Uttar Pradesh, affectionately known as the “Land of Gods,” boasts an incredible tapestry of temples, each with its own unique story and aura. Whether you’re a devout pilgrim or a curious explorer, this eclectic state will leave you mesmerized and craving more.
From the awe-inspiring grandeur of the world-famous Kashi Vishwanath Temple in Varanasi to the hidden gem of Mathura, where over a hundred temples bask in serene beauty, Uttar Pradesh is a treasure trove for the spiritually inclined and the adventurous souls alike.
But wait, it’s not just about the temples here! Our quirky expedition will unravel the lesser-known wonders, the unexpected surprises, and the delightful eccentricities that make Uttar Pradesh an unrivaled destination.
So, fasten your seatbelts, don your explorer’s hat, and join us on this whimsical escapade, as we embark on a journey through the eccentric temples in Uttar Pradesh! Get ready to witness miracles, unravel mysteries, and embrace divinity. Let the temple odyssey begin!
10 must visiting temples in Uttar Pradesh
- Chandrika Devi Temple, Lucknow
- Augharnath Temple, Meerut
- Ayodhya Ram Janmabhoomi Temple, Ayodhya
- Baladev Dauji Temple, Mathura
- Banke Bihari Temple, Mathura
- Bharat Mata Mandir, Varanasi
- Dwarkadhish Mandir, Mathura
- JK Temple, Kanpur
- Kashi Vishwanath, Varanasi
- Sarnath Temple, Sarnath
Chandrika Devi Temple
The Chandrika Devi Temple in Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, stands as a revered symbol of faith and spirituality. Known for its architectural splendor and divine aura, this famous temple in Uttar Pradesh attracts devotees from far and wide. Nestled amidst lush greenery, it offers a serene atmosphere for devotees to seek blessings and find solace. A visit to this temple is a journey of devotion and tranquility.
Location: Lucknow
Timing: 5am to11 pm
How to reach: Chandrika Devi Temple in Lucknow can be reached by road, located approximately 25 kilometers from the city center. Taxis, private vehicles, and local transportation options are available for convenient travel.
Augharnath Temple
Behold the magnificent Augharnath Temple, nestled in the heart of Meerut! This revered sanctuary, standing tall for centuries, holds a mystical aura that captivates all who enter its sacred grounds. Legend has it that the temple protected Lord Shiva’s bull, Augharnath, during a raging storm. Today, Augharnath Temple, one of the biggest temples in Uttar Pradesh stands as a testament to devotion and is a cherished symbol of Meerut’s spiritual heritage.
Location: Meerut
Timing: 6am to 8:30pm
How to reach: To reach Augharnath Temple in Meerut, take a taxi or auto-rickshaw from the Meerut Railway Station or the local bus stand. It’s conveniently located in the heart of the city.
Ayodhya Ram Janmabhoomi Temple
Nestled in the sacred town of Ayodhya, where mythology dances with reality, lies the crown jewel of devotion—the Ayodhya Ram Janmabhoomi Temple. A timeless testament to faith and resilience, this famed temple beckons pilgrims from across the globe. Amidst ornate carvings and tranquil courtyards, it whispers tales of Lord Ram’s birth, igniting hearts with an eternal flame of devotion. A pilgrimage to remember, forever etched in the annals of divinity.
Location: Ayodhya
Timing: 7:30am to 9pm
How to reach: Ayodhya Ram Janmabhoomi Temple is in Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh. It can be reached by road or rail, with Faizabad being the nearest railway station. Buses and taxis are available for local transportation.
Baladev Dauji Temple
The Mathura Baladev Dauji Temple, well-known for its long history and profound spiritual significance, is home to several intriguing mysteries. Did you know that the temple in Uttar Pradesh is home to a special black statue of Lord Balarama, Lord Krishna’s older brother? According to legend, this old idol’s color inexplicably shifts during the day, going from black in the morning to blue in the afternoon, and then to white in the evening, awe-inspiring believers.
Location: Mathura
Timing: 6:30am to 7pm
How to reach: To reach Baladev Dauji Temple in Mathura, Uttar Pradesh, you can take a taxi or auto-rickshaw from Mathura Junction railway station, which is approximately 6 kilometers away.
Banke Bihari Temple
The Banke Bihari, the most famous temple in Uttar Pradesh is a temple like no other. Did you know that the deity of Lord Krishna here is not merely worshiped, but treated like a mischievous child? Every day, the temple priests change the curtains, bed linen, and even the clothes of the deity, as if preparing a child for school! This unique tradition adds an endearing touch to the temple’s already enchanting atmosphere.
Location: Mathura
Timing: 7:45 am to 9pm
How to reach: To reach the Banke Bihari Temple in Mathura, Uttar Pradesh, you can take a taxi or an auto-rickshaw from Mathura Junction railway station, which is well-connected to major cities in India.
Bharat Mata Mandir
Nestled in the spiritual haven of Varanasi, the Bharat Mata Mandir stands as a unique ode to Mother India. But here’s the twist – instead of traditional deities, the temple showcases a giant relief map of India carved out of marble. Each state is intricately detailed, paying homage to the diverse cultural tapestry that makes our country truly extraordinary.
Location: Varanasi
Timing: 6am to 7pm
How to reach: To reach Bharat Mata Mandir in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, you can hire a taxi, take a rickshaw, or use public transportation. It is in the Mahatma Gandhi Kashi Vidyapith campus, near the Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple.
Dwarkadhish Mandir
Dwarkadhish Mandir in Mathura, Uttar Pradesh, stands as a testament to divine love and playful charm. This enchanting temple dedicated to Lord Krishna showcases the unique tradition of “Jhulan Yatra,” where the deities swing on intricately adorned swings. Its vibrant festivities, rhythmic chants, and divine aura make it a must-visit for spiritual seekers and lovers of Krishna’s mystical allure.
Location: Mathura
Timing: 6:30am to 7pm
How to reach: To reach the revered Dwarkadhish Mandir in Mathura, Uttar Pradesh, one can easily access it by road, rail, or air. Mathura is well-connected, with regular train services, buses, and nearby airports for convenient travel.
JK Temple
Let’s take a side trip to Kanpur to view the majestic JK Temple while discussing well-known temples in Uttar Pradesh. This architectural masterpiece, which has beautiful marble carvings and a special fusion of modern and traditional elements, stands tall as a testimony to human innovation. According to legend, the temple was constructed in a record-breaking nine months, which gives it an even more stunning air of speed.
Location: Kanpur
Timing: 5am to 10pm
How to reach: To reach the JK Temple in Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh, you can take a taxi or an auto-rickshaw from the Kanpur Central Railway Station, which is the nearest major transportation hub.
Kashi Vishwanath Temple
Are you aware of the special distinction held by the Kashi Vishwanath Temple in Uttar Pradesh? It is situated where Lord Shiva is thought to have lived from the beginning of time. Several times throughout history, this holy shrine has been destroyed and rebuilt. A monument to the steadfast faith and dedication of the numerous pilgrims that visit this famous temple is its gorgeous architecture, which is embellished with gold-plated spires.
Location: Varanasi
Timing: 6am to 6pm
How to reach: To reach the revered Kashi Vishwanath Temple in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, travelers can easily access it via taxis, rickshaws, or by walking through the bustling lanes of the ancient city.
Sarnath Temple
Welcome to Sarnath’s sacred domain, where history, spirituality, and tranquility are intertwined. In this holy place, the Sarnath Temple, the most admired temple in Uttar Pradesh serves as a light of Buddhist history. Explore the historic Dhamek Stupa, which bears witness to Buddha’s first sermon, and learn about the ethereal tranquilly found inside the Mulagandha Kuti Vihar, which is filled with mesmerizing frescoes that vividly depict old tales, to learn more about this fascinating site.
Location: Sarnath
Timing: 8am to 6pm
How to reach: To reach Sarnath Temple in Uttar Pradesh, you can take a taxi or hire a local cab from Varanasi, which is approximately 13 kilometers away. Alternatively, you can also opt for public transportation like buses or auto-rickshaws.
As our trip to the famous temples in Uttar Pradesh comes to an end, we bid adieu to the alluring divinity that welcomed us. These temples have exposed the buried riches of this sacred area, from mystical legends to architectural marvels. Till our next wacky adventure, keep discovering and appreciating the extraordinary!
