Uttar Pradesh

Previously known as ‘The Wild West’ of India, Uttar Pradesh has seen some turbulent times, however today it welcomes tourists from around the world. Whilst it is no Rajasthan, where almost every other city is a ‘must visit’, Uttar Pradesh is home to one of the Seven Wonders of the World, The Taj Mahal and the world’s oldest city, Varanasi. A visit here is to experience India in its most superlative form and there are an abundance of sights to see in this varied state. The Hotel Guru's selection of the best places to stay in Uttar Pradesh is wide ranging: from historic to luxury there are plenty of great options for all.

Agra

Have you even been to India if you have not been to the Taj Mahal? So iconic is this labour of love. Resplendent in any light we recommend visiting for sunrise, when it’s alabaster dome turns from white to pink and the ubiquitous crowds and touts are nowhere to be seen. By evening, sit on your rooftop (almost every hotel in Agra has one facing it) and witness it glow, bathed in moonlight.

Fatehpur Sikri, the former capital city of Mughal India is further example of these powerful ruler’s presence here.

Varanasi

Varanasi is a story within itself and not for the faint hearted; however it would be an awful shame to miss. As you walk along its streets you will pass wandering sadhus (religious holy men), ashrams, temples and pilgrims. India has many faces and this is its most ancient identity.

So brave it, and with our pick of hotels you can stay in maximum comfort. If it all gets too much relax by the pool or spa with an aperitif in hand and venture onto the bustling streets when the mood takes you.

Varanasi’s evening aarti is an all-encompassing experience. Take a boat out onto the Ganges and witness this fire spectacular performed in honour of Lord Shiva. In the evening darkness, as you are rowed along the river’s holy waters you will see funeral pyre after funeral pyre, dotted along the ghats surrounded by mourning family members as though huddle around a bonfire. It is a most intimate ritual, and a sobering yet powerful image: one that does not leave the mind's eye quickly.

Lucknow

Though capital of the region, Lucknow is not nearly as popular as either Agra or Varanasi for obvious reasons. But that's no reason to miss it out! Former home of the Nawabs, it boasts the Bara Imambara, beautiful colonial architecture and some fabulous cusine.

Uttar Pradesh, like much of India is almost intolerably hot in summer and exists under a layer of mud during monsoon. Visit between October and March for the best weather and most comfortable stay.

The Hotel Guru's selection of the best places to stay in Uttar Pradesh has it all: from affordable to break the bank luxury there are plenty of great places to stay.

For all out luxury

Uttar Pradesh boasts some of the best hotels in the country and Oberoi Amarvilas and Nadesar Palace are two of them.

• The former, a modern hotel with all the mod cons and the best views of the Taj Mahal that money can buy – right from your bed.
• The latter is a haven of tranquillity in mango and jasmine orchards; with award winning spa and fine dining is a world away from chaotic Varanasi.

For affordable luxury

If your budget does not quite stretch to such dizzying heights there are still plenty of excellent accommodation options at an incredibly inviting price. World-renowned names, like the Taj and Oberoi groups providing reliable stops to rest one’s travel-weary head.

• Be it The Trident Agra or The Gateway Hotel Fatehabad in Agra, both providing a luxurious, contemporary stay
• or the Taj Gateway Hotel Ganges Varanasi offering excellent value. Great for families and couples.

Still not sure which to book? From contemporary to heritage browse through our list of the best places to stay in Uttar Pradesh to start to plan your trip. Or contact one of our friendly gurus for advice.

Weather

Monthly Weather in Uttar Pradesh