Top 6 Must-Visit Temples in Uttar Pradesh for a Divine Experience

Uttar Pradesh (UP) is one of the largest states and an important pilgrimage centre in India. Some of the temples in Uttar Pradesh are famous across the country. The state is the cradle of Indian civilisation, the archive of spirituality, and the container of ancient wisdom slowly accumulated over the years. Unsurprisingly, the city is home to some of the country's most revered religious sites and temples. 

UP is a state with a grand and rich historical heritage. It holds an important place in the hearts and minds of Hindus, the birthplace of Lord Vishnu's avatars, Lord Ram and Lord Krishna. Besides, Varanasi is considered one of the world's oldest cities.

There are many stunning monuments and other attractions in the state. To experience the true essence of UP and know the intricacies of the local culture and traditions, you must visit the temples in the region. Just the mere sight of these temples, an architectural marvel, the sound of the temple bells, and the sweet fragrance of the incense sticks will make your temple tour unforgettable. 

While there are thousands of temples, here are the six most popular temples that you must not miss at any cost. 

Ram Janmabhoomi Temple, Ayodhya

Ayodhya is one of the most sacred cities in India, as it is considered the birthplace of Lord Ram. It is believed that this place has existed since the beginning of the human race, and legend has it that it was once the centre of activities of the Gods who were present on earth thousands of years ago. 

Lord Ram, the seventh incarnation of Lord Vishnu, was here, and he ruled his kingdom from this town. The Ram Janmabhoomi temple was built in the place where Lord Ram was born, and it is a revered site. Devotees from all over the country and even overseas come here to bow their heads to the lord and seek his blessings. 

The temple is of great religious significance for the Hindu communities. As a tourist, the undeniable spiritual vibe around the temple, accentuated by the constant sound of hymns and the chants of 'Jai Shree Ram', will surely swoon your senses. 

Kashi Vishwanath Temple, Varanasi

Located in the holy city, Varanasi or Benaras, on the banks of the Holy River Ganga, the Kashi Vishwanath Temple is one of India's most important religious centres. One of the 12 jyotirlingas spread across the country, the temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. 

Here, the great lord is worshipped as Vishwanath, the ruler of the universe. The temple holds great religious value for the Hindu communities and devotees of Lord Shiva. The temple even has its mention in the ancient Hindu Vedas and Puruanas. 

The current structure, as it stands, was built by the Queen of Indore, Maharani Ahilya Bai Holkar, in the 18th century. The temple features a Nagara style architecture and is often called 'Golden Temple' because of its golden appearance. 

Every year, lakhs of devotees from India and abroad visit the temple to bow to the lord. Devotees visiting the temple also dip in the River Ganga's holy water. It is believed that bathing in the Holy River washes away all their sins. 

The temple is crowded almost all through the year. Devotees throng in large numbers during the festival of Mahashivratri and Shravan month to witness the stunning rituals of praising the lord. 

Krishna Janmabhoomi Temple, Mathura

Another popular and important religious site in UP, the Krishna Janmabhoomi Temple, is believed to be constructed at the exact place where Lord Krishna was born. Since Lord Krishna is the incarnation of Lord Vishnu, the temple is a revered site, and every year Lakhs of devotees visit the temple. 

An important pilgrimage destination in the country, your visit to the amazing city of Mathura will be incomplete without visiting the temple. The best time to visit the temple is during the Janmashtami festival, as the entire city celebrates it with great fanfare. 

Many rituals are done to celebrate the birth of the lord, and special celebrations take place within the temple premises that are worth seeing. 

Shri Rangnath Ji Mandir, Vrindavan

Dedicated to Lord Rangnath, a form of Lord Krishna, Shri Ranganth Ji Mandir in Vrindavan is a famous temple in UP. Built in 1851 by Sri Rangadeshik Swamiji, the temple’s appearance and structure are very similar to the Varadaraja Temple in Kanchipura, Tamil Nadu. 

At the temple, the lord is shown as a groom, and he has Garuda, the sacred carrier bird, on the left and to his right is Andal, the great sage from the 8th century whom he consents to marry. It is one of the most beautiful temples in UP. Its architecture is a unique and stunning blend of north and south Indian styles. 

The two notable features of the temple are the 30-metre-tall golden pillar at the entrance and the idol of Lord Vishnu relaxing on the Sheesh Nag. The best time to visit the temple is during Holi when the devotees play with colours. It is a colourful sight you will love and cherish. 

Dudheshwar Nath Mandir, Ghaziabad

Dudeshwar Nath Mandir is dedicated to Lord Shiva, and he is worshipped in the form of a Lingam. The temple is said to be thousands of years old, and it has a reputation that any devotee who comes and prays here gets relief from their pain.  

Every day, thousands of people from all over India come here to pray to God and hope to get their wishes granted. Another belief is that doing 'Dudh Abhishekam,' i.e., offering milk to God or pouring milk over Shivlingam, will grant all their wishes and cure their pain. 

Prem Mandir, Vrindavan

Prem Mandir literally means the temple of love. And, as the name says it all, the temple celebrates the divine love of Lord Krishna and his consort Goddess Radha. A popular temple in Vrindavan and UP, it is maintained by a non-profit trust. 

The temple is built on the outskirts of the town. It celebrates the sacred love of Lord Ram and Goddess Sita. An important pilgrimage site in UP, this temple was established by the fifth Jagadguru, Kripalu Maharaj. 

The entire temple structure is made of white marble, and its pristine white appearance is a cynosure to the eye. Also, the intricately carved statues are a testament to the brilliant craftsmanship of the Indian artisans. The temple complex also has a manicured garden, and as you walk around, you are bound to have a soothing feeling. 

Apart from the daily rituals that celebrate the divine love of God and the Goddess, the temple also organises a light show that showcases the love story of Krishna and Radha. 

Thus, the Land of Lord Krishna, Lord Ram, Goddess Sita, Lord Shiva and many more, UP temples offer a beautiful travel experience to devotees and curious visitors. From ancient to modern temples, the state is home to some of the most iconic and beautiful temples in the country that make your time in the state worthwhile.