Jaunpur, Uttar Pradesh City Guide: Where To Go, Stay, Eat, And shop in India’s best city. [Updated-2025]

Jaunpur, Uttar Pradesh City Guide: Where To Go, Stay, Eat, And shop in India’s best city.

Jaunpur, Uttar Pradesh

Jaunpur is a historically rich city in Uttar Pradesh, known for its Islamic architecture, educational institutions, and cultural heritage. It was founded by Firoz Shah Tughlaq in the 14th century and later became the capital of the Sharqi Sultanate. Jaunpur is famous for its Shahi Qila, Atala Masjid, and Imarti sweets.

1. Location & Geography

• Situated on the banks of the Gomti River in eastern Uttar Pradesh.
• Located 60 km northwest of Varanasi and 100 km southeast of Prayagraj (Allahabad).
• Lies on NH-31 and NH-135A, connecting it to major cities.

2. History & Heritage

• Founded in 1359 AD by Firoz Shah Tughlaq, named after his cousin Muhammad bin Tughlaq (Jauna Khan).
• Sharqi Sultanate (1394–1479): Became an independent kingdom, known for its unique Indo-Islamic architecture.
• Mughal & British Era: Later controlled by the Mughals, Nawabs of Awadh, and the British.

3. Economy & Industries

• Agriculture: Major crops include rice, wheat, pulses, and vegetables.
• Perfume Industry: Jaunpur is known for ittar (traditional perfumes).
• Handloom & Weaving: Famous for Jaunpuri woolen carpets and textiles.
• Tourism & Trade: Historical monuments and cultural heritage attract visitors.

4. Education & Institutions

• Veer Bahadur Singh Purvanchal University (VBSPU): A key higher education center in eastern UP.
• Tilak Dhari PG College: One of the oldest and most reputed colleges in the region.
• Numerous CBSE, ICSE, and UP Board-affiliated schools provide quality education.

5. Tourist & Cultural Attractions

• Shahi Qila (Jaunpur Fort): Built by Firoz Shah Tughlaq, offers panoramic views of the Gomti River.
• Atala Masjid: A 15th-century mosque showcasing Indo-Islamic architecture, built by the Sharqi rulers.
• Jama Masjid: The largest mosque in Jaunpur, built by Ibrahim Shah Sharqi in 1470.
• Shitala Chaukia Dham: A famous Hindu temple dedicated to Goddess Shitala.
• Trilochan Mahadev Temple: A revered Shiva temple, attracting pilgrims.
• Yamdagni Ashram: An ancient spiritual site associated with Rishi Yamdagni.

6. Food & Culture

• Imarti (Jaunpur’s Famous Sweet): A deep-fried, sugar-soaked dessert similar to Jalebi.
• Handi Biryani: A popular Mughlai dish of the region.
• Local Markets: Famous for handicrafts, perfumes, and traditional UP textiles.

7. Connectivity & Transport

• By Road:
  • Located on NH-31 and NH-135A, connecting to Varanasi, Prayagraj, and Lucknow.
  • Regular buses and taxis available.
• By Rail:
  • Jaunpur Junction (JNU) and Jaunpur City Railway Station (JOP) provide connections to Delhi, Mumbai, Varanasi, and Kolkata.
• By Air:
  • The nearest airport is Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport, Varanasi (40 km away).