Why Should You Visit the City of Nawabs, Lucknow

Lucknow, the capital of Uttar Pradesh, is a place where history comes alive and culture shines in every corner. Known as the ‘the City of Nawabs, ’ it boasts a rich heritage, stunning architecture, delicious cuisine, and warm hospitality. Whether you are a history buff, a foodie, or someone who loves exploring vibrant cities, Lucknow is a place that will not fail to mesmerize you with its awe-inspiring royal heritage, markets, and mouth watering regional food. In this blog, Memorable India will take you on a flight to Lucknow tourism and convince you to visit this city of ‘tehzeeb’, often celebrated alongside destinations featured in Top 10 Unesco World Heritage Sites in India. Continue reading this blog to learn more:

Reasons To Visit Lucknow

Here is the list of reasons why you should visit this magical city and make Lucknow your next travel destination without any second thought:

1. A Glimpse Into History And Royal Heritage:

Lucknow has a fascinating history deeply rooted in the Mughal and British eras. The city flourished under the Nawabs of Awadhs, who were known for their grand lifestyle, love for art, and patronage of culture. Today, you can still witness their legacy through magnificent monuments, palaces, and gardens, much like the historic charm you may encounter in places such as Ajmer Dargah City.

• Bara Imambara: One of the most iconic Lucknow attractions, Bara Imambara, is a must-visit. Built by Nawab Asaf-ud-Daula in 1784, it is famous for its Bhulbhulaiya. The central hall is one of the largest arched constructions in the world, built without the use of pillars or beams.
• Chota Imambara: Located near Bara Imambara, Chota Imambara is a beautiful structure adorned with chandeliers, mirrors, and calligraphy. It was built as a mausoleum for Nawab Muhammad Ali Shah and his family.
• Rumi Darwaja: A towering gateway that stands as a symbol of Lucknow, the Rumi Darwaja is an architectural marvel. Built in the 18th century, it was inspired by the Turkish architecture of Istanbul and is a stunning example of Awaddhi craftsmanship.

2. The Delicious Awadhi Cuisine:

Lucknow is heaven for food lovers, especially those who enjoy Mughlai and Awadhi cuisine. The city’s food scene combines rich flavours, aromatic spices, and mouthwatering dishes.

• Tunday Kebabs: A trip to Lucknow is incomplete without trying the world-famous Tunday Kebabs. These melt-in-the-mouth kebabs are made with a secret blend of spices and minced meat.
• Lucknawi Biryani: Unlike Hyderabadi Biryani, it is made with fragmented basmati rice, tender meat, and delicious Awadhi flavours.
• Shahi Tukda: Shahi Tukda is the soul of Luknowi cuisine. This sweet delicacy has been popular in Lucknow cuisine since the Mughal era. 

3. The City of Tehzeeb:

Lucknow is famous for its Tehzeeb (etiquette and culture), or the polite and sophisticated manner in which people speed and interact. The city’s culture is a blend of tradition, art, and music.

• Chikankari Embroidery: Lucknow is renowned for its exquisite chikankari embroidery, a delicate hand embroidery style practised for centuries. If you love traditional fabrics, shopping for Chikankari suits, sarees, or kurtas at places like Hazratganj and Aminabad is necessary.
• Kavi Sammelans & Mushairas: Lucknow has been a hub for poetry and literature. The city hosts Kavi Sammelans (poetry gatherings) and Mushairas (Urdu poetry recitals), which attract poets and literature lovers from across the country.
• Classical Music and Dance: Lucknow is home to the Kathak dance form, which flourished under the patronage of the Nawabs. Many music and dance festivals are held here to celebrate this heritage.

4. Shopping In Lucknow:

Lucknow is a paradise for shoppers, offering a variety of traditional crafts, textiles, and souvenirs. If you travel to Lucknow, don’t miss the chance to shop from Awaddh city, an experience often included in itineraries similar to a Full Day Jaipur City Tour.

• Hazratganj Market: One of the oldest and most popular shopping streets in Lucknow, Hazratganj is a perfect place to buy Chikankari clothes, perfumes, and handcrafted items. The area also has several cafes and eateries to relax after shopping. 
• Aminabad: For a more traditional shopping experience, head to Aminabad. This bustling market offers everything from jewellery and footwear to sarees and home decor at reasonable prices. 
• Nakhas Market: This is one of the oldest markets in Lucknow and is known for its antique items, handicrafts, and second-hand books. 

5. Beautiful Gardens and Parks: 

Lucknow is home to several scenic gardens where you can relax and enjoy the natural beauty of the city. Explore the famous parks and gardens of the city and enjoy a picnic with your friends and family.

• Ambedkar Memorial Park: Spread over 107 acres, this massive park is dedicated to Dr Ambedkar and is adorned with grand statues, red sandstone pathways, and fountains, with various plants, trees, and flowers that make it truly adorable. 
• Janeshwar Mishra Park: This is one of the largest parks in Asia and is a great place for jogging, boating, or simply enjoying a peaceful evening. Its man-made lake offers you an awe-inspiring experience.
• Gomti Riverfront: The newly developed Gomti Riverfront is a beautiful spot where you can stroll, enjoy the fountain show, or go for a boat ride. 

6. Modern Attractions And Nightlife: 

Apart from its historical charm, Lucknow also has modern attractions, shopping malls, and a vibrant nightlife to offer various spectacular experiences to the tourists visiting the city, just like other experiential destinations highlighted in Why Should You Experience a Houseboat Stay in travel journeys.

• Gomti Nagar: This upscale area has malls, restaurants, and bars, making it the perfect place to have a fun night. Phoenix Palassio and Lulu Mall are among the best shopping destinations in the city.
• Marine Drive: A peaceful place by the Gomti River, Marine Drive is a favourite hangout spot for youngsters and couples. It offers a beautiful view, especially in the evening. 
• Skybars and Vintage Machine: If you are looking for trendy cafes or rooftop bars, Lucknow has excellent options, like Skybars and Vintage Machine, which offer delicious food and a great ambience.

7. Well-Connected and Easy to Explore

Lucknow is well-connected by road, rail, and air. The Chaudhary Charan Singh International Airport has flights to major cities, and the city’s metro makes commuting easy. Auto-rickshaws, taxis, and local buses are also readily available. This is a city that gives you the glimpse of modernity with a touch of tradition. 

Wrapping Up Our Lucknow Travel Guide!

Lucknow is a city that offers a perfect blend of history, culture, food, and modernity. Whether you are interested in exploring the grand monuments, savouring delicious cuisine, shopping for traditional crafts, or simply experiencing the city’s warm hospitality, Lucknow has it all. A visit to this city of Nawabs will leave you with the memories of life and a deep appreciation for its rich heritage. So, pack your bags and book our Lucknow trip package to indulge in the magic of Luknow.