Uttar Pradesh, the land of diverse cultures, rich history, and breathtaking landscapes, is a treasure trove of experiences waiting to be discovered. February, with its pleasant weather, serves as the perfect backdrop for exploring this vibrant state.
From the spiritual ghats of Varanasi to the architectural marvels of Lucknow, each destination offers a unique glimpse into the heart of India. This blog takes you on a journey through the 12 best places to visit in Uttar Pradesh during February, promising an unforgettable blend of adventure, spirituality, and cultural enrichment.
Uttar Pradesh’s February: Top Destinations to Explore
1. Agra: The Eternal Symbol of Love
Agra, home to the iconic Taj Mahal, is an unmissable stop on any journey through Uttar Pradesh. This monument of love, built by Emperor Shah Jahan for his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal, stands as a testament to the grandeur of Mughal architecture.
The cool February climate provides the perfect setting to admire the Taj Mahal’s white marble façade as it glimmers under the soft winter sun. Beyond the Taj, Agra Fort, and Fatehpur Sikri offer glimpses into the rich history of the Mughal Empire.
Tourist Attractions: The Taj Mahal, Agra Fort, and Fatehpur Sikri.
How to Reach Agra:
- By Air: Agra’s Kheria Airport is connected with a few Indian cities, making it a convenient option for domestic travelers. However, for international tourists, the Indira Gandhi International Airport in Delhi, about 220 km away, is the preferred entry point, followed by a road or train journey to Agra.
- By Rail: Agra is well-connected by train services to cities across India. Agra Cantt Station (AGC) is the main railway station, serving trains from Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, and Chennai among others.
- By Road: The Yamuna Expressway and National Highway 19 (NH 19) make road trips to Agra fast and comfortable. Regular bus services are available from Delhi, Jaipur, Lucknow, and other nearby cities.
2. Varanasi: The Spiritual Heart of India
Varanasi, one of the world’s oldest inhabited cities, offers a profound spiritual experience. The city’s ghats, bustling with life during the cool February mornings, provide a picturesque setting for boat rides on the Ganges.
Witnessing the Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat is a mesmerizing experience, where the air fills with chants, and hundreds of lit lamps float on the river, creating a serene atmosphere.
Tourist Attractions: The Ghats, Kashi Vishwanath Temple, and Sarnath.
How to reach Varanasi:
- By Air: Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport, located about 25 km from the city center, connects Varanasi with major Indian cities and some international destinations.
- By Rail: Varanasi Junction (also known as Varanasi Cantt Railway Station) and other city stations like Manduadih provide extensive rail links, making it accessible from all parts of India.
- By Road: National Highways 19 and 31 connect Varanasi to cities across Uttar Pradesh and neighboring states. Bus services, including luxury and state buses, are available from major cities.
3. Lucknow: The City of Nawabs
Lucknow, known for its refined culture, exquisite cuisine, and remarkable monuments, such as the Bara Imambara and Chota Imambara, is a testament to the rich legacy of the Nawabs of Awadh.
The city’s architectural beauty, combined with the pleasant weather of February, makes it an ideal time for heritage walks. The famous Tunday Kababi and other Awadhi delicacies offer a culinary journey not to be missed.
Also read: Must-Visit Destinations Around Kanpur
Tourist Attractions: Bara Imambara, Chota Imambara, and the Rumi Darwaza.
How to Reach Lucknow:
- By Air: Chaudhary Charan Singh International Airport offers flights to major cities in India and some international flights, facilitating easy access to Lucknow.
- By Rail: Lucknow is a major railway hub with several stations, including Lucknow NR (Northern Railway) and Lucknow Junction (NE), connecting it to all parts of India.
- By Road: Lucknow is well-connected by the Agra-Lucknow Expressway and National Highway 27, with regular bus services from surrounding cities.
4. Mathura and Vrindavan: The Land of Lord Krishna
Celebrating the birthplace of Lord Krishna, Mathura and Vrindavan are imbued with spiritual fervor, especially during February, when the Holi festivities begin.
The Banke Bihari Temple in Vrindavan becomes the center of celebrations, with devotees gathering from across the globe to partake in the vibrant festivities, making it a colorful time to visit.
Tourist Attractions: Shri Krishna Janmabhoomi Temple, Prem Mandir, and Banke Bihari Temple.
How to Reach Mathura & Vrindavan:
- By Air: The nearest major airport is Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport, about 145 km away. From Delhi, you can take a train or drive to Mathura.
- By Rail: Mathura Junction is a major railway station, well-connected with cities across India, making it easy to reach by train.
- By Road: The Yamuna Expressway provides a direct and fast route from Delhi to Mathura. State-run and private buses ply regularly between Mathura and major cities.
5. Sarnath: Where Buddha Preached His First Sermon
Sarnath, a short drive from Varanasi, is a significant pilgrimage site for Buddhists. It is here that Lord Buddha delivered his first sermon after attaining enlightenment.
The Dhamek Stupa and the Sarnath Museum, housing ancient Buddhist artifacts, offer a peaceful retreat, especially in the mild February weather.
Tourist Attractions: Dhamek Stupa, Sarnath Museum, and the Chaukhandi Stupa.
How to Reach Sarnath:
- By Air: The nearest airport is in Varanasi, Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport, from where Sarnath is a short drive away.
- By Rail: Varanasi Junction is the nearest major railway station, with good connectivity to Sarnath by local transport.
- By Road: Sarnath is well-connected by road to Varanasi and other cities in Uttar Pradesh, with regular bus and taxi services available.
Sarnath Package: 2 Nights 3 Days Sarnath and Varanasi Trip Itinerary
6. Allahabad (Prayagraj): The Sangam City
Allahabad, or Prayagraj, is famed for the confluence of the Ganges, Yamuna, and the mythical Saraswati rivers. The Magh Mela, a mini-Kumbh Mela, takes place in February, drawing millions of pilgrims seeking to bathe in the holy waters. The Allahabad Fort and Anand Bhavan add historical depth to the spiritual journey.
Tourist Attractions: Triveni Sangam, Allahabad Fort, and Anand Bhavan.
How to Reach Allahabad:
- By Air: Bamrauli Airport (Prayagraj Airport) serves Allahabad, with flights from major cities in India.
- By Rail: Allahabad Junction is one of the major railway stations in India, with extensive train connections.
- By Road: National Highway 19 and other major roads connect Allahabad with the rest of Uttar Pradesh and India. Regular bus services are available from major cities.
7. Jhansi: The Gateway to Bundelkhand
Jhansi, synonymous with the valiant queen Rani Lakshmibai, offers a slice of India’s freedom struggle. The Jhansi Fort, standing tall against the backdrop of February’s clear skies, narrates tales of bravery. The Jhansi Museum provides insights into the rich cultural heritage of Bundelkhand.
Tourist Attractions: Jhansi Fort, Rani Mahal, and the Government Museum.
How to Reach Jhansi:
- By Air: The nearest major airport is in Gwalior (about 103 km away) or Lucknow (about 300 km away). From there, one can take a train or a bus to Jhansi.
- By Rail: Jhansi Junction is a major railway station on the Delhi-Chennai and Delhi-Mumbai main lines, connecting it with major Indian cities.
- By Road: Jhansi is well-connected by the National Highway 27 and other state highways, with regular bus services from cities like Delhi, Lucknow, and Kanpur.
8. Ayodhya: The Birthplace of Lord Rama
Ayodhya, a city steeped in myth and legend, is believed to be the birthplace of Lord Rama. The serene atmosphere of February is ideal for exploring the Ram Janmabhoomi temple, Hanuman Garhi, and the Kanak Bhawan. The city, with its deep spiritual significance, offers a journey back in time to the era of the Ramayana.
Tourist Attractions: Ram Janmabhoomi temple, Hanuman Garhi, and Kanak Bhawan.
How to Reach Ayodhya:
- By Air: Ayodhya’s accessibility has greatly improved with the inauguration of Maharishi Valmiki International Airport, Ayodhya Dham, alongside existing options in Lucknow and Varanasi. This new facility offers direct connections to major Indian cities, making it a significant boon for both pilgrims and tourists seeking a direct and convenient route to this historic city.
- By Rail: Ayodhya Junction and the Faizabad Junction railway stations connect the city with various parts of India, making train travel a convenient option.
- By Road: Ayodhya is accessible by National Highway 27 and state highways, with regular bus services from Lucknow, Varanasi, and other cities.
9. Fatehpur Sikri: The Forgotten Capital
Fatehpur Sikri, built by Emperor Akbar, stands as a remarkable example of Mughal architecture. This UNESCO World Heritage Site, with its imposing Buland Darwaza and the exquisite marble tomb of Salim Chishti, is best explored in the mild weather of February, away from the scorching heat of the summer months.
Tourist Attractions: Buland Darwaza, Jama Masjid, and the tomb of Salim Chishti.
Read More: 10 Best Places to Visit in Fatehpur Sikri, Uttar Pradesh
How to Reach Fatehpur Sikri:
- By Air: The nearest major airport is Agra’s Kheria Airport, followed by a road journey to Fatehpur Sikri.
- By Rail: Fatehpur Sikri has its railway station, but Agra Cantt Station is the preferred station due to better connectivity. From Agra, you can reach Fatehpur Sikri by road.
- By Road: Located just about 40 km from Agra, Fatehpur Sikri is easily accessible by road. Buses and taxis are readily available from Agra.
10. Kushinagar: The Final Resting Place of Buddha
Kushinagar, where Lord Buddha attained Mahaparinirvana, is a significant pilgrimage site for Buddhists. The Mahaparinirvana Temple, housing a reclining statue of Buddha, and the Ramabhar Stupa, marking the cremation site, are serene locations that offer a moment of reflection.
Tourist Attractions: Mahaparinirvana Temple, Ramabhar Stupa, and Kushinagar Museum.
Read More: Top 10 Places to See in Kushinagar, Uttar Pradesh
How to Reach Kushinagar:
- By Air: The nearest airport is Gorakhpur, about 50 km away, connecting Kushinagar to several Indian cities.
- By Rail: The nearest railway stations are in Gorakhpur, providing good connectivity to Kushinagar through buses and taxis.
- By Road: Kushinagar is accessible by National Highway 28, with regular bus services from Gorakhpur and other major cities in Uttar Pradesh.
Kushinagar Package: Kushinagar 01-Day Tour itinerary
11. Chitrakoot: The Spiritual Wilderness
Chitrakoot, on the border of Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh, holds immense significance in Hindu mythology. The tranquil ghats, dense forests, and sacred sites, such as the Kamadgiri Temple and the Ramghat, provide a serene escape into nature and spirituality. The cool and pleasant February weather enhances the experience, making it a perfect time for spiritual retreats and nature walks.
Tourist Attractions: Kamadgiri Temple, Ramghat, and Hanuman Dhara.
Read More: Chitrakoot, Uttar Pradesh, Best Guide & Attractions
How to Reach Chitrakoot:
- By Air: The nearest airports are in Prayagraj (about 130 km away) and Khajuraho (about 175 km away). From these airports, Chitrakoot can be reached by road.
- By Rail: Chitrakoot Dham Karwi Railway Station provides connectivity to several major cities, making it accessible by train.
- By Road: Chitrakoot is well-connected by road with major cities in Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh. State-run and private buses ply regularly to Chitrakoot.
Uttar Pradesh in February is a mosaic of cultural festivals, historical exploration, and spiritual journeys. Each destination, with its unique charm and story, invites travelers to delve into the heart of India’s rich heritage and timeless traditions. Whether you’re seeking solace on the ghats of Varanasi, exploring the architectural wonders of Lucknow, or immersing yourself in the colors of Holi in Mathura, Uttar Pradesh offers an unparalleled experience that resonates long after the journey ends.
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