Things To Do
in Gorakhpur
Gorakhpur is a historic city in eastern Uttar Pradesh, situated on the Rapti River. It blends centuries-old temples with a bustling market scene and warm, welcoming residents. The city sits on a Buddhist circuit and offers easy access to Kushinagar and other sacred sites nearby.
Around every corner you’ll find flavorful street food, parks, and a lively, family-friendly vibe.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the iconic Gorakhnath Temple, a significant pilgrimage site dedicated to the saint Gorakhnath. As the sun rises, witness the morning rituals and the spiritual ambiance that fills the air. Enjoy a traditional breakfast at a nearby local eatery, sampling local delicacies like kachori and jalebi.
After breakfast, take a leisurely stroll through the bustling streets of the historic center, soaking in the local culture and architecture. Visit the nearby Gita Press, a famous publisher of Hindu texts, to learn about its history and contributions. Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant, savoring the regional flavors of Uttar Pradesh cuisine.
As the sun sets, head to the Ramgarh Tal lake for a serene evening by the water. You can take a boat ride or simply relax on the shore, enjoying the calming views. For dinner, explore the local food scene with a visit to a popular dhaba, enjoying dishes like biryani and paneer tikka.
Begin your day at the vibrant Gorakhpur Railway Station, where you can soak in the hustle and bustle of commuters. After a hearty breakfast at a local café, venture into the nearby markets, filled with colorful textiles, spices, and handicrafts. Engage with local vendors and artisans, learning about their crafts and trades.
Continue your exploration by visiting the local vegetable and fruit markets, where you can see the fresh produce and sample some local snacks. Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a street food stall, trying out popular items like chaat and samosas. Immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere, filled with the sounds and smells of local life.
As the evening approaches, make your way to the lush surroundings of the city's parks, such as Ashok Park. Enjoy a peaceful walk or sit on a bench, reflecting on your day amidst the greenery. End the day with a delicious dinner at a nearby restaurant, indulging in traditional north Indian cuisine.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $3-6 |
| 🥗Meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $12-25 |
| 🚕Taxi ride (short city trip) | $2-6 |
| 🏨Budget hotel (1 night) | $20-40 |
| 🛍️Groceries for a week (basic) | $25-60 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Religious and cultural richness
- Gateway to Buddhist sites nearby
- Affordability and warm hospitality
- Limited nightlife and entertainment options
- Seasonal heat can be intense
- Traffic and crowded markets in peak hours
- "Namaste" - Hello
- "Dhanyavaad" - Thank you
- "Kripya" - Please
- "Yeh kitna hai?" - How much is this?
- "Mujhe madad chahiye" - I need help
Places to Visit in Gorakhpur
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic colonial-era clock tower in a busy central square—great for street photography and evening crowds.
A tranquil garden complex with temples, ponds, and pavilions, ideal for portrait and landscape shots.
Golden-hour light along the Rapti creates expansive silhouettes and reflective water scenes.
Colorful markets, busy lanes, and historic facades offer authentic street photography moments.
Food in Gorakhpur
Gorakhpur Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Roasted wheat balls (litti) served with spicy mashed chokha; common in eastern UP eateries and in Gorakhpur street stalls.
Must-Try!
Spiced chickpeas with fluffy fried breads; a popular breakfast and brunch option at many eateries.
Tangy, crunchy street snacks found in chaat stalls around the Old City and market lanes.
Fragrant rice dish with meat or vegetables, often found in local restaurants and family-run eateries.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Dense lanes behind the historic core where chaat, samosas, kachori, and sweets are on offer.
Daily markets with fresh produce, snacks, and regional ingredients—perfect for tasting street foods.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Cover shoulders and knees; remove shoes where required and be respectful at temples and mosques.
A polite Namaste with hands joined is standard in daily interactions.
Always request permission before taking portraits of locals or inside homes and rituals.
Stand in line and avoid pushing; public spaces can be crowded during peak hours.
Safety
Tipping in Gorakhpur
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants and hotels, a 5–10% tip is appreciated if service isn’t included; for casual places, rounding up is common.
Cash is widely accepted; many places also accept cards and mobile wallets (UPI, Paytm). In larger hotels and restaurants, card payments are common.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
From April to June it’s hot and dry; carry water, wear sunscreen, and plan outdoor activities for early morning or late evening.
July to September brings rainfall and humidity; roads can be slick—bring a light rain jacket and protect electronics; vegetation is lush and camera-ready.
October to February is cool and comfortable; ideal for walking tours, temple visits, and day trips with light layers.
Gorakhpur at Night
Hiking in Gorakhpur
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Forest trails and boardwalks offering wildlife viewing and nature walks within a few hours’ drive.
Airports
How to reach Gorakhpur by plane.
Domestic flights connect Gorakhpur to Delhi, Mumbai, and other major cities; facilities at the airport are basic but improving.
New gateway supporting Buddhist circuit travel; located closer to Kushinagar and offers occasional international flights; check current schedules.
Major air gateway in Uttar Pradesh for long-haul and connecting flights; useful if regional flights aren’t available.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly Hindu with a Muslim minority; Bhojpuri-speaking communities are prevalent in daily life.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport; you’ll see local games and street-level cricket widely played.
Common pastime in schools and neighborhood leagues.
Played in community centers and clubs.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Gorakhpur.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are abundant; look for dal-chawal, curries with vegetables, and bhajiya. If you have specific needs, ask for spice levels and dairy-free preparations.