“Muskuraiye! Aap Lucknow Mei Hain”
Lucknow is the capital city of Uttar Pradesh and one of the oldest. Also known as the City of Nawabs, Lucknow is worth a visit. Lucknow is about history, culture, traditions, shopping, architecture, food, leisure, spirituality, and more. The grown it’s eminence in Mughal rule in the 18th century and became the city of Nawabs. The culture survived here for centuries and left an impact on the places to visit in Lucknow.
You must visit the city of nawabs for once in your life. The grandeur of the city should not be missed. It’s an 8-hour journey from Delhi to Lucknow by bus, and it is the most convenient option. For your convenience, we have made a list of must-visit places in Lucknow where you can witness marvelous architecture and bring back souvenirs-
Historical Places to Visit in Lucknow
The best thing about the monuments of Lucknow is that one can find several architectural styles from across the world. Mughal, European, Hindu, Baroque, and other architectural styles can be found in historical places of Lucknow.
Bara Imambara
Bara Imambara is one of the famous historical places in Lucknow and tops our list. If you ask anyone what places to visit in Lucknow, the first thing they will say is Bada Imambara. That is how historically and culturally significant this place is in Lucknow. It is also known as Asafi Imambara, and a historical monument was built in the year 1784 by Asaf-ud-Daula, who was a well-known Nawab of Awadh. The complex comprises Bhul Bhulaiya, Asfi Mosque, and Shahi Baoli. Bhul Bhulaiya is the most famous part of Imambara. The magnificent architecture is Mughal style, without a hint of European architecture or the use of iron.
Chota Imambara
Constructed in 1838 by orders of Muhammad Ali Shah, the third nawab of Awadh, Chota Imambara, is second on our list of historical places in Lucknow. Chota Imambara is also known as Imambara Hussainabad Mubarak and was built as a congregation hall for the Shia community. Don’t let the name “Chota Imambara” fool you. The Chota Imambara later served as a mausoleum for nawab and his mother, who was laid to rest next to him in the tomb. The beautifully adorned Imambara is a sight to behold. This 19th-century monument in Lucknow is also known as the “Palace of Lights.”
British Residency
It may not be a well-maintained and well-preserved monument, but British Residency is undoubtedly an important place in the history of Lucknow. It is a residential complex comprised of several buildings built by Nawab Saadat Ali Khan II. During British rule, it served as the headquarters of Generals. Also known as Lucknow Residency, it played a significant role during the siege of Lucknow in 1857. When the people of Lucknow turn rebel against British rule, the place became a home to Britishers. The ruined Residency are protected by the Archaeological Survey of India. It is also said to be haunted as the graves of colonizers who died in the Lucknow Siege are in nearby sites.
Rumi Darwaza
To witness the grandeur of the Mughal architecture, head to Rumi Darwaza. It is located between Chota Imambara and Bara Imambara and is the finest piece of Mughal architecture in Lucknow. Rumi Darwaza is said to be a replica of a structure that once stood high in Constantinople in Turkey in ancient times. The 60 feet tall gate is a must-visit historical place in Lucknow. It is sometimes also referred to as the Turkish Gate.
In the old times, Rumi Darwaza was said to be the entrance of Old Lucknow and now is the symbol of the city and is often used as a Logo for Lucknow.
Dilkusha Kothi
Remains of colonial India, Dilkusha Kothi, was a hunting lodge and later was converted into a palace for the Nawabs. Built on the banks of the Gomti river in baroque-style architecture, Dilkusha Kothi was the residence of an English General. It was constructed in the early 19th century by Saadat Ali Khan and is a replica of the 1721 English country house, Seaton Delaval. There is nothing much left of the other, but the historical significance and architectural grandeur of Dilkusha made its place in places of Lucknow.
Market Places to Visit in Lucknow
Lucknow is a haven for shoppers. The city has some of the oldest sprawling markets that offer a wide range of products. From modern showrooms to traditional street markets, you will find everything here. Take a look at the list of markets to visit in Lucknow-
Hazratganj
It is the century-old area in Lucknow and is the heart of the city. Hazratganj is one of the many places to in shopping and has witnessed many transformations, from the traditional Awadh avatar to being the central hub. Today, there are many large shopping malls, showrooms, famous restaurants in Lucknow, movie theatres, and more can be seen. You can find all sorts of shops. Lovelane, Janpath, and Seva Chikan are some famous places in Hazarat to shop. If you love khadi, then it is the right place for you. A trip to Lucknow would be incomplete without visiting Hazratganj.
Aminabad
One of the oldest and busiest markets of Lucknow, Aminabad, is a haven for shopaholics since its existence. The market is among the old areas of Lucknow from the time of nawabs, and you can see the influence in its architecture. Whether you want to shop for a wedding or just casual shopping, or is it home décor you want or jewelry, Aminabad has everything in store for you. It is a delightful place for bargains. Aminabad bazaar is where you can find authentic chikankari products for men, women, and kids. Do not forget to grab a bite from the city’s one of the oldest chat points and Wahid Biryani.
Chowk
Located near Bara Imambar and Rumi Darwaza, Chowk is one of the old markets in Lucknow. It is known for ittar, accessories, jewelry, lampshades, dry fruits, bags, traditional Nagra, handicrafts, apparel, and world-famous Chikankari products. It is one of the busiest the oldest zones of Lucknow. Coming to Lucknow and not exploring the lanes of Chowk and observing the city’s life up close would be an injustice. You can get customized chikankari suits and products here. Other than this, try another world-famous product of Lucknow, Tunday kabab.
Nakhas
This 200-year-old market in Lucknow is a must-visit place in Lucknow. If street shopping is your kind of thing, visit Nakhas, you will get the best deals on jewelry, clothes, wooden home décor, handicrafts, painting, groceries, birds and pets, and bric-a-bracs. There are more than 12000 shops present in the area. Local Zardosi products are the attraction of this market and are worth buying products. Sundays are for flea markets when you can find the cheapest deal on second-hand goods.
These were just a few to give a glimpse of this glorious city. The city has a lot more to offer. Make a plan and book Delhi to Lucknow bus without a second thought to begin exploring this city in the upcoming holidays.
