Best Places to Visit in Lucknow

`Lucknow` is a long voyage and not just a destination. From being laid out by Lord Lakshmana to being governed by Mughal rulers to serving as the administrative capital at the time of the British Raj to being the capital of Uttar Pradesh, the city has seen it all. It has proudly maintained its reputation as a city of culture, gracious living, rich cuisine, and beauty throughout.

Lucknow appears to be a straightforward and uncomplicated city.

Since the dawn of time, Lucknow`s `Chikankaari` has been an inseparable part of Indian culture. The perfume of Lucknow`s rich culture and refinement is carried by the natural `Itra.` When in Lucknow, both of these are a must-have.

The city will gladly take your hand and show you its past and present. The city is dotted with Mughal and British Raj-era structures and tombs like the Residency, Bara Imambara, Rumi Darwaza, and Jama Masjid, to mention a few. Visiting Bhool Bhullaiya is a must-do when in Lucknow. It`s a maze of hundreds of small stairwell passageways, some of which lead to dead ends that were built to throw invaders off. It`s one of the most enigmatic sites. From here, one may take a `Tanga ride` to Chhota Imambara.

#Trivia: Lucknowites would frequently exclaim, `Yahan par sab nawab hain!` and there is no better way to convey the soul of the city than this. It denotes that every Lucknowite is a nawab, and visitors to the city will undoubtedly be greeted and treated as Nawaabs too.

Top Places to Visit in Lucknow

01. Rumi Darwaza – The Iconic Gateway of Lucknow

If you`re in Lucknow, you don`t even need to step out of your rickshaw to see one of the city`s most famous landmarks – the Rumi Darwaza. This massive gateway, located in the heart of Lucknow, serves as a grand entrance to the city, often bustling with vehicles passing through its impressive arch.

Standing tall at 60 feet, the Rumi Darwaza is not just a gateway, but a testament to the grandeur of Lucknow. Built in 1784 by Nawab Asaf-ud-daula as part of his `Food for Work` initiative during a devastating drought, this monument is a symbol of resilience and artistic excellence. It’s modeled after the beautiful gates of Constantinople (now Istanbul) and showcases intricate carvings of flowers and motifs, adding to its charm.

What’s unique about this monument is that, like the Bara Imambara nearby, it doesn’t rely on any exterior wood or iron fittings for support. Despite this, it stands strong as an architectural marvel. At one point, a large lantern was placed at the top, which illuminated the structure at night.

Rumi Darwaza is a magnificent example of Awadhi architecture, making it a must-see when you visit Lucknow.

14. Janeshwar Mishra Park – A Green Oasis in Lucknow

Located in Lucknow’s Gomti Nagar, Janeshwar Mishra Park is one of the largest parks in Asia. Built in honor of late Samajwadi Party leader Janeshwar Mishra, it was opened to the public in 2014 and has since become a popular spot for relaxation and recreation.

With lush green landscapes and vibrant floral gardens, the park is perfect for morning walks, jogging, or simply unwinding in the evening. It offers dedicated cycling tracks, water sports, and even a gondola ride for visitors looking to explore the scenic beauty from the water.

For families, there’s plenty to enjoy – a well-equipped children’s play area with swings, slides, and rides, along with souvenir shops and restaurants for a quick snack. A 25-foot-tall statue of Janeshwar Mishra stands within the park, surrounded by an endless stretch of trees, plants, and lakes. You’ll also find a sports center and playground, adding to the park’s appeal.

A unique attraction at the park`s entrance is a display of an MIG aircraft and tanks, making it an interesting visit for history and defense enthusiasts. Beautiful fountains, well-maintained seating areas, and a towering Indian flag further enhance the charm of this green paradise.

Visitor Information:

🕔 Timings: 5:00 AM – 9:00 PM  
🎟 Entry Fee: ₹10 per person  
⛵ Gondola Ride: ₹100 for 20 minutes

This peaceful retreat in the heart of Lucknow is a must-visit for nature lovers and fitness enthusiasts alike!

Visit Lucknow and no time will be enough for you to witness its truly mesmerising destinations! Traces of each age and era that the city has lived through can undoubtedly be seen and felt at all times