Lucknow Attractions Places to Visit. India is a multi-cultural nation, and every state and city have something that you will not find in any other place. For instance, the city of Lucknow has always been a favorite for those who are in love with the ancient Nawabi culture and traditions. Lucknow is the capital city of Uttar Pradesh. It is located along the banks of one of the tributaries of Ganga, River Gomati. The city came into the limelight for being the site of development of Urdu poetry.
The Nawabs of the city were known for their love for everything beautiful. Thus, the city is dotted with many beautiful gardens. Due to the presence of many princely provinces in the city, which were ruled by independent kings, the city has also been named the “City Of Nawabs.” Once the city passed under the authority of the East India Company, the British named it Awadh.
Location of the city
The city of Lucknow extends from 26.50 degrees North to 80.50 degrees North. It is located well within the boundary of the state of Uttar Pradesh.
History of the city
Lucknow was founded by Nawab Asaf-Ud-Daula. According to the claims of history, the city ranks high when it comes to cultural heritage, tradition, and monuments. The name of Lucknow was actually “Lakshmanpur” or “Lakhimpur.” According to ancient mythology, the area was gifted to Lord Lakshmana, the brother of Lord Rama, when they returned to Ayodhya, after the completion of their exile.
The state and the capital city had a rich foundation and tradition of developing the Urdu language and poetry. The Nawabs were patrons of not only poetry but also painting and other forms of fine art. The string of Nawabs who had ruled over the area had added richness to the very essence of the area.
List of Top Lucknow (Uttar Pradesh) Attractions Places to Visit
If you are taking a trip to India, then your journey will not be complete without a visit to the city of Lucknow. When in the City of Nawabs, you need to make sure that the following places fall on your “must visit” list:
- Bara Imambara
The Bara Imambara in Lucknow is a standout amongst the most well-known landmarks in the city. Otherwise called Asfi Imambara, actually, named afetr the Nawab of the Lucknow city who got it developed, it is a vital place of devotion for the many Muslims who arise here to pray, for the religious celebration of Muharram. This Imambara is known for the fantastic labyrinth, known as the Bhul Bhulaiya, which is situated on the higher floor of this construction.
Arguably the major unsupported building; Bara Imambara is viewed as a wonder of designing and a fine example of Mughal engineering. In the region, religious focuses like the Asifi Mosque, Rumi Darwaja Shahi Bawali, and so forth are additionally present for one to explore. The Bara Imambara has an exceptional style of development.
The focal lobby of Bara Imambara, which is said to be the biggest angled corridor on the planet, measures 50 meters in length and goes up to 15 meters in height. The entire building is made of Lakhanui blocks, which are somewhat little in size, and lime mortar. No wood or metal has been utilized as a part of the development. One can likewise have the perspective of the grave of Nawab Asaf-Ud-Dowlah and his crown, which are kept in the focal lobby.
- Chota Imambara
Another assemblage multifaceted sturcture of Shia Muslim group is the Chota Imambara. It was constructed during 1838 by Nawab Muhammad Shah Ali. The compound fills in as a catacomb of the Nawab who is been buried there, nearby his mom. Outside the compound, lays this 4 layered Satkhanda, an incomplete watchtower or viewpoint which should have 7 layers. The Nawab needed to make the tower tall similar to the Qutab Minar and resembles Leaning Tower at Pisa in outline.
- Hazratganj Market
If you love shopping then this is the area that you need to visit. The Hazratganj is among the main areas of the shopping. Apart from the traditional markets, which date back to the times of the Nawabs, the area has a number of modern malls and shopping arcades as well. These malls and the traditional markets offer a good balance between the past and the modern times. If you are looking for all things traditional then the Nawabi markets of Hazratganj district will come to your rescue. For acquiring the modern brands, you can check out the lavishly decorated shops in the malls.
- British Residency
British Residency also viewed as the National Monument and was the significant locale of the Revolt of 1857. The memorable fight was recognized as the Seige of Lucknow. The spot was the home of the British Resident General that was raged amid the fight. The structure however in remnants after the fight has been safeguarded till now with the slug touched dividers and is encompassed by greenery enclosures which draw in an extraordinary number of traveler groups.
- Lucknow Zoo
Each city has a zoo that becomes the center of attraction for most children. When visiting the city, it is mandatory that you take a trip to the Lucknow zoo. The other name of the zoo is “Prince of Wales Zoological Park” and is spread over 71.6 acres. The foundation stone of this zoo was laid down in 1921. It was for done to welcome Prince of Wales, for his first visit in the city. Now, the zoo can boast for housing a number of rare species of reptiles, birds and animals. Apart from being a zoo, it also functions as a breeding facility for endangered animal species like Hog Deer, Indian Wolves and Tigers.
- Constantia House
The place was previously recognized as the Constantia House but now it is known for being the site for La Martinière College. This construction was done on a stepped land and it is said that a lake existed on the very area in the ancient times. When you look at the building, you will be able to make out that the central theme of construction is based on the Italian and other genres of architecture. The site played a significant role at the war times.
- Dr. Ambedkar Park
The city of Lucknow has some extraordinary monuments, which are a proof of modern architecture. The park has been dedicated to Dr. B. R. Ambedkar who played an instrumental role in composing the constitution of the country. The park is huge and spreads over 107 acres. The pillars and other aspects of the park have been chiseled out of red stones, which were quarried from the mines from Rajasthan. The location of the amazing park is in the heart of Gomti Nagar. The area is affluent and people of important designation stay here. The park has been maintained in a proper manner and the presence of lakes and canals around it make it an attraction for the tourists.
- Lucknow Museum
One of the important tourist attractions is the Lucknow State Museum. When you step into the various galleries of the museum, you will be able to take a trip to the ancient times. There are over 100,000 exhibits, which dates back to the Gupta age as well. There are other exhibits, which will give you a lot of information about the past. The maintenance of the museum rests on the shoulders of the state authority.
- Rumi Darwaza
The Rumi Darwaza is also known as the Turkish Gate. It was constructed during the 1784s and all the credit goes to Nawab Asaf-ud-daula. The theme of architecture is based on the Awadhi Style of construction. This gateway stands tall on the way of entrance of the old city. The monument has been richly decorated with carvings, which have a resemblance to Ottoman and Roman carvings. A guided tour will help you in acquiring more knowledge about the monument.
- Chattar Manzil
One of the most visited places in the Lucknow city is the Chattar Manzil. The meaning of the term is “umbrella palace.” This palace was the official residential place for the Nawabs of the city. The former Nawabs and their decedents roamed the halls of the palace. This royal citadel was erected in 1780’s. It provided shelter to the radicals during the time of unrest. The original theme of architecture is based on the Indo-European style. After the rule of the city slipped into the hands of the British, they made changes in the plan and designs as per their taste.
- Begum Hazrat Mahal Park
Another important park in the city that has been attracting the eyes of the tourists is the Begum Hazrat Mahal Park. It was devoted to the remembrance of the queen of Awadh. The construction of the park got stared in the year of 1962. Begum Hazeat Mahal played an important part in the war against the officials of the British rule. In the later years, the park got renamed after the brave queen. A marble statue of the queen is placed in the middle of the park. The authority takes care of the maintenance. It is decorated during any festive occasion and then people come to visit the here.
- Chowk Market
If you are a food lover then a visit to the Chowk market area is a necessity. This is the place that attracts customers from all walks of life. If you are looking for any traditional embroidery or juicy kebabs, then there are many stores in the Chowk market that will come to your rescue. Most of the stores here are old but you will only get the best and authentic products here.
- Dilkusha Kothi
It was common for the royals to have many palaces. They even had hunting lodges where they rested during their hunting excursions. The Dilkusha Kothi was a similar hunting retreat that was converted into a temporary palace. The kothi was constructed in 1800 and it assisted in housing the revolutionaries and later the British soldiers. As the place was located in the heart of the war zone, it has to take a lot of battering as well. The marks of the freedom war are still visible on the old walls of the kothi.
- Husainabad Clock Tower
This amazing clock tower is located near the famous Rumi Darwaza. The Husainabad Clock Tower was constructed in 1881. The construction was so strong that it has been able to stand the test of time and weather elements. The height of the tower is 67 meters. The style of the clock tower is based on Victorian-Gothic architecture. The clock tower has a pendulum that is 14 feet long. The clock is shaped like a flower that has 12 petals.
- Firangi Mahal
The Firangi Mahal was in possession of a French businessman. He was named Neal. Later on, the Nawabs of the city took the possession of the Firangi Mahal. The place was then converted into a school for the Muslim students. This was done by the consultant of Aurangzeb. The interiors of the Mahal have been richly decorated with carvings, which are similar to the French architecture. Later on, additions were made in the planning when the place slipped into the hands of the Nawabs.
Apart from these attractions, the city has some properly maintained gardens, which were constructed during the reign of the Nawabs. Now, the responsibility for the maintenance of the gardens rests on shoulders of the state authority and municipality.
It is better to take the help of a guide for getting to all these places smoothly. It will not only assist the tourists in getting a good knowledge about the past but will also help them in assessing the present situations. The city and its people are warm and inviting. You will feel like taking a second trip to the city and bask in the Nawabi culture. From monuments to food, everything has an extra dosage of richness and culture.
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