Sightseeing in Lucknow - what to see. Complete travel guide
Lucknow is the capital of the Indian state of Uttar Pradesh. This amazing city stands on the bank of the Gomti River. Nowadays, Lucknow is recognized as one of the best cities in India. It perfectly combines the elegance of the old world with its own historical charm. During a vacation in Lucknow, you will be able to get acquainted with local landmarks, see historical attractions of the past centuries, and visit the infamous Hazratganj district, artisan shops in which produce the internationally popular chikan embroidery. Naturally, tourists can always buy embroidered textiles as souvenirs from this gorgeous Indian city.
Initially, Lucknow was a part of the Kannauj Kingdom that had Hindu roots. In 1528, Mughal Emperor Babur captured the city. Later, the grandson of the conqueror made the Indian city a part of the subah of Awadh. The city of Faizabad not far from Lucknow became the capital of Awadh, but it was decided to move the capital to Lucknow in 1775. The power of the Mughal Empire was decreasing year after year, but the city’s importance as a political center was only growing. Because of this, it was decided to make Lucknow the center of the Muslim culture.
Nowadays, thousands of tourists visit Lucknow to see the ruins of the Dilkusha Kothi Palace. Unfortunately, the beautiful mansion is in ruins and some elements of the original building are missing. Despite this fact, the palace is one of the major architectural landmarks in the city. The construction of the palace started in the 19th century. The initial purpose was to build a hunting house. At least, this was the intention of the British resident Major Gore Ouseley. When the British army left the region, local rulers took over the palace and made their residence in it.
Outside, the Dilkusha Kothi Palace is a three-story building with the architectural elements that are typical for the British and Indian Baroque. The palace suffered much damage during the attacks in 1857. The building was severely damaged. Nowadays, visitors can see only the remaining outer walls and several towers. That being said, an extensive and lush garden still surrounds the palace. Despite its poor condition, Dilkusha Kothi has always attracted many guests who come to see the remains of the former glory. For local people, this palace is a symbol of their fight for independence.
Do you want to see one of the most glorious sacred buildings in India? In Lucknow, tourists can visit a giant architectural complex called the Great Imambara. The population of Lucknow regularly visits this complex of shrines to bow to the sacred place. The construction of the major religious site took place in 1784. Initially, the only purpose of the building was to host religious celebrations during Muharram. The Nawab Asaf-ud-daula, who was the local ruler at that time, ordered to build the complex of shrines. This way the ruler wanted to provide local people with jobs.
In modern days, the building is a fabulous example of the Mughal architecture with some decent traits of the Rajput architecture and Gothic influences. The main entrance has a beautiful gate that immediately draws the attention of visitors. The central part of the complex has intricate carvings. The shrine complex hides one more attraction - the Bhul-bhulaiya labyrinth that consists of numerous rooms and balconies. The east gate features an impressive portal that even has its own name - Rumi Darwaza. This part of the complex has gilded details and precious stone décor.
The Indian city of Lucknow has an international airport named after Chaudhary Charan Singh. It is situated twenty kilometers away from the central part of this settlement. The airport serves flights from the capital of India – Delhi – and flights from such major Indian cities as Kolkata and Patna. Besides the main air routes, there are flights from Bombay and Hyderabad. The airport in Lucknow has an international connection to Dubai, Muscat, Riyadh, and Jeddah. Tourists can get to the city center from the airport by train or taxi. Not many years ago, the metro has opened in Lucknow.
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City tours, excursions and tickets in Lucknow and surroundings
Reference information
Map of all parks
National and city parks around Lucknow
♥ National Park 'Campbell' , 6.9 km from the center. On the map
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Sightseeing in India: things to see
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All about Lucknow, India - sightseeings, attractions, touristic spots, architecture, history, culture and cuisine. Prepare your trip together with OrangeSmile.com - find out the 'must see' things in Lucknow, which places to visit, which excursions to take, where the breathtaking views are waiting for you. Planning your trip with this travel guide will help your to get the most out of Lucknow in few days.
