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Gorakhpur!

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Population

0.675 million

schedule

Best Time

October to March

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Time Needed

2-3 days minimum

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Currency

Rupee (₹)

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location_on Uttar Pradesh map North India 🕉️ Spiritual Religious Tourism Budget Travel Train Travel Gorakhpur Uttar Pradesh India Travel Guide Railway Junction Gorakhnath Temple Buddhism Nepal Border

Gorakhpur is a city in Uttar Pradesh, India, known as a major railway junction and for the Gorakhnath Math, a prominent Hindu temple. It also serves as a gateway to Nepal and is recognized for its terracotta art.

Gorakhpur offers a unique blend of religious significance, historical railway heritage, and access to nearby natural beauty. While it may lack the polished tourist infrastructure of larger cities, it provides an authentic glimpse into North Indian culture. Be prepared for crowds and a less-developed tourism scene.

To explore Gorakhpur's main attractions, allow at least 2-3 days. Getting around is primarily done by auto-rickshaw and cycle-rickshaw. The city is well-connected by rail, making it easily accessible from other parts of India.

When To Visit

Best Time

October to March

10-25 degrees C

The weather is pleasant and dry, making it ideal for sightseeing. Days are sunny and nights are cool.

Why Visit:

This is the best time to visit Gorakhpur as the weather is conducive for exploring temples and other attractions. Festivals like Diwali (October/November) and Holi (March) are celebrated with fervor. It's also a good time to experience the local culture without the discomfort of extreme heat.

Tip: Expect moderate crowds, especially during festivals. Book accommodations in advance.

Shoulder Season

July to September

28-35 degrees C

Monsoon season brings heavy rainfall and humidity. The landscape turns lush green.

Why Visit:

The monsoon season can be appealing if you enjoy greenery and fewer crowds. However, outdoor activities may be limited due to the rain. Prices for accommodation might be slightly lower.

Tip: Carry rain gear and be prepared for potential travel disruptions due to flooding.

Avoid

April to June

35-45 degrees C

The weather is extremely hot and dry, making it uncomfortable for outdoor activities.

Why Avoid:

Avoid visiting during these months due to the intense heat, which can make sightseeing unpleasant and even dangerous. The heat can also lead to dehydration and heatstroke.

Note: If you must visit, stay hydrated and avoid prolonged exposure to the sun.

Top Sights - Top Attractions!

Gorakhnath Temple

⏱ 2-3 hours Free

Gorakhnath Temple is a prominent Hindu shrine dedicated to Guru Gorakhnath. It's one of the most important Nath monasteries in India....

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Imambara

⏱ 1-2 hours Free

The Imambara is a Shia Muslim shrine, known for its intricate architecture and historical significance. It's a place of mourning and remembrance, espe...

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Railway Museum

⏱ 2 hours ₹20 (Indians), ₹300 (foreigners)

The Railway Museum showcases the history of railways in the region. It features vintage locomotives, carriages, and other railway artifacts....

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Arogya Mandir

⏱ 1-2 hours Free

Arogya Mandir is a yoga and naturopathy center promoting holistic health. It offers yoga classes, meditation sessions, and natural therapies....

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Vindhyavasini Park

⏱ 1-2 hours Free

Vindhyavasini Park is a popular park offering a green space for relaxation and recreation. It features walking paths, gardens, and a small lake....

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Geeta Vatika

⏱ 1-2 hours Free

Geeta Vatika is a spiritual center dedicated to the teachings of the Bhagavad Gita. It features gardens, temples, and meditation spaces....

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Buddha Museum

⏱ 1-2 hours ₹40 (Indians), ₹600 (foreigners)

The Buddha Museum houses a collection of artifacts related to Buddhism. It showcases the history and teachings of Buddhism in the region....

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Things To Do

attractions

Terracotta Craft Workshop

⏱ 3-4 hours 💰 ₹500-800 per person

Participate in a hands-on terracotta craft workshop. Learn the traditional techniques of making terracotta pottery from ...

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attractions

Boat Ride on Ramgarh Taal

⏱ 1-2 hours 💰 ₹200-400 per person

Enjoy a boat ride on Ramgarh Taal, a large lake near Gorakhpur. Relax and enjoy the scenic views of the lake and its sur...

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attractions

Bird Watching at Soor Sarovar Bird Sanctuary

⏱ 4-5 hours 💰 ₹100 entry fee, ₹500-1000 for a guide

Visit Soor Sarovar Bird Sanctuary, a haven for migratory birds. Observe a variety of bird species in their natural habit...

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attractions

Attend a Local Wrestling Match (Kushti)

⏱ 2-3 hours 💰 ₹50-100 entry fee

Experience the traditional Indian wrestling form of Kushti. Witness the strength and skill of local wrestlers in a tradi...

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Cultural Experiences

celebration

Attend an Aarti at Gorakhnath Temple

1 hour | Free

Aarti is a Hindu prayer ritual involving the offering of light to deities. Witness the mesmerizing A...

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celebration

Visit a Local Village

4-5 hours | ₹500-1000 including transport

Experience the rural life of Uttar Pradesh. Visit a local village and interact with the villagers....

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celebration

Attend a Qawwali Performance

2-3 hours | ₹100-300

Qawwali is a Sufi devotional music form. Experience the soulful Qawwali performance at a local venue...

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celebration

Learn Bhojpuri Language Basics

1-2 hours | ₹200-400

Learn basic phrases in Bhojpuri, the local language. It will enhance your interactions with the loca...

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celebration

Experience a Traditional Thali Meal

1-2 hours | ₹150-300

Enjoy a traditional Thali meal, a platter of various regional dishes. It's a great way to sample the...

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celebration

Visit a Local Market (Bazaar)

2-3 hours | Free (shopping costs extra)

Explore a local market to experience the vibrant atmosphere and local commerce. It's a good place to...

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View all cultural experiences

Eat This!

Must-Try Dishes

Litti Chokha
Litti Chokha

A traditional Bihari dish available at street food stalls.

Baigan Bharta
Baigan Bharta

Smoked eggplant mash, best enjoyed with roti at local restaurants.

Tharu Cuisine
Tharu Cuisine

Unique dishes from the Tharu community, try at specialized restaurants.

Kheer
Kheer

Rice pudding, available at sweet shops.

Where to Eat

Tadka Restaurant

Tadka Restaurant

₹₹

Indian, Chinese

📍 Civil Lines

A popular restaurant known for its delicious North Indian dishes. The atmosphere is family-friendly and the service is good. It's a great place for a hearty meal.

Butter ChickenDal Makhani

₹500-800 for two

Moti Mahal Delux

Moti Mahal Delux

₹₹

Indian, Mughlai

📍 Golghar

A well-known restaurant chain offering a wide range of Indian and Mughlai dishes. The food is consistently good and the ambiance is pleasant.

BiryaniKebabs

₹600-900 for two

Street Food Spots

Golghar Market

Golghar Market

💰 Budget: ₹50-100 per person

⚠️ Tips: Be mindful of hygiene and choose stalls that look clean. Try the local sweets for a delightful treat.

🍽️
Discover More on
Foodie Finder: Gorakhpur

More restaurants & dishes from Gorakhpur

Where To Stay ?

Best Neighborhoods

Civil Lines

A posh area with good hotels and restaurants, ideal for those seeking comfort and convenience. It is relatively more expensive.

Best For: Business travelers and families

Near Railway Station

A convenient location for travelers arriving by train, but can be crowded and noisy. Offers budget-friendly accommodation options.

Best For: Budget travelers and backpackers

Accommodation Options

Budget

💰

₹800-1200/night

Hotel Avantika

📍 Near Railway Station

A basic and clean hotel, suitable for budget travelers. Offers comfortable rooms and essential amenities.

₹800-1200/night

Hotel Shivoy

📍 Golghar Area

A decent budget option with clean rooms and friendly staff. It is conveniently located near the city center.

₹900-1300/night

Mid-Range

🏨

₹2500-4000/night

Radisson Blu Gorakhpur

📍 Civil Lines

A comfortable mid-range hotel with modern amenities. It features a restaurant, bar, and fitness center.

₹2500-4000/night

Hotel Grand Continental

📍 Near Airport

A well-maintained hotel with comfortable rooms and good service. It has a restaurant and offers airport transfers.

₹2000-3500/night

Luxury

₹4500+/night

The Park Ascent Gorakhpur

📍 Civil Lines

A luxurious hotel offering premium amenities and services. Features include a swimming pool, spa, and multiple dining options.

₹4500+/night

Clarks Inn Grand, Gorakhpur

📍 Bank Road

Offers elegant rooms, excellent dining, and a relaxing atmosphere. Perfect for business and leisure travelers.

₹4000+/night

View all stay & eat options

How To Get There ?

flight

By Air

Airport: Mahayogi Gorakhnath Airport (GOP), 9km from city

train

By Train

Stations:

Gorakhpur Junction (GKP)

Major railway station with trains connecting to all major cities in India. Located in the city center.

Routes:
  • From Delhi: 12-14 hours (₹800-2500)
  • From Mumbai: 28-32 hours (₹1200-4000)

Booking: IRCTC or 12Go.asia

directions_bus

By Bus

Terminals:
  • Gorakhpur Bus Station
Routes:
  • From Lucknow: 6-7 hours (₹400-700)

Note: Trains more comfortable

Getting Around

local_taxi

Auto-rickshaw

💰 ₹50-150 depending on distance

Best for: Short distances within the city

Negotiate the fare before starting the journey. They are readily available throughout the city.

directions

Cycle-rickshaw

💰 ₹30-50 for short distances

Best for: Short distances and experiencing local life

Good for slow-paced travel and exploring narrow streets. Negotiate the price beforehand.

directions

Local Bus

💰 ₹10-20 per ride

Best for: Budget travelers

Can be crowded, but an inexpensive way to travel. Check the bus routes and timings beforehand.

Practical Tips

checkroom

What To Wear

Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Lightweight cotton clothing is recommended during summer months. Carry a scarf or shawl for covering your head when required.

payments

Money

Daily Budget: Budget: ₹800, Mid: ₹2000, Luxury: ₹4000+

ATMs: ATMs are widely available in the city.

Cash vs Card: Cash is preferred for small transactions and street food. Cards are accepted at larger hotels and restaurants.

Bargaining: Bargaining is expected in local markets and for auto-rickshaw fares.

health_and_safety

Health

Water: Drink bottled water or filtered water. Avoid drinking tap water.

Food: Eat at reputable restaurants and avoid street food from unhygienic stalls. Be cautious of spicy food if you are not used to it.

Common Issues: Heatstroke and dehydration are common during summer. Carry ORS packets and stay hydrated.

sim_card

Communication

SIM Cards: Airtel and Jio offer good network coverage. SIM cards are available at local stores upon providing necessary documents.

WiFi: WiFi is available at most hotels and some restaurants.

translate

Language & Tipping

Language: Hindi and Bhojpuri are widely spoken. English proficiency is limited, so learning a few basic Hindi phrases can be helpful.

Tipping: Restaurant: 5-10%, drivers: ₹20-50

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