Lucknow: If you’re looking for a weekend getaway from Lucknow, there are several charming and accessible destinations you can explore. Here are some of the best places close to Lucknow:
1. Dudhwa National Park
- Distance: Approximately 220 km
- Highlights: Dudhwa National Park is a perfect destination for nature and wildlife enthusiasts. It is home to the Bengal tiger, Indian rhinoceros, and a wide variety of bird species. The lush green forests, grasslands, and tranquil rivers make it a peaceful retreat.
- Activities: Jungle safari, bird watching, and nature walks.
2. Naimisharanya
- Distance: Approximately 90 km
- Highlights: Naimisharanya is a spiritual and historical site, known for its religious significance in Hindu mythology. The ancient forest is mentioned in the Puranas and is considered a sacred place for meditation.
- Activities: Visit the sacred Chakratirtha, Hanuman Garhi temple, and Misrikh Teerth. Explore the spiritual atmosphere and participate in religious rituals.
3. Ayodhya
- Distance: Approximately 135 km
- Highlights: Ayodhya, the birthplace of Lord Rama, is a city of immense religious importance for Hindus. The town is dotted with temples and ghats along the Saryu River.
- Activities: Visit the Ram Janmabhoomi Temple, Hanuman Garhi, Kanak Bhawan, and take a stroll along the Saryu River.
4. Varanasi
- Distance: Approximately 320 km
- Highlights: While a bit farther, Varanasi is worth the trip for its spiritual significance, ancient temples, and vibrant ghats. Known as one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, it offers a unique blend of spirituality, culture, and history.
- Activities: Attend the Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat, visit Kashi Vishwanath Temple, explore the narrow lanes of the old city, and take a boat ride on the Ganges.
5. Kushinagar
- Distance: Approximately 330 km
- Highlights: Kushinagar is an important Buddhist pilgrimage site where Lord Buddha attained Parinirvana. The peaceful surroundings and ancient stupas make it a great place for a serene retreat.
- Activities: Visit the Mahaparinirvana Temple, the Ramabhar Stupa, and the Japanese Temple.
6. Faizabad
- Distance: Approximately 130 km
- Highlights: Faizabad, now often considered part of Ayodhya, has historical significance as the former capital of the Nawabs of Awadh. It offers a mix of cultural heritage and religious sites.
- Activities: Visit the Gulab Bari, Bahu Begum ka Maqbara, and explore the remnants of Nawabi architecture.
7. Kanpur
- Distance: Approximately 90 km
- Highlights: Kanpur, a major industrial city, also offers several interesting places to visit, including historical sites, temples, and parks.
- Activities: Visit the Allen Forest Zoo, Kanpur Memorial Church, and the JK Temple. Enjoy a leisurely stroll at Moti Jheel and relax in the green spaces of Phool Bagh.
8. Chitrakoot
- Distance: Approximately 230 km
- Highlights: Chitrakoot is a significant pilgrimage site associated with the Ramayana. The serene environment, hills, and rivers make it a peaceful retreat.
- Activities: Visit the Ramghat, Bharat Milap Temple, and Hanuman Dhara. Explore the Gupt Godavari caves and take a dip in the Mandakini River.
9. Allahabad (Prayagraj)
- Distance: Approximately 200 km
- Highlights: Allahabad, now known as Prayagraj, is famous for the confluence of the Ganges, Yamuna, and the mythical Saraswati rivers. It’s a city rich in history and religious significance.
- Activities: Visit the Triveni Sangam, Allahabad Fort, Anand Bhavan, and the Allahabad Museum.
10. Shrawasti
- Distance: Approximately 160 km
- Highlights: Shrawasti is an ancient city with great significance in Buddhism. It is said to be where Buddha performed many miracles and spent a significant part of his monastic life.
- Activities: Explore the Jetavana Monastery, Anathapindika’s Stupa, and the Shobhnath Temple.
These destinations offer a mix of nature, history, spirituality, and culture, making them ideal for a refreshing weekend getaway from Lucknow.
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