Gorakhpur

With a refined cultural blend of the past and present, Gorakhpur in Uttar Pradesh is a city noted for its lovely natural environment and industrial success. This bowl shaped city of has had a rich cultural heritage and bears testimony to the rise and development of the Aryan civilisation. Located at a distance of around 90 km. from Nepal border, the city is bordered on its western side by River Rapti. Dense sal forests flank the east side and Ramgarh Tal adorns the south. The northern part of the city is the bustling industrial zone. Religions like Hinduism, Islam, Buddhism, Sikhism and Jainism has vital influence on Gorakhpur. It is an important piece of tourist information to note that the city experiences hot and dry summers and cold winters while heavy rain falls during monsoons.

Gorakhpur is located in the Gorakhpur district of Uttar Pradesh and the city derived its name from the Gorakhnath Temple, where saint Gorakhnath preached Hath Yoga. During Vedic period, the place was a territory of the Kosala Kingdom ruled by Lord Rama. Different dynasties like Iksvaku, Sishunaga, Nanda, Shunga, Maurya, Kushana and Gupta ruled the region during different eras. Buddhism has spread a special message in Gorakhpur as it was also the abode of Lord Buddha. Later, the city was associated with Lord Mahavira, the 24th Tirthankara and the creator of Jainism. Other than beautiful temples, the city reflects rich musical culture with Sufi influence. Different folk dance shows and festivals are held in the city round the year.

October to March

Some of the must visit places at Gorakhpur include:

Gorakhpur has many restaurants serving all kinds of Indian, continental and local delicacies. Some of the famous eating joints are Tandoor Food, Hotel Ganesh, Choudhry Hotel and Bobi's Restaurant. The city also has many coffee shops and bistros.

As per our travel guide, the best place to get all your essentials in Gorakhpur is Golghar – the heart of the city. Tourists never miss buying the terracotta items (things made from burnt muddy soil) from this city. For religious books, you can visit Gita Press.

The place is well-connected by road, rail and air. Gorakhpurhas its own airport around 8 km. from the city centre. Alongthe North East line, Gorakhpur railway station is the main rail head, wellconnected to different Indian cities. You can get auto rickshaws and taxis fromthe railway station to the city. Gorakhpuris connected to major cities like Delhi, Agra, Varanasi, Lucknow and othersthrough state owned and private buses. Taxis can also be booked for the purposeof travelling to the city. Getting around is possible through city buses,taxis, cabs, auto-rickshaws and cycle-rickshaws.

Sightseeing in Gorakhpur is a real charm for tourists. However, one can also explore the places nearby for greater enjoyment. This tourist guide reveals all such locations: Kushinagar (about 59 km.): This place has great significance in Buddhism as Lord Buddha attained nirvana here. A large statue of Lord Buddha is constructed at the cremation spot. Kapilvastu (about 117 km.): Kapilvastu is now being developed as an international Buddhist pilgrimage centre. Lord Buddha spent his early life at this place that has many Buddhist constructions, along with several historical religious places of worship with lovely architectural styles. Lumbini (about 93 km.): The birth place of Lord Buddha, Lumbini is in Nepal and an important Buddhist pilgrimage site. Major attractions include Ashoka Pillar and some monasteries built by the delegates of different South Asian countries.

Other spots of excursion from Gorakhpur are Chauri Chaura, Maghar, Pawa Nagar and Tarkulha Devi Mandir.