Welcome to the City of Nawabs

Discover the rich heritage, exquisite cuisine, and the famous 'tehzeeb' of Lucknow

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Lucknow City

About Lucknow

Lucknow, the capital city of Uttar Pradesh, is known for its rich cultural heritage, exquisite cuisine, and the famous 'tehzeeb' (etiquette and manners). Often referred to as the "City of Nawabs" or the "Constantinople of India," Lucknow has a unique blend of historical grandeur and modern development.

The city showcases a perfect amalgamation of different cultures, primarily influenced by the Nawabs of Awadh who were great patrons of culinary and artistic finesse. The city's architecture, crafts, music, dance, and cuisine bear testimony to this rich cultural heritage.

Population: 3.5 Million+
Area: 689 sq km
Languages: Hindi, Urdu

Heritage & Cultural Attractions

Bara Imambara

Bara Imambara

Built by Nawab Asaf-ud-Daula in 1784, the Bara Imambara is a historical monument famous for its intricate architecture and the labyrinth of corridors known as 'Bhulbhulaiya'.

Open: 6:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Chota Imambara

Chota Imambara

Also known as Hussainabad Imambara, it was built by Nawab Muhammad Ali Shah in 1838. The monument is famous for its chandeliers, mirror work, and golden dome.

Open: 6:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Rumi Darwaza

Rumi Darwaza

Built in 1784 by Nawab Asaf-ud-Daula, the Rumi Darwaza is a magnificent gateway that stands 60 feet tall. It is an excellent example of Awadhi architecture.

Open: All day
British Residency

British Residency

A group of buildings that served as the residence for the British Resident General. It was a significant site during the Indian Rebellion of 1857 and still bears the scars of bullets and cannonballs.

Open: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Hazratganj

Hazratganj

The heart of the city, Hazratganj is a major shopping and cultural district established by Nawab Amjad Ali Shah in 1842. It showcases a blend of Victorian and Awadhi architectural styles.

Open: 10:00 AM - 9:00 PM
Jama Masjid

Jama Masjid

Built by Sultan Ahmad Shah in 1423, the Jama Masjid is one of the oldest mosques in Lucknow. It's known for its intricate architecture and peaceful ambiance.

Open: 5:00 AM - 9:00 PM
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Cuisine & Food Guide

Lucknow is famous for its Awadhi cuisine, which was developed in the royal kitchens of the Nawabs of Awadh. It is known for its delicate flavors, slow cooking methods, and the generous use of spices and herbs.

Tunday Kababi
Must Try

Galouti Kebab

Famous at Tunday Kababi, these melt-in-the-mouth kebabs are made from minced meat and over 160 spices, creating a unique flavor that Lucknow is famous for.

Best at Tunday Kababi

Price Range: ₹150 - ₹300

Lucknowi Biryani
Popular

Lucknowi Biryani

Unlike other biryanis, Lucknowi biryani is known for its subtle flavors. The meat and rice are cooked separately and then layered and slow-cooked in a sealed pot.

Best at Idris Biryani

Price Range: ₹200 - ₹400

Lucknowi Chaat
Street Food

Lucknowi Chaat

Lucknow's chaat, especially the Basket Chaat and Tokri Chaat, is famous for its tangy and spicy flavors. It's a must-try street food experience in the city.

Best at Shukla Chaat, Hazratganj

Price Range: ₹50 - ₹150

Nihari
Traditional

Nihari

A slow-cooked meat stew that originated in the royal kitchens of the Nawabs. It's typically eaten with Kulcha or Naan and is a popular breakfast item.

Best at Raheem's

Price Range: ₹200 - ₹350

Prakash Kulfi
Dessert

Prakash Kulfi

A traditional Indian ice cream that comes in various flavors like saffron, cardamom, and pistachio. Prakash Kulfi is a famous spot in Lucknow to enjoy this dessert.

Prakash Kulfi, Aminabad

Price Range: ₹30 - ₹100

Malai Makhan
Winter Special

Malai Makhan

A winter delicacy made from milk cream that's churned to a foam-like consistency and topped with nuts. It's best enjoyed early in the morning during winter months.

Best at Chowk Area

Price Range: ₹50 - ₹120

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Local Businesses & Shopping

Lucknow is famous for its traditional crafts, especially Chikankari embroidery and Zardozi work. The city also offers a variety of shopping experiences from traditional markets to modern malls.

Categories

SEWA Chikankari

Verified

An NGO-run store that sells authentic Chikankari products made by local women artisans. They offer a wide range of garments, including sarees, kurtas, and dupattas.

(124 reviews)
Chikankari, Handicrafts

Hazratganj, Lucknow

Visit

Sharma Tea Corner

Verified

A legendary tea stall in Lucknow known for its unique 'Bun Maska' and special chai. It's a favorite among locals and has been serving delicious tea for over 50 years.

(276 reviews)
Food, Beverages

Lalbagh, Lucknow

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Hazratganj Market

Popular

The heart of Lucknow's shopping scene, Hazratganj offers everything from traditional crafts to modern brands. It's a must-visit destination for shoppers in Lucknow.

(412 reviews)
Shopping, Market

Hazratganj, Lucknow

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Lucknow Zardozi Center

Verified

Specializing in traditional Zardozi embroidery, this center offers a variety of handcrafted products including garments, accessories, and home décor items.

(89 reviews)
Zardozi, Handicrafts

Chowk, Lucknow

Visit
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Events & Festivals

Lucknow hosts a variety of cultural events and festivals throughout the year, showcasing its rich heritage, arts, and traditions.

Lucknow Mahotsav
Annual Festival

Lucknow Mahotsav

An annual cultural festival that celebrates the art, culture, cuisine, and heritage of Lucknow. It features performances, exhibitions, food stalls, and craft displays.

Nov 25 - Dec 5, 2025

Awadh Shilpgram, Lucknow

Details
Thumri Festival
Music Festival

Thumri Festival

Dedicated to the classical singing form of Thumri, which has deep roots in Lucknow. The festival features performances by renowned classical singers from across India.

September 15-17, 2025

Sangeet Natak Akademi, Lucknow

Details
Muharram Procession
Religious Festival

Muharram Procession

Muharram is observed with great reverence in Lucknow, with elaborate processions, especially in the old city. The processions are known for their disciplined and peaceful nature.

July 2025 (Based on Islamic Calendar)

Old City, Lucknow

Details
Sanatkada Crafts Festival
Crafts Festival

Sanatkada Crafts Festival

A celebration of traditional crafts and handloom products. The festival aims to promote and preserve the rich craft heritage of Lucknow and surrounding regions.

February 1-5, 2026

Safed Baradari, Qaiserbagh

Details
Holi Celebration
Religious Festival

Holi Celebration

The festival of colors is celebrated with great enthusiasm in Lucknow. The city has unique traditions including special foods and music performances during this festival.

March 2026 (Based on Hindu Calendar)

Throughout Lucknow

Details
Lucknow Literature Festival
Literary Festival

Lucknow Literature Festival

A celebration of literature and intellectual discourse. The festival features book launches, panel discussions, and interactions with authors from across the country and beyond.

October 10-12, 2025

Lucknow University

Details
View All Events

Travel Information & Guide

Getting to Lucknow

By Air

Chaudhary Charan Singh International Airport (LKO) connects Lucknow to major cities in India and select international destinations. It's approximately 15 km from the city center.

By Train

Lucknow is well-connected by train to major cities across India. The main railway stations are Lucknow Junction (NER) and Charbagh Railway Station (NR).

By Road

Lucknow is connected to major cities by well-maintained highways. The city has good bus services from neighboring states and cities, with the main bus terminal at Alambagh.

Getting Around

Metro

The Lucknow Metro is a convenient way to travel across the city. It currently has one operational line connecting major areas of the city with extensions planned.

Taxis & Auto Rickshaws

App-based cab services like Ola and Uber are widely available. Auto rickshaws are another popular option for short distances, though it's advisable to negotiate the fare beforehand.

City Buses

Lucknow has a network of city buses operated by Lucknow City Transport Service Ltd (LCTSL) that connect various parts of the city at affordable rates.

Accommodation Guide

Luxury

Taj Mahal Hotel, Vivanta Lucknow, Renaissance Lucknow Hotel, Hyatt Regency, and Lebua.

Mid-Range

Comfort Inn, Silvete Hotel, Hotel Deep Palace, Dayal Paradise, and Golden Tulip.

Budget

Hotel Monarch, Hotel Raj, OYO Rooms, Hotel Paradise, and Guest houses in Gomti Nagar.

Travel Tips

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Lucknow is from October to March when the weather is pleasant. Summers (April to June) can be extremely hot, and monsoons (July to September) bring high humidity.

Oct-Mar: Pleasant (15-25°C) Apr-Jun: Hot (30-45°C) Jul-Sep: Monsoon (25-35°C)

Cultural Etiquette

  • Lucknow is known for its 'tehzeeb' or etiquette. People are generally polite and appreciate respectful behavior.
  • Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites.
  • It's customary to remove shoes before entering homes, temples, and mosques.
  • Using basic Hindi phrases is appreciated, though English is widely understood in tourist areas.

Local Language

Hindi and Urdu are the primary languages spoken in Lucknow. The city has a unique dialect known as 'Lakhnavi' which is a blend of Hindi, Urdu, and Awadhi. English is understood in tourist areas and by educated locals.

Hello: Namaste (नमस्ते) / Adaab (आदाब)

Thank You: Dhanyavaad (धन्यवाद) / Shukriya (शुक्रिया)

Please: Kripya (कृपया) / Meherbani (मेहरबानी)

Safety Information

  • Lucknow is generally a safe city for tourists, but standard precautions should be taken.
  • Avoid isolated areas after dark, especially if traveling alone.
  • Be cautious of pickpockets in crowded areas like markets and railway stations.
  • Keep emergency contacts handy: Police: 100, Ambulance: 108, Tourist Police: 1800-419-0110.

Suggested Itineraries

1-Day Itinerary

  • 1

    Morning: Bara Imambara & Chota Imambara

    Explore these magnificent historical monuments, including the famous Bhulbhulaiya (labyrinth).

  • 2

    Afternoon: Lunch at Tunday Kababi

    Enjoy the famous Galouti Kebabs and Lucknowi Biryani.

  • 3

    Evening: Hazratganj Market

    Shop for souvenirs and experience the heart of the city.

  • 4

    Night: Dinner at The Royal Café

    Try the famous Basket Chaat and other local delicacies.

2-Day Itinerary

Day 1:
  • • Bara Imambara & Rumi Darwaza
  • • Lunch at Tunday Kababi
  • • British Residency
  • • Evening at Hazratganj
Day 2:
  • • Chota Imambara & Picture Gallery
  • • Lunch at Dastarkhwan
  • • Shopping at Chowk for Chikankari
  • • Dinner at Capoor's Hotel

3-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Historical Lucknow
  • • Bara Imambara & Rumi Darwaza
  • • Chota Imambara & Husainabad Clock Tower
  • • British Residency
Day 2: Cultural Exploration
  • • State Museum & Lucknow Zoo
  • • Marine Drive along Gomti River
  • • Hazratganj for shopping & dinner
Day 3: Shopping & Cuisine
  • • Chowk area for Chikankari shopping
  • • Food tour: Tunday Kababi, Sharma Tea, Basket Chaat
  • • Evening at Janeshwar Mishra Park

Interactive Map

Explore the City of Nawabs through our interactive map. Find attractions, restaurants, hotels, and more at your fingertips.

Visitor Testimonials

R

Rajat Sharma

Delhi, India

"Lucknow surprised me with its rich heritage and amazing food. The Bara Imambara was breathtaking, and the Galouti Kebabs at Tunday Kababi were to die for! The people were so warm and hospitable. Definitely coming back!"

S

Sarah Johnson

London, UK

"As a history enthusiast, Lucknow was a treasure trove for me. The British Residency and its connection to the 1857 rebellion was fascinating. The city has such a unique blend of cultures and architectural styles. The Chikankari shopping was an added bonus!"

A

Akira Tanaka

Tokyo, Japan

"The food in Lucknow was incredible! I took a food tour and tried everything from kebabs to biryani to chaat. The city's architecture is also stunning, especially at night when monuments like Rumi Darwaza are lit up. The people of Lucknow showed me what Indian hospitality truly means."

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