The current town of Unnao is a great example of the word ‘mélange’. After a long and rich history, it is now an assortment of Hindu temples, Muslim dargahs, Mughal monuments, Buddhist specimens and crumbling structures that once belonged to ancient local kings. While Hindus and Muslims often visit the old shrines of revered Sufi saints in one part of the district, the villages and temples in the other parts of the district keep the legends of the Ramayana alive. Nearby regions of Bangarmau have been the sites of many archeological findings, suggesting that these areas were once home to Buddhism. Unnao has been associated with many legendary Indian personalities, including freedom fighters like Rao Ram Bux Singh, Maulana Hasrat Mohani, Vishambhar Dayal Tripathi and Chandrashekhar Azad (his parental house can still be seen here); politicians like Dwarika Prasad Mishra and Uma Shankar Dixit; and eminent writers like Bhagwati Charan Verma, Ram Vilas Sharma, Shiv Mangal Singh Suman, Mairaj Zaidi and Surya Kant Tripathi ‘Nirala’. Most Mughal monuments now lie in ruins and travelers usually arrive here for an easy access to Nawabganj Bird Sanctuary.
Nawabganj Bird Sanctuary is the main attraction near the town of Unnao. Counted as one of the most important wildlife sanctuaries in the state, it draws visitors from even Lucknow and Kanpur on weekends. Although Nawabganj sanctuary is spread over a small area, it shelters a range of plant and wildlife species. Plan a trip during the winter season so you can witness the arrival of a large number of migratory birds. The main section of this sanctuary surrounds a shallow lake.
Many villages and towns near Unnao are worth visiting for a glimpse of this district’s culture and history. Baksar village is known for the ruins of an ancient temple. An annual fair is organized here as well. Mohan village, on the banks of the River Sai, contains a tomb of a revered Muslim saint.
Girijeshwar Mandir, Sri Jharkhandeswar Mandir and Purna Devi Dham are some of the temples worth visiting in Unnao.
Auto-rickshaws and buses will help you cover most sites of Unnao. The district is connected to major cities like Kanpur and Lucknow.
By road Unnao is surrounded by Kanpur, Lucknow, Bindki which are 10.97 km, 34.85 km, 35.06 km away respectively. These places are ideal spots for people to plan their short weekend break.