Places to visit in Lucknow: Located on the banks of river Gomti, Lucknow is the largest city and capital of the state of Uttar Pradesh.
A city with a mixed culture of Hindu-Muslim- Sikh, Lucknow is a blend of rich art forms, mouthwatering cuisine, intricate embroidery, and mystical gardens.
The city is known for its Adab and Tehzeeb (manners and hospitality).
Lucknow was a seat to the Nawabs in the 18th and 19th centuries. Lucknow’s richness allures foodies, history buffs, and tourists to the city. To get the essence of the city, make sure to experience the following –
Here are some Places to Visit in Lucknow :
01. Gaze At The Architectural Marvels Of Bara And Chota Imambara
Bara Imambara, also known as Imambara-e-Asafi, was built by the fourth Nawab of Awadh, Asaf-Ud-Daula. It offers an experience of the bygone era of the Mughals.
It is the world’s largest arched unsupported hall. The monument has an incredible labyrinth called Bhool Bhulaiya, located on the upper floor of Bara Imambara. You are not allowed to enter the labyrinth without a guide.
Located on the west of Bara Imambara is the Chota Imambara, a beautiful mausoleum with green mosaic patterns, colorful lamps, and chandeliers. It has the tomb of Muhammad Ali Shah and his family members.
This is one of the most famous places to visit in Lucknow.
2. Treat Yourself With The Best Kebabs In The World
Lucknow is also known as the ‘City of Kebabs’ because of the huge variety of delicious, mouthwatering kebabs. The city is famous for its Awadhi cuisine ranging from kebabs to biriyani.
The famous delicacies include the Galouti Kebab, Ghutwa Kebab, Pasanda Kebab, Shami Kebab, Boti Kebab, Seekh Kebab, Gola Kebab, Korma, Biriyani, Tandoori kulcha, sheermaal, Halwa, Seera, and a lot more.
3. Shop The Intricate Chikankari Fabrics
Chikankari is the traditional embroidery style of Lucknow. It’s a delicate and subtle art form done extremely carefully on muslin, organza, silk, chiffon, net, etc.
The tale goes back to the times of Noor Jahan, the Mughal empress, and wife of Jahangir, who had introduced chikankari work in India. Lakhnavi chikankari is famous all over the world.
People come to shop the fabric from all over India. You will find the best chikankari works at the Lucknow Chowk.
The process involves the following 5 steps.
- Design
- Engraving
- Block printing
- Embroidery
- Washing and finishing
The Chowk is a shopping destination for the local people as well as the tourists. Apart from embroidered chikankari workpieces, you would also find a huge range of itra, beautifully embroidered shoes, lampshades, jewelry, etc.
This is another of the famous places to visit in Lucknow.
4. Visit The Rumi Darwaza
A sixty feet tall gateway built in the Awadhi style, The Rumi Darwaza is a striking beauty standing in the heart of the old city of Lucknow.
It stands between the Bar and Chota Imambara and is visited by tourists annually. The Darwaza looks even more resplendent at night.
The structure is an example of the excellent craftsmanship of the era.
5. Visit The Famous Lucknow Zoo
The Lucknow Zoo popularly known as the Nawab Wazid Ali Shah Prani Udyan, is home to numerous mammals, reptiles, avifauna.
It houses several Royal Bengal tigers, White Bengal tigers, Asiatic lions, and Himalayan black bears. It was built to celebrate the visit of the Prince of Wales to Lucknow.
These words cannot do enough justice to the beauty of the city of Lucknow. You should treat yourself by visiting this cultural hub of North India. Treat yourself to the best of Awadhi cuisine, shop your heart out at the Chowk and other markets in Lucknow, gaze at the architectural grandeur of ancient times, and most importantly, feel the hospitality of the beautiful and warm people of Lucknow.
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