A part of Uttar Pradesh has been separated and formed into a new state Uttaranchal on November 9th 2000. The details given here are before the separation.
Uttar Pradesh is bounded by Nepal on the North, Himachal Pradesh on the north west, Haryana on the west, Rajasthan on the south west, Madhya Pradesh on the south and south- west and Bihar on the east. Situated between 23o 52'N and 31o 28 N latitudes and 77o 3' and 84o 39'E longitudes, this is the fourth largest state in the country .
TOURISM
Lucknow, also known as the "Golden city of the east", the capital of Uttar Pradesh situated along the banks of the River Gomti rose to prominence as the centre of the Nawabs of Avadh. Legend says that Lucknow derived its name from Lucknau named after Lakshmana (a character in the famous Epic Ramayan) when his elder brother Rama gave away this part of the country to him. Though it is rapidly modernising, it still has kept its past glory and is known for its cultural refinement. The huge mausoleums of the nawabs and the ruins of the Residency which stood witness to one of the most remarkable episodes in the Indian Mutiny in 1857, make it an interesting place to visit. Historically reputed as a city of culture, Lucknow is famous for its gharana of music and chickken (shadow work embroidery) work. The best time to visit Lucknow would be winter, i.e., between October and February, when the climate is pleasant and comfortable, making it easy to travel.
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Bara Imambara (Tomb of a Muslim holy man)
The hall built by Asaf-ud-Daula for famine relief, is one of the largest in the world. There are excellent views of Lucknow from the top of the Imambara. An external stairway leads to an upper floor laid out as an amazing labyrinth known as the bhulbulaiya. The dark passages stop abruptly at openings which drop straight to the courtyard below. There's a mosque with two tall minarets in the courtyard complex and to the right of this is a well which is said to have secret tunnels opening into. The Imambara is open from morning to 6pm.
Rumi Darwaza
This huge 60-feet-high door was also built by Asaf-ud-Daula. It is also called the 'Turkish Darwaza,' it is the entrance to the Bara Imambara. It is a massive gate on the the western side of the front of Bara Imambara.
Chota Imambara
Hussainabad or Chota Imambara, was built by Mohammed Ali Shah in 1837 as his own mausoleum. The appeal of this structure lies in its furnishings comprising exquisite chandeliers of Belgium glass. The glittering brass-domes and ornate architecture of this building made a Russian Prince call it the "Kremlin of India." It contains the tombs of Ali Shah and his mother. A small bazaar, known as the Gelo Khana or "Decorated Place", lies inside the imposing entrance of the Imambara.
The Clock Tower
It is located very near to the Rumi Darwaza. Built in 1881 by the British, this 67 m-high clock tower on the river Gomti is said to the tallest clock tower in India. The tower has European style artwork. The parts of the clock is built of pure gunmetal and the pendulum hangs 14 feet. The dial of this clock is shaped like a 12-petalled flower and has bells around it.
Shah Najaf Imambara
It holds the tombs of Ghasi-ud-Din Haidar and his two wife's. Situated on the south bank of Gomti towards the west of Sikandar Bagh, the building is almost an exact replica of the tomb of Hazrat Ali, the son-in-law of Prophet Muhammad, at Najaf Ashraf in Iraq. The interior is used to store chandeliers, and elaborate creations of wood, bamboo and silver paper which are carried through the streets during the Muharram Festival. It is open from 6am to 5pm.
Residency
Built in 1800 by Saadat Ali Khan for the British Resident. There is a model room in the main Residency building which is worth visiting and a small museum on the ground floor. This group of buildings became the stage for the most dramatic events of the 1857 Mutiny the Siege of Lucknow. There is cemetery near by with graves of those who suffered in the mutiny. The Residency is open from 9am to 5.30pm.
Noor Baksh
Noor Baksh Kothi (Light giving palace) is in Lal Bagh area next to the Methodist Church and now known as Noor Manzil. It was believed to be built by Saadat Ali Khan as a school for royal children while others say Agha Mir, the Prime Minister was its owner. Rafi us Shan, son of Muhammad Ali Shah made this his residence till the end of Nawabi rule. Now it houses a psychiatric clinic for the mentally disturbed.
Chattar Manzil
The two Chattar Manzils near the Begum Hazarat Mahal park, on the banks of the Gomti were Royal pavilions. The name comes from the gilt chattars or umbrellas atop the two main buildings. The Greater Chattar Manzil was once a king's palace. Under the existing river terrace was the ground floor with the tykhanas (cool underground rooms), cooled by the waters of the Gomti which lapped against its outer walls. Considering their size, surprisingly little is known about the Chattar Manzil Palaces. Today this building houses the Central Medicine Research body. The Lal Baradari was also the part of Chattar Manzil and was built as Coronation Hall and Durbar Hall.
State Museum
The state Museum in Banarasi Bagh houses an impressive collection of stone sculptures, 1st-11th century exhibits of Hindu, Buddhist and Jain works, rare coins, marble sculptures and an Egyptian Mummy. Open 10.30am to 4.30 pm except Mondays.
Parks and Zoo
Dudhwa National Park
Dudhwa is 238 km N of Lucknow and was designated a National Park in 1977. Bordering the Sarda River in the Terai, it is very similar to the Corbett National Park. It has sal forest, tall savannah grasslands and large marshy areas watered by the Neora and Sohel rivers. Dudhwa National Park is home to unusual animal species. This national park's star attraction is the Royal Bengal tiger. About 100 tigers are believed to still roam this region. The Indian rhino was also introduced here to save it from extinction. Leopards, elephants, bears, gharial, crocodile, and spotted deer inhabit the thick forests too.
Gautam Buddha Park - Situated in between the Bara Imambara and the Martyrs Memorial, this park has been a recreation ground for children. Rides here are a big draw. Also used by political parties to hold rallies now.
The Elephant or the Hathi Park, another recreation park.
The lemon park or the Nimbu Park of the Bara Imambara is also very popular.
Zoo
4 km from the Charbagh station is the Lucknow Zoo or the Prince of Wales Zoological Gardens. The zoo comes under the Banarasi Bagh area. This Zoo, constructed in 1921, also has a museum, an aquarium and a toy train. The plane Rajhans used by Pandit Jawarharlal Nehru is also kept in the zoo. Open 8am to 5pm. |
AGRA FORT
Place : Agra, Uttar Pradesh
Best time to visit : November to February
Timings : Open daily from 6 am to 5.30 pm
This great monument of red sandstone dominating a bend in the river Yamuna, 2km northwest of Taj Mahal was constructed by the Mughals during 1565-1571. It was Emperor Akbar who laid the foundation of this majestic citadel in 1565. The fort was ready by 1571 period of Shahjahan, Akbar's grandson. The fort is crescent shaped, flattened on the east with a long, nearly straight wall facing the river. Fort's colossal double walls rise 69 ft in height and measure 2.5 km in circumference encircled by a moat and contain a maze of buildings which form a small city within a city. The fort contains splendid mosques and palaces in red sandstone and white marble built by two generations of creative builders during the time of Akbar and later Jehangir and Shahjahan.
The wall has 2 gates, the Delhi Gate and the Amar Singh Gate. The original and grandest entrance was through the Delhi Gate, which leads to the inner portal called the Hathi Pol or Elephant Gate. But now the entrance to the fort is only through the Amar Singh Gate. Public access is limited to the southern part of the fort which includes nearly all the buildings of tourist interest.
Jehangiri Mahal: This is the first notable building as one enters through the Amar Singh Gate and emerges out of the passage. Situated north of the gate at the end of a spacious lawn, the Jehangir's palace was built by Akbar as a residence for his son Jehangir. The largest private residence in the fort, it is a blend of Hindu and Central Asian architectural styles. The Mahal is reached through an impressive gateway and its inner courtyard consists of a two storey facade of beautiful halls, profuse carvings on stone, heavy brackets exquisitely carved with animal and floral motifs, piers and cross beams with remnants of the rich gilded decorations which once covered much of the structure. There is a verandah with slender pillars on the eastern front facing the river front. This is the most important building remaining from Akbars period as his successors demolished several of Akbar's red sand structures replacing them with marble one's. To the right of Jahangiri Mahal is a simple palace of Akbar's favourite queen Jodha Bai.
Khas Mahal: Built entirely of marble by Shah Jahan in 1637, the Khas Mahal or the Private Palace demonstrates distinctive Islamic-Persian features. The enclosure has three pavilions overlooking the Yamuna, with a fountain opposite the central pavilion. The central pavilion an airy edifice, used by the emperor as a sleeping chamber has three arches on each side, five in front, and two turrets rising out of the roof. It overlooks the Angoori Bagh (grape garden). The Mahal is flanked by two golden (copper) pavilions, one with white marble and was supposedly decorated with gold leaf, while the other is made with red stone, which were meant for the prominent ladies of the harem. The Khaas Mahal provides the most successful example of painting on a white marble surface.
On the three sides of the Grape garden are residential quarters of women.
Musamman Burj: On the left of the Khas Mahal is the Musamman Burj, an octagonal tower with an open pavilion build by Shahjahan for his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal. It is made of delicate marble lattices with ornamental niches for the ladies of the court to gaze out, unseen. The chamber with a marble dome on top, is surrounded by a verandah with a beautiful carved fountain in the center. The tower looks out over the River Yamuna and is traditionally considered to have one of the most poignant views of the Taj. This is where Shah Jahan spent his last few years as a captive of his son Aurangazeb and where he lay on his death bed, gazing at the Taj.
Diwani-i-Khas: Diwan-I-Khas (hall of private audience) built by Shahjahan in 1636–37 was used to receive kings, dignitaries and ambassadors. It is a three sided pavilion with a terrace of fine proportions. Outside the structure is the marble throne terrace, where a pair of thrones were kept. The black throne belonged to Jehangir. Presently, entry is not allowed inside Diwan-i-Khas.
Sheesh Mahal: Opposite to the Mussaman Burj and just below the Diwan-i-Khas hall, at the northeastern end of the Khas Mahal courtyard is the Sheesh Mahal or the Glass Palace. It is believed to have been the royal dressing room and its walls are inlaid with tiny mirrors, one of the best specimens of glass-mosaic decoration in India. The Sheesh Mahal is composed of two large halls of equal size, each measuring 11.15m x 6.40 m. Both are connected in the centre by a broad arched opening and on the sides by two narrow passages.
Macchhi Bhawan: Opposite to the Diwan-i-Khas is the Macchhi Bhawan, a grand enclosure meant for harem functions. The emperor sat on the white marble platform of the Diwani-i-Khas facing this courtyard. It once contained pools and marble fountains which were carried off by Jat Raja Surajmal to his palace at Deeg. On another side stands a small mosque built for Shahjahan by his son Aurangzeb.
Hammam-i-Shahi: To the right of Diwan-i-khas is the Hammam-i-Shahi or the Shah Burj. It is an airy apartment, attached to the residential quarters which was used as a summer retreat.
Diwan-i-Am: The Hall of Public Audiences, made of red sandstone, was constructed by Shahjahan. It is here the emperor met officials and commoners and listened to the petitioners. The women of the palace could watch the court without being seen by others from the pavilion through jali (lattice) screens. The open sided, cusped arched hall (64x23m) built of plaster on red stone, is very impressive. The throne alcove of richly decorated white marble completed after 7 years work in 1634 was used to house the famous Peacock Throne, later shifted to Delhi by Aurangazeb and was finally carried away to Iran.
The Nagina Masjid or the gem mosque is a private mosque raised by Shah Jahan with typical cusped arches for ladies of the court. There is Mina bazar for the royal ladies to buy things from the marble balcony beneath the Nagina Masjid.
The Moti Masjid near the Nagina Masjid is a perfectly proportioned pearl mosque built in white marble. This grand mosque has three domes in white marble raising their heads over the red sandstone wall. Visit : 7- 6 PM
How to get there
Air: Agra's Kheria airport is situated 6km from the city centre. It is well connected with Delhi (204km-30 minutes flight) and major places in India. Flights are on Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday and Sunday.
Indian Airlines Office, Kheria Airport Ph: 2361241, 2361142, City Booking Office, Hotel Clarks Shiraz Ph: 2360948; Pre-recorded information Tel: 142
Rail: Agra is a major railway Junction and has several railway stations and connects the city to major places in the north as well as the south. Agra Cantonment Railway station is the main terminal, located southwest of the city. Two of the main services are the Taj Express and the Shatabdi which connects Agra to Delhi, Gwalior, Jhansi and Bhopal. Other services are the Karnataka Express (New Delhi-Bangalore), the Jhelum Express (Jammu Tawi-Pune) and the Toofan Express (New Delhi - Calcutta).
Agra Cantonment Railway Station, Enquiry Ph: 131, 132, 2364516, 2364517; Reservation Ph: 2364244; Raja-ki-Mandi Railway Station Ph: 133, 53737; Agra Fort Railway Station, Enquiry Ph: 2364163; Reservation Ph: 2364131
Road: Agra is well linked by bus services to other places in the State as well as outside the state and national highways 2,3 and 11 pass through the city. The state transports have deluxe as well as ordinary buses to Delhi (every hour), Jaipur (every half an hour), Lucknow, Gwalior, Jhansi etc from Idgah bus station. For local travel, taxis, tempos, auto-rickshaws and cycle rickshaws are available. Bicycles can also be hired on hourly basis
Places to stay
UPSTDC's tourist complex, Taj Khema near the Taj Mahal offers accommodation in tents and deluxe rooms and there is a UPSTDC Tourist Bungalow as well. Agra has a wide range of hotels and rest houses. Some of them are
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Welcom group Mughal Sheraton
Address : 6-B , Mall Road, Agra 282 001
Phone : +(91)-(562)-2331701/2331728 Fax : +(91)-(562)-2331730
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Taj View
Address : Fatehabad Road , Taj Ganj, Agra 282 001
Phone : +(91)-(562)-2331842 Fax : +(91)-(562)-2331860
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The Trident
Address : Taj Nagri Scheme , Fatehabad Road, Agra 282 001
Phone : +(91)-(562)-2331810 Fax : +(91)-(562)-2331827
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Agra Ashok
Address : 6/B , The mall , Agra Cantt., Agra 282 001
Phone : +(91)-(565)-2361223 Fax : +(91)-(565)-2361620
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Amar
Fatehabad Road
Tel: 2331885-89 Fax 2330299
AGRA
This city is 200 Km away from Delhi. Agra flourished under the Mughal emperor Akbar (1542-1605) and his successors, Jahangir and Shah Jahan. The destinations given below provide an insight into the range of India's culture and history. It encompass some of the country's most spectacular architecture.
TAJ MAHAL
The Taj Mahal is situated at Agra, about 200 Kms away from Delhi on the banks of the river Yamuna. It is at Taj Road, Open from 0800 to 1600, Tuesday to Sunday. Taj Mahal is the enduring monument of love. It is a mausoleum. Shajahan build it on the death of his beloved wife Arjumand Bonu Begam (Mumthaz Mahal). The unique beauty of Taj makes it one of the wonders of the world. It is build with white marble. It was studded with precious stones. (crystal from China, Lapis Lawzuli from Afghanistan and Ceylon, Turquoise from Tibet, Gold from Egypt, amethyst from Persia, agate from Yeman, Malachite from Russia and Diamonds from Golconda, India)
FATEHPUR SIKRI It is at 37 km south west of Agra, about 12 Kms in circumference, on a rocky ridge that over look the village of Sikri. Akbar built his capital at this village. The massive walls surround its three sides and the forth side is protected by a lake. Akbar ruled here for only 15 years. He shifted his city to Lahore and eventually back to Agra. Its styles still reflects his foresight and wisdom.
The Buland Darwaza (Victory Gateway) the main entrance was built by Akbar after he conquered Gujarat. The gate is 134 ft high and is approached by a base of steps which is another 34 ft. The Jama Masjid (Imperial Mosque) is at the right side of Buland Darwaza built around 1571 and designed to hold 10,000 worshipers. The decorations in the pillars are made in Hindu elements. The Salim Chisti (Saint) tomb is at the courtyard of Jama Masjid surrounded by walls of marble lace. The saint blessed Akbar with a much wanted male heir. Due to this the people come here and tie strings on the marble for the same blessings which he bestowed the Akbar.
Diwan-i-Am (Hall of Public Audience) It is 350 ft long, consist of cloisters surrounding a courtyard that contains the Hall of judgment. It was here that Akbar handed down the decisions, as the chief justice of his subjects, on various disputes, by sitting on his throne flanked by marble.
Jodh Bai's Palace This palace was built for Akbar's Hindu wife, Jodh Bai. It architecture is a blend of Hindu and Muslim styles. The Hawa Mahal (The wind palace) walled by red stone screens is upstairs. The ladies of the court could peek outside unseen from here.
CORBETT NATIONAL PARK This oldest wild life sanctuary is just six hours from Delhi, started in 1936. It is named after the fearless hunter Jim Corbett. He lived in these hills and saved the life of many local people from the man-eater, the tiger, at the risk of his own life. The park covers 1,318 square kms. The Ramaganga river flows through its entire length. The park can be explored by open jeep or elephant rides. There is also a watchtower in the park. The animals here include deer, monkeys and birds, wild elephants, tigers, leopards, black bear, wild boar, snakes and crocodiles. December to April is the best viewing time. Open : 16 November to14 June, closed 15 June to 15 November.
MUSSOORIE It is a hill station, 278 Km northeast of Delhi. It is in the Himalayan foothills of Uttar Pradesh at an altitude of 2000 meters. Captain Young discovered the place in 1823 and built the first British residence with club, Anglican Church(1837) and Library at Landour in 1826.
KEOLADEO NATIONAL PARK, BHARATPUR It is 55 Km away from Agra. The people from all over the country come here to see the birds. The city was founded by the Jat ruler Suraj Mal in 1733. Now the city is famous for its popular water birds. This sanctuary is the winter home for hundreds of species of birds. The park is also home for mammals and reptiles including blue bulls, spotted deer, otter and Indian rock pythons. November to February is the best season to visit and early morning or late in the evening is the best time to see the birds.
AGRA FORT It is at Yamuna ki Kinara Road, near Nehru park. The construction of this massive fort was started by Akbar and completed by his grandson Shah Jahan. This fort is in triangular shape and encircled by a massive wall two and half Kms long and 69 ft high. The fort was protected by a moat and another wall with the Yamuna river running at its base. The entrance is through Amar Singh Gate.
Allahabad
Allahabad built on a very ancient site of the Aryans formerly known as Prayag, is located at the junction of the holy rivers Ganga and the Yamuna. The city acquired its present name in 1584 under the Mughal Emperor Akbar, who named it Al-Ilahabad (the city of God). The 'Maha Kumbh Mela' believed to be one of the largest religious gathering in the world, is held every 12 years at the confluence of the holy rivers attracting millions of Hindu devotees. This historically famous city was a centre of the Indian Independence movement and the home of the Nehru family. Today Allahabad is a rapidly growing commercial and administrative city in Uttar Pradesh. The climate of Allahabad is one of the extreme types with annual range of temperature differing around 12°C. The best time to visit Allahabad is from the month of November to February. |
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Sangam
The sacred 'Sangam' is the confluence of three of the holiest rivers in Hindu mythology Ganga, Yamuna and the mythical underground river of enlightenment, Saraswati. At the confluence, the muddy waters of the Ganges and the clear green water of the Yamuna can be distinctly seen to merge into one. Bathing at the Sangam is believed to be auspicious through out the year especially for 15 days in the month of Magh (mid-January to Mid-February) during 'Magh Mela' and longer during Maha Kumbh Mela held every 12 years. Astrologers calculate the holiest time to enter the water and draw up a 'Holy Dip Schedule'. Maha Kumbh Mela attracts millions of devout Hindus and a holy dip then is believed to cleanse the soul. An enormous temporary township springs up on the vacant land on the Allahabad side of the river.
Allahabad Fort
The massive majestic fort built by Emperor Akbar in 1583 A.D fort stands on the banks of the Yamuna near the confluence. The largest of Akbar's forts, it was matchless in its design and construction. Now used by the army, prior permission is needed for a visit except for a limited area open to visitors. The fort has massive walls and three gateways flanked by high towers. Inside the fort there is the Zenana (harem) and the 3rd century BC Ashoka pillar moved to the fort from Kausambi, 'Saraswati Koop'; a well, said to be the source of the Saraswati river, Patalpuri, the underground temple and the much-revered 'Akshaya Vata' or immortal Banyan tree within the temple.
The Ashoka pillar standing 10.6 meters high has several edicts and a Persian inscription of Emperor Jahangir encrypted on it, commemorating his accession to the throne.
Khusrau Bagh
Khusrau Bagh located near the railway station, contains the tomb of Prince Khusrau son of the Mughal emperor Jehangir, who was jailed and executed after an unsuccessful rebellion and a plot to assassinate his father. The typical Mughal Garden enclosure is entered through an 18m high archway. Nearby is the tomb believed to be his sisters and the two storied tomb of his Rajput mother.
Allahabad Museum
Allahabad Museum located at Kamala Nehru Road inside Chandra Shekhar Azad Park, has 18 galleries containing a wide range of stone sculptures. The sculptures include 2nd BC pieces from Bharhut and Kausambi, 1st Century AD Kushana from Mathura, 4th-6th century Gupta and 11th century carvings from Khajuraho. The exhibit also has terracotta figurines from Kausambi, Rajasthani Miniatures, coins and paintings by Nicholas Roerich and artifacts donated by the Nehru family.
Open daily from 10:30 am to 4:30 PM except Mondays.
Anand Bhawan
Anand Bhavan was the former ancestral home of the Nehru family. Donated to the Indian government in 1970 by Indira Gandhi, it was turned into a museum. The exhibits in the two storied building seen through glass panels include personal items of Motilal Nehru, Jawaharlal Nehru; the first Prime Minister of Independent India, Indira Gandhi (Prime Minister1966-77, 1980-84) and her sons Sanjay Gandhi and Rajeev Gandhi (PrimeMinister1984-1989). One can see the room where Mahatma Gandhi used to stay during his visits, Jawarlal Nehru's room and study also.
Open: 9:30 am to 05:00 pm. except Mondays.
There is a Jawahar planetarium build in 1979 in the compound.
Open 11:00 am to 04:00 pm. except Mondays
Swaraj Bhawan
Situated next to Anand Bhawan, Swaraj Bhavan was donated to the Nation by Moti Lal Nehru to be used as the headquarters of the Congress Committee. Late Prime Minister of India, Mrs. Indira Gandhi was born here.
Open: 09:30 am to 05:30 P.M. Closed on Monday's.
Muir Central College - University of Allahabad
Designed by William Emerson and opened in 1886, the college is a fine example of 'Indo-saracenic' architecture. It has a 200 feet tower made of pale-yellow sandstone with marble and mosaic floors. It was later established as the University of Allahabad, one of the most reputed Universities of India. The University has Kausambi Museum with various artifacts from Kausambi including pottery, Terracotta figurines, coins, beads and bangles.
Minto Park or Madan Mohan Malviya Park
Minto Park is located to the west of the fort near the Yamuna river. It was here that the East India Company officially handed over control of India to the British government in 1858. Lord Canning read out the declaration. There is a stone memorial with a four-lion symbol on top here.
Chandra Shekhar Azad Park
Earlier known as Alfred park, thisextensive garden park has some fine colonial Buildings, including a public library. Later the park was renamed in honour of the freedom fighter Chandra Shekhar Azad who died in an encounter with the imperialists. Within the park is the Allahabad Museum.
Places Around Allahabad
Kausambi
Kausambi earlier known as Kausam is located 63 km southwest of Allahabad on the way to Chitrakoot. This ancient Buddhist and Jain centre was the capital of the Vatsa king Udayana.
Buddha has delivered several discourses in this historical city. Kausambi was first discovered by Cunningham and the coins and terracotta figurines which scattered here are now on display in the Allahabad Museum and the Kausambi Museum. Recent discoveries are made by G R Sharma of the University of Allahabad. The remains of an Ashoka pillar, a palace in ruins are of Archeological interest here. Another Ashokan pillar was removed to Allahabad fort by the Mughals. There is also a Digambar Jain temple here.
Bhita
Situated 18km from Allahabad on the Yamuna river. Excavations here have revealed the remains of an ancient fortified city. There a Museum which exhibits stone and metal seals, coins and terracotta statues dating from Gupta and Mauryan periods.
Garhwa
Situated 50 km from Allahabad in Garhwa there is a walled enclosure surrounding a group of ruins of temples where several inscriptions dedicated to Vishnu and Shiva can be seen. To the west of the ruins of the fort, there is a big tank knwon as Garhwa Tal. Some of the sculptures of the Gupta period found here has been shifted to the State Museum in Lucknow.
Kara
Situated 69 km from Allahabad on the banks of Ganga, it is famous for the holy Temple of Kara Devi (Shitala Devi). Once the provincial capital of Mughals, its ruins extend to 3.5 km along Ganga. Kalehswar Mahadev Temple, Dargah of Khwaja Karak and Shivala Maharishi Ashram are the other attractions.
Chitrakoot
Chitrakoot 132km from Allahabad is a popular Hindu pilgrimage centre. Bathing ghats line the Mandakini river and there are over 30 temples in this town. Brahma, Vishnu and Shiva are believed to have taken their incarnations and Lord Ram has stayed here during his exile. There are many places of religious interest here- Kamadgiri, Ramghat, Janki Kund, Hanuman Dhara, Gupt Godavari, Sati Ansuiya Ashram are some of them.
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Kanpur
Kanpur, situated on the banks of the holy river Ganga, stands as one of North India's major industrial centers with its own historical, religious and commercial importance. It is believed to be founded by king Hindu Singh of the erstwhile state of Sachendi. During the war of 1857, it was the headquarters of a large Indian garrison and was called 'Cawnpore'. It still bears landmarks of the British Raj. Today, it is essentially a commercial and industrial center. Besides its leather industry a large number of textile, plastic and other factories are located here. For this reason, Kanpur is also known as, `the Manchester of the East'. Best time to visit Kanpur is October to March.
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The Kanpur Memorial Church (All Soul’s Cathedral)
The Kanpur Memorial Church built in 1875, was designed by Walter Granville. This Gothic style building has fine stained glass windows and interesting memorials. There is a Memorial Garden on the eastern side. There is a carved gothic screen, designed by Henry Yule and in the center there is a beautifully carved figure of an angel by Baron Carlo Marochetti, representing the 'symbol of peace'. The Cemetery has a number of graves from the late 19th century.
Jain Glass Temple
It is situated in Maheshwari Mohal behind the Kamla Tower. It is a beautiful temple highly decorated with glass and enamel works.
Jajmau
Jajmau, known as Siddhapuri in ancient times, is supposed to have been the kingdom of Yayati, the Pauranic king and the high mound overhanging the Ganga is known as the site of his fort.
Excavations of the Jajmau mound during 1957-58 unearthed antiquities ranging from 600 BC to 1600 AD. Now, Jajmau houses the Siddhnath and Siddha Devi temples and the mausoleum of Makhdum Shah Ala-ul-Haq, the famous Sufi saint, built by Firoz Shah Tughlaq in 1358. A mosque built by Kulich Khan in 1679 is also here.
Shri Radhakrishna Temple
This beautifully constructed temple is a unique blend of ancient and modern architecture. The even-level roofs of the mandaps have been provided with adequate ventilation for sufficient light and air. Among the five shrines in the temple, the central one is dedicated to Shri Radhakrishna and the others have idols of Shri Laxminarayan, Shri Ardhanarishwar, Shri Narmadeshwar and Shri Hanuman. This temple was built by J.K.Trust.
Phool Bagh (Ganesh Udyan)
It is a beautiful park in the heart of the city on the Mall Road. In the centre of the park there is a Ganesh Shanker Vidyarthi Memorial generally used for public meetings. The annual flower shows are held here. It has a Summer House and a large Public library.
Kamla Retreat
Situated on Kamala Nehru road, Kamla Retreat houses a museum which has a good collection of historical and archaeological artifacts. Besides parks and a canal with facilities for boating, a zoo is also here. Visitors are allowed only with prior permission from:; Deputy General Manager (Administration), Kamla Tower, Kamalanagar, Kanpur, UP. Phone: 311478 & 311479.
Parks and Zoo
Nana Rao Park
Formerly known as Memorial Well Garden, it is the biggest park in Kanpur and is situated in the heart of the city on the Mall Road. After Independence, it has been renamed after Nana Rao Peshwa, the hero of the first War of independence in 1857. It is very beautifully laid out and has a plant nursery.
Brijendra Swarup Park
Situated in Aryanagar area of Kanpur, this park has spacious lawns and play grounds.
Moti Jheel
This is drinking water reservoir of Kanpur Waterworks. It is situated Benajhabar area of the city. The area around the Jheel or lake have lately been developed into a beautiful recreation grounds and children's park.
Green Park
This is the best and most famous play ground of Kanpur. International Cricket matches are held here and it is one of the best pitches in the world.
Allen Forest Zoo
The Kanpur Zoo was opened in 1971 and ranks among one of the best zoos in the country. It is an ideal place for picnics in picturesque surroundings.
LUKNOW
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Lucknow, also known as the "Golden city of the east", the capital of Uttar Pradesh situated along the banks of the River Gomti rose to prominence as the centre of the Nawabs of Avadh. Legend says that Lucknow derived its name from Lucknau named after Lakshmana (a character in the famous Epic Ramayan) when his elder brother Rama gave away this part of the country to him. Though it is rapidly modernising, it still has kept its past glory and is known for its cultural refinement. The huge mausoleums of the nawabs and the ruins of the Residency which stood witness to one of the most remarkable episodes in the Indian Mutiny in 1857, make it an interesting place to visit. Historically reputed as a city of culture, Lucknow is famous for its gharana of music and chickken (shadow work embroidery) work. The best time to visit Lucknow would be winter, i.e., between October and February, when the climate is pleasant and comfortable, making it easy to travel.
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Bara Imambara (Tomb of a Muslim holy man)
The hall built by Asaf-ud-Daula for famine relief, is one of the largest in the world. There are excellent views of Lucknow from the top of the Imambara. An external stairway leads to an upper floor laid out as an amazing labyrinth known as the bhulbulaiya. The dark passages stop abruptly at openings which drop straight to the courtyard below. There's a mosque with two tall minarets in the courtyard complex and to the right of this is a well which is said to have secret tunnels opening into. The Imambara is open from morning to 6pm.
Rumi Darwaza
This huge 60-feet-high door was also built by Asaf-ud-Daula. It is also called the 'Turkish Darwaza,' it is the entrance to the Bara Imambara. It is a massive gate on the the western side of the front of Bara Imambara.
Chota Imambara
Hussainabad or Chota Imambara, was built by Mohammed Ali Shah in 1837 as his own mausoleum. The appeal of this structure lies in its furnishings comprising exquisite chandeliers of Belgium glass. The glittering brass-domes and ornate architecture of this building made a Russian Prince call it the "Kremlin of India." It contains the tombs of Ali Shah and his mother. A small bazaar, known as the Gelo Khana or "Decorated Place", lies inside the imposing entrance of the Imambara.
The Clock Tower
It is located very near to the Rumi Darwaza. Built in 1881 by the British, this 67 m-high clock tower on the river Gomti is said to the tallest clock tower in India. The tower has European style artwork. The parts of the clock is built of pure gunmetal and the pendulum hangs 14 feet. The dial of this clock is shaped like a 12-petalled flower and has bells around it.
Shah Najaf Imambara
It holds the tombs of Ghasi-ud-Din Haidar and his two wife's. Situated on the south bank of Gomti towards the west of Sikandar Bagh, the building is almost an exact replica of the tomb of Hazrat Ali, the son-in-law of Prophet Muhammad, at Najaf Ashraf in Iraq. The interior is used to store chandeliers, and elaborate creations of wood, bamboo and silver paper which are carried through the streets during the Muharram Festival. It is open from 6am to 5pm.
Residency
Built in 1800 by Saadat Ali Khan for the British Resident. There is a model room in the main Residency building which is worth visiting and a small museum on the ground floor. This group of buildings became the stage for the most dramatic events of the 1857 Mutiny the Siege of Lucknow. There is cemetery near by with graves of those who suffered in the mutiny. The Residency is open from 9am to 5.30pm.
Noor Baksh
Noor Baksh Kothi (Light giving palace) is in Lal Bagh area next to the Methodist Church and now known as Noor Manzil. It was believed to be built by Saadat Ali Khan as a school for royal children while others say Agha Mir, the Prime Minister was its owner. Rafi us Shan, son of Muhammad Ali Shah made this his residence till the end of Nawabi rule. Now it houses a psychiatric clinic for the mentally disturbed.
Chattar Manzil
The two Chattar Manzils near the Begum Hazarat Mahal park, on the banks of the Gomti were Royal pavilions. The name comes from the gilt chattars or umbrellas atop the two main buildings. The Greater Chattar Manzil was once a king's palace. Under the existing river terrace was the ground floor with the tykhanas (cool underground rooms), cooled by the waters of the Gomti which lapped against its outer walls. Considering their size, surprisingly little is known about the Chattar Manzil Palaces. Today this building houses the Central Medicine Research body. The Lal Baradari was also the part of Chattar Manzil and was built as Coronation Hall and Durbar Hall.
State Museum
The state Museum in Banarasi Bagh houses an impressive collection of stone sculptures, 1st-11th century exhibits of Hindu, Buddhist and Jain works, rare coins, marble sculptures and an Egyptian Mummy. Open 10.30am to 4.30 pm except Mondays.
Parks and Zoo
Dudhwa National Park
Dudhwa is 238 km N of Lucknow and was designated a National Park in 1977. Bordering the Sarda River in the Terai, it is very similar to the Corbett National Park. It has sal forest, tall savannah grasslands and large marshy areas watered by the Neora and Sohel rivers. Dudhwa National Park is home to unusual animal species. This national park's star attraction is the Royal Bengal tiger. About 100 tigers are believed to still roam this region. The Indian rhino was also introduced here to save it from extinction. Leopards, elephants, bears, gharial, crocodile, and spotted deer inhabit the thick forests too.
Gautam Buddha Park - Situated in between the Bara Imambara and the Martyrs Memorial, this park has been a recreation ground for children. Rides here are a big draw. Also used by political parties to hold rallies now.
The Elephant or the Hathi Park, another recreation park.
The lemon park or the Nimbu Park of the Bara Imambara is also very popular.
Zoo
4 km from the Charbagh station is the Lucknow Zoo or the Prince of Wales Zoological Gardens. The zoo comes under the Banarasi Bagh area. This Zoo, constructed in 1921, also has a museum, an aquarium and a toy train. The plane Rajhans used by Pandit Jawarharlal Nehru is also kept in the zoo. Open 8am to 5pm. |
Varanasi
Varanasi is commonly called as Banaras. The devout Hindus call it Kashi (resplendent with light). It has been the religious capital of Hinduism. Each Hindu devotee wants to visit Varanasi to purify their body and soul by dipping into the sacred Ganga river. This city is a temple city dedicated to Shiva. |
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| Ghats
The city's life revolves around its seven km long sweep of about 100 bathing ghats that skirt the west bank of the Ganges. Most of them are used for bathing. Some are used for cremating bodies. The most sacred ghats are the Asi, Dasashwamedh Ghat, Manikarnika and Panchganga. Pilgrims who bathe in each one consecutively believe their prayers will be fulfilled. A short boat trip from Manikarnika Ghat can be an interesting introduction to the river. It is believed that cremation at Manikarnika ghat ensures a safe place in Heaven, as the cremators of this ghat are believed to have the patronage of Shiva. The furthermost upstream ghat is Assi Ghat, which marks the confluence of the Ganges and the Assi rivers. It is said that after striking down demon Shumbha and nishumbha, Durga's sword fell and created a curved ditch, which later became the Assi Channel. This Ghat is one of the five special ghats which pilgrims are supposed to bathe at in sequence during the ritual route called ' Panchatirthi Yatra' ending in the Adikeshva ghat in the north. Nearby is the Tulsi Ghat, where Goswami Tulsidas lived till his death in 1623A.D. The Bachra Ghat is used by Jains and there are three riverbank Jain Temples. The Dandi Ghat is used by fakirs , yogis and ascetics and nearby is the very popular Hanuman Ghat. Dashashvamedh Ghat, Varanasi's liveliest bathing place was constructed by Peshwa Balaji Baji Rao. It's name indicates that Brahma sacrificed (medh) 10 (das) horses (aswa) here. It's one of the most important ghats and is conveniently central. Nearby is the grand Man Mandir Ghat (1637) and an observatory both built by Sawai Raja Jai Singh of Jaipur in 1710. Mir Ghat leads to a Nepalese temple, which has erotic sculptures. Dattatreya Ghat bears the footprint of the Brahmin saint of that name in a small temple nearby. The Ram Ghat was built by the Raja of Jaipur. Panchaganga Ghat, where India's five holy rivers are said to merge. The Trilochan Ghat has two turrets emerging from the river, and the water between them is especially holy. Another important cremation ghat is the Hirishchandra ghat, named after the king Harishchandra who worked as a cremator at the cremation grounds.
The best time to visit the ghats is at dawn when the river is bathed in a magical light and pilgrims come to perform puja to the rising sun. The best view of the Ghats can be had from a boat midstream or from the Malviya bridge. Burning pyres, people getting their hair shaved off, the chanting of sacred slokas, giving of alms to Brahmins, Pandas (Brahmin Priests) sitting under huge umbrellas offering prayers for their clients, devotees praying and drinking water from the holy river are the common sight at these ghats.
Sarnath
The Buddha came to this hamlet, 10 Km. north-east of Varanasi, to preached his message "Maha-Dharma-Chakra Pravartan" (in Buddhist terminology, 'turned the wheel of the law') after he achieved enlightment at Bodhigaya. Later, the great Buddhist Emperor Ashoka built here the Dharmarajika Stupa and near it erected a pillar surmounted by the magnificent capital of four adored lions, which today forms the national emblem of India. Ashoka erected several memorial towers or stupas.
Saranath probably derived its name from one of Buddha's title, Saranganath, Lord of the Deer. The Chinese Buddhist pilgrims, Fa-hsien and Hiuen Tsiang who visited in the 5th and 7th centuries respectively, both recorded impressions of their stay. The huge swastika (110ft) covered Dhameskh Stupa dates from AD 500 and is thought to mark the place where Buddha gave his sermon. Sarnath has been a premier centre for Buddhism. It is a rich collection of ancient Buddhist relics and antiques comprising numerous Buddha and Bodhisatva images on display at the excellent Archaeological Museum (open 10am to 5pm except on Friday).
Saranath's annual festival is Buddha Purnima, which commemorates Buddha's birth with colourful fair and procession of his relics held on the full moon of May/June.
Ramnagar
The residential place of Kashi Naresh (Former Maharaja of Varanasi) across the Ganges at Ramnagar houses a museum with the exhibits of palanquins, costumes, swords, sabres, etc. Dussehra celebration of Ramnagar is an interesting event to witness.14 km. from Varanasi. The fort at Ramnagar houses a museum displaying the Royal collection which includes vintage cars, Royal palkies, an armoury of swords and old guns, ivory work and antique clock. The Durga Temple and Chhinnamastika Temple are also located at Ramnagar.
Fort and Palace
Chunar Fort
The Chunar fort is situated 40 Km. from Varanasi. Chunar Fort, overlooking the Ganges, has had a succession of owners representing most of India's rulers over the last 500 years. Sher Shah took it from Humayun in 1540, Akbar recaptured it for the Mughals in 1575 and in the 18th century it passed to the nawabs of Avadh. They were shorty followed by the British, whose gravestones here make interesting reading. Chunar sandstone has been used for centuries, most famously in Ashokan pillars - and is still quarried, leaving the surrounding hills looking ravaged in places.
Ram Nagar Fort and Palace Ramnagar Fort which was built in 1750A.D by the Maharaja of Banaras, is on the right bank of River Ganga. Built of red stones, it provides strength and stability to the city. Visit : Daily from 0900 t0 1200 and 1400 - 1500. It is the residential palace of the former Maharaja of Varanasi. The palace is an astronomical and astrological wonder. Inside the giant walls of the palace, there is a big clock. Besides showing year, month, week and day, it baffles the onlooker with astronomy of the sun, moon and constellation of stars. This wonder clock or Dharam Ghari was made by the court astronomer of Banaras in 1852A.D. The palace has a temple dedicated to Ved Vyas and a museum set up by the last Maharaja of Banaras, Vibhuti Narain Singh. The museum has a collection of brocade costumes, palanquins, weapons and has expensive coaches made of ivory. The palace is decorated majestically and it vibrates with colour and life, during Dussehra festival. The celebrations comes to an end on Vijayadashmi, when the huge effigies of demon king Ravana and his kinsmen are sent up in flames, signifying the victory of good over evil.
ABC Art Gallery This gallery is situated opposite of Tulsi Manas Mandir, Durga Kund Road. Opens from 1500 to 1900. Entry - free. This gallery exhibits the work of well known artists of India. It gives a picture of the contemporary culture of Varanasi.
B.H.U. & Bharat Kala Bhavan Museum Banaras Hindu University (B.H.U) founded by Pandit Madan Mohan Malviya in 1917A.D is the largest residential University in India. At the entrance, there is the grand statue of its founder and the Vishwanath temple in its centre. The huge temple was built in 1966, under patronage of the Birlas. It has a 677 meter high rising white top and its well carved architecture attracts pilgrims. In the cool and calm surroundings of B.H.U is the Bharat Kala Bhavan which has established in 1920A.D and has a vast collection of paintings, Hindu and Buddhist sculptures and other materials of archeological studies. In the main hall of the Bhawan, there is a figure of a man standing on one leg and one hand on his hip and lifting a mass of stone above his head, with one hand. The figure is said to be of Lord Krishna lifting Govardana. In the halls of the Bharat Kala Bhawan, there are many rare images that testify to the existence of Krishna cult in Kashi in 15th and 16th century Gupta period. It has the miniature paintings from the courts of Mughals and the Hindu Princes of Punjab Hills. Visit : Monday to Saturday . Opens from 1030 to 1600. Entry - free.
Ashoka Pillar It is at Saranath, 10km north of Varanasi. Sarnath, the place where Buddha gave his first sermon is a popular Buddhist pilgrimage centre. The Ashoka pillar stands in front of the main stupa where Ashoka sat and meditated. The Sarnath Archaeological Museum at Ashoka Marg, houses a copy of Ashoka's lion pillar and some sculptures.
Temples and Mosques
Vishwanath temple (Golden Temple)
The most sacred temple in Varanasi is the Vishwanath temple, located at Vishvanath Gali dedicated to Lord Shiva. Hindus believe Shiva lives here, so it's far too holy a place for non-Hindus to view, the followers of other religions are permitted a view from the Naubat Khana (seat of temple choir). The shivalinga at the Vishwanath temple is among one of the 12 Jyotrilingas. The current temple was built in 1776 by Ahalya Bai of Indore with about 800 kg of gold plating on the towers, which gives the temple its colloquial name, Golden Temple. The gold plated spire, was the gift of the Sikh Maharaja Ranjit Singh of Lahore in 1835, more than 50 years later. The well of wisdom or 'Gyan Vapi' which is nearby is believed to have been built by Lord Shiva himself to cool the 'linga' of Vishwanath with water.
Durga Temple
It was built in the 18th century by a Bengali maharani and is stained red with ochre. The Durga Temple is commonly known as the Monkey Temple due to the many frisky monkeys that have made in their home. Non-Hindus can enter the courtyard but not the inner sanctum.
Kedareshvara Temple It is the most important Shiva temple of the city. The stone linga here is said to have emerged spontaneously. The myth narrate that a pure hearted devotee of Shiva prayed for a chance to visit the famous Kedareshvara Shiva temple in the Himalayas. Shiva, who is the god of destruction is always kind to his bhaktas (devotees). Shiva was touched by his bhakta's piety and instead of bringing him to the mountain, Shiva brought his image to the bhakta. This image (linga) emerged out of a plate of rice and lentils. It can be still seen by the believers on the rough surface of the natural stone linga.
Sankat Mochan Temple It is at Durga Kund Road. The word Sankat Mochan means deliverer from troubles. The temple belongs to Hanuman (monkey God), an incarnation of Vishnu. The best time to visit this temple is in the early evening.
Shitala Temple This white temple is dedicated to Shitala, the smallpox goddess. It is situated at Shitala Ghat. The Santoshi Mata (Mother of Contentment) shrine is added to this temple.
Chausath Yogini Temple This temple is situated just above the Chausath Yogini Ghat. It was originally devoted to a tantric cult. Now it is devoted to Kali. The deity here is known as 'Ma' (mother).
Gyanvapi Mosque This mosque was built by Mughal emperor Aurangazeb. The foundation and the rear part of the mosque are the remains of a temple. One of its minarets which dominated the skyline of the holy city, collapsed in the1948 floods.
Alamgir Mosque This mosque was constructed by Aurangazeb. It is a blend of Hindu and Muslim designs. A famous bathing point, Panjaganga Ghat lies below it. |
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