Uttar Pradesh (UP), a land of rich cultural heritage, historic monuments, spiritual landmarks and natural beauty is witnessing an unprecedented tourism boom. The state is projected to welcome 1.3 billion tourists in 2025, doubling last year’s 650 million visitors and nearly tripling 2023’s 480 million arrivals, making UP the most visited state in India.
Key Attractions:
- Taj Mahal (Agra): UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the Seven Wonders of the World.
- Varanasi: One of the world’s oldest living cities, attracting over 11 million visitors annually.
- Ayodhya: Ram Janmabhoomi temple has boosted religious tourism since 2024.
- Prayagraj (Allahabad): Famous for the Maha Kumbh Mela, drawing millions of pilgrims.
- Lucknow: Known for Nawabi culture, cuisine, and historical landmarks.
- Mathura & Vrindavan: Centers of Krishna-centric festivals and temples.
- Dudhwa National Park: Major wildlife sanctuary attracting eco-tourists.
12 Curated Tourism Circuits of Uttar Pradesh
Uttar Pradesh (UP) has developed 12 carefully curated tourism circuits that provide travelers with a structured and immersive way to explore the state’s immense cultural, spiritual, historical, and natural richness. These circuits are thoughtfully designed to connect related destinations, allowing visitors to experience UP’s diversity in an organized manner while promoting sustainable tourism and supporting local economies.
- Krishna Circuit: Focused on the life and teachings of Lord Krishna, this circuit includes Mathura (Krishna’s birthplace), Vrindavan (home to iconic temples like Banke Bihari, ISKCON, and Prem Mandir), Gokul, Barsana, Govardhan, and Nandgaon. Festivals like Janmashtami, Holi, and Radha Ashtami are the best times to visit.
- Buddhist Circuit: Following the journey of Lord Buddha, this circuit covers Sarnath (site of the first sermon), Kushinagar (Mahaparinirvana), Kapilvastu, and Shravasti. It is ideal for spiritual seekers and cultural enthusiasts, with October to March being the best visiting period.
- Ramayana Circuit: Celebrating the life of Lord Rama, this circuit includes Ayodhya (birthplace of Rama), Chitrakoot, and Shringverpur. Festivals like Ram Navami and Deepotsav in Ayodhya enhance the spiritual experience.
- Mahabharata Circuit: Covering important locations from the epic Mahabharata, such as Hastinapur, Kampilya, and Barnawa, this circuit is a must for history enthusiasts and mythological travelers.
- Shaktipeeth Circuit: Devoted to Goddess Durga and Shakti worship, this circuit includes Vindhyachal (Maa Vindhyavasini Devi), Shakumbhari, Jwala Devi, and Kalinjar Fort, attracting devotees especially during Navratri.
- Spiritual Circuit: Major Hindu pilgrimage centers like Varanasi, Prayagraj (Triveni Sangam & Kumbh Mela), Naimisharanya, and Bithoor form this circuit. It is ideal for experiencing rituals, Ganga Aarti, and the spiritual essence of the state.
- Jain Circuit: Highlighting important Jain pilgrimage sites, this circuit includes Hastinapur, Deogarh, and Kundalpur, drawing devotees and history enthusiasts alike.
- Wildlife & Eco-Tourism Circuit: For nature lovers and adventure seekers, this circuit covers Dudhwa National Park, Katarniaghat, and Chandraprabha Wildlife Sanctuary. It offers wildlife safaris, bird-watching, and eco-tourism experiences, especially from November to April.
- Bundelkhand Circuit: Focused on the historic and royal legacy of UP, this circuit includes Jhansi, Orchha, Chitrakoot, and Mahoba. Visitors can explore ancient forts, palaces, and rich cultural heritage, with October to March being the ideal period.
- Awadh Circuit: Celebrating the Nawabi culture, cuisine, and architecture, this circuit features Lucknow, Faizabad, and Barabanki. Festivals, local crafts, and culinary tours add vibrancy to the journey.
- Terai Circuit: Showcasing rich biodiversity, this circuit covers Pilibhit Tiger Reserve, Dudhwa, and Lakhimpur Kheri. It is perfect for wildlife enthusiasts and eco-tourists seeking a close encounter with nature.
- Heritage Arc Circuit: Covering UP’s iconic Golden Triangle, this circuit connects Agra (Taj Mahal, Agra Fort), Lucknow, and Varanasi, blending history, culture, and spirituality in a single immersive experience.
These 12 tourism circuits collectively provide visitors with an extensive insight into UP’s heritage, religion, history, and natural beauty. By organizing travel into circuits, tourists can navigate the state efficiently, enjoy curated experiences, and participate in festivals, cultural events, and eco-tourism activities. At the same time, these circuits support sustainable tourism, local employment, and economic development, ensuring that tourism growth benefits both travelers and local communities while preserving the state’s cultural and natural assets.
