Uttar Pradesh

Located in the northern part of India, Uttar Pradesh boasts about its expansive historical richness and natural splendor to steal your heart away. It also shares an international border with Nepal to its north. Uttar Pradesh holds a reputable position in history for being the birthplace of some of the largest and famous empires of the world. Visit the place to explore the different facets of its beauty and mystery.

Demographics

Uttar Pradesh is one of the most populated states in India, with a population of 190 million. People speak mostly in Hindi and English, since they are the official languages of the state. Besides, there are several other regional Hindi dialects that are spoken, which include Bundeli, Bhojpuri, Awadhi, Bagheli and much more. About 80% of the population makes up the Hindus and the rest 18% are mostly Muslims, with other religions like Sikhs, Buddhists, Christians and Jains making the rest.

Geography

Tucked in the northern most part of India and sharing an international border with Nepal, Uttar Pradesh is fringed by other Indian states like Himachal Pradesh, Haryana, Delhi, Madhya Pradesh, Haryana, Jharkhand and Bihar. The Gangetic Plain in the north makes up the best fertile ground for the entire state. The large stretch of the plain includes Ganga-Yamuna Doab, Ghaghra plains and Ganga plains. Its flat topography to the southern parts and highly fertile alluvial soil make it the most pleasant land for agriculture. The northern areas of Uttar Pradesh comprise the foothills of the Himalayas and dense temperate forests of the Terai region.

Climate

The temperature varies depending upon the elevation, which ultimately determines the climate of the region. The state receives quite a rainfall of 40 to 80 inches in the eastern region and 24 to 40 inches in the western region. Though the state remains bustling with tourists year round, but the peak time to visit the sate is between the months of October and March.

Flora and Fauna

Nearly 12.8% of the total geographical area of Uttar Pradesh is covered by dense forests. The important plants include rhododendrons, betula, dhak, mahua, deodar, chironji, tendu, sisso. The major animals to roam the plain and hills of Uttar Pradesh include tiger, leopard, wild bear, sloth bear, elephant, musk deer, chital, sambhar, jackal, porcupine, jungle cat and fox. Uttar Pradesh is also rich in birdlife – both migratory and residential.

Major Attractions

The major attraction of Uttar Pradesh includes the famous “symbol of love” the Taj Mahal in Agra. Fatehpur Sikhri, the 16th century capital city was built by the Mughal emperor Akbar near Agra. Besides, you will find the holy cities of Varanasi, Ayodha, Mathura and Allahabad. The Dudhwa National Park is famous for the tiger reserves in the country. Uttar Pradesh is an excellent experience abounding in the richness of the historic tales and nature.

Tips

- The temperature varies greatly with the change of season. More so, there is a vast difference between the mornings and the nights. The mornings remain usually foggy and witness a thick layer of smog. Therefore, it is advisable to wear clothes that suites the weather condition.
- Take care of your belongings and do not wear dresses exposing body.
- Cover your head while entering a holy shrine.