The north Indian state of Uttar Pradesh is a land of many temples. With places like Ayodhya, Mathura, and Vrindavan within, the land finds mention in various Hindu epics such as Ramayana, Mahabharata, and the Bhagavad Gita. Visiting such a place can be a refreshing experience that can be healing, both, for the body and the soul. With the place steeped in history and mythology, Uttar Pradesh has some of the best pilgrimage sites to offer. Attracting hordes of people every year, the state is a preferred choice for pilgrimage tourism in India, with ancient temples that have remained so for years and some that have been lost to history but are anticipated by the ardent devotees with much enthusiasm. Dedicated to different gods, with different stories to tell, Uttar Pradesh has numerous temples for you to explore.
So, read along to discover some of the most popular temples in Uttar Pradesh that you must visit on a pilgrimage tour to the state.
- Ram Janmabhoomi Temple, Ayodhya
- Banke Bihari Temple, Vrindavan
- Kashi Vishwanath, Varanasi
- Tulsi Manas Temple, Varanasi
- Krishna Janmabhoomi Temple, Mathura
- Shri Rangnath Ji Mandir, Vrindavan
- Maa Vindhyavasini Temple, Mirzapur
- Dudheshwar Nath Mandir, Ghaziabad
- Sankat Mochan Hanuman Mandir, Varanasi
- ISKCON, Vrindavan
- Radha Raman Temple, Vrindavan
- Prem Mandir, Vrindavan
Ram Janmabhoomi Temple, Ayodhya
The Ram Janmabhoomi Temple at Ayodhya is one of the most popular temples in Uttar Pradesh. A center of devotion and the site for various communal clashes, the temple ground has seen many disputes due to history. One among the ‘Sapt Puri’ or the ‘Seven Holy Pilgrimages’ in the country, Ram Janmabhoomi is considered in high reverence for being the birthplace of Lord Rama, a major god in Hinduism who is also the seventh incarnation of Lord Vishnu. Known for his filial piety, virtues, and integrity, Lord Rama is celebrated as the ideal son, husband, and king, and for his fight with the demon-king Ravana during his period of exile from which he emerged victorious.
Located along the banks of the Sarayu River, Ayodhya tells the story of its glorious past, one that can be found in the Hindu epic of Ramayana. After long court sessions and numerous years, the Ram Mandir is being constructed at its claimed site. Visited as one of the top religious places in Uttar Pradesh, Ram Mandir at Ayodhya is one pilgrimage destination you should add to your itinerary for Uttar Pradesh tourism.
The inauguration of the temple is currently one of the most anticipated events in the country, with the occasion being held on a grand scale.
Banke Bihari Temple, Vrindavan
Dedicated to Lord Krishna, the Banke Bihari Temple at Vrindavan is one of the popular temples in Uttar Pradesh. Here, ‘Banke’, means ‘bent in three places’, and ‘Bihari’ means ‘enjoyer’, referring to the idol of Lord Krishna at the temple, which stands in a Tribhanga pose. This beautiful temple at Vrindavan was built by Swami Haridas, an ardent devotee of Lord Krishna and his consort Radha, and worships the divine couple together.
According to a popular story about the temple, it is said during a prayer session, the divine couple appeared to Swami Haridas, who was so taken aback by their glorious selves which was almost blinding him with their presence. Seeing this, he requested them to combine forms, which led them to merge into the stone idol that is worshiped at the temple today. During the festival of Krishna Janmashtami is when the temple sees the most crowd, making it a must visit temple to explore in Uttar Pradesh during the time. Featuring a Rajasthani style of architecture, the temple was built in 1860, and is among the beautiful temples to visit with your family.
Kashi Vishwanath, Varanasi
Situated in the holy city of Varanasi which is popular for its temples and ghats, the Kashi Vishwanath temple is one of the top religious places to visit in Uttar Pradesh. One among the 12 jyotirlingas, spread across the country, the temple honors Lord Shiva as its presiding deity who is worshiped here in the form of Vishwanath, the ruler of the universe, who belongs to Kashi which is another name for Varanasi. Jyotirlingas are shrines and temples that are dedicated to Lord Shiva, and as believed by many devotees, visiting all 12 of them will lead one to attain salvation. The temple is even mentioned in the Vedas and Puranas, and is considered highly revered by the followers of Hinduism.
Built in the 18th century by Maharani Ahilya Bai Holkar of Indore, the Kashi Vishwanath Temple is also known as a ‘Golden Temple’ due to its gold appearance. Since the temple is built along the banks of the River Ganga, visiting the temple is often accompanied by taking a dip in the holy river. Exhibiting a Nagara style of temple architecture, the Kashi Vishwanath Temple has seen demolitions by enemy rulers over decades, but also has been consequently rebuilt in an even grander style, with the help of rich nobles over the years. During the festivities of Mahashivratri and Shravan, devotees from across the country throng to the temple to be a part of the rituals praising Lord Shiva.
Tulsi Manas Temple, Varanasi
Another popular temple of Uttar Pradesh, this temple is also situated in Varanasi. Constructed in memory of the Hindu poet and philosopher Goswami Tulsidas, the Tulsi Manas Temple in the city is devoted to Lord Rama. Verse fragments from Tulsidas’ Ramcharitmanas are inscribed on the walls of the marble temple. The epic’s stories are also portrayed throughout the temple in a variety of artwork, sculptures, and paintings. It is said that it is here where Tulsidas wrote his holy work of Ramcharitmanas in the 16th century.
One of the most beautiful temples to explore in Uttar Pradesh, the temple’s structure is made out of white marble and provides a feeling of calmness and peace. The temple has images of Lord Rama, Sita, Lakshman, and Hanuman, and also has a Tulsi Garden, which further adds to the beauty of the temple. Built in 1964 by Seth Ratan Lal Sureka of Bandhaghat, Tulsi Manas Temple is a must visit temple in Uttar Pradesh. Eliciting a holy and serene energy, the temple is based along the holy River Ganges. Since the temple is dedicated to Lord Rama, the Kashi Vishwanath Temple sees a good amount of crowd during the festival visiting from across the country.
Krishna Janmabhoomi Temple, Mathura
The Krishna Janmabhoomi Temple is another important and popular temple in the state of Uttar Pradesh, since it is the place where Lord Krishna, a major god in Hinduism, manifested himself in the earthly abode and graced the earth with his presence. Due to his parents, who were held captive were forced to stay in a prison cell in the house of King Kansa. Believed to be the birthplace of Lord Krishna, the temple is a popular temple that devotees often visit as part of their pilgrimage tourism in Uttar Pradesh.
Since Lord Krishna is an incarnation of Lord Vishnu, the temple is, therefore, regarded highly even among the Vaishnavites, who come to the temple to pay a visit to the god. One of the best times to visit the temple is during the occasion of Krishna Janmashtami, when it sees the most amount of crowd who come from far and afar to get a glimpse of the Lord. Uttar Pradesh, being the site of the Mughal Empire once, and has therefore numerous stories of plunder and destruction in it, with the Krishna Janmabhoomi Temple being no exception. The temple also has seen some disheartening attacks, but has also emerged victorious through it all. An architectural beauty, the Krishna Janmabhoomi Temple is one that is not easy to forget.
Shri Rangnath Ji Mandir, Vrindavan
Located in the holy town of Vrindavan, Shri Rangnath Ji Mandir is a Hindu temple in Uttar Pradesh dedicated to Lord Rangnath, a form of Lord Krishna. Inspired by the Sri Varadaraja Temple in Kanchipuram, Sri Rangadeshik Swamiji constructed this temple in a South Indian style of temple architecture in 1851.
Legend has it that Andal, the renowned Vaishnava saint from the eighth century, who wrote the Tamil stanzas of “Tiruppavai”, signifying her love and devotion to Lord Krishna is visited by Lord Ranganatha who consents to marry her.
Lord Krishna is shown at Sri Rangji Temple as a groom, with a walking staff, as is traditional in South Indian Hindu weddings. He has Garuda, his sacred carrier bird, on his left and Andal to his right. One of the beautiful temples in Uttar Pradesh, this temple features a beautiful fusion of North and South Indian traditions and influences and is one of the few temples in India where Vedic texts are followed even today for rites.
Two of the temple’s most notable features are a 30 meter tall golden pillar and a gopuram, or entryway of the temple, which has some elaborate carvings. Within the temple, there is also an idol of Lord Vishnu on the Sheesh Nag. Known for its Brahmotsavam celebration that happens during the months of March and April which involves devotees playing Holi, the temple is also well-known for its ten-day Rath Festival, an event attended by numerous devotees.
Maa Vindhyavasini Temple, Mirzapur
Dedicated to an incarnation of Goddess Durga, the Maa Vindhyavasini Temple in Uttar Pradesh is a must visit temple that you should include on your pilgrimage tourism to the state. Here, the goddess is worshiped as Goddess Vindhyavasini, and is believed to be one of the Shakti Peethas of the country, which are considered revered shrines that are dedicated to the worship of goddess Sati, a form of goddess Durga and her divine powers. A popular temple of the state, the temple displays the architectural style of the region and takes inspiration from local architecture.
Situated along the banks of the River Ganga, it is believed that goddess Durga chose to stay at the temple after emerging victorious with a fight with the demon Mahishasura during Navratri. It is also during this festival that the city is lit up with numerous diyas and lights, to welcome the goddess into their homes for a prosperous time ahead. During the festival of Navratri is when the temple gets bustling with people who come to visit the goddess to seek her blessings. Vindhyachal Maa Mandir is a significant pilgrimage site that draws followers from all over India who come to enjoy the temple’s spiritual and cultural atmosphere. The calm Vindhyachal region in which the temple is located accentuates the area’s spiritual and scenic value.
Dudheshwar Nath Mandir, Ghaziabad
Located in Ghaziabad, the Dudheshwar Nath Mandir is dedicated to Lord Shiva, who is the presiding deity of the temple. Worshiped here in the form of a lingam, this Hindu temple in Uttar Pradesh is said to be thousands of years old, making it one of the oldest temples in Ghaziabad.
Devotees, who come to the temple, visit in hopes of relieving their pain. A center of wish-fulfillment as well, it is believed that “Dudh Abhishekam” or the pouring of milk on the shivling will grant all your wishes and cure any pain and discomfort you have. Granting one’s wishes and providing ample blessings, the Dudheshwar Nath Mandir is a popular temple of Uttar Pradesh. Being the temple of Lord Shiva, the temple sees the most crowds during the festivities of Mahashivratri.
Sankat Mochan Hanuman Mandir, Varanasi
Another popular temple in Uttar Pradesh’s Varanasi is the Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple, which honors the Hindu god Hanuman who is worshiped as an ardent follower of Lord Rama. The term “Sankat Mochan” means “reliever of troubles”, and hence those who come to the temple with pain and problems will most certainly depart with a light mind. Situated on the banks of the Assi River, the temple was established by the Hindu poet and philosopher Goswami Tulsidas, who is most well-known for his work of Ramcharitmanas.
The Sankat Mochan Hanuman Mandir is also known for its aarti, which attracts numerous devotees who come to witness the mesmerizing ritual. Located along the banks of the holy River Ganges, this famous temple, with its calm and spiritual atmosphere makes for an ambient atmosphere. As is the presiding deity, the Sankat Mochan Hanuman Mandir becomes even more vibrant during its celebration of Hanuman Jayanti, celebrated with much enthusiasm and fervor.
ISKCON, Vrindavan
Situated in Vrindavan, ISKCON Vrindavan is among the popular temples in Uttar Pradesh. ISKCON stands for ‘International Society for Krishna Consciousness’ established by A. C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada, with an aim to encourage devotion to Lord Krishna and towards teachings of the Bhagavad Gita. ISKCON Vrindavan worships Lord Krishna as a divine couple with his consort, Radha. Situated at the place where Lord Krishna and his brother Balaram spent their childhood, the temple attracts numerous devotees throughout the year who come here to experience the glory of Vrindavan and feel closer to Lord Krishna.
ISKCON Vrindavan, apart from being a center of devotion and adoration for the god, is also very pleasing to look at aesthetically. With beautiful architecture and its location along the River Ganges, altogether provide an enchanting experience on a visit. Built using white marble, the temple is one of the most beautiful structures in Vrindavan, displaying a mesmerizing spread of intricately carved domes, walls, and stairways; this temple is something you must explore on your visit to Uttar Pradesh’s Vrindavan.
Radha Raman Temple, Vrindavan
The Radha Raman Temple at Vrindavan is a popular Hindu temple in Uttar Pradesh that you must visit on your tour to the state. The presiding deity of the temple, Lord Krishna is worshiped at the temple as Radha-Raman, the beloved of Radha. Here, the divine love and adoration of Radha towards Lord Krishna is celebrated. The deity which exists in the temple at the Radha Raman Temple is believed to be a ‘Swayambhu’, or a self-manifested one.
This famous temple of Vrindavan is said to have been constructed on a request by Gopal Bhatt Goswami, a follower of the Vaishnava saint, Chaitanya Mahaprabhu at around 1542 AD. An exquisitely crafted temple of Vrindavan, the temple is a highly revered one for the followers of Gaudiya Vaishnavism. The temple houses a deity of Lord Krishna made of Shaligram that is the most important feature of the temple of Radha Raman.
Prem Mandir, Vrindavan
As the name suggests, Prem Mandir is yet another temple that celebrates the divine love of Lord Krishna and his consort Radha. It is a popular hindu temple at Vrindavan and is maintained by Jagadguru Kripalu Parishat, a non-profit trust. Built along the outskirts of the town, the temple celebrates the love between Lord Ram and Goddess Sita as well. This pilgrimage site in Uttar Pradesh’s Vrindavan was established by Kripalu Maharaj, the fifth Jagadguru. A Jagadguru is a spiritual and philosophical leader who is responsible for spreading the teachings about Sanatana Dharma to the world.
The temple is made out of white marble and has intricately carved structures throughout. With a manicured garden as well, walking around the temple complex is bound to be a really healing experience. Apart from the daily rituals that take place at the temple, Prem Mandir also organizes a light show that showcases the story of the divine couple of Radha-Krishna. One of the temples that you must visit on your tour to Vrindavan, the Prem Mandir is an experience you will come to cherish.
The land of Lord Rama, Lord Krishna, Lord Shiva, and many many more, Uttar Pradesh’s temples offer a fun expedition for the devotees and the curious visitors alike. From ancient to modern temples, the state has some of the most beautiful temples in the country that make coming to the state a worthwhile experience, one that you will not forget so easily. With the holy rivers flowing along the state, Uttar Pradesh truly stands blessed by the gods. Plan your next tour to the state, and experience the devotion and celebration of Uttar Pradesh.
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About the author
Sharon is a curious human who is always eager to learn about the history and mysteries of places, which she then brings to life with her words. A travel writer at Tour My India, her bucket list keeps expanding every day in search of places to explore.
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