Places To Visit In Lucknow
by Lucknow, the vibrant capital of Uttar Pradesh, is a city steeped in rich history, culture and heritage. Known for its graceful monuments, culinary delights and art forms, Lucknow offers a unique glimpse into India’s artistic past and old-world charm.
From resplendent Nawabi monuments like the Bara Imambara and Chota Imambara to bustling markets, peaceful gardens and intriguing museums, Lucknow provides plenty of experiences for history buffs, foodies and culture enthusiasts. The luxurious stay at Fairfield By Marriott Lucknow offers convenient amenities like restaurants, room service and wifi for a pleasant experience. Here are some of the top places to explore on your visit to Lucknow:
Bara Imambara
The grandiose Bara Imambara located in the Old Lucknow area is one of the city’s most famous monuments. Also known as Asafi Imambara, this 19th century Nawabi structure was built by Asaf-ud-Daula using a unique architectural style incorporating no iron beams. The central arched hall is considered the world’s largest vaulted chamber.
Admire the decorative calligraphy, ornate chandeliers and mirrored interior that add to the resplendence of this imitation of the Taj Mahal. Don’t miss the step well and the labyrinth Bhul Bhulaiya located within the premises that will amaze you with seemingly endless alleys.
Chota Imambara
Right next to Bara Imambara lies the Chota Imambara, another magnificent piece of Nawabi architecture constructed by Muhammad Ali Shah in 1838. Also known as Hussainabad Imambara, the interiors showcase exquisite chandeliers, gilded decorations, calligraphy and stucco work on its walls and ceiling.
The bright, intricate decoration provides welcome relief from the sombre exterior. Do check out the imposing white tower known as Satkhanda on the grounds. The surrounding gardens add to the beauty of this historical complex that offers an immersive experience into Lucknow’s history.
Rumi Darwaza
The 60-foot tall Rumi Darwaza, built by Nawab Asaf-ud-Daula in 1784, is one of Lucknow’s most recognizable landmarks located near Bara Imambara. This huge ornate gateway served as the entrance to the city during the Nawabi rule. The design is said to be inspired by an Istanbul gateway.
Rumi Darwaza offers one of the best views of the Bara Imambara along with vistas of the bustling Old Lucknow streets from the top. The elaborate decorations with lanterns, frills and bells add to the old-world charm. Rumi Darwaza stands proudly as a symbol of the city’s Awadh architectural style with blending of Turkish, Arabic and European influences.
Chowk Bazaar
Chowk, the heart of the old city, is Lucknow’s busiest marketplace with over 1,500 shops selling a myriad of goods. One can spend hours browsing this sprawling market exploring narrow alleys packed with vendors selling kebabs, sugarcane juice, chikankari fabrics, attars, handicrafts, antique jewelry and more.
Stop at the iconic Tundey Kabab shop for melt-in-the-mouth minced meat galawati kebabs. Shop for delicate chikankari kurtas and dupattas showcasing Lucknow’s famed embroidery. The aroma of Lakhnawi spices, blaring horns and everyday hustle transport you back in time. A visit to Lucknow is incomplete without experiencing this legendary 200-year old bazaar.
