Popular Places to Visit in Lucknow

The capital city of Uttar Pradesh, Lucknow is a place that holds many stories beneath it. Famous by the name City of Nawab, this mesmerizing city gives positive vibes to its traveler. This city has everything for you, starting from history, culture, peace, shopping, ancient architecture, and many more. This city has ancient architectural buildings of the Mughal era which are now being converted into museums and places are something which will take you into the Mughal rule.

So, if you are planning to explore Lucknow on your next visit, make sure to go through these blogs, as we have shortlisted some famous sites of Lucknow which will make your trip worth every single penny

Bara Imambara


One of the most famous monuments in the city is The Bara Imambara. This mystic monument is known for its incredible maze and is locally called Bhul Bhulaiya. It is located on the upper floor of the site. Bhul Bhulaiya named is derived from its architectural design as there are 1024 ways to get inside the maze but there are only 2 ways to come out.
This Imambara is also known as Asfi Imambara, who was Nawab of Lucknow during the construction of this Imambara and it is also the most important place of worship for Muslims in the city who came here to celebrate their religious festival and offer Namaz. This monument is said to be the world’s largest structure as it is unsupported by beams. This monument is an example of a fine specimen of Mughal architecture.

The most fascinating thing about this Imambara is the unique construction of this monument. No wood or metal has been used in the construction of this site. While you are here you can have a view of the grave of Nawab Asaf-Ud-Daulah which is in the central hall said it is the largest vaulted chamber in the world.

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Dilkusha Kothi, Lucknow


A colonial-era building remanent, Dilkusha Kothi was a haunting lodge converted into a palace for royal families. Initially, it was the residence of English general Major Gore, but later on, this building was revamped by Nawab Nasir-ud-din-Haider.

Dilkusha has seen the impact of the first war of Indian independence which was fought during the era of 1857. During the present day, you will hardly get a structure of ruin of walls and few towers. Beside the Kothi, this is a well-maintained Dilkusha garden which is a great picnic spot in Lucknow. This area is quite silent and away from the hustle and bustle of Lucknow.

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Dr. Ambedkar Park, Lucknow


Dr. Bhimrao Ambedkar Samajik Parivartan Prateek Sthal or the Ambedkar Memorial Park is among the most beautiful places to visit in Lucknow. Located in the Vipul Khand of Gomti Nagar, this park was constructed by the former chief minister of Uttar Pradesh Mayawati. Though this park has always been remaining in controversial because of its huge size and the money spent on it. There are several movies that have been shoot inside this park.

This park was built in the name of Dr. Bhima Rao Ambedkar, but this public park is dedicated to other freedom fights which include Jyotiba Phule, Birsa Munda, Kashi Ram, and many more. Though there is no greenery inside the park you can witness various statues and structures of historical importance.

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Chota Imambara


Imambara of Hussainabad or also known as Chota Imambara is one of the most beautiful architectures in the city of Nawab. This monument Is located on the west side of Bara Imambara. Built by Muhammad Ali Shah who was the Nawab of Awadh in the year 1838, initially, this Imambara was a congregation Hall for Shia Muslims. This place serves as the mausoleum of Nawab and his mother. Both mother and son duo are buried inside these prestigious monuments.

During the Muslim festival or especially during Muharram, this place is decorated with chandeliers which increase its beauty threefold. In fact, this building is also known as the Palace of Lights by European writers and visitors because of the decorations of this monument at festival events.

This monument is a mixture of 3 different architecture i.e., Charbagh, Indo-Islamic, and Persian structural. You can also witness the verse of the Quran which are beautifully carved on the walls of the monuments in Islamic calligraphy. However, it is not only the exterior of the Imambara which catches the attraction of visitors, even the interior of the monuments is designed and built whit utmost detail and care.

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Janeshwar Mishra Park


A newly constructed park Janeshwar Mishra is located in the Gomti Nagar area of Lucknow. This beautiful park is dedicated to a demised politician of the Samajwadi party Janeshwar Mishra and it was opened to the public in the year 2014.
This park is one of the biggest parks in Asia which is curtailed into lush greenery with a floral garden. It offers plenty of activities such as boating, a children’s play area, and many more. Apart from the jogging area, there is also a food canteen inside the park where you can fill your empty stomach

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Rumi Darwaza


A striking gateway that is 60 feet tall in height, Rumi Darwaza is located in the streets of old Lucknow. This monument is a fine example of Awadh architecture and it is situated between Bara Imambara and Chota Imambara. Rumi Darwaza was built as Nawab Asaf-ud-Daula and it is also known as Turkish Gate because this gate will make you memorize of Bab-i-Humayun gateway which is in Turkey

There is a charitable reason behind the creation of Rumi Darwaza. It is said that when famine struck North India during 1784 which was known as the Chalisa famine it resulted in the loss of 11 million people in India only, then the Nawab of Lucknow came up with a plan to help his countrymen in order to give them something to cherish and to be proud of. According to historians, Awadhi workers built this great Rumi Darwaza for Nawab in exchange for everyday meals.

This monument is located in the heart of Lucknow city and everyday busy traffic of the city looms over it. This monument is like an old guardian of Lucknow which has seen the city rise and fall. Located In the Lajpat Nagar area of Lucknow, this arch lit up during the night.

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Ramakrishna Math


Located in Nirala Nagar of Lucknow, Ramakrishna math is a shrine and monastery which is an all-monk institution dedicated to Sri Ramakrishna. Its motto is ‘For one’s own salvation and welfare of the world. This math is built completely of marble. Ramakrishna math was established in the 19th century in the name of the Bengali saint Ramakrishna. You can see the number of idols of Ramakrishna inside the premise of this math. There is also the statue of Vivekananda and Sarada devi.

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Zoological Garden


Lucknow zoo is one of the major tourist attractions of the city which is located on the river bank colony. Also known by the name of Nawab Wajid Ali Shah Prani Udyan, this zoo was originally known as The Prince of Wales Zoological Garden. This zoo is home to numerous creatures such as mammals, reptiles, mammals, and the most famous royal Bengal tiger, the white Bengal tiger, and the Asiatic lion.

Built-in year 1921 by Nawab Nasiruddin Haider, this zoo is spread over an area of 71 acres and it was basically created to celebrate the visit of the Prince of Wales in Lucknow. You can also enjoy the toy train ride inside the zoo. There is also the state museum here and besides, there are several events such as wildlife week and children’s day which are celebrated here with great zeal.

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Firangi Mahal, Lucknow


Firangi mahal is a Mughal building which is located in the Indira Nagar of Lucknow. Formerly, it was the residence of Neil who was a French businessman. Firangi mahal was a major place of education and it was among the biggest Muslim academics during that time. Today, Firangi mahal is of the fine examples and remains of Mughal architecture, which holds Islamic values and important tourist attraction in the city.

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Marine Drive Lucknow


Named after a famous marine drive of Mumbai, this lucknowi Marine Drive is a picturesque strip of road that is adjacent to River Gomti. This place is a popular hangout place in Lucknow and it is famous among youth. People often visit this place for jogging and cycling. You can also get benches which are sprinkled to sit and relax.

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 Indira Gandhi Planetarium


Located in the neighbourhood of Lucknow (Suraj Kund Park), this planetarium is on the bank of river Gomti. It is popularly known as Taramandal among the masses. 3D models of planets, science, and astronomical exhibition are the main attraction of this place. 

You can also witness various models of Indian satellites and you can also get a chance to know diverse data about Varahmihira and Aryabhata etc. This place provides a virtual trip to space through 3D space shows. The Planetarium building is designed in the shape of Saturn with five rings around it. The foundation stone of this Taramandal was laid out by Late Chief Minister Veer Bahadur Singh in the year 1988 and it was finally opened to the public in the year 2003 and was inaugurated by the then chief minister of Uttar Pradesh Mayawati. 

Jama Masjid, Lucknow


Islamic worship place Jama masjid is located in the Tahseenganj area of Lucknow. This huge mosque was built by King Ali Shah bahadur in the year 1423. This mosque is on an elevated square platform and was built at that time to outpass the Jama Masjid of New Delhi. You will get a view of a mixture of Hindu-Jain architecture along with Islamic features. Fancy décor on lime pillars, high arched ceilings, and beautifully carved pillars increase the beauty of this mosque by many times. This mosque is an active mosque in the present time where thousands of Namazi pay for their namaz on their important days such as ID-ul-zuha and Asid-ul-fitr. Non-muslims are not allowed to enter the mosque premise.

Shahi Baoli


A beautiful mixture of Indian and Islamic architecture, Shahi baoli was built by Nawab Asif-ud-din Daula and Kifayat ullah between 1784-1795. This baoli was built as a water reservoir for society and it was one of the finest architecture of its time.
Shahi baoli is a five-story housing structure that is surrounded by stairs that will lead you inside the baoli.

Shah Najaf Imambara


A Muslim monument located at Rana Pratap Road in Lucknow, Shah Najaf Imambara is a dome-shaped house that is the grave of Nawab Ghazi-ud-din along with his 3 wives. This Imambara is a fine example of Mughal architecture and a beautiful floral yard is spread in front of it. Shah Nafaj Imambara is made out of white marble finished structure. This Imambara was constructed by ghazi-ud-Din for himself in the 19th It is mandatory for visitors to remove their shoes and cover their heads while entering this mosque.

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Moti Mahal


Popularly known as the pearl palace, Moti Mahal was built by Nawab Saadat Ali Khan. This monument is located on the banks of the Gomti river and it is constructed next to Shah Manzil and Mubarak manzil. Moti Mahal was the residence of Nawab of Lucknow during that time, and it was part of the Qaiser Bagh complex.

This palace is a great birdwatching spot as the Nawab used to love birds and other animals fighting for their entertainment. Today, this place is used to organize conferences, parties, and another special occasions.

Chandrika Devi Temple, Lucknow


Located in the Aashiyana area of Lucknow, Chandrika Devi is a Hindu temple that is dedicated to Goddess Chandi. Chandrika devi is considered to be the combining manifestation of Goddess Kali, Lakshmi, and Saraswati. You can also find a pond inside the temple premise which hold a huge sitting statue of Lord Shiva. It is said that this shrine is 800 years old and Chandrika devi temple has even been linked with the mythological Hindu epic Ramayana.


Aminabad


One of the oldest shopping areas of Lucknow, Aminabad is the place that will give you the vibes of Nawabi of Lucknow. This market is famous for its wide range of products starting from clothing to jewelry, from cosmetics to books shops.

There are a number of food stalls on the roadside of Aminabad that served the local street food of Purvanchal. Just like any other market in the area, Aminabad required handy bargaining skills as some of the stalls here are over priced.

Nawabganj Bird Sanctuary


Located at a distance of 50 km from Lucknow, Nawabganj Bird Sanctuary is in the Unnao district of Uttar Pradesh. Covered in dense forest, this bird sanctuary is home to more than 250 species of birds and other beautiful migratory birds that came here, and it is a place to spot other wildlife.  Also known by the name of Shahid Chandra Shekhar Azad Bird Sanctuary is home to Indian birds and migratory birds such as peafowl, sarus crane, king crow, and many more. Apart from that you can also witness reptiles like Vipers, Water snakes, rattlesnakes, and cobras, There is also a deer park inside the sanctuary and it is one of the best places to visit in Lucknow.

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Bithoor


A quaint town situated in the Kanpur district of Uttar Pradesh, Bithoor is an important pilgrim site for Hindus. this place holds great religious significance in Hinduism. There are several local legends, mythological stories, and ancient ruins which are related to this place. Bithoor was considered the town of, the son of Lord Rama in the Hindu mythology of Ramayana.

Legends also state this place was residing place of Lord Brahman and the name of the town Bithoor was derived from Brahmavarta which means a place where Brahma stayed. Bithoor also kept an important place in Indian history due to the uprising movement in India’s freedom struggle. This small town is set along the coast of River Ganga. This is the perfect gateway for those who want to spend some time away from the chaos of the busy metro city.

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 Chowk


If you want to get the real essence of Lucknow, then there is no better place then Chowk. This market is considered to be the oldest market in the state as well as in the whole of North India. This lace act as a window if you want to have a glance into the rich cultural heritage of the city. If you are a great foodie, then starting from kebab to makhhan malai and chowk ki lassi is the major food hub, which will surely lift your foody mood.

This old Lucknow market has more than 5000 shops, where you can get all the quaint shops starting from Chikankari to zardozi, handmade jewelry to home décor items, bamboo items to perfumes which are made out of real flowers. The variety which chowk offers to its visitors is beyond your imagination.

Chattar Manzil


Built by Nawab Ghazi-ud-din Haider, Chaatar Manzil is commonly known by the name of Umbrella palace. Later on, this place was used by the ruler of Awadh and his wives. Chattar manzil is located on the Gomti river bank and this building is a fine example of Nawabi and European architecture. This place has large underground rooms and it had also made a special appearance in many Bollywood movies such as Jolly LLB 2 and Bollywood flicks.

Though French Governor Claude Martin made some constitutions here in the year 1781. Today this place is the site of the Central Drug Research center.

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Dewa Shareef, Lucknow


Located on the outskirt of Lucknow, Deva Shareef is a small town which is known for the shrine of Haji Waris Ali Shah. This town is at a distance of 25 km from Lucknow and is in the Barabanki district of Uttar Pradesh. It is a prominent Muslim heritage site. There is also a mosque within the premise of the shrine which is visited by thousands of pilgrims every year.
You will get a true view of Ganga-Jamuna tahjeeb here, as this shrine celebrated the Hindu festival Holi with great zeal and emotions. People came here to celebrate Holi, and color themselves in gulal and this event is big news every year. The tomb of the shrine is an example of fine architecture and beautiful architecture. During the festival of Urs which is celebrated for 10 days in the month of October-November, this place saw a huge crowd of pilgrims.

 Dr Ram Manohar Lohiya Park


Spread over an area of more than 70 acres, Ram Manohar Lohia Park is located in Gomati Nagar. This park has a separate entrance and four divisions of the courtyard and it is dedicated to Dr. Ram Manohar Lohia who was a socialist leader. Covered in seasonal flowers and shrubbery, this park is used by local communities for jogging and morning yoga classes. There is a seating arrangement for visitors inside the park and it also has several amenities such as clean water for drinking and a toilet. Spring and winter are the perfect time to visit this park.

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Lulu Mall


A newly inaugurated shopping mall Lulu is one of the largest malls in India which was opened to the public in the year 2022. This mall is located on the Shaheed Path and is a paradise for shopaholics. It is home to some famous brands. There is also a food court on the top of lulu where you can go on date also with your partner.

Hazratganj Market, Lucknow


Ahh, enough for sightseeing? Then Hazratganj is the shopping center of Lucknow and it is the next destination for you in the city. Sharma Ji Ki Chai will refresh you here if you are a chai lover. Walking through the street of Hazratganj, this place is home to almost every showroom of different brands. This is one of the best places to visit in Lucknow north india.

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