You can enjoy history, culture, shopping, fun, spirituality, food, leisure, and more in Lucknow, the capital of Uttar Pradesh. The City of Nawabs combines all of these things together. There are many places to visit after checking into one of Lucknow’s best hotels, from centuries-old British and Mughal edifices to amusement parks to gardens, street bazaars, museums, and temples.
Tourist places in Lucknow
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The Bara Imambara | Tourist places in Lucknow
It dates back to 1784 and is one of Lucknow’s most popular historical monuments. Asaf-ud-Daula, a famous Nawaba of Awadh, built the complex, which consists of a large mosque (Asfi Mosque), a labyrinth (Bul Bhulaiya), and a stepwell with running water (Shahi Baoli). As you approach the central hall, which is reputed to be the largest vaulted chamber in the world, two large gateways lead you there.
2. Chota Imambara | Tourist places in Lucknow
Chota Imambara, also known as Imambara Hussainabad Mubarak, is a grand historical landmark constructed in 1838 by Muhammad Ali Shah, the third Nawab of Awadh. Originally intended for Shia worshippers, it now serves as the final resting place for both the Nawab and his mother. Adorned with exquisite chandeliers and crystal lamps imported from Belgium, the interior of this building is often referred to as ‘the Palace of Lights’. The exterior showcases elaborate Islamic calligraphy that enhances its aesthetic appeal.
In addition to being called the Residency and the Residency Complex, the British Residency is a complex of buildings that were once the residence of the British Resident General. It was built during the Indian Rebellion of 1857 and was home to over 3000 British residents. The Residency is now in ruins and is protected by the Archeological Survey of India as a monument.
3. The Rumi Darwaza | Tourist places in Lucknow
Make your way to the Rumi Darwaza, an imposing gateway located between Bara Imambara and Chota Imambara, to witness the grandeur of the Awadhi style of architecture. The Lucknow city logo is an imposing 60-feet high gate built in 1784 by Nawab Asaf-ud-Daula. The gate is modeled after the Sublime Porte in Istanbul and is sometimes known as the Turkish Gate.
4. The Chattar Manzil | Tourist places in Lucknow
The Chattar Manzil or Umbrella Palace, which once served as the residence for the Awadhi rulers and their wives, is another must-visit tourist attraction in Lucknow. It is known for its umbrella-shaped dome. While the building currently serves as a government office, it is a popular tourist attraction because of its architectural beauty. The structure combines elements from various architectural styles, the most important of which was European.
5. The Dilkusha Kothi | Tourist places in Lucknow
Situated along the banks of the River Gomti, Dilkusha Kothi stands as a remnant of a 19th-century mansion. Exhibiting elements of English baroque architecture, the house formerly functioned as a hunting retreat and seasonal escape for the Nawabs. Today, only remnants of its former splendor can be seen – external walls, a handful of towers, and an exquisite garden. Nonetheless, due to its noteworthy past and impressive design, Dilkusha Kothi has secured a spot on Lucknow’s list of must-visit attractions.
6. The Husainabad Clock Tower | Tourist places in Lucknow
As well as Rumi Darwaza, Husainabad Clock Tower is situated in Lucknow’s cityscape. It was built in 1881 by the Hussainabad Trust at a cost of 1.75 lakhs and is modeled after London’s Big Ben Clock Tower. With its 12 petals and 14-foot pendulum, the clock is shaped like a flower. As the tallest clock tower in the country, it is decorated with Gothic and Victorian elements.
7. The Amrapali Water Park | Tourist places in Lucknow
One of the best water parks in Lucknow, Amrapali Water Park, is a great place to enjoy some aquatic fun. There are many rides and slides at the park, such as Aqua Trail, Black Hole, Float Slide, and Crazy Cruise. With its restaurants and video game parlors, Amrapali is a great place to stay entertained all day, especially during the summer season.
8. The Four Seasons Fun City Water Park | Tourist places in Lucknow
The Fun City is another place to have oodles of fun with your family and friends, located on a sprawling 30 acres of land. People of all ages will find the place to be ideal for water rides and twister rides such as Jet Splash, Family Slide, Multi Cruise, and Float Slide, and Racing Reverse Multi-Lane Slide. A really cool experience awaits you at the Snow Park, which is another key attraction here.
9. The Aminabad Market | Tourist places in Lucknow
A must-visit spot in Lucknow is the Aminabad Market, established during the Nawab era. The market boasts a diverse array of goods, ranging from chikan garments, jewelry, and footwear to carpets, bed sheets, and handicrafts. Bargaining is encouraged for the ultimate shopping experience. After your shopping excursion, check out popular local eateries like Wahid Biryani, Kalika Chat House, and Tunday Kababi for delicious food to recharge.
10. The Hazratganj Market | Tourist places in Lucknow
Located in the heart of Lucknow, the Hazratganj Market is a century-old shopping destination that truly embodies the city’s vibrant soul. This bustling area is home to a variety of showrooms, factory outlets, restaurants, shopping complexes, malls, and theatres, making it a shopper’s paradise. The Ganj Carnival is a popular event held here every second Sunday of the month that attracts large crowds. And if you’re feeling peckish during your visit, be sure to check out some of the delicious eateries in the area such as Royal Café, J.J Bakers, or the Cherry Tree Café.
11. The Chowk | Tourist places in Lucknow
You can find an amazing variety of chikan garments at Chowk, another popular and age-old market in Lucknow that exudes an unmistakable Awadhi vibe. It offers a great street shopping experience and a glimpse into the city’s cultural heritage with its over 5000 shops. In addition to stunning chikan and zardozi garments, handmade jewelry, Nagra footwear, and perfumes, Chowk also offers mouthwatering kebabs, biriyanis, and rabris.
12. The Indira Gandhi Planetarium | Tourist places in Lucknow
In Lucknow, you must make sure you visit the Indira Gandhi Planetarium, especially if you’re a science enthusiast or have kids with you. In addition to being designed so that it looks like Saturn, the planetarium is unique among all other planetariums in the country. It is a great place to learn about celestial bodies with its high-tech projection system and daily screenings that reveal the wonders of the universe
13. The Ambedkar Park | Tourist places in Lucknow
Situated in Gomti Nagar, the expansive 107-acre park and memorial serves as a tribute to prominent social reformers such as Dr. Ambedkar, Jyotirao Phule, Kanshi Ram, Narayana Guru, and numerous others who dedicated their lives to promoting equality and social justice. Notably, the entire park is constructed with red sandstone sourced from Rajasthan. The main attractions include the Ambedkar Stupa, Pratibimb Sthal featuring statues of 62 elephants, a museum, and the Dr. Bhimrao Ambedkar Samajik Parivartan Gallery.
14. The Nawab Wahid Ali Shah Zoological Garden | Tourist places in Lucknow
Located in the heart of Lucknow, Nawab Wahid Ali Shah Zoological Garden, also known as Lucknow Zoo, is a must-visit for nature enthusiasts and families alike. This renowned attraction features a vast 71-acre plot and boasts a diverse range of wildlife including over 440 mammals, 340 bird species, and various reptiles. Along with these fascinating creatures, visitors can enjoy activities such as toy train rides and paddle boating. Additionally, the zoo houses a British-era vintage train exhibit as well as a butterfly park and nature interpretation center. Let your little ones have some fun at the children’s park while you soak in all that this amazing haven has to offer.
15. The State Museum | Tourist places in Lucknow
You can also add the state museum to your Lucknow itinerary if you are visiting the Lucknow Zoo. The major exhibits here include artifacts related to Awadhi arts and culture and several excavated antiquities from regions in and around the city. In addition to a wooden sarcophagus and an Egyptian mummy, this four-story building contains several antiquities excavated in the city.
16. The Ram Manohar Lohiya Park | Tourist places in Lucknow
Ranked amongst the top 10 destinations in Lucknow, Dr. Ram Manohar Lohiya Park is a public recreational space developed by the Lucknow Development Authority. As its name suggests, it stands in honor of the renowned freedom fighter and socialist leader, Dr. Ram Manohar Lohiya. Situated on a vast expanse of 76 acres in Gomti Nagar, the park features jogging and acupressure tracks, a lake with fish and duck ponds, swings and benches, an amphitheater, a beautiful flower garden, and an open exercise area. Whether you prefer a leisurely evening stroll or an invigorating run on the jogging trails, this park is an ideal destination.
17. The Gomti Riverfront Park | Tourist places in Lucknow
Since its establishment, Gomti Riverfront Park has been a popular destination for tourists in Lucknow due to its picturesque location and natural surroundings. Spanning over 2 km along the Gomti River, it is renowned as a top picnic and leisure spot in the city. A highlight of the park is the mesmerizing musical fountain, especially at night when the entire area is illuminated. With amenities such as jogging and cycling tracks, as well as play areas for children, the park offers an ideal setting for spending quality time with loved ones in the evenings.
18. The Janeshwar Mishra Park | Tourist places in Lucknow
Located in Gomti Nagar, Janeshwar Mishra Park is a urban oasis dedicated to the memory of the late politician. Inspired by London’s Hyde Park, this eco-friendly park boasts two large water bodies that attract a variety of migratory birds year-round. In addition to jogging and cycling tracks, there are also walkways, play areas for children, gondola rides, and ample greenery for visitors to enjoy. Serving as a peaceful retreat within the city, the park offers a much-needed opportunity for rejuvenation and relaxation.
19. Temple of Chandrika Devi | Tourist places in Lucknow
Located on the banks of the River Gomti, the Chandrika Devi Temple honors the Hindu goddess Chandi, a form of Durga. The shrine is believed to be about 300 years old and is dedicated to the goddess Chandi. The temple’s presiding deity, Chandi, is worshipped here as a stone with three heads. Known for its spiritual vibes, devotees visit the temple throughout the year, especially during the Navaratri festival.
20. The Jama Masjid | Tourist places in Lucknow
Among Lucknow’s tourist attractions is the Jama Masjid. It is a spiritual center for Muslim devotees. However, it isn’t the only thing there is to it. There is no denying that this 19th-century edifice is one of the finest examples of Mughal architecture in the city. It is known for its giant pillars that feature Hindu and Jain carvings.
Ready to discover the city? Keep in mind that this blog highlights the top destinations in Lucknow. But don’t forget, there are even more options such as Buddha Park, Marine Drive, and Begum Hazrat Mahal Park, as well as the Tomb of Saadat Ali Khan and Kaiserbagh Palace. Indulge in delectable Mughlai and Awadhi cuisine at the city’s numerous restaurants. Make sure to plan your schedule accordingly to fully immerse yourself in all that Lucknow has to offer – from sightseeing and shopping to dining and entertainment.
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