Gorakhpur is one of the most captivating cities in the northeastern part of Uttar Pradesh. It is named after Guru Gorakshanath and is known to be the abode of positive energy and marvellous temples. This place has the power to soothe your mind and introduce you to a new spiritual journey. Uttar Pradesh is popular for some of its world-renowned architectural wonders and breathtaking tourist attractions. Though underexplored, Gorakhpur is also a city that you must not ignore when you visit Uttar Pradesh state. These 7 mesmerising places to visit in Gorakhpur are sure to pique your interest, and you can thank us later for bringing them to you!
If you are planning to come to Gorakhpur soon, book your stay at Treebo Hotels. Along with the best steal deals, you can also stay closer to the popular tourist attractions and reduce your commuting time.
Before we introduce you to the tourist places in Gorakhpur, let us discuss the best time to visit the charming city in UP state.
You may also like: here’s the best time to visit Haridwar and dwell in the embrace of the Ganges
Best Time to Visit Gorakhpur
You can visit Gorakhpur any time you want! The Gorakhpur tourist places are accessible all year round except for some weekend holidays and maintenance shutdowns. You will easily get information on this on the official government website or by making a quick call to the managing authorities. Gorakhpur receives tourists on all days; some come here for the temples, others for corporate meetings or simply to explore the quaint beauty of the place.
The summers in Gorakhpur begin at the end of March and last till early July. This is when the temperature remains anywhere between 25 to 35 degrees Celsius. There are instances when it also reaches 40 degrees Celsius. If you are visiting Gorakhpur in these months, we suggest that you stay hydrated, use a headcover, and eat well to not feel fatigued. This is the best time to try out Gorakhpur’s famous Faluda and the Sugarcane juice.
The winters in Gorakhpur are very pleasant and mild. You will not need thick-skinned woollens, so pack accordingly. The place will have a temperature anywhere between 10 to 25 degrees Celsius. This is the best time to explore the places to visit in Gorakhpur in rapid succession and also check out the neighbouring attractions. During this time, you can witness the Ramleela procession that is organised during Dussehra. The evenings light up with diyas, candles, and glimmering rice lights. The people immerse themselves in devotion, sing traditional songs and dance to the tunes of hymns. You are sure to enjoy being a part of this festival.
The rainy season is also a good time to visit Gorakhpur tourist places. However, it is always good to keep an eye on the weather forecast to avoid the heavy downpours that are not uncommon in Gorakhpur. The maximum temperature in this season will hover around 25 degrees Celsius. With your raincoats and umbrellas, it is possible to explore the places to visit in Gorakhpur as long as the rain is moderate. It is also very pleasant when the lush greenery stands out more vibrantly. Unfortunately, monsoons also bring roadblocks and traffic, so keep yourself informed about the weather conditions.
Best Places to Visit in Gorakhpur
Now, we dive into the section that you are waiting for – The best places to visit in Gorakhpur! There are a plethora of places to explore in the city, but we bring you the top-rated options that you must definitely make time for.
1. Gorakhnath Temple
The city gets its name from guru Gorakshanath, and the temple is one of the main places in the city. The people who believe in the Nath Sampradaya come here to offer their prayers almost every day. Guru Gorakshanath was a yogi of medieval times, and he used to travel across India to gather a lot of spiritual knowledge. He contributed his findings to the Nath Sampradaya, and today; people stand by his beliefs and morals. In this temple, you will find the samadhi and official seat of Guru Gorakshanath. The place is of great religious significance not just to Indians but also to the Nepalis. Nepal’s monarch also paid a visit to this place to seek blessings from the yogi. The interior is spectacular, with several rooms and corridors. The first room will lead you to the samadhi of Gorakshanath, and you can see his seat here. There is an impressive central fountain as well. You will also find Bhim Kund or a small pond within the temple premises.
You must visit this temple during Makar Sankranti to see how extravagantly the locals celebrate the festival. Offering Khichdi to the Guru during Sankranti is considered to be very auspicious. Right now, the Mahant or chief priest of the temple is Yogi Adiyanath, who is also the chief minister of Uttar Pradesh state.
Location: Gorakhnath mandir, Rajendra Nagar, Gorakhpur, Uttar Pradesh 273015
Timings: 3:00 AM to 10:00 PM
Entry Fee: Free
2. Railway Museum
The Railway Museum is one of the best places to visit in Gorakhpur for families who have curious children. This is the place that will take you back in time and show how the trains have evolved over time. You will see the models of coal trains, demo trains, magnificent engines, and other mechanical parts. It tells you the tale of the northern railway establishment and how it has flourished over time. You can also see the elaborate routes and networks of the northern railways. The old coaches are the best places to click pictures with your tiny tots, and do not forget to take them on the mini toy train trip.
The main attraction of the Railway Museum is Lord Lawrence’s Steam Engine, which was built in London in 1874 and later imported to India via the sea. It was the first train to run on the tracks of the northern railway routes, and later, the frequency and number of trains increased positively. In the museum, you will find a gallery that displays all the decor and accessories you used to find in the trains previously. Also, you can see the uniforms worn by all the officials and workers who made a career in the northern railways.
This is one of the most interesting places to visit in Gorakhpur, not just for kids but also adults who have a keen eye for historical information.
Location: Railway Stadium Colony, Gorakhpur, Uttar Pradesh 273009
Timings: 12:00 PM to 8:00 PM
Entry Fee: INR 10
3. Ramgarh Taal
Once you are done seeking blessings at Gorakhnath temple, head toward Ramgarh Taal. This is a picturesque lake that finds its place in the list of places to visit in Gorakhpur because of its tranquil beauty. It is close to the city centre so accessing it is not a problem at all. It is said to be built by King Bhagirath, who is one of the most important figures in Hindu Mythology. He is the person who brought the River Ganga from heaven to Earth. Later, it was reconstructed and renovated by King Raja Ran Singh from the Bhadri dynasty. This is where it gets its name, Ramgarh.
You have ample walking space, a jogging track, benches to sit on, and lush greenery surrounding the lake. You can hear the birds tweeting, the leaves swaying, and the rippling water is therapeutic to the soul. This is one of the best places to visit in Gorakhpur for couples to see how you can spend some quality time with each other and have meaningful conversations. The atmosphere is peaceful for doing that.
Location: Gorakhpur, Uttar Pradesh, India, 273008
Timings: 6:00 AM to 9:00 PM (The Park around the lake).
Entry Fee: INR 10
Also read: discover these historically significant Thanjavur tourist places
4. Nauka Vihar
When you visit Ramgarh Lake, pay a visit to Nauka Vihar as well. This is one of the best places to visit in Gorakhpur if you are a slow boating lover. It is a great place for couples and families to spend quality time with each other. The boating activity happens under the supervision of trained professionals, so it is completely safe to embark on this mini journey. The people of Gorakhpur come here during the weekends to shrug off the stress, so expect a large crowd if you are visiting on a Saturday or a Sunday.
The Ramgarh Tal is the main source of irrigation for Gorakhpur, and this is where a lot of fishing activity takes place. Tourists shouldn’t be surprised if they find a fish or two while rowing their boat on the waters. You will have to don the life jacket and listen to the safety instructions before stepping in. The Nauka Vihari team will entrust you with a boat for a short time, and you can go for a round around the water. It is preferable to come here in the mornings or evenings.
In the evenings, you can also see the light and sound show that will tell you the history of Gorakhpur – 7:00 to 7:30 PM
Location: Buddha Vihar Rd, Ramghar Tal, Gorakhpur, Uttar Pradesh 273010
Timings: 6:00 AM to 9:00 PM
Entry Fee: Only Boating Charges that may vary
5. Imambara
Imambara is a place of great religious significance to the Islamic community of Gorakhpur city. This is a place that stands as proof that many kingdoms came, ruled, and left their culture behind in our motherland. Imambara in Gorakhpur receives attention not just nationally but also internationally. This has remained to be the official seat of Sufi for over 300 years now. Imambara is famous for its constantly lit smoke fire called Dhuni. The Muslim community come here often to offer their prayers to Syed Raushan Ali, who built the place.
You can visit Imambara irrespective of your religion and beliefs. The doors are always open for the kind souls. However, always dress modestly and preferably in ethnic wear to not upset the locals.
Location: Q85R+CG3, Piparapur, Ilahi Bagh, Gorakhpur, Uttar Pradesh 273005
Timings: 6:00 AM to 8:30 PM
Entry Fee: free
6. Gita Vatika
Gita Vatika is one of the most important places to visit in Gorakhpur. The word ‘Gita Vatika’ literally translates to the Garden of Bhagavad Gita. This is the temple where you will see scriptures and verses from Bhagavad Gita inscribed on the pillars or walls. You can marvel at the ancient Nagara construction style and see how a small temple can hold an immense amount of positive energy. This is the best place to meditate, relax your mind, and offer prayers to Lord Krishna and Radha. You will always hear the chants of Radha Krishna and people singing the bhajans of the Gods. You must visit Gita Vatika during Radha Ashtami or on the Birthday of Krishna’s eternal love- Radha. The celebration is enchanting, and you will never forget it in your life.
Location: C-130/532 Shahpur, in front of Geeta Vatika S, Shahpur, Gorakhpur, Uttar Pradesh 273006
Timings: Morning – 7:00 Am to 12:00 PM; Evening – 4:00 PM to 9:00 PM
Entry Fee: Free
Also read: unveiling the 10 best temples in Mathura to visit for an enriching spiritual journey
7. Vir Bahadur Singh Planetarium
The ones who love the skies will enjoy being at Vir Bahadur Singh Planetarium. This is where you can see the magic that happens beyond our skies, in the galaxies that hold our planets, sun and moon. You will see pre-recorded mini-films, projector presentations, and light shows that tell you about the events that happen in outer space. This is one of the best places to visit in Gorakhpur for kids, and the knowledge they gain will be forever imprinted in their minds.
Location: Rail Vihar Colony Phase 3rd, Taramandal, Gorakhpur, Uttar Pradesh
Timings: 1:00 PM to 5:30 PM
Entry Fee: INR 25
Now, you have a list of places to visit in Gorakhpur. Explore all of these locations, and let us know in the comments section about your experience!
