The mystical Arc takes you on board through a kaleidoscopic journey of monuments, architectural wonders, pilgrimage centres, spiritual experiences and natural trails where flora and fauna is seen in abundance By Sharmila Chand
Heartland of India, Uttar Pradesh, is a delightful state of India with a rich cultural heritage. Home to the world’s best monuments, not to forget the majestic Taj Mahal; and charming flora and fauna; the state is gifted with two mighty rivers Ganga and Yamuna blessing its land.
There are many enchanting facets to be experienced for a visitor in Uttar Pradesh. Follow ‘The Heritage Arc’ and explore the state in all its glory. It covers the entire stretch of the state through three prominent cities - Agra, Lucknow and Varanasi with several exciting destinations along the way. These regions form the essence of Uttar Pradesh signifying its heritage in terms of cultural, historical and natural aspects.
The mystical arc takes you on board through a kaleidoscopic journey of monuments, architectural wonders, pilgrimage centres, spiritual experiences and natural trails where flora and fauna is seen in abundance.
Agra: Blessed with one of the seven wonders of the world, Taj Mahal, Agra is one of the most prominent tourist destinations of the state. Besides Taj Mahal, there are several other monuments worth a visit.
Agra Fort: The massive fort is semi-circular in shape, flattened towards the east with a long, nearly straight wall facing Yamuna river. One must see Pearl Mosque, Jahangir’s Palace, Diwan-e-Am, Diwan-e-Khas, Sheesh Mahal, Musammam Burj and the Khaas Mahal inside the Fort.
Itmad-ud-Daula Tomb: An exquisite marvel of architecture, the walls of the mausoleum are built in white marble and embedded with semi precious stones. The cenotaphs of both the father and mother of Noor Jahan lay side by side in the tomb.
Fatehpur Sikri: Fatehpur Sikri served as the capital of the Mughal Empire during the years 1571-1585. Said to be home for the birth of Navratnas (9 jewels), it is made of red stones.
Sikandra: The last resting place of Akbar, 13 km away from the Agra Fort, the Sikandra fort is located in the western periphery of the city.
Jama Masjid: Built by Shah Jahan, Jama Masjid stands facing the Agra Fort and overlooks the Agra Fort Railway Station. It is said to be built by Shah Jahan in dedication to his favorite daughter, Jahanara.It stands on a high plinth and has five arched entrances leading to the courtyard.
Lucknow: The capital of Uttar Pradesh and popularly called as The city of Nawabs’, Lucknow retains its old world charm. It served as the capital of Nawabs of Awadh and the city flourished in music, literature, arts and crafts
Major attractions: Bara Imambara, British Residency, Chhota Imambara, Lucknow Zoo, Hazratganj, Lucknow Museum, Rumi Darwaza, Chattar Manzil, Begum Hazrat Mahal Park
Allahabad: A beautiful city located at the confluence of three rivers namely Ganga, Yamuna and Saraswati, is also called as Prayag. It is in this holy city that Kumbh Mela is organised once every 12 years.
Major attractions:Triveni Sangam, Khusro Bagh, Allahabad Museum, Allahabad Fort, Patalpuri Temple And Akshaya Vat, Jawahar Planetarium, Anand Bhavan
Kanpur: A major industrial center, Kanpur is now referred to as the commercial capital of UP.
Major attractions:Bithoor, Jajmau, Boodha Bargad, Kanpur Gardens, Shri Radhakrishna Temple, Jain Glass Temple, Mecca Masjid, Allen Forest Zoo, Agricultural Gardens
Varanasi:A significant religious retreat, tourists from all parts of the world visit this city. Located on the banks of the river Ganga, the city has many spots not to be missed.
River Ganga Ghats: Kashi Vishwanath Temple, Sarnath, Manikarnika Ghat, Archaeological Museum, Ramnagar Fort, Chunar Fort
Mathura: Birthplace of Lord Krishna, Mathura is one of the major pilgrimage centers for the Hindus. It is situated at a distance of 58 km from Agra. Shri Krishna Janam Bhumi, Vishram Ghat, Dwarkadheesh Temple, Gita Mandir are some of the places which find a connection to life of Krishna and are visited by their followers
Vrindavan: Located near Mathura, Vrindavan is a holy city
Major attractions: Yamuna River, Govind Dev Temple, Iskcon Temple, Kesi Ghat, Bankey Bihari Temple, Shahji Temple, Rangaji Temple.Whether you are looking at weekend trips or eco tourism destinations, the state of UP has lots to offer.
By Sharmila Chand
