Brimming with architecture from the Mughals and the colonial era, Lucknow is diverse in what it has to offer. From memorial halls, mausoleums, wildlife sanctuaries, museums, temples, and mosques to booming local markets, there is never a dull moment in Lucknow.
Not just the administrative capital, Lucknow also is a glimpse into the long-lost past while constantly evolving to accommodate everything new. An amalgam of clean new swanky neighbourhoods with nostalgic eateries, Lucknow is quite an experience.
Here are the 7 places you must visit in Lucknow
1. British Residency
The British Residency served as a residential complex for the generals of the British East India Company during the colonial period. It was later turned into a refugee camp during the time of the 1857 revolt. What remains now is the ruins of the fort, which is now managed by the Archeological Survey of India. It is a popular destination in Lucknow city, overlooking river Gomti. A number of exhibitions, cultural events and performances are hosted here from time to time. The British Residency is now a place that portrays the culture and arts of the city.
Location: Mahatma Gandhi Marg, Deep Manak Nagar, Qaisar Bagh, Lucknow
Timings: 10 am to 5 pm
Entry fee: Rs 5 per person
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2. Marine Drive Lucknow
Named after the famous Marine Drive of Mumbai, this Marine Drive in Lucknow is a strip of road, along the embankment of the Gomti river. It is a picturesque spot which is highly appealing. Consisting of a number of recreational parks, the Marine Drive in Lucknow attracts a number of tourists and locals alike. The pathway is also used for walking, jogging and cycling. There are benches dotted along as well for people to sit and relax. The area is also well connected through railway and buses. We suggest you visit the Marine Drive in Lucknow to stroll along the scenic beauty of the place.
Location: Marine Drive, Gomti Nagar, Lucknow
Timings: Open at all hours
Entry fee: No entry fee
3. Ambedkar Memorial Park
Lucknow is full of beautiful parks and gardens built mainly by the Nawabs of Awadh, who ruled here in the 18th and 19th centuries. One of the most famous parks in Lucknow is the Ambedkar Memorial Park, named after Dr. B.R. Ambedkar. The park was initially named as Dr Bhimrao Ambedkar Samajik Parivartan Prateek Sthal. Filled with greenery, this park is a beautiful place to visit. With its significant architecture consisting of several statues and sculptures, the park has a historical significance. The pond, along with the fountain here only adds to the charm of the place. This public park is also dedicated to a number of other freedom warriors such as Jyotiba Phule, Birsa Munda, Kanshi Ram and Sree Narayana Guru.
Location: Vipul Khand, Gomti Nagar, Lucknow
Timings: 11 am to 9 pm
Entry fee: Rs 20 per person
4. Lucknow Zoo
The Lucknow Zoo also known as the Nawab Wazid Ali Shah Prani Udyan is a popular place to visit among all wildlife enthusiasts. To commemorate the visit of the Prince of Wales, the zoo was originally named The Prince of Wales Zoological Gardens. Home to numerous mammals, birds and reptiles such as the Royal Bengal Tiger, White Tiger, Great Pied Hornbill, Asiatic lion and many more, this zoo attracts a number of tourists from all over the world. You may also take a ride in the antique toy train to see the various Awadhi artefacts at the State Museum.
Location: Hazratganj Road, Opposite Civil Hospital, Lucknow
Timings: 8:30 am to 5 pm
Entry fee: Rs 60 per person
5. Bara Imambara
The Bara Imambara is one of the most well-known monuments of Lucknow. Also known as the Asfi Imambara, after the Nawab of Lucknow who constructed it. It is a place of worship for the Muslims who come here every year to celebrate the occasion of Muharram. With its unique architecture, the Bara Imambara is said to be the largest arched hall in the world. It is also famous for its incredible maze, which the locals refer to as Bhul Bhulaiya. The stunning view of the entire city can be seen from the top of this monument. While the Bara Imambara is indeed a noteworthy place to visit, you must also check out the Chota Imambara of Hussainabad. Situated to the west of the Bara Imambara, the Chota Imambara is also very attractive and definitely a sight to behold.
Location: Hussainabad Trust Road, Machchhi Bhavan, Lucknow
Timings: 6 am to 5 pm
Entry fee: Rs 50 per person
6. Rumi Darwaza
The Rumi Darwaza is a sixty-foot-tall gateway situated in the old city of Lucknow. It is a distinct piece of architecture exhibiting ancient Awadhi design. Modelled after the Bab-i-Humayun in Turkey, it is also known as the Turkish Gateway. The Rumi Drawaza was built for a charitable cause by Asaf-ud-Daula. Due to famine, the Nawab of Lucknow asked his countrymen to build the gateway in exchange for a meal every day. Standing high amidst the bustling traffic of Lajpatnagar, the Rumi Drawaza is a core element of Lucknow.
Location: Hussainabad Road, Lajpat Nagar Colony, Machchhi Bhavan, Lucknow
Timings: Open at all hours
Entry fee: No entry fee
7. Ramakrishna Math
The Ramakrishna Math is a shrine and monastery situated at Nirala Nagar which promotes religious and spiritual endeavours. This place of pilgrimage follows the ideals set forth by Sri Ramakrishna, Maa Sarada Devi and Swami Vivekananda. Established in the 19th century, Ramakrishna Math is completely built-in marble. The secular nature of the city is well understood by the different places of worship that the city offers. For a spiritually rich journey, Ramakrishna Math at Lucknow is a must-visit.
Location: Nirala Nagar, Lucknow
Timings: 8:30 am to 12 pm, 4:30 am to 7:30 pm
Entry fee: No entry fee
A trip to Lucknow is incomplete without visiting the very famous Hazratganj Market and Lucknow Chowk. These are the central shopping districts of the city and prime food hubs. From chikankari and zardozi to galouti kebabs and makhan malai, full of business hubs for both tourists and locals, these markets are our top suggestions.