About Uttar Pradesh

Overview

The heartland of India, Uttar Pradesh is home to some of the country's most sacred sites and historical monuments. Visit iconic Taj Mahal in Agra, explore spiritual city of Varanasi, witness grand Kumbh Mela, discover architectural marvels of Lucknow, and experience spiritual significance of Ayodhya. A journey through India's rich heritage.

Cities in Uttar Pradesh

17 places to explore

Upcoming events in Uttar Pradesh

Festivals and celebrations across the state

Govardhan Puja & Annakut (Braj)

Kartik Pratipada in Braj: Annakut food offerings in Vrindavan temples and the 21 km Govardhan Parikrama on 10 November.

Nov 10, 2026
Vrindavan, Uttar Pradesh

Mahindra Kabira Festival

Three days of music, poetry and walks inspired by Kabir at Guleria Kothi and Shivala Ghat, Varanasi, from 4 to 6 December 2026.

Dec 04–06, 2026
Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh

Ganga Mahotsav, Varanasi

Four evenings of classical music, dance and folk performances on the Varanasi ghats from 20 to 23 November 2026, leading into Dev Deepawali on 24 November.

Nov 20–23, 2026
Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh

Ayodhya Deepotsav

Ongoing

The 10th Deepotsav lights up Ram ki Paidi and the Saryu ghats with lakhs of clay lamps from 5 to 7 November 2026. The main lighting is on 7 November, the evening before Diwali.

Nov 05–07, 2026
Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh

Chhath Puja

Riverbank rituals dedicated to the Sun God.

Nov 13–16, 2026
Patna, Bihar

Diwali

Diwali experiences in three of India’s best-known celebration destinations.

Nov 08, 2026
Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh

Holi

Holi is a major Hindu festival celebrated with great enthusiasm across India, symbolizing the arrival of spring, renewal, and the victory of good over evil. The festival begins with Holika Dahan, a ritual bonfire lit the night before Holi that represents the burning of negativity and the triumph of devotion and faith. The following day, known as Rangwali Holi, is marked by people playing with colors (gulal), water, music, and dance, creating a joyful and festive atmosphere. Holi also carries deep cultural and spiritual significance, associated with legends of Lord Krishna and Radha, reflecting love, playfulness, and unity. Traditional sweets like gujiya, malpua, and festive drinks such as thandai are prepared and shared. Beyond celebration, Holi promotes forgiveness, social harmony, and togetherness, as people forget past differences and come together in joy and celebration.

Mar 22, 2027
Mathura, Uttar Pradesh

Banaras Lit Fest

Banaras Lit Fest (Banaras Literature Festival) is an annual cultural and literary event held in Varanasi (Banaras), Uttar Pradesh, celebrating literature, art, culture, and intellectual dialogue. The festival brings together renowned authors, poets, thinkers, artists, and cultural enthusiasts for panel discussions, book readings, poetry sessions, and performances. Set against the historic and spiritual backdrop of Banaras, the festival blends classical traditions with contemporary ideas, making it a significant platform for literary and cultural exchange in India.

Feb 04–07, 2027
Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh

Vasant Panchami

Vasant Panchami marks the arrival of spring and is celebrated with devotion and joy across India. Dedicated to Goddess Saraswati, the deity of wisdom, learning, and arts, the day holds special significance for students and artists. People wear yellow attire, symbolising energy, knowledge, and prosperity. Temples and homes host Saraswati Puja, seeking blessings for intellect and creativity. The festival also signals the blooming of mustard fields and a change in season. Vasant Panchami is observed on the fifth day of the Hindu month of Magha.

Feb 11, 2027
Delhi, Delhi

Magh Mela

The **Magh Mela** is one of India’s most sacred annual gatherings, held at the **Triveni Sangam** in Prayagraj - the holy confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and the mythical Saraswati. While the grand Kumbh occurs in cycles, the Magh Mela brings this same spiritual energy to the riverbanks **every year** during the Hindu month of Magh (January–February)

Jan 14, 2027–Mar 06, 2027
Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh