Road Trips to World Heritage Sites in Uttar Pradesh

This Northern State of India is a land of diversity in the truest sense. Uttar Pradesh is also often called the blessed land since this place cradled religions and helped them evolve profoundly. Occupying a vast expanse in the map of India, this State has allured tourists from all over the world since times immemorial. That’s why you’d see a congregation of UNESCO world heritage sites in Uttar Pradesh. From being the favourite place of the Mughals to build some astounding monuments to being the birthplace of Hindu Gods, from being the platform of rich handicrafts and fine arts to being famous for its cuisines – this place offers something to everyone.  And if you are planning to explore this amazing historic culturally enriched place, a good way to start your journey would be to visit the heritage sites that proudly put the State in the world map. These sites attract tourists from all over the world – so be prepared to face a crowd.

Quick Tips to Remember: 

Best time to visit Uttar Pradesh

Though it’s beautiful and accessible throughout the year, October to March is the most preferred period to visit the tourist destinations in Uttar Pradesh. 

Speciality of Uttar Pradesh

It’s the birth place of Hindu Lords Ram and Krishna, and prides in having Taj Mahal, known to be one of the seven wonders of the world.

Prominent Heritage Sites in Uttar Pradesh

• Taj Mahal
• Agra Fort
• Fatehpur Sikri

Every place in Uttar Pradesh has a strong persona and character. The vibe of Lucknow would be very different from that of Agra, and so on. So much is the richness of this state in terms of culture and tradition, that once you visit all these historical places in Uttar Pradesh, even if you were never interested in history, you shall feel enthralled and enriched. So, Incase you’re ready to explore and thinking about the list of places to visit near me when you’re in Uttar Pradesh, here’s a list of the UNESCO heritage sites:

1. Taj Mahal

Guess why is Taj Mahal listed first? Because you just couldn’t visit Uttar Pradesh and not go to this mind-blowing monument in Agra that was built by the Mughal emperor Shahjahan for his beloved, Mumtaz. One of the seven wonders of the world, it’s also tagged as the symbol of love. The snow white sparkling marbles of the Taj Mahal and the magical beauty surrounding it can make you fall in love with it instantly. Once you visit here, you’ll surely believe that there’s no other place in the entire world with so much beauty and elegance. The beauty of this magnificent monument is believed to peak on a Full Moon night, and if you are in the area on or around a full moon, don’t miss to bathe in the aura of the mystical beauty. The tourist desk on site shall advise you about the daytime and evening hours, and you can even get your ticket there.

Quick Information About Taj Mahal:

Location:- Agra (On the banks of river Yamuna ), Uttar Pradesh

Year of Construction:- 1631 – 1653

Built By:- Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan

Opening Time:-  

• Daytime:- 06:00 am to 06:30 pm
• Night Time:- 08:30 pm to 12:30 am
• Remember:- Taj Mahal is closed on Fridays.

Entry Fee: –

• Indian –  INR 45 ( Additional INR 200 to see the main mausoleum)
• SAARC and BIMSTEC – INR 535 ( Additional INR 200 to see the main mausoleum)
• Foreigner – INR 1050 (Additional NR 200 to see the main mausoleum)
• Children Below Age 15 – Free

2. Agra Fort

Agra Fort was built back in 1565 AD by the Mughal emperor Akbar, this site is a symbol of power, glory and resilience. It served as the main central place of the Mughals and stayed as the capital for a long time (after which the capital was shifted to Delhi). This fort is renowned for its architecture. Built with exclusive red sandstones, it’s also called the Lal Qila or Qila -E- Akbari. The fabulous work done speaks of the aesthetic sense of the builders of the fort, and its unique beauty speaks of the perfection of the workers of the then time and the great taste of their kings. The massive fort consisted of various Mahals, Masjids and surprisingly also water containing rooms that made the palace stay cooler during the summer season. The Diwan-i-Aam or the Hall for Public Audience is where the emperor received his subjects and would take you back time travelling to history. This huge fort took around eight years and 1, 44,400 workers for completion. Today a portion of the fort is used by the Indian Army and visitors to this area are restricted. This site is open to visitors from sunrise to sunset.

Quick Information About Agra Fort:

Location:- Agra, Uttar Pradesh

Year of Construction:- 1565 – 1573

Built By:- Mughal Emperor Akbar

Opening Time:-  

• Daytime:- 06:00 am to 06:30 pm

Entry Fee: –

• Indian –  INR 35 
• SAARC and BIMSTEC – INR 35 
• Foreigner – INR 550 
• Children Below Age 15 – Free

3. Fatehpur Sikri

One of the best heritage sites in UP, Fatehpur Sikri is the city built by Emperor Akbar during the 15^th century, and has its own grandeur and elegance. It’s a place that’s rich in culture and is one of the prominent historical destinations of Uttar Pradesh. Including essential architectural sites like the Jama Masjid, the Buland Darwaza, Ibadat Khana (Place of Worship), The Tomb of Salim Chishti and many such places of interest, this city is totally a visual treat for the history lovers. However, excavations of the Archaeological Survey of India have proven existence of life and living even before the Mughals established their kingdom in this place. But there is no doubt in the fact that the Mughals gave the place the glory it basks in. The cultural significance also lies in the fact that the place saw the birth of a new religion – Din-i-Ilahi, propagated by Akbar, that combined the thoughts of various religions. The aim was to unify people under one single umbrella of thoughts and beliefs. The exclusive architecture of the city, the story in each step you take and the amazing artistry that went in building some of the structures here would leave.

Quick Information About Fatehpur Sikri:

Location:- Fatehpur Sikri, Uttar Pradesh

Year of Construction:-1571

Built By:- Mughal Emperor Akbar

Opening Time:-  

• Daytime:- 06:00 am to 06:30 pm
• Closed in Friday

Entry Fee: –

• Indian –  INR 40 
• SAARC and BIMSTEC – INR 40 
• Foreigner – INR 550 
• Children Below Age 15 – Free

 This northern State of India has its hands full with gold if you consider the number of Uttar Pradesh heritage sites. From centuries old huge palaces to the oldest and important Masjids and temples, and lots of historical stories in every other nook and corner, this state can certainly keep you in a trance with its rich heritage and history. No wonder UNESCO appreciated its wonderful offerings and marked so many places in this great state as world heritage sites. Get the flexibility in itinerary and freedom of movement with a self drive car rental from Revv. The plans and prices are known for being pocket-friendly with the best of cars at service.