Gorakhpur, located in northeastern Uttar Pradesh, is a captivating city known for its rich cultural heritage and spiritual significance. The place is famous for its Gorakhnath Temple, which is dedicated to Guru Gorakhnath and attracts pilgrims and tourists. Gorakhpur tourism also boasts several other attractions, such as the Kapilvastu, and the Ramgarh Taal, a scenic lake surrounded by lush greenery. This Gorakhpur travel guide will help you explore the city's vibrant markets, delectable cuisine, and beautiful destinations to plan your trip.

How to reach

• By air: The city is served by Gorakhpur Airport (GOP), also known as Mahayogi Gorakhnath Airport, 8 km from the central city. It boasts a single terminal that handles all flights to Gorakhpur, and from it.
• By train: Gorakhpur Junction Railway Station, as the Zonal headquarters of Northern Eastern Railways, connects Gorakhpur to major cities like Hyderabad, Bangalore, Ahmedabad, Lucknow, Mumbai, Kolkata, and more.
• By road: The Uttar Pradesh Road Transport Corporation (UPSRTC) operates buses from Gorakhpur to cities like Delhi, Lucknow, Bareilly, and Azamgarh. Gorakhpur is also a key transit point for buses to Nepal, with deluxe, semi-deluxe, and luxury buses operating on a regular basis.
• Getting around/local transport in Gorakhpur: Buses are a popular travel choice and run on main routes throughout the city. Many people use auto and cycle rickshaws for shorter trips; for longer drives, you can rent a car or taxi.

As you explore Gorakhpur, you'll find a delightful array of eateries catering to every palate. Here are some of the popular places to eat across the city:

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The best time to visit is during the months of November to February as the weather is perfect for sightseeing.

The most commonly spoken languages in Gorakhpur are Hindi and Bhojpuri. Urdu and Awadhi are spoken by a significant portion of the population, reflecting the region's cultural diversity.

Navigating the city's shopping scene can be a pleasure, and here are some markets you must visit:

• Gorakhpur Market: Gorakhpur Market, also known as Shahi Market, is where tourists gather to shop for clothes, accessories, electronics, and household items. You can find traditional Indian attire such as sarees, kurta-pyjamas, and ethnic jewellery. The market is also a great place to sample local street food with stalls offering a variety of snacks and treats.
• Tibet Market: Located near Gorakhpur Railway Station, it is famous for its Tibetan handicrafts and artefacts. One of the critical attractions of Tibet Market is its collection of Tibetan jewellery, which includes intricately designed necklaces, bracelets, and earrings made from silver, turquoise, and other semi-precious stones. The market is known for its Tibetan clothing, including traditional dresses, jackets, and scarves.
• Urdu Bazaar: Urdu Bazaar in Gorakhpur is a renowned market known for its books, stationery, and Urdu literature collection. It is a hub for book lovers and scholars, offering a wide range of books, magazines, and newspapers. The market is also known for its collection of stationery items, including pens, pencils, notebooks, and art supplies.
• Golghar Market: Golghar is a popular market known for its bustling streets and vibrant atmosphere. It sells various goods, including clothing, accessories, electronics, and household items. It is also a popular destination for street food lovers with numerous stalls offering a variety of local delicacies.

The festivals in Gorakhpur are celebrated with great enthusiasm. Here are the most popular festivals in the region:

Gorakhpur’s rich cultural heritage and historical significance make it a popular destination for visitors.

• Vir Bahadur Singh Planetarium: Named after the former Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh, Vir Bahadur Singh, this planetarium is a popular destination for science enthusiasts and students. It offers a variety of shows and exhibits related to astronomy and space science. The planetarium aims to educate visitors about the wonders of the universe through engaging and informative programs.
• Kapilvastu: Kapilavastu is the birthplace of Siddhartha Gautama or Lord Buddha. It is an important pilgrimage site for those interested in Buddhist history and architecture. The site features archaeological remains, including stupas, monasteries, and other structures dating back to the Lord Buddha's time. 
• Gorakhpur Zoo: Officially known as the Shaheed Ashfaq Ullah Khan Prani Udyan, Gorakhpur Zoo is famous with wildlife enthusiasts and families. Spread over a large area, the zoo is home to various animal species including lions, tigers, elephants, deer, and birds. The zoo offers amenities such as walking paths, benches, and refreshment stalls for visitors. It also conducts educational programmes, and activities for children and students.
• Vidyavasini Park: Locals and tourists flock to this spot for leisure, enjoying its tranquil ambience amidst abundant greenery. The park is known for its well-kept gardens, paths for strolling, and open areas for relaxing. It's perfect for picnics, morning outings, and spending time with loved ones. It provides amenities such as seating areas, playgrounds for children, and well-maintained gardens. It is a popular destination for nature lovers and those seeking a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.

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