Things to Do in Gorakhpur

A central, leafy public park with a small pond, walking paths, and plenty of benches. It’s a favourite spot for morning walkers and families on weekends. The park is modest but well-kept, with a children’s play area and a statue of Jawaharlal Nehru.

🕐 Dawn to dusk (gates close around 7pm)

💡 Come early (before 7am) to avoid the heat and crowds. The park has free public toilets, but carry tissue. Great for a quiet read or a cheap lunch from nearby vendors.

A large lake with a well-maintained promenade and gardens. Locals come for evening walks, jogging, and sitting by the water. The Vishnu Mandir temple sits on an island, reachable by a short bridge. The lake attracts migratory birds in winter.

🕐 Always open; gardens open dawn to dusk

💡 Best in late afternoon around 4pm — the light is good for photos, and the breeze picks up. Carry your own water; the few stalls nearby are pricey.

A decent-sized zoo with a reasonable collection of native species — tigers, leopards, deer, and various birds. The enclosures are clean, and the park has shady paths. The reptile house and aviary are highlights. Very cheap entry — under 30 rupees.

🕐 Tuesday–Sunday 8am–5pm; closed Monday

💡 Go on weekdays to avoid school groups. The ticket queue moves fast, but arrive before 10am to see animals active. Carry cash; card payments sometimes fail.

A large, active Hindu temple complex dedicated to the 12th-century saint Gorakhnath. The main shrine, with its black marble deity, sees constant streams of devotees. The courtyard bustles, and the surrounding maths (monasteries) have a calm, lived-in

🕐 Open 24 hours; main shrine open 4am–9pm

💡 Visit early morning (around 5.30am) to see the morning aarti without heavy crowds. Shoes must be left at the entrance — there’s a free shoe counter.

A small railway museum housed in a restored colonial-era building adjacent to Gorakhpur Junction. It displays old locomotives, signalling equipment, tickets, and photographs chronicling the region's rail history. The outdoor exhibit includes a steam

🕐 Tuesday–Saturday 10am–5pm; closed Sunday & Monday

💡 Entry is just 10 rupees. Ask the curator for a quick guided tour — they’re often happy to tell stories. The museum is tiny; 30 minutes is enough. Combine with a visit to the main station to see the long platforms.