MUST VISIT PLACES IN LUCKNOW

Lucknow is the capital city of Uttar Pradesh, this place is famed as the City of Nawabs and has a plethora of things rolled into one compact city. Here an ardent traveller can experience a tryst with history, spirituality, culture, food, shopping, fun, leisure and so much more. Lucknow is brimming with centuries old Mughal and British edifices, alongside exciting places like amusement parks, gardens, museums, street bazaars, temples and a lot more. Here is a compact list of a few places you must visit on your trip to Lucknow: 

1. BARA IMAMBARA : This is the top most historical place to visit when in Lucknow and dated back to 1784. Also known as Asafi Imambara, this renowned monument was built by one one of the famous Nawabs of Awadh and is an entire complex comprising a large mosque or the Asif Mosque, a labyrinth or the Bhul Bhulaiya and a stepwell with running water or the Shahi Baoli. This majestic structure boasts of 2 vast gateways leading to a central hall which is said to be the largest vaulted chamber in the entire world. 

2. CHOTA IMAMBARA : This imposing historical monument was built by the 3rd Nawab of Awadh in 1838 and is also known as Imambara Hussainabad Mubarak. What was initially constructed as a congregation hall for the devotees of the Shia Community, was later converted to serve as a mausoleum for the Nawab and his mother. The beautifully ornamented interiors  of crystal lamps and chandeliers which live to hype the ‘Palace of Lights’,  will leave you awestruck. 

3. BRITISH RESIDENCY : Built in the last quarter of the 18th century, this residency complex was once a residential house for the British Resident General and served as a safe haven to over 3000 British residents during the rebellion of 1857. As the residency is in ruins, it is now a protected monument under the Archeological survey of India. 

4. RUMI DARWAZA : This monument will help you witness the true grandeur of Awadhi Style. Rumi Darwaza imposes itself as a gateway between Bara Imambara and Chhota Imambara. Generally used as the logo of Lucknow City, this monument was built to be 60 feet tall in 1784  and is often referred to as the Turkish Gate as it is modeled after the Sublime Porte in Istanbul. 

5. CHATTAR MANZIL : What is now a must visit tourist place in Lucknow, was once the residential palace for Awadhi Rulers and their wives. Famed as the Umbrella Palace, this umbrella shaped domed structure displays elements from different styles of architecture, the European Style being of utmost significance. It’s intricate architectural beauty leaves its visitors in complete awe.