Top 12 Famous Temples in Uttar Pradesh to Visit
Uttar Pradesh, the heartland of India, is not only steeped in history and culture but also boasts a rich spiritual legacy with many magnificent temples scattered across its landscape. From the sacred banks of the Ganges in Varanasi to the historic city of Mathura, Uttar Pradesh is home to some of the most revered Hindu pilgrimage sites in the country.
List of Temples in Uttar Pradesh
12 Best Temples to Visit in Uttar Pradesh
Explore the list of 12 famous temples in Uttar Pradesh that guide you through the spiritual heartland of India; here are those 12 temples:
1. Ram Janmabhoomi Temple | Ayodhya
Since it is the birthplace of Lord Rama, a prominent Hindu deity and the seventh incarnation of Lord Vishnu, Ram Janmabhoomi is held in the highest regard. Renowned for his integrity, values, and filial devotion.
- Best Time to Visit: October to December.
- Temple Timings: 7:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., 3:00 p.m. to 4 p.m. and 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.- Every day.
- How to Reach: The nearest town is Ayodhya, accessible by road.
- Nearby Railway Station: Ayodhya Junction Railway Station.
- Nearby Airport: Gorakhpur Airport.
- Nearby Bus Station: Ayodhya bus stand.
2. Banke Bihari Temple | Vrindavan
One of the most visited temples in Uttar Pradesh, devoted to Lord Krishna. Here, the words "Banke" and "Bihari," which refer to the temple's Tribhanga-posing idol of Lord Krishna and "enjoyer," respectively, indicate "bent in three places."
- Best Time to Visit: October to March.
- Temple Timings: 10:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. and 6:00 p.m. to 9 p.m. - Every day.
- How to Reach: The nearest city is Mathura, accessible by road.
- Nearby Railway Station: Vrindavan Railway Station.
- Nearby Airport: Kheria Airport.
- Nearby Bus Station: Vrindavan bus station.
Know more about:
3. Kashi Vishwanath Temple | Varanasi
Dedicated to Lord Shiva, this ancient temple holds immense spiritual significance for millions of devotees who visit it seeking blessings. The history dates back to ancient times, with its origins shrouded in mythological legends and religious lore.
- Best Time to Visit: November to February.
- Temple Timings: 2:30 a.m. to 11 p.m. - Every day.
- How to Reach: The nearest city is Varanasi, accessible by road.
- Nearby Railway Station: Varanasi Cantonment Station and Kashi Railway Station.
- Nearby Airport: Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport.
- Nearby Bus Station: Varanasi Cantt bus station.
4. Tulsi Manas Temple | Varanasi
Built to honour the Hindu poet and philosopher Goswami Tulsidas, the city's Tulsi Manas Temple honours Lord Rama. Fragments of verse from Tulsidas' Ramcharitmanas are etched into the temple's marble walls.
- Best Time to Visit: May to September.
- Temple Timings: 5:30 a.m. to 12:00 noon, and 3:30 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. - Every day.
- How to Reach: The nearest city is Varanasi, accessible by road.
- Nearby Railway Station: Varanasi Cantonment Station and Kashi Railway Station.
- Nearby Airport: Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport.
- Nearby Bus Station: Varanasi Cantt bus station.
5. Krishna Janmabhoomi Temple | Mathura
Since Lord Krishna, a significant figure in Hinduism, made his earthly appearance and graced the planet with his presence there, the Krishna Janmabhoomi Temple is another significant and well-known temple in the state of Uttar Pradesh.
- Best Time to Visit: September to March.
- Temple Timings: 4:30 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. - Every day.
- How to Reach: The nearest town in Mathura can take a cab or taxi.
- Nearby Railway Station: Mathura Junction Railway Station.
- Nearby Airport: Indira Gandhi International Airport.
- Nearby Bus Station: Mathura bus station.
6. Shri Rangnath Ji Mandir | Vrindavan
Shri Rangnath Ji Mandir honours Lord Rangnath, an incarnation of Lord Krishna. Sri Rangadeshik Swamiji built this temple in 1851 using a South Indian style of temple architecture, drawing inspiration from the Sri Varadaraja Temple in Kanchipuram.
- Best Time to Visit: October to March.
- Temple Timings: 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon, and 3:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. - Every day.
- How to Reach: The nearest city is Varanasi, accessible by road.
- Nearby Railway Station: Vrindavan Railway Station.
- Nearby Airport: Indira Gandhi International Airport.
- Nearby Bus Station: Vrindavan bus station.
7. Maa Vindhyavasini Temple | Mirzapur
Here, the goddess, Goddess Vindhyavasini, is adored as one of the nation's Shakti Peethas, or hallowed shrines devoted to worshipping goddess Sati, a manifestation of goddess Durga and her supernatural powers.
- Best Time to Visit: October to March.
- Temple Timings: 5:00 a.m. to 12 noon, and 1:30 p.m. to 7:15 p.m. - Every day.
- How to Reach: The nearest city is Mirzapur, accessible by road.
- Nearby Railway Station: Mirzapur Railway Station.
- Nearby Airport: Lal Bahadur Shastri Airport.
- Nearby Bus Station: Vindyachal bus stand.
8. Dudeshwar Nath Temple | Ghaziabad
The presiding deity of the temple, Lord Shiva, is the object of devotion at Dudheshwar Nath Mandir. One of the oldest temples in Ghaziabad, this Hindu temple in is believed to be thousands of years old and is dedicated to the goddess Lakshmi.
- Best Time to Visit: April to September.
- Temple Timings: 4:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon, 5:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. - Every day.
- How to Reach: The nearest town is Modinagar, accessible by road.
- Nearby Railway Station: Mirzapur Railway Station.
- Nearby Airport: Indira Gandhi International Airport.
- Nearby Bus Station: BRTS bus stand.
9. Sankat Mochan Hanuman Mandir | Varanasi
This Temple is dedicated to the Hindu deity Hanuman, who is revered as a devoted disciple of Lord Rama. The name "Sankat Mochan" implies "reliever of troubles," people who visit the temple in pain will almost surely leave with a positive attitude.
- Best Time to Visit: October to March.
- Temple Timings: 5:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon 3:00 p.m. to 12 a.m. - Every day.
- How to Reach: The nearest city is Varanasi, accessible by road.
- Nearby Railway Station: Varanasi Cantonment Station and Kashi Railway Station.
- Nearby Airport: Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport.
- Nearby Bus Station: Varanasi Cantt bus station.
10. ISKCON Temple | Vrindavan
The International Society for Krishna Consciousness, or ISKCON, was founded by A. C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada to promote devotion to Lord Krishna and the Bhagavad Gita's teachings.
- Best Time to Visit: February to April.
- Temple Timings: 4:10 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. - Every day.
- How to Reach: The nearest city is Varanasi, accessible by road.
- Nearby Railway Station: Vrindavan Railway Station.
- Nearby Airport: Indira Gandhi International Airport.
- Nearby Bus Station: Vrindavan bus station.
11. Radha Raman Temple | Vrindavan
The beloved of Radha is the avatar of Lord Krishna, the temple's chief deity. This place commemorates Radha's heavenly devotion to Lord Krishna. It is thought that the god housed in the Radha Raman Temple is a "Swayambhu," or a self-manifested one.
- Best Time to Visit: October to April.
- Temple Timings: 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. and 3:00 p.m. to 9 p.m.- Every day.
- How to Reach: The nearest city is Varanasi, accessible by road.
- Nearby Railway Station: Vrindavan Railway Station.
- Nearby Airport: Indira Gandhi International Airport.
- Nearby Bus Station: Vrindavan bus station.
12. Prem Mandir | Vrindavan
Another temple honouring the divine love of Lord Krishna and his spouse, Radha is called Prem Mandir. A popular Hindu temple in Vrindavan, it is looked for by the non-profit Jagadguru Kripalu Parishat.
- Best Time to Visit: October to December.
- Temple Timings: 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. and 4:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.- Every day.
- How to Reach: The nearest city is Varanasi, accessible by road.
- Nearby Railway Station: Vrindavan Railway Station.
- Nearby Airport: Indira Gandhi International Airport.
- Nearby Bus Station: Vrindavan bus station.
Uttar Pradesh, India, boasts a rich cultural and religious heritage, with numerous temples that attract pilgrims and tourists alike. From the grandiosity of the Kashi Vishwanath Temple in Varanasi to the serene ambience of the Prem Mandir in Vrindavan, each temple offers a unique experience steeped in spirituality and history.
FAQs about Temples to Visit in Uttar Pradesh, India
Are there any specific safety tips to keep in mind while visiting temples?
Yes, while visiting temples, it's essential to keep your belongings secure and be mindful of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas. Avoid engaging with aggressive touts or beggars outside the temple premises. Additionally, follow any safety guidelines provided by temple authorities to ensure a pleasant and secure visit.
How can I learn more about the history and significance of the temples in Uttar Pradesh?
Many temples in Uttar Pradesh offer guided tours or informational plaques that provide insights into their history and significance. You can also research online or purchase guidebooks that delve into the cultural and religious importance of the temples you plan to visit.
Are there any specific rituals or customs to be aware of when visiting temples in Uttar Pradesh?
Yes, each temple in Uttar Pradesh may have its own set of rituals and customs. It's a good idea to familiarise yourself with the basic practices of Hindu temple etiquette, such as removing your shoes before entering the inner sanctum, offering prayers, and making offerings if desired.
Which temple is famous in Uttar Pradesh?
One of the most well-known and revered temples in the centre of Varanasi, the oldest city still standing in the world, is Kashi Vishwanath Temple.
Which city is known as the city of temples in UP?
Varanasi, often called Banaras or Kashi, is the city that is referred to as the "City of Temples".
Which is the largest temple in Uttar Pradesh?
Prem Mandir is a Hindu temple devoted to the incarnations of Maha Vishnu, the Vaishnavite Supreme Deity, as Radha Krishna and Sita Ram.
Which temple is famous for Shiva in UP?
One of India's most venerated Shiva temples, Kashi Vishwanath is situated in the state of Uttar Pradesh's holy city of Varanasi.
What is the significance of the Kashi Vishwanath Temple in Varanasi?
The Kashi Vishwanath Temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is one of the holiest Hindu temples in India. It is believed that a visit to this temple and a dip in the sacred Ganges River can help attain moksha.
Which is the most well-known destination for Hindu pilgrims in Uttar Pradesh?
Uttar Pradesh's Varanasi is one of the most well-known pilgrimage destinations in India as well as a well-liked travel destination. The city is also known as Kashi and Banaras, after the rivers Varuna and Assi.
Where can one find India’s most ancient place of pilgrimage?
Varanasi, in the state of Uttar Pradesh, is home to the Vishwanath Temple. It is India's oldest place of pilgrimage.