Search flights to Gorakhpur

Gorakhpur, located in the northeastern part of the Indian state of Uttar Pradesh, is a city known for its spiritual heritage and historical significance. As of 2023, Gorakhpur is home to over 700,000 residents and serves as a prominent religious center, particularly because of the famous Gorakhnath Temple. The city is also a gateway to Buddhist pilgrimage sites, such as Kushinagar and Lumbini (in neighboring Nepal), making it a key destination for spiritual travelers.

Gorakhpur experiences a humid subtropical climate, with hot summers, a monsoon season from June to September, and cooler, dry winters. The best time to visit is between November and February when the weather is most pleasant for sightseeing and outdoor exploration.

Mahayogi Gorakhnath Airport, located about 8 kilometers from the city center, connects Gorakhpur to major Indian cities. Though Gorakhpur doesn’t offer many international flights, connecting flights from Abu Dhabi and Dubai are available via Delhi, Mumbai, or Lucknow, with airlines such as Air India, FlyDubai, IndiGo, and SpiceJet providing convenient access for UAE travelers.

Gorakhpur’s culinary scene features a delightful mix of traditional North Indian and regional Awadhi dishes. Local favorites include chaat, kachori-sabzi, and litti chokha, which are popular street foods. Traditional sweets like peda and jalebi are commonly enjoyed by both locals and visitors. The city’s food reflects the rich flavors of Uttar Pradesh, offering a taste of authentic Indian cuisine.

Gorakhpur offers a variety of attractions that highlight its spiritual and cultural importance. The Gorakhnath Temple, dedicated to the 11th-century yogi Gorakhnath, is the city’s most iconic site and attracts devotees from all over the country. The temple complex is a hub of religious activity, especially during the Makar Sankranti festival, when thousands of pilgrims visit to offer prayers.

Another notable site is the Geeta Press, one of the world’s largest publishers of Hindu religious texts. Visitors can tour the press and purchase beautifully printed copies of the Bhagavad Gita, Ramayana, and other Hindu scriptures. For those interested in history, the Kushmi Forest, located just outside the city, offers a tranquil retreat and an opportunity to explore the region’s natural beauty.

Gorakhpur is also a strategic base for travelers visiting nearby Buddhist pilgrimage sites. Kushinagar, the place where Gautama Buddha is believed to have attained Mahaparinirvana (final enlightenment), is just 50 kilometers away. Lumbini, Buddha’s birthplace, is located across the border in Nepal and can be easily accessed from Gorakhpur.

For UAE nationals, visa requirements for visiting Gorakhpur are the same as for other parts of India. Those who have previously obtained an e-visa or a regular paper visa can avail of a Visa-on-Arrival for subsequent visits. First-time visitors must apply for an e-visa or a regular visa before traveling. The application form for a Visa-on-Arrival (Annexure I) can be downloaded and completed prior to arrival or at the airport.