temple.. It is believed that the idol was handed over to Swami Haridas by Lord Krishna himself!

3.ISKCON Vrindavan-The first popular temple is the ISKCON (International Society on Krishna Consciousness) Temple was built on the orders of Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada, the founder of ISKCON. In the open hall outside the sanctum sanatorium, a number of foreigners and Indians wearing saffron and white clothes are enjoying the high of Hare Rama Hare Krishna kirtan that goes on for 24 hours a dayopen hall outside the sanctum sanatorium, a number of foreigners and Indians wearing saffron and white clothes are enjoying the high of Hare Rama Hare Krishna kirtan that goes on for 24 hours a day.

4.Nidhivan-As the name says Nidhivan, is a block of the thick forest where Lord Krishna used to do Raas Leela with Radha and Gopis.It is believed by the devotees and people that not only Lord Krishna visits this place but also performs Ras Leela with the Gopis here every night. This is the reason why after the evening Aarti at 7pm, the doors of Nidhivan shut down for the devotees as well as priests. Even it is believed, the animals and birds that are sighted here all through the day also leave the premises in the evening. Truly, Nidhivan is one mysterious place that catches the attention of all kinds of travellers from around the world. Though, it seems impossible to learn more about this place, it is still one destination that awaits more exploration.

5.Shri Shri Krishna Balram Temple-the impressive temple of Krishna Balram ISKCON temple enveloped in a rarified air of stillness that seems to radiate off its beatific white marble structure. The main temple hall has 3 altars, each enshrining beautifully decorated deities of Gaura Nitai, Krishna Balram and Radha Shyamsundar in their most beautiful form. Do visit this temple to take a look at this beautiful place.

image credits-google

Lucknow- 6 famous tourists places

 

What defines the city of Lucknow is its past that converted into a great present – which later laid foundations for the future – The NOW! The city gained prominence in the 18th century Mughal rule and flourished under the Nawabs. We are talking about a culture that has survived over the years and one that has clearly left a mark at all the places to visit in Lucknow.This large capital city nestled in the heart of the north-central state of Uttar Pradesh is a multicultural metropolis that boasts over 2.8 million residents. Sometimes referred to as the City of Nawabs because of the city’s history as the seat of power for the honorific title in the 18th and 19th centuries.As you travel to Lucknow, you will realize that the city is a true amalgamation of old traditions and modern ideas. It is world-famous for its culture and the way people deal with warmth and are courteous. The people of Lucknow have stayed true to their roots and live by the morals taught ages ago.

10 toursits places to visit in Lucknow are:

1.  Bada Imambara-Bada Imambara is one of the major attractions of Lucknow that pulls massive crowds from all over the world. The architectural brilliance of Bara Imambara aka Asfi Mosque is a living example of the best gravity-defying structures, not only in India but the entire world.Bara Imambara was designed by Kifayat-Ullah who was the relative of Ustad-Ahmad Lahori, the main architect of The Iconic Taj Mahal. As the meaning of Bara Imambara suggests, ‘Bara’ is big and ‘Imambara’ signifies a shrine, there are a lot of elements to be discovered in this huge monument of Lucknow.

2.Choto Imambara-If the Bara Imambara in Lucknow ws about the brilliance of the dark,twisted passenges of the crypt-Bhool Bhulaiya ,then visiting its younger cousin was all about a glittering jewel of the night.The actual name for Chota Imambara is Hussainabad Imambara, but most know it by its colloquial name. The complex not only consists of the Imambara, but has many other places to see as well. 

3.British Residency:Another popular spot to visit in Lucknow is the British Residency of Lucknow. The Residency, also known as the Residential Complex served as headquarters for the generals of the British East India Company.During the Indian Rebellion of 1857, when the Indians revolted against the rule of the British East India Company, the British residential complex acted as the British refugee camp till the unsettling hours came to a halt. 

4.Rumi Darwaza-Rumi Darwaza is a remarkable sixty feet tall gateway that can be witnessed in the old city of Lucknow. The monument lies exactly between the Bara Imambara and Chhota Imambara, hence can be easily spotted while you tour the other two prominent monuments of Lucknow.The actual reason behind the building of this Darwaza was for charity purposes.

5.Indira Gandhi Planatarium:The Saturn shaped building is situated at Surajkund Park and is one of the major tourist attractions in Lucknow.Indira Gandhi Planetarium building is in unique Saturn shape with its five rings. The 21 meter diameter spherical building of the planetarium rest on platform, which is especially designed to give an idea of crater formation on celestial bodies. The platform is surrounded by waterpool with fountains.

6.Husainabad Clock Tower-An interesting attraction during a sightseeing tour in the city of Lucknow, is Hussainabad Clock Tower. Located near Rumi Darwaza, Husainabad Clock Tower was erected by Hussainabad Trust in the year 1881. The construction of this architectural marvel was started by Nawab Nasir-ud-din.The dial of the clock if designed in the shape of a 12-petalled flower with bells around it. Surrounding the clock tower, are lush green gardens and from here, you can even steal glimpses of the Bada Imambara there.

Image credits-Google

Auraiya-The land of diversity

 The region of Auraiya in Uttar Pradesh has been witness to an exciting and intriguing history, with many mighty kingdoms fighting for power. The region has seen the reigns of the Marathas, the Rohillas and the Oudhis, with each leaving behind bits of their culture and legacy.The people of Auraiya take great pride in the indigenous cultural ethos. 

The vibrant attire of the locals reflects this love for life, and visitors to this region in the north of India will be welcomed with the hospitality North Indians are well known for. Some of the places to visit in Auraiya are:

*Kali Mata Temple-People from different places visit here for worship and they used to spend some time in peace. People normally worship here at day and evening time and they have faith in Kali Mata that whatever they will wish for, it will get fulfilled.

Location-Auraiya.    Time-5:00am-6:30pm

*Phoolmati Temple-This temple is located in the heart of the city Here devotees of devotees throughout the year Being a temple in the main market of the city, it is seen as a crowd here In Navaratri specially the devotees flourish here Goddess Maiya is the last day of Navaratri.

Location-Auraiya.   Time-5:00am-10:00am

Image credits-google

Bareilly-Best 5 places to visit

 BAREILLY is a district in the Indian state of Uttar Pradesh.You may have heard its name in the film industry in the 80s and 90s.It is perhaps because of its great historic past and also because of its North Indian lifestyle.

Bareilly goes by various names, including Ala Hazrat, Nath Nagari, and, each bearing a different religious context.Bareilly has been governed by various rulers through the centuries, including the Rajputs, the Delhi Sultanate, the Mughals, and eventually, the British. Traces of each kingdom still live on in the winding lanes of this city in Uttar Pradesh.

Some  of the famous places to visit in Bareilly are:

1.Ahichhatra-The less known ancient city is an important part of Indian History.It has its name mentioned in the Hindu Epic Mahabharata because Ahichhatra served as the capital city of Northern Panchala. In the olden times, it was ruled by Drupada, the king of Panchala.It is also said to be the birthplace of Draupadi.

Location-Bareilly.  Time-8:00-10:00

Image credit-bareilly.nic.in

2.Tulsi Math-A well known tourist attraction and shrine in Uttar Pradesh,Bareilly.It is also known as the place where saint Tulsidas was born and alos wrote the Ramcharitamanas,the hindu awadhi version of sanskrit Ramayan.All the major Hindu festivals like Holi, Diwali, Janmashtami, Ram Navami, Maha Shivaratri, Navratri etc. are celebrated here.

Location-Bareilly.  Time-8am-9pm

Image credit-tourtravelworld.com

3.Shree Alakhnath Temple-This temple is mainly dedicated to Lord Shiva.The temple is of the four temples located in the four corners of Bareilly.The temple is always alive with devotees turning from one shrine to another, offering prayers. Interestingly, there are animals like cows, goats, and camels that sometimes walk amidst the crowds in the temple center.

Location-Bareilly.  Time-Open all day

Image credit-hellotravel.com

4.Jagannath Temple-The Jagannath Temple is dedicated to Shiva and is located in Lala Champak Rai Ki Bagia, close to the Alakhnath Temple.The idols and paintings inside the temple, as per locals, is more than 200 years old.People of Bareilly have an immense faith in this temple and they visit here during every main festival.

Location-Bareilly.Time-5:30am-10:00pm

Image credit-uptourism.com

5.FunCity-The Funcity Water Park Bareilly opened its gates to the public in May 2005 and has been Bareilly’s most popular entertainment destination ever since.The slides and adventurous time over here will be remembered as it is extremely fun and thrill inducing.Fun City Bareilly are the water pool, water play pen, child pool, rain dance, water slides, Mugambo cave, Freeze Bie and Crazy Tower.

Location-Bareilly.  Time-11am-7pm

Image credit-tourtravelworld.com

Amethi-lets explore this place.

 Amethi is a town in the Indian state of Uttar Pradesh. It is a major town of the Amethi district, in the Faizabad division.Amethi has four tehsils Amethi,Gauriganj,Musafirkhana and Tiloi. Amethi is a major town of the district and also a municipal board. Gauriganj is district headquarter.

The total geographic area of the district is about 2329.11 Sq. Km.  North side of the district is bounded by Faizabad district, south side is bounded by Pratapgarh district.It is also called the agrarian area as the main occupation of the people here is agriculture.

Amethi is also famous for the temple called Hanumangarhi and a mosque both built about hundred years ago. About three kilometres north of Amethi there is a tomb of famous poet which is in Ram Nagar, Saint Malik Muhammad Jayasi where he died. 

.

Amethi is a must visit place in Uttar Pradesh.

Image credits-wikipedia,google