Uttar Pradesh, India’s most populous state, is a land of incredible beauty, rich history, and diverse culture. Spread across 240,928 square kilometres, it is home to over 240 million people.
Known for its spiritual heritage and architectural wonders, Uttar Pradesh offers a mix of ancient temples, historical monuments, and vibrant cities.
In 2024, Uttar Pradesh is breaking tourism records, welcoming a staggering 476.1 million visitors between January and September.
Leading this tourism surge is Ayodhya, now the state’s most visited destination. The newly inaugurated Ram Temple has drawn 135.5 million domestic visitors and 3,153 international tourists, making Ayodhya a global spiritual hotspot.
Meanwhile, Agra continues to shine, welcoming 125.1 million tourists, including nearly a million international travellers, who are captivated by the timeless beauty of the Taj Mahal.
In this article, we’ll explore the top 10 tourist destinations in Uttar Pradesh, each offering a unique experience.
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List of the Best Tourist Attractions in Uttar Pradesh
Here's the list of the top 10 tourist destinations in Uttar Pradesh that you must visit in 2024.
| Rank | Attraction | Location | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Ayodhya | Ayodhya | A significant religious site, believed to be the birthplace of Lord Rama, featuring numerous temples. |
| 2 | Taj Mahal | Agra | A UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the Seven Wonders of the World, renowned for its stunning architecture. |
| 3 | Varanasi | Varanasi | One of the holiest cities in Hinduism, famous for its ghats along the Ganges River and spiritual significance. |
| 4 | Lucknow | Lucknow | The capital city known for its rich history, culture, and Mughal architecture, including Bara Imambara. |
| 5 | Mathura | Mathura | The birthplace of Lord Krishna, known for its temples and vibrant festivals. |
| 6 | Fatehpur Sikri | Fatehpur Sikri | A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this former Mughal capital is famous for its stunning architecture and history. |
| 7 | Sarnath | Near Varanasi | A major Buddhist pilgrimage site where Buddha delivered his first sermon; features stupas and museums. |
| 8 | Allahabad (Prayagraj) | Prayagraj | Known for the Triveni Sangam (confluence of three rivers) and the Kumbh Mela, a significant Hindu festival. |
| 9 | Vrindavan | Vrindavan | A town associated with Lord Krishna's life, filled with temples and vibrant cultural activities. |
| 10 | Jhansi | Jhansi | Historical city known for Jhansi Fort and its role in the Indian Rebellion of 1857. |
| 11 | Kushinagar | Kushinagar | Important Buddhist pilgrimage site where Buddha attained Mahaparinirvana; features several stupas. |
| 12 | Gorakhpur | Gorakhpur | Home to the Gorakhnath Temple and a center for various religious traditions. |
| 13 | Aligarh | Aligarh | Known for its educational institutions and historical sites like Aligarh Fort. |
| 14 | Barsana | Barsana | Birthplace of Radha, famous for its temples and the unique Lath Mar Holi festival. |
| 15 | Bulandshahr | Bulandshahr | A city known for its blend of tradition and modernity, featuring various historical sites. |
1. Ayodhya
Ayodhya is a city steeped in religious significance for Hindus, as it is believed to be the birthplace of Lord Rama.
Located on the banks of the Sarayu River in Uttar Pradesh, Ayodhya attracts pilgrims from across India who come to visit its many temples and sacred sites. The Ram Janmabhoomi complex is particularly important as it marks the site where many believe Lord Rama was born.
The city is also home to several ancient temples dedicated to various deities, showcasing intricate architecture and vibrant rituals.
Ayodhya hosts numerous festivals throughout the year, including Ram Navami, celebrating Lord Rama's birth with grand processions and celebrations.
It has emerged as the most visited destination in Uttar Pradesh, attracting a remarkable 135.5 million tourists between January and September 2024.
This surge is largely attributed to the inauguration of the Ram Temple, which has significantly boosted spiritual tourism in the region.
The city welcomed 3,153 international visitors during this period, highlighting its growing appeal beyond domestic travellers.
2. Taj Mahal (Agra)
The Taj Mahal, located in Agra, Uttar Pradesh, is an iconic ivory-white marble mausoleum built between 1631 and 1648 by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his beloved wife, Mumtaz Mahal.
This UNESCO World Heritage Site is renowned for its stunning architecture, which combines elements of Persian, Islamic, and Indian styles.
The complex spans approximately 17 hectares and includes a mosque, a guest house, and beautifully landscaped gardens.
The central dome, surrounded by four minarets, is particularly striking and has become a symbol of love and beauty worldwide.
The iconic Taj Mahal in Agra ranks second, with a total of 125.1 million visitors in the same timeframe. This includes approximately 115.9 million domestic tourists and 924,000 international tourists.
Despite a slight decline in domestic footfall compared to previous years, the Taj Mahal continues to attract a significant number of international visitors, reaffirming its status as a global icon.
3. Varanasi
Varanasi, one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, holds immense spiritual significance in Hinduism.
Located on the banks of the Ganges River in Uttar Pradesh, it is often referred to as Kashi or Benaras.
The city is famous for its ghats—steps leading down to the river—where pilgrims perform rituals and ceremonies.
The Dashashwamedh Ghat is particularly notable for its evening Ganga Aarti ceremony, which attracts thousands of visitors. Varanasi is also home to numerous temples, including the Kashi Vishwanath Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva.
Varanasi ranks third, drawing around 62 million domestic tourists and 184,000 international visitors in 2024.
Known for its spiritual significance and vibrant culture along the Ganges River, Varanasi remains a key destination for both pilgrims and cultural travellers.
4. Lucknow
Lucknow, the capital city of Uttar Pradesh, is known for its rich history and cultural heritage. The city flourished during the Mughal era and later became a centre for Awadhi culture under the Nawabs.
Notable landmarks include the Bara Imambara, an architectural marvel built by Nawab Asaf-ud-Daula in 1784, which features a grand hall without support beams.
The Rumi Darwaza, an impressive gateway resembling a Turkish archway, is another iconic structure. Lucknow is also famous for its delicious cuisine, particularly kebabs and biryanis.
Lucknow has attracted approximately 48 million visitors in 2024. This includes around 1.2 million international tourists who came to experience its unique blend of Mughal architecture, vibrant bazaars, and the famous Awadhi cuisine.
The city's historical sites, such as the Bara Imambara and the Rumi Darwaza, continue to draw significant crowds, making it a prominent cultural hub.
5. Mathura
Mathura is celebrated as the birthplace of Lord Krishna and holds immense importance in Hindu mythology.
Located in Uttar Pradesh, this ancient city features numerous temples dedicated to Krishna and his divine exploits.
The Krishna Janmabhoomi Temple marks the exact spot where he was born. It attracts thousands of devotees daily who come to offer prayers and participate in rituals.
Visitors can explore nearby Vrindavan, known for its lush landscapes associated with Krishna's childhood adventures.
Mathura also boasts local delicacies such as "peda," a sweet treat that visitors should not miss. The city has welcomed about 45 million visitors in 2024.
The city’s numerous temples and vibrant festivals, particularly during Janmashtami, have made it a popular pilgrimage site for devotees from across India and abroad.
The influx of tourists during religious events significantly boosts visitor numbers throughout the year.
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6. Fatehpur Sikri
Fatehpur Sikri is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located near Agra in Uttar Pradesh.
This former Mughal capital was built by Emperor Akbar in the late 16th century as a tribute to Saint Salim Chishti after he was blessed with an heir.
The city showcases stunning Mughal architecture with red sandstone buildings that reflect Akbar’s vision of religious tolerance and cultural synthesis.
Notable structures include the Buland Darwaza (the grand gateway), Jama Masjid (a beautiful mosque), and Panch Mahal (a five-story palace).
Fatehpur Sikri was abandoned shortly after Akbar's reign due to water scarcity but remains remarkably well preserved today.
Fatehpur Sikri saw around 25 million visitors in 2024. This UNESCO World Heritage Site remains a popular destination for those interested in Mughal history and architecture.
Its well-preserved structures attract both domestic and international tourists eager to explore this historical marvel.
7. Sarnath
Sarnath is a significant Buddhist pilgrimage site located near Varanasi in Uttar Pradesh. It is renowned as the place where Gautama Buddha delivered his first sermon after attaining enlightenment at Bodh Gaya.
The site features several ancient stupas and monasteries that attract both pilgrims and tourists alike.
The Dhamek Stupa stands out as an impressive monument commemorating Buddha's teachings. It showcases exquisite carvings that depict various aspects of Buddhist philosophy.
Sarnath also houses the Sarnath Archaeological Museum, which displays artefacts from ancient times, including sculptures that illustrate Buddha's life story.
Sarnath attracted approximately 12 million visitors in 2024, primarily pilgrims and tourists interested in Buddhism.
The site’s significance as the location of Buddha’s first sermon continues to draw spiritual seekers and history enthusiasts alike.
8. Allahabad (Prayagraj)
Allahabad, now known as Prayagraj, holds immense religious significance as it is situated at the confluence of three rivers: the Ganges, Yamuna, and Saraswati (mythical).
This historic city hosts the Kumbh Mela every twelve years—a major pilgrimage attracting millions who come for ritual bathing believed to cleanse sins.
Key attractions include Triveni Sangam (the confluence point), Anand Bhawan (the ancestral home of India's first Prime Minister, Jawaharlal Nehru), and Allahabad Fort, built by Emperor Akbar in 1583.
Prayagraj welcomed about 10 million visitors in 2024, with many coming for the Kumbh Mela and other religious festivals held throughout the year.
9. Vrindavan
Vrindavan is renowned as one of the most sacred towns associated with Lord Krishna’s life and exploits during his childhood years.
Located near Mathura in Uttar Pradesh, this vibrant town features numerous temples dedicated to Krishna’s various forms—each showcasing unique architectural styles and intricate artistry reflecting devotion through centuries past.
Notable temples include Banke Bihari Temple and ISKCON Temple, which draw pilgrims year-round seeking blessings from their beloved deity while participating in lively festivities like Holi celebrated with great fervour here.
Vrindavan’s enchanting atmosphere comes alive during evenings when enchanting devotional songs fill streets lined with shops selling traditional handicrafts alongside mouthwatering sweets such as “laddoo.”
The city experienced around 8 million visitors in 2024. Known for its deep association with Lord Krishna's life, this town attracts pilgrims and tourists who come to participate in various religious activities and festivals.
10. Jhansi
Jhansi is a historic city located in Uttar Pradesh known for its significant role during India's struggle for independence against British rule—most notably represented by Rani Lakshmibai, who led her troops valiantly during 1857's rebellion against colonial forces.
Attracting history enthusiasts from around India & beyond alike, Jhansi Fort stands tall atop a hill overlooking this charming town, showcasing impressive architecture dating back centuries.
Visitors can explore various structures within, including palaces & temples reflecting regional artistry, while learning about local legends surrounding Rani Lakshmibai’s bravery & leadership skills that continue to inspire generations today.
Jhansi saw approximately 5 million visitors in 2024. The city’s historical significance, particularly related to Rani Lakshmibai and the 1857 rebellion, continues to draw history buffs and tourists interested in India’s struggle for independence.
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