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.

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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

Varanasi-India's holiest city

One of the world’s oldest cities and a world renowned religious town, Varanasi is a must see for anyone who lives or travels in India.Varanasi is located in the south eastern part of the state of Uttar Pradesh well connected by rail, air road to all the major cities of the country. The city is set on the bank of the river Ganga which the holiest.But, in the recent years Varanasi tourism has moved much beyond its temples. While the city still has an old time charm, but it also assures a memorable trip experience for the younger generations. Whether you are on a pilgrimage or looking for some great experiences on a leisure trip – Varanasi would fulfill your cravings. river for the Hindu community. Let's explore the beauty of this place-

1.Assi Ghat-Assi Ghat is the southernmost ghat in Varanasi. To most visitors to Varanasi, it is known for being a place where long-term foreign students, researchers, and tourists live.Take your place on the steps of this ancient ghat and wait a bit for the sunrise. Rejuvenate your soul as the golden rays of the sun light up earth and this ghat.You can capture scenes such as colourful boats anchored along the ghat, priests and devout Hindus taking a dip in the holy waters, boats in the mid Ganga, etc.

2.Ramnagar Fort and muesuem-Ramnagar Fort is a work of art as it exhibits a striking aura, making it one of the most visited tourist attractions in Varanasi.The museum present at this fort exhibits a majestic collection which comprises of vintage Cars, Royal palkies, an armoury of swords, cannons and old guns, ivory work and antique clocks. There are also jewel-encrusted chairs, religious manuscripts and royal costumes present in the museum.

 3.Ganga Aarti at Dashwamedha Ghat-Ganga Aarti is an important ritual held on a grand scale every morning and evening on the banks of the holy Ganges. The priests perform the Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat. A group of young saints dressed up with silky saffron and white robes conduct this ceremony. Each pandit or saint takes up a specific spot in the Ghat and start the ritual by offering flowers to the river. The ritual includes many oil lamps.

4.Sarnath-Sarnath in Varanasi is known to be the place of Gautama Buddha. His first ever discourse was held here in the city’s Deer Park. After 6 years of hard work and practices, Lord Buddha finally attained “Enlightenment” in Bodh Gaya making it one of the most important pilgrimage in the world.

5.Kashi Vishwanath Temple-Kashi Vishvanath Temple is one of the most famous Hindu temples dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is located in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, India. The temple stands on the western bank of the holy river Ganga. The main deity is known by the name Vishvanatha or Vishveshvara meaning Ruler of The Universe. Varanasi city is also called Kashi, and hence the temple is popularly called Kashi Vishvanath Temple. 

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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.

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Religious Places of Uttar Pradesh

 Uttar Pradesh is one of the most religious tourists destinations in India.It has a great history and religion to satisfy the hearts and minds of every person visiting there. 

Image credits -google

The spiritual backbone of the country in places like Varanasi ( the spiritual capital of India), Allahabad (the most auspicious of the four Kumbh Mela sites) and Mathura and Vrindavan (home to Lord Krishna) or visit Sarnath where Buddha preached his first gospel gives peace to every visitor there.However, your pilgrimage tour in Uttar Pradesh is not confined to just Hindu temples, Monasteries, Churches or even Mosques, all can be found in abundance in the state to make it amongst the finest pilgrimage destinations in India.From being home to the Hindu Gods like Rama and Krishna to that of five Jain Teerthankaras to place where Buddha gave his first sermon, and also breathed its last, Uttar Pradesh glows with a spiritual aura that can one witness on their pilgrimage tours here.With each progressing century, the state has vouched for the secularity of India by giving home to various religions: Hindu, Jainism, Islamic, Buddhist and more.

Let us together get acquainted to a different and vital side of the country and learn about these fascinating religious tourism places in India:

1.Vrindavan

2.Mathura

3.Varanasi-

4.Ayodhya-

5.Allahabad-

6.Chitrakoot-

7.Fatehpur Sikri-

8.Kushinagar

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9.Sarnath-

10.Agra-

11.Shravasti-

12.Sardhana-

Almost every alley and valley of Uttar Pradesh speaks of religion and mythology. And all of it is tucked amidst beautiful backdrops. So, no matter if you are looking to explore the religious richness of India or you truly are a deep believer of religion, Uttar Pradesh and the pilgrimage sites located here await you with open arms.

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Ambedkar Nagar - Uttarpradesh

 Ambedkar nagar is a small and serene place in Uttar Pradesh.It is about 180kms away from the state capital,Lucknow.It is also 60kms away from the birthplace of Lord Ram,Ayodhya.It was created on September 29, 1995 in the name of Dr. Bhim Rao Ambedkar.The Session Division and Judgeship at Ambedkar nagar was created on 04 Nov 1999.

Ambedkar Nagar provides the travellers with a good transport facility which makes the tour comfortable. The fort of Lorepur is very popular in the district.  The Ambedkar Park in the city is a very popular picnic spot that is located in a beautiful landscape; it homes many birds and numerous herbs and shrubs.

Image credit-justdial.com

Religious Places in Ambedkar Nagar

Ambedkar Nagar is very popular for its places of worship as most of the shrines in the district are of historic and mythological importance.The city  is very popular for shrines like Maa Kalika Mandir, Shree Bram Baba Mandir, Riyasat, Durga Mandir and many more.

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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. 

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Amethi is a must visit place in Uttar Pradesh.

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Agra - The city of Tajmahal

 Agra a city in the northern part of Uttar Pradesh is famous for being the capital of the Mughal emperors from 1526 to 1658.With an population of roughly 1.6million,Agra is the fourth-most populous city of Uttar Pradesh and Twenty-third most populous city of India.

The main beauty of Agra lies in Taj Mahal.The Taj Mahal,the symbol of love and also one of the seven wonders of the world holds a special position in Agra.Agra is also famous for its special cuisine,Petha whose amazing taste will mesmerize your taste buds for the entire life.

Some of the famous tourists attractions of Agra are:

Taj Mahal-The icon of India ,drawing millions of people to the city of Agra every year.It is a must visit place for every person who wants experiance the beauty of India.The magnificent structure date backs to 17th century.Shah Jahan built this beautiful mausoleum in the memory of Mumtaz,his beloved wife who passed away and decided to pay tribute to her.Construction of this took more than 20 years and and required the manpower of around 20,000 labourers.

Agra Fort- also known as "Lal-Qila","Fort Rouge" is the highlight of the city.This architecture is made of intricate designs and red sandstones.This was the seat of the Mughal Emperor.It is also a UNESCO World Heritage site.Agra fort also features several fairy tale palaces and has a grandeur that is awe-inspiring.

Akbar's Mausoleum-For nearly 50 years Akbar the Great rules the Mughal kingdom.His remains can be found at the most popular tourist attraction in Agra,Akbar's Mausoleum.The structure is also surrounded by Mughal gardens.This beautiful place is also a home to deer,antelopes,monkeys etc which are in the Mughal gardens.

Fatehpur Sikri- Just at a distance of about 30kms from The taj mahal is this famous tourist attraction which was built by Mughal emperor Akbar as a part of his plan to build a grand capital for his empire.The architecture is a mix of Indian architectural styles especially the Indian architecture and Gujrati and Bengali style.The best time to visit this place is January,February,November and December as the temperature at that time is cool.

Moti Masjid-also called the Pearl Mosque was built by Shah Jahan.It was named as Moti Masjid as it shone like pearl.Located inside the Agra Fort is made up of marble.This glorious structure took nearly 4 years to be built and is designed typical to Shah Jahan's era of reign.

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Rock Cut Narasimha Temple - Dudhai

(Image from google)

The ancient temple of Lord Narasimha cut into the roce face of a hillside way in the village of Dudhai in the Lalitpur district of Uttarpradesh. The site is listed as a sacred site by the Archaeological Survey of India. The sculpture is dated back to 5th century and can be classified as Gupta sculpture. We can classify this as forgotten treasures of India.

The statue is 30 feet tall and is crafted according to the rock formation which add more grandeour and design for the statue. The image of the Asura Hiranyakasipu is sculpted as if he is laying across the Lord's lap. The dress, the jewellery everything is detailed according to the rock formation. But unless and untill we move to a closer distance, the image of Lord Narasimha is not visible as it is clearly camaflagued by the formation of the rocks.

How to reach:
The village of Dudhai is located 50 kilometers from the centre of Lalitpur district and it is 100 kms south of Jhansi. Drive down NH26 from Lalitpur, and one have to turn off the highway at Bagaria and drive to Dudhai via the village of Pali which is 28kms off from the highway turn off. The road to the hill site is a forest road built during the British era, but is used mainly by cattle drawn vehicles so it is better to use vehicles that can run on rough terrain. 

State Tourism Information Office Uttarpradesh

Director General
Directorate of Tourism, UP
Rajarshi Purshottam Das Tandon Paryatan Bhavan,
C-13, Vipin Khand, Gomti Nagar,
Lucknow, U.P.
Ph: 91-522-2308916, 2308017
Fax: 91-522-2308937
E-mail: upstdc@up-tourism.com, yatrup@bsnl.in

Ashoka Pillar - Saranath

The Ashoka Pillar or the Ashoka Stupa is the series of columns either in stone or in iron erected by the Mauryan king Ashoka during his reign in the 3rd century BC. Many of these pillars are almost 40 to 50 ft in height and upto 50 tons each. The pillars are found in Delhi (originally located at Meerut and Topra which was bought by Firuz Shah Tughlug in the year 1356), Allahabad (Which was at Kaushambi), Lauriya - Areraj, Lauriya - Nandangarh, Rampurva, Sankissa, Sanchi and Sarnath. There are pillars found with inscriptions in Lumbini and Nigalisagar. The pillar at Vaishali have one lion capital and the one at Rampurva have one bull capital. 

The pillars were found to be carved out of either spotted red and white sand stone found in the region of Mathura, and the other is fine grained hard sand stonewith small black spots quarried in Chunnar near Varanasi.  

All the pillars are uniform in style and have four parts. The shafts are plain and smooth and circular. The shaft tapers towards the top and are made of single piece of stone. The captials on top have the shape and appearance of a gently arched bell formed of lotus petals. The base are either square or circular in shape. The animals are either sitting or standing on the round chiseled single piece with abaci.

The most famous Ashoka Pillar is the pillar at Saranath which was eventually made the national emblem of India.