Ambedkar Nagar, a district in the state of Uttar Pradesh, India, is known for its historical significance, cultural heritage, and natural beauty. The district offers a variety of attractions, including ancient temples, historical sites, and serene natural landscapes. Here are some of the best places to visit in Ambedkar Nagar, Uttar Pradesh:
Best Places to Visit
Surah Tal
Surah Tal is a beautiful lake located near the town of Akbarpur in Ambedkar Nagar. The lake is known for its serene environment and scenic beauty, making it a popular spot for picnics and leisure activities. Visitors can enjoy boating, birdwatching, and relaxing by the lake. The area around Surah Tal is lush and green, providing a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life.
- Key Attractions: Scenic lake, serene environment.
- Activities: Boating, picnicking, birdwatching.
- Location: Near Akbarpur, Ambedkar Nagar, Uttar Pradesh.
Kichhauchha Sharif
Kichhauchha Sharif is a famous Sufi shrine located in the village of Kichhauchha. The shrine is dedicated to the revered Sufi saint Hazrat Makhdoom Ashraf Jahangir Simnani, who was known for his spiritual teachings and miracles. The shrine attracts a large number of devotees and tourists, especially during the annual Urs festival. The site is known for its spiritual ambiance and architectural beauty.
- Key Attractions: Sufi shrine, spiritual significance.
- Activities: Worship, attending Urs festival.
- Location: Kichhauchha, Ambedkar Nagar, Uttar Pradesh.
Shravasti Stupa
Shravasti Stupa is an ancient Buddhist site located near Ambedkar Nagar. The stupa is believed to be built by Emperor Ashoka in the 3rd century BCE and is an important pilgrimage site for Buddhists. The site includes the ruins of monasteries and stupas, providing a glimpse into the rich Buddhist heritage of the region. It is a peaceful and serene place, ideal for meditation and reflection.
- Key Attractions: Ancient Buddhist stupa, historical significance.
- Activities: Exploring ruins, meditation.
- Location: Near Ambedkar Nagar, Uttar Pradesh.
Deewan Sahib Dargah
Deewan Sahib Dargah is a prominent Sufi shrine located in Tanda, a town in Ambedkar Nagar. The dargah is dedicated to Hazrat Deewan Sahib, a revered Sufi saint. The shrine is known for its beautiful architecture and spiritual atmosphere. It is a popular place for devotees and tourists seeking blessings and spiritual solace.
- Key Attractions: Sufi shrine, architectural beauty.
- Activities: Worship, attending religious events.
- Location: Tanda, Ambedkar Nagar, Uttar Pradesh.
Ashrafpur Kichhauchha Dargah
Ashrafpur Kichhauchha Dargah is another significant Sufi shrine in Ambedkar Nagar, dedicated to Hazrat Syed Makhdoom Ashraf Jahangir Simnani. The dargah is a major pilgrimage site and attracts thousands of devotees throughout the year. The site is known for its spiritual ambiance and serves as a center for Sufi teachings and practices.
- Key Attractions: Sufi shrine, spiritual ambiance.
- Activities: Worship, attending religious gatherings.
- Location: Ashrafpur Kichhauchha, Ambedkar Nagar, Uttar Pradesh.
Rajesultanpur
Rajesultanpur is a town in Ambedkar Nagar known for its historical and cultural significance. The town is home to several ancient temples and historical sites. Visitors can explore the local markets, enjoy the traditional cuisine, and experience the rich cultural heritage of the region. Rajesultanpur is also known for its vibrant festivals and cultural events.
- Key Attractions: Historical sites, cultural heritage.
- Activities: Exploring temples, shopping for local crafts.
- Location: Rajesultanpur, Ambedkar Nagar, Uttar Pradesh.
Baba Barsathi Das Temple
Baba Barsathi Das Temple is a revered Hindu temple located in Ambedkar Nagar. The temple is dedicated to Baba Barsathi Das, a local saint known for his spiritual teachings and miracles. The temple complex is a peaceful place for worship and meditation. It is a popular destination for devotees and tourists seeking blessings and spiritual guidance.
- Key Attractions: Temple, spiritual significance.
- Activities: Worship, meditation.
- Location: Ambedkar Nagar, Uttar Pradesh.
Mahadev Temple, Akbarpur
The Mahadev Temple in Akbarpur is a historic temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple is known for its beautiful architecture and spiritual ambiance. It attracts a large number of devotees, especially during the festival of Mahashivaratri. The temple’s serene environment and scenic surroundings make it a peaceful place for worship and meditation.
- Key Attractions: Temple architecture, spiritual ambiance.
- Activities: Worship, attending festivals.
- Location: Akbarpur, Ambedkar Nagar, Uttar Pradesh.
Tanda
Tanda is a town in Ambedkar Nagar known for its handloom industry, especially the production of Tanda Silk. The town is a hub for traditional crafts and offers a variety of handwoven fabrics. Visitors can explore the local markets, purchase traditional textiles, and learn about the art of handloom weaving. Tanda is also known for its vibrant cultural festivals and events.
- Key Attractions: Handloom industry, traditional crafts.
- Activities: Shopping for textiles, exploring local culture.
- Location: Tanda, Ambedkar Nagar, Uttar Pradesh.
Shobha Temple
Shobha Temple is a prominent Hindu temple in Ambedkar Nagar, known for its beautiful architecture and serene environment. The temple is dedicated to Goddess Shobha, a form of Goddess Durga. The temple attracts devotees and tourists, especially during the Navratri festival. The temple complex is a peaceful place for worship and meditation.
- Key Attractions: Temple architecture, spiritual significance.
- Activities: Worship, attending festivals.
- Location: Ambedkar Nagar, Uttar Pradesh.
Summary Table
| Place | Description | Key Attraction | Location |
|---|---|---|---|
| Surah Tal | Scenic lake with serene surroundings | Boating, birdwatching | Near Akbarpur |
| Kichhauchha Sharif | Famous Sufi shrine | Spiritual significance, Urs festival | Kichhauchha |
| Shravasti Stupa | Ancient Buddhist site | Historical ruins, meditation | Near Ambedkar Nagar |
| Deewan Sahib Dargah | Prominent Sufi shrine | Architectural beauty, spiritual ambiance | Tanda |
| Ashrafpur Kichhauchha Dargah | Major Sufi shrine | Sufi teachings, spiritual gatherings | Ashrafpur Kichhauchha |
| Rajesultanpur | Town known for historical sites and cultural heritage | Temples, local crafts | Rajesultanpur |
| Baba Barsathi Das Temple | Revered Hindu temple | Spiritual teachings, meditation | Ambedkar Nagar |
| Mahadev Temple, Akbarpur | Historic temple dedicated to Lord Shiva | Temple architecture, worship | Akbarpur |
| Tanda | Town known for handloom industry | Tanda Silk, cultural events | Tanda |
| Shobha Temple | Prominent Hindu temple | Temple architecture, spiritual ambiance | Ambedkar Nagar |
How to Reach Ambedkar Nagar
By Air
The nearest airport to Ambedkar Nagar is Chaudhary Charan Singh International Airport (LKO) in Lucknow, approximately 200 km away. From the airport, visitors can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Ambedkar Nagar.
By Train
Ambedkar Nagar has its own railway station, Akbarpur Junction, which is well-connected to major cities in Uttar Pradesh and India. Trains from Lucknow, Varanasi, and other major cities stop at Akbarpur, making it easily accessible by rail.
By Bus
Ambedkar Nagar is well-connected by road, with regular bus services operated by the Uttar Pradesh State Road Transport Corporation (UPSRTC) and private operators. Buses are available from Lucknow, Varanasi, and other nearby cities.
By Car
Ambedkar Nagar is accessible by road via the National Highway 128 (NH 128) and other state highways. The district has good road connectivity, making it convenient for visitors traveling by car.
Best Time to Visit Ambedkar Nagar
The best time to visit Ambedkar Nagar is during the winter months, from October to February, when the weather is cool and pleasant. These months are ideal for exploring outdoor attractions and enjoying sightseeing activities. The monsoon season (June to September) brings moderate to heavy rainfall, enhancing the natural beauty of the region. The summer months (March to May) can be hot and dry.
Travel Tips
- Local Cuisine: Ambedkar Nagar offers a variety of local North Indian dishes, including traditional sweets like jalebi and peda. Don’t miss trying the local street food, such as chaat and samosa.
- Cultural Etiquette: Ambedkar Nagar has a rich cultural and religious heritage. When visiting temples, shrines, and religious sites, dress modestly and respect local customs and traditions.
- Language: Hindi is the primary language spoken in Ambedkar Nagar, but Urdu and English are also widely understood.
- Currency: The official currency in India is the Indian Rupee (INR). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, but it is advisable to carry some cash for small transactions.
Itinerary Suggestions
One-Day Trip
- Morning: Start your day with a visit to Kichhauchha Sharif to experience the spiritual ambiance. Then, head to Surah Tal for a peaceful time by the lake.
- Afternoon: Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant before visiting the Mahadev Temple in Akbarpur for a spiritual experience. In the afternoon, explore the Deewan Sahib Dargah in Tanda.
- Evening: Conclude your day with a visit to the Tanda market to explore the handloom industry and shop for traditional textiles.
Weekend Getaway
- Day 1: Begin with a morning visit to the Shravasti Stupa for a historical exploration. In the afternoon, visit Ashrafpur Kichhauchha Dargah for spiritual teachings and meditation. In the evening, relax at a local hotel and enjoy local cuisine.
- Day 2: Start with a morning visit to Baba Barsathi Das Temple for a spiritual experience. Then, head to Rajesultanpur to explore the local temples and cultural heritage. In the afternoon, visit Shobha Temple for worship and meditation. End your trip with a visit to the vibrant markets of Ambedkar Nagar.
Ambedkar Nagar’s blend of historical landmarks, spiritual sites, and natural beauty makes it a captivating destination in Uttar Pradesh. Whether you’re interested in exploring ancient shrines, enjoying local culture, or experiencing the serene environment, Ambedkar Nagar offers a variety of experiences for every traveler.
