Uttar Pradesh accommodation from AU$54

A visit to Uttar Pradesh allows you to experience the very heart and soul of India. This is the centre of the country’s politics, but more importantly for tourists, it is exceptionally rich in history and culture, giving you an almost endless amount of local attractions to visit. Prepare to be so swept up by the beauty of its sights and atmosphere that you’ll need to extend your stay in our Uttar Pradesh accommodation before you leave again. This northern state borders Nepal and gives you the Taj Mahal in busy Agra, the serene location of Buddha’s first teachings in Sarnath, and everything in between. If there is one region that sums up how incredible India really is, it’s Uttar Pradesh.

The best place to base yourself and start your journey to India is Agra, which has no fewer than three UNESCO World Heritage Sites, or Delhi, which isn’t technically in the state but will serve you well. Pick Agra if you want to be within shouting distance of two of India’s most astounding sights (Taj Mahal and the immense Agra Fort), and go for Delhi if you’re a city slicker who wants some modern fun like nightclubs, markets and premiere restaurants to go along with the culture.

From those two cities you can have fun-filled days exploring and easily jump on a train or bus to branch out to other great corners of Uttar Pradesh. Varanasi in the state’s southeast is an adventure filled with majestic stone walls and towers of old temples lining the River Ganga, where Hindu pilgrims bathe in the sacred water. This is one of the world’s longest inhabited cities and it shows! Beautiful architecture and rivers are a common theme in the state’s captivating cities, from big Allahabad, where you can zip around the streets on rickshaws; to Jhansi, near forts and towns along the Betwa River that are a photographer’s paradise.

Uttar Pradesh is not just a visual treat it is also a feast for the stomach. This is where the famous Indian snacks of chaat (spices, yoghurt and fried dough) and samosa (pastry) originated, and also its kebabs. This is just touching the surface, there’s also delicious Awadhi food and Muslim cuisine on offer, so don’t be surprised if every meal you have is mind-blowing.

To get into the state, it’s easiest to grab a flight to Delhi. From there, the train ride to other parts of the region are adventures within themselves.

So grab a flight to India and your choice of our Uttar Pradesh hotels. A few simple clicks and you’re all set to visit one of the most visually and culturally rich places in the world.