Being the capital of the state of Uttar Pradesh, Lucknow is a historic and culturally rich city. It is the wonder, along with its exclusiveness in both Mughal and Awadhi culture, that makes Lucknow a wonderful city to visit. Whether it’s the great historical edifices like the Bara Imambara or busy shopping places like Hazratganj full of life, every place has its own story to narrate, which is about its glorious years and present. There are countless places to visit in Lucknow that reflect this vibrant heritage.
Top Places To Visit In Lucknow
Some of the best places to visit in Lucknow include:
1. Bara Imambara
Photo: MohitW1 / Wikimedia Commons
In 1784, Nawab Asaf-ud-Daula built the Bara Imambara, and according to several historians, this is the finest piece of architecture built at that time in India. This sprawling building, which is famous for hosting one of the biggest central halls in the country, has fascinating patterns on its walls and a weird maze that is known as the Bhool Bhulaiyaa. Within the premises is the gorgeous Asfi Mosque, which also gives an insight into Awadhi’s traditions and past. It has exquisite architecture and peaceful parks, and it explains the importance of the location to the history of the city.
Location: Near Chowk, Lucknow
Entry Fee: ₹50 per person
Best Time To Visit: October to March
2. Hazratganj
Photo: Mohitextreme / Wikimedia Commons
Hazratganj is an energetic market and entertainment place in Lucknow, which adopts a modern approach while some traces of colonialism are still present. As one of the prominent tourist attractions in Lucknow, there are numerous shops in this area, which include modern-looking shops and elegant cafes, thereby providing visitors with the much-needed ambience for shopping and socializing. The buildings epitomize the past of the empire, as many heritable city structures are constructed along the roads, making it a highlight in Lucknow tourist places.
Location: Central Lucknow
Entry Fee: Free
Best Time To Visit: October to March
3. The Residence
Photo: Abhishek.ghosh1984 / Wikimedia Commons
One of the places is the Residency, an erection of immense historical significance during the Indian Rebellion of 1857. It was previously where the British officials lived but now is a sensitive reminder of the British presence in India. Guests can view the vast remains of the residence, including the large bailey and other memorials, which are located within well-maintained gardens. There are also displays of the events of the uprising in the form of exhibits at the site, making it a significant place for tourists who appreciate history or Indian culture in general.
Location: Near Hazratganj, Lucknow
Entry Fee: ₹20 per person
Best Time To Visit: October to March
4. Janeshwar Mishra Park
Photo: Veera.sj / Wikimedia Commons
Janeshwar Mishra Park is a large public park located in the city of Lucknow and spreads across more than 376 acres, and it is a welcome relief from the madding city. This excellently designed park comprises walking paths, green vegetation, and calm water, making it suitable for holding picnics and jogging as well as walking. Children have separate play zones, whereas cultural spaces conduct various activities at different times of the year. The family-friendly park, which is also loved by fitness freaks and nature lovers as well, has an enjoyable ambience and picturesque beauty to relax in.
Location: Vikas Nagar, Lucknow
Entry Fee: Free
Best Time To Visit: Early morning
5. Aminabad
Photo: Krisztina Papp / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Aminabad is an active marketplace in the city of Lucknow whose charm lies in the age-old system of shopping brought to practice. This place is ideal for people looking for genuine local goods. The ambience is further enriched by the presence of a few hawkers who sell the famous Awadhi food, such as kebabs and chaat. Also, being an old market in the city, Aminabad is representative of the rich heritage which nourishes the city of Lucknow; hence, for those who wish to enjoy the local food and culture, this place is most likely to be on their checklist.
Location: Aminabad, Lucknow
Entry Fee: Free
Best Time To Visit: October to March
6. Gomti Riverfront Park
Photo: virusism / Wikimedia Commons
Gomti Riverfront Park, which is located on the banks of the Gomti River and offers excellent leisure facilities for both families and nature lovers, can be considered an urban oasis. As one of the popular tourist places in Lucknow, the park comprises landscaped gardens, walking and cycling tracks, and water bodies, adding the right mix for any leisure-seeking individual. The tourists can enjoy a boat ride on the river, have fun doing a lot of physical activities, as well as take part in the cultural celebrations organized in the park.
Location: Near Gomti River, Lucknow
Entry Fee: Free
Best Time To Visit: Early morning
7. Chandrika Devi Temple
Photo: ArmouredCyborg / Wikimedia Commons
On the periphery of the urban sprawl of Lucknow stands the stylish temple built in the dedication of Goddess Chandrika. The temple is built amidst the hills and greenery, making it a favourite place for many who come here for prayers and hoping to find peace and solace. As part of the Lucknow tourist places list, the structure exhibits the Hindu style of architecture, thus providing the devotees with an appropriate atmosphere for prayer, meditation, and contemplation. This serene location makes it one of the top places for a Lucknow trip.
Location: Near Mohanlalganj, Lucknow
Entry Fee: Free
Best Time To Visit: October to March
8. Rumi Darwaza
Photo: Rishabhgpt / Wikimedia Commons
Rumi Darwaza is a historical arch as well as a landmark for the city of Lucknow due to its architectural beauty. It is a monumental structure built in the 18th century, hailing beautiful Awadhi work and design of intricate carvings to its great height. Rumi Darwaza is a historical monument that links the Bara Imambara with the city and attracts many visitors for clicks and a glimpse of its beauty. One would find the arch even more attractive at night when it is lit up, which makes it compulsory for every history and architecture buff visiting the city.
Location: Near Bara Imambara, Lucknow
Entry Fee: Free
Best Time To Visit: October to March
9. Nawab Wajid Ali Shah Zoological Garden
Photo: Roderick Saladan / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Nawab Wajid Ali Shah Zoological Garden is a family- and wildlife-appealing zoo situated in Lucknow. It is set in a sprawling area and houses a wide variety of animals, including exotic as well as indigenous fauna. The garden provides a well-kept abode for its natives and also facilitates preservation and education through several packages. There are also family-friendly walking tours, wildlife displays, and interactive events, making the zoo a fun and educational place for all. This serene location makes it one of the top places to visit in Lucknow.
Location: Near Alambagh, Lucknow
Entry Fee: ₹30 per person
Best Time To Visit: October to March
An excursion to Lucknow is akin to delving headlong into a multiplicity of cultures and histories on canvas. Each of them shows a different dimension of the city’s beauty. There are various options in Lucknow regardless of whether you are a history lover, fond of nature, or simply appreciate delicious food. Lucknow invites you to a host of popular sightseeing activities, which, however, will not be limited to that but will delve deeper into the culture of the city. So plan your next vacation with TripXL and enjoy the magic of these stunning places to visit in Lucknow.
Cover Photo: Slyronit / Wikimedia Commons