Table of Contents
Known for its cultured grace and distinct etiquette, Lucknow is an amalgamation of old-world charm with a newfound pace of progress.
Originally named Lakshmanpur, the city’s heritage is rooted in the Nawabi dynasty. A tour of the city is incomplete without visiting its colossal edifices such as Bara Imambara which houses one of the world’s largest halls.
List of Top 12 Places to visit in Lucknow in 2024
Below if the List of Top Attractions in Lucknow are;
1. Bara Imambara
Bara Imambara was erected in 1784 by Nawab Asaf-ud-Daulah, the fourth Nawab of Awadh. The monument was designed by the architect Kifayat-ullah from Delhi. It is one the top places to see in Lucknow.
The central hall is the largest vaulted structure in the world that stays erect without the support of beams or pillars. This amazing feat is attributed to the interlocking system of bricks and the bhul bhulaiya or labyrinth of passageways.
2. Chota Imambara
Located west of Bara Imambara, Chota Imambara, also known as Hussainabad Imambara is a spectacular monument with gilded dome and turrets. The place gets even more attractive when it is lit up during special occasions.
This magnificent complex houses tombs of Muhammad Ali Shah and his mother. It is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Lucknow.
3. British Residency
A cluster of buildings, the Residency was the home of the British Resident General and his representatives in the court of the Nawab. It was the scene of a gruesome siege during the Indian Rebellion of 1857.
Today, the shattered walls with gaps from cannon shots are a reminder of the horrific events of the rebellion.
4. Marine Drive Lucknow
Marine Drive is a beautiful strip of road adjacent to the Gomti River, which is a favourite hangout spot for the young crowd. The spot is also a great place for morning walks and evening relaxation.
The best time to visit this picturesque locale is during the cool months from October to March. This is when the ambiance of this beautiful riverfront is most alluring.
5. Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar Memorial Park
The 107-acre Ambedkar Park is located in Gomti Nagar area of the city. It is dedicated to Dr B R Ambedkar and other reformers like Jyotiba Phule, Kanshi Ram, Birsa Munda, and Shahuji Maharaj and symbolizes their struggle for equality, humanity, and social justice.
6. Nawab Wajid Ali Shah Zoological Garden
The Nawab Wajid Ali Shah Zoological Garden, earlier known as Prince of Wales Zoological Gardens Trust Lucknow and in 2015, renamed as Lucknow Zoo is one of the most popular tourist spots in Lucknow. It houses various mammals, birds and reptiles.
7. Rumi Darwaza
Rumi Darwaza also spelt as Rumi Gateway is a stunning architectural structure of the Nawabi style. Its uppermost part carries a chhatri which can be accessed via staircases.
This imposing gate was built by Nawab Asaf-ud-Daula in 1784. It is modelled after a gate in Constantinople (modern day Istanbul) hence the name.
8. Janeshwar Mishra Park
Located in the heart of the city, Janeshwar Mishra Park is an eco-friendly spot where you can go for morning walk and hangout with family. This park is also a perfect place for cycling and jogging.
This is one of Asia’s largest garden parks and top tourist attractions in Lucknow. The park is open from sunrise to sunset every day.
9. Gomti Riverfront Park
Gomti Riverfront Park features a massive melodic fountain, a place for yoga and meditation, paths for biking and walking, a large amphitheater, a lake for boating and more. It is a scenic area that’s great for spending time with family.
10. Chattar Manzil
Located in Lucknow, Chattar Manzil, popularly known as Umbrella Palace is one of the most significant monuments of Nawabi architecture. It is also an esteemed museum and cultural centre.
The building was originally commissioned by Saadat Ali Khan and was later modified by Ghazi-ud-din Haider and Naseer-ud-Din Haider.
11. Dr. Ram Manohar Lohia Park
Located in Gomtinagar area, Dr. Ram Manohar Lohia Park covers an impressive 76 acres and is one of the largest parks in Lucknow. It showcases diverse plant species and spreads an aromatic fragrance that delights visitors and birds alike.
The park has two state-of-the-art synthetic jogging tracks. It also features a semi-circular path with meaningful proverb engravings of renowned leaders like Mr. Madhu Limye, Mr. Karpuri Thakur, and Mr. Ram Sewak Yadav.
12. Tomb of Saadat Ali Khan
The Tomb of Saadat Ali Khan is one of the best places to visit in Lucknow. It lets you connect with the regal history of the city and admire the grandeur of Nawabi architecture.
Built by the Nawab’s son, this tomb is a typical amalgamation of Indian and Islamic styles. The central dome is fluted with narrow, regular ribbing and topped by an inverted lotus finial.
13. Husainabad Clock Tower
One of the tallest clock towers in India, Husainabad Clock Tower is a symbol of Lucknow’s heritage. Unfortunately, this iconic building wasn’t on the protection list of ASI and was lying defunct for years.
However, two good Samaritans Captain Paritosh Chauhan and Akhilesh Agarwal approached the district administration to repair the clock on a pro bono basis. They did so and the tower chimed again after 27 long years.
14. La Martiniere College
Founded in 1845, the school was awarded royal battle honours for its role during the Sepoy Mutiny of 1857. It is part of a worldwide consortium of elite bi-national schools including two in Kolkata and three in Lyon, France where Major General Claude Martin was born.
15. Aminabad – A Vibrant Neighborhood in Lucknow
Aminabad is a bustling neighborhood that offers a glimpse into the local way of life in Lucknow. From grand monuments to vibrant markets, there is something for everyone here.
Known for its famous Tunde ke Kabab, Aminabad is a must-visit for food lovers. The area also houses several chikan embroidery shops and other cultural landmarks.
Top Things to do in Lucknow at Night
The ever famous Samta Mulak Chowk remains crowded even during the midnight hours. You can see people enjoying ice creams with their family members here.
Located in the Patrakarpuram area, this is one of the most astounding bars that keep their guests entertained till late at night. Having a cave-like ambiance, it has a lot of activities to offer.
Below is the list of things to do in Lucknow at Night;
- Kaarigari
- Yo Tours Lucknow
- Rayhan Holidays LLP
- Fly India Trip
- The Vault Disc & Lounge
- Tunday Kababi — A Night of Culinary Delights
- Indira Gandhi Pratishthan — Cultural Evenings
- Cafes and Rooftop Restaurants — Nighttime Ambiance
FAQs
Private Places to visit in lucknow for couples?
- Nawab Wajid Ali Shah Zoological Garden
- Gomti Riverfront Park
- Chota Imambara
- Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar Memorial Park
- Gautam Buddha Park
- State Museum Lucknow
- Kudiya Ghaat Park
- The Residency, Lucknow
Places to visit in lucknow in 1 day
- Bara Imambara
- Chota Imambara
- British Residency
- Husainabad Clock Tower
Places to visit in lucknow with family
- Bara Imambara
- Chota Imambara
- British Residency
- Marine Drive Lucknow
- Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar Memorial Park
- Nawab Wajid Ali Shah Zoological Garden
- Rumi Darwaza
- Janeshwar Mishra Park
- Gomti Riverfront Park
- Chattar Manzil
- Dr. Ram Manohar Lohia Park
- Tomb of Saadat Ali Khan
- Husainabad Clock Tower
What are the top 5 best places to visit in lucknow?
- Bara Imambara
- Chota Imambara
- British Residency
- Marine Drive Lucknow
- Nawab Wajid Ali Shah Zoological Garden