What Are The Best Things To Do In Lucknow?

Lucknow is the capital city of Uttar Pradesh in India and is considered one of the most liveable cities in the country. It is home to some of the best cultural attractions, amazing shopping malls, and plenty of interesting historical sites. There are so many things to do in Lucknow that it could be overwhelmed for a first time visitor. To help you plan your trip, we have rounded up 12 best things to do when you visit Lucknow.

1. Explore the Historic Bada Imambara

The largest Imambara in Ashura in the world, Bada Imambara is a sight to behold. Built by Asaf-ud-Daula in 1784, it is an amazing example of the architectural genius of the Nawab. The vaulted halls, curved corridors, and intricately carved gateways will take your breath away. The Labyrinth roof of the Imambara or Bhool Bhulaiya is a sight to behold and one not to be missed while in Lucknow. You will also get to see the Shahi Baoli or Step Well inside the complex. In addition, you can also visit Asafi Mosque and Hussainabad Clock tower which are located inside the compound.

2. Visit the Chowk, Hazratganj and Aminabad market

The bustling markets of Lucknow are always a joy to explore. The Chowk is the oldest market here and is a great place to pick up authentic Lucknowi clothing. A stroll through the narrow lanes and by-lanes will take you to Hazratganj and Aminabad markets where you can find traditional jewelry, leather goods, saris, antiques, and items related to muslin, silk, and chikan embroidery. A visit here is sure to be an interesting shopping experience and a great way to get a glimpse of real Lucknowi life.

3. Get an insight into Culture at the Lucknow State Museum

Lucknow has a reputation for being a cultural hub and one great way to get to know the city is to visit its State Museum, also known as Chhota Imambara. The museum is home to some rare artifacts including ancient coins and relics, sculptures, armors and weapons, paintings, prints, and coins. It also has a great collection of manuscripts that date back hundreds of years, making it worth a visit for anyone who is interested in Indian art and culture.

4. Eat your way through Dastarkhwan

Lucknow is well known for its amazing food culture and a great way to get a taste of the best dishes here is by visiting Dastarkhwan. Regarded as one of the best Mughlai restaurants in India, Dastarkhwan serves some amazing Mughlai dishes like nahari kulchas and nalli nihari so do not forget to bring along an empty stomach when you visit this place and gain an insight into authentic Lucknowi cuisine.

5. See the Replica of Taj Mahal at Bara Imambara

The Bara Imambara is another historical structure located in Lucknow which was built by Asaf-ud-Daula as well. Here you will find a replica of the famous Taj Mahal which is smaller in size when compared to the original but still has intricate architectural details that make it worth a visit. You will also find several tombs inside the complex as well as an ashoor khana on the grounds where prayers are offered on occasions like Moharram and Muharram Ashura.

6. Take a tour of Residency

The Residency was built in 1780 for housing East India Company employees and officials in Lucknow. During the revolt of 1857, it turned into a bunker for about 3,000 refugees who were protecting themselves from assaults by Nana Sahib Peshwa’s forces. It is now a historical ruin with preserved parts such as glass doorways, wooden furniture and some other artifacts that you can explore during your tour of this place.

7. Spend a day at Lucknow Zoo

Spend some quality time with your loved ones at the Lucknow Zoo which is home to some rare species of fauna including the long-tailed macaque, king cobra and deers. There are several paths inside the zoo where you can take relaxing walks amidst lush green trees and observe animals in their natural habitat. This is also a great place for kids as there are some interactive exhibits which will keep them entertained for hours on end.

8. Watch traditional sports like kabaddi at Dhoomangthan Stadium

Dhoomangthan Stadium is one of the oldest stadiums in India having been built in 1936 by Nawab Bhawani Shaha Khem Karan Singh. It is also considered as one of the most important sports venues in northern India offering some excellent facilities for sports lovers who can come here to watch traditional sports played by locals including kabaddi and gilli danda which make an interesting sight for visitors.

9. To see beautiful craftwork, visit Lucknow Mahotsav

Lucknow Mahotsav is an annual festival celebrated here during winter months from 25th November to 7th December which showcase some of the traditional craftsmanship done in Uttar Pradesh including chikankari and zardozi work. During this festival there are many shows and events that you can attend as well as shops that have been taken up by local artisans from across UP who offer amazing handicrafts and artifacts that you can take home as souvenirs.

10. Enjoy boat rides on Gomti lake

The Gomti lake is one of the largest manmade lakes situated in North India with spectacular views that will surely make you want to come again. Here you can experience boat rides in traditional rowboats provided at local boat clubs which can also offer exciting packages allowing you to spend a day here sipping tea while viewing picturesque landscapes or take boat rides while birds flock around you and experience wildlife up close.

11. Relax in serene settings at Nepal House

The Nepal House is like an oasis situated amidst Lucknow’s hustle-bustle where one can relax away from all their worries with beautiful gardens filled with trees including mango, guava and papaya surrounding it as well as a pond for boating trips available inside this complex making it a great place for nature lovers as well as peace seekers alike. During your trip here, you can also shop from local markets selling handmade crafts like pottery items made by villagers nearby or buy some delicious snacks from street food stalls present here.

12. Visit Hussainabad Rumi Darwaza for panoramic views

The Rumi Darwaza is found towards the east of Bada Imambara and is regarded as one of the tallest gateways in India at 60 feet tall. This Gateway was built by Nawab Asaf-ud-Daula in 1784 and was designed as a replica of one of Istanbul’s gateways to represent cultural decorum between two different cultures – Mughal and Persian. It offers some panoramic views of neighbouring areas as well as provides great insights into how these two regal cultures amalgamated in Lucknow making it an interesting landmark worth checking out during your trip here.

With so much to see and experience when visiting Lucknow, these 12 best things to do will help you make the most out of your visit here while getting an insight into unique history and culture here whilst also having fun navigating its bustling markets and exploring its hidden gems during your stay here.Source.