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Referred
to as the cow belt or the Hindi belt, Uttar Pradesh has been the
most dominant state in Indian politics and culture since
Independence. The Ganges which forms the backbone of the state, is
considered sacred by Hindus, and has seven holy towns including
Varansi, the holiest of the holies. Uttar Pradesh is also of
importance to Buddhists; it was at Sarnath that Buddha first
preached his message.
Most of
Uttar Pradesh consists of the vast Ganges plain, an area which often
floods during the monsoons. In stark contrast to the plains, the
scenic north-western corner has hill stations which offers some of
the best trekking opportunities. The main languages spoken here are
Hindi, Urdu and English.
The highlights of Uttar Pradesh are the Taj Mahal, the Fatehpur
Sikri, the ghats at Varanasi, the hill stations and the Corbett
Tiger Reserve.
Lucknow,
the capital city, is a city rich in culture and history. Built by
the Nawabs, it's a city that takes its manners seriously. Here, the
Bara Imambara, the Chota Imambara, the Residency and the Rumi
Darwaza are the primary draws.
The city
of Agra, home to the world-famous Taj Mahal, is a typically north
Indian city. The Agra Fort a massive red sandstone structure, begun
by Akbar was completed by his grandson Shah Jahan.Known for leather
goods and jewelry, the Sadar Bazar is full of emporiums.
As for the
Taj, this monument of love, is magical at dawn. Its gateway, long
watercourse and minarets make it a thing of eternal beauty.
Mussoorie, Naintal, Ranikhet and Kasauni afford good getaways. Their
scenic beauties and cool climate are a welcome respite from the
sweltering heat of the plains. Best time to visit: October to March. |
