LUCKNOW TOURIST PLACE

LUCKNOW TOURIST PLACE

Lucknow, the capital of Uttar Pradesh, extends along the banks of the River Gomti. The creator of Lucknow as it is today was Nawab Asaf ud Daula. The city became known as a centre for Urdu poetry and courtly diction, and reached its acme during the reign of Wajid Ali Shah who was a connoisseur of music and poetry.

ABOUT THE CITY

Lucknow is a city synonymous with the Nawabi Culture. The imperialistic splendour and magnificence of the Nawabi Era has been glorified and eulogized down the ages by writers, poets and historians alike. At the same time its mystical elegance and amorous ethos has caught the fascination of many world famous romantics. Known for its Adab and Tehzeeb (cultural refinement), Lucknow is also associated with its legendary hospitality, leisurely moods of life, fabled edifices steeped in history, world renowned cuisine and exquisite Sham-e-Avadh. Tremors of time have not effaced Lucknow of its cultural heritage and traditions, which once contributed in creating the city incomparable in its times.

As the 18th century seat of the Nawabs of Avadh, Lucknow flourished becoming an important political and cultural centre, rivalling Delhi in its patronage to art and literature. It was during this time that culture and architecture synthesized emerging in a distinct form now so typical to the Lucknow culture. The peace and prosperity under the governance of the nawabs brought about a cultural renaissance in Avadh. Musicians and dancers flocked to Lucknow giving birth to new musical forms and instruments under the patronage of the royalty. Art forms like Kathak, Thumri, Khayal, Dadra, Qawalis, Ghazals and Shero Shairisaw their finest hour. In this era major stress was laid on even minor details like the art of dressing, apparels (libaas) and jewellery all symbolic of a genteel lifestyle. The legacy of the exquisite embroidery still lives on with equal zest in today's modern era. Culinary skills, too, reached heights of excellence as the nawabs were not only gracious hosts but also extremely fond of good nutritious food. Thus emerged the skillful art of slow cooking. The royalty of Avadh was also famous for indulging in extravagant pastimes like elephant and rooster fights and kite flying, a game that still evokes passionate involvement among the flyers and the bystander alike. The field of architecture saw re-interpretation of the existing styles and experimentation in the fusion of the occidental and the oriental style of architecture. The magnificent edifices standing proudly among the architectural skyline of the city are living examples of the na wab's architectural ingenuity.

Modern Lucknow, spread evenly on both sides of river Gomti, is a perfect blend of the ancient with the modern, as many glitzy shopping arcades coexist with the old monuments. The greatest attraction of Lucknow, where the past jostles with the present « its unique ability to achieve harmony amidst disorder and to assimilate the new into the old.

• Area : 2.528 sq. km.
• Population : 36,47,834 (2001 census)
• Altitude : 123 mts. above sea level.
• Season : October - March
• Clothing (Summer) : Cottons Winter : Woolens
• Language : Hindi, Urdu, English
• Festivals : Holi, Dusschra, Diwali, Jamghat, Bada Mangal Mela, Id-Ul-Zuha, Id-Ul-Fitar, Shab-e-Barat, Moharrum & Lucknow Mahotsav (November 25- December 05)
• Local Transport : Bus/Tempo/Auto Rickshaw/Taxi Tonga/Cycle Rickshaw
• STD Code : 0522

PLACE OF INTEREST

Rumi Darwaza

The 60 feet high Rumi Gate was constructed under Nawab Asafl-us-Daula in 1786. It is said to be identical in design to an ancient portal at Constantinople. Its uppermost part consists of an eight faceted chhatri, approachable by a staircase.

Asafi Imambara (Bara Imambara)

Also known as the Bara Imambara, it was built by Nawab Asaf-ud-Daula in 1784 and is one of the architectural wonders of that era. Its central hall is said to be the largest vaulted chamber in the world. Except for the galleries in the interior, there is no woodwork in the entire structure. It has large underground passages which have been blocked up. A staircase from outside leads to a series of labyrinths known as Bhool-Bhulaiyan which is a complicated entanglement of zig-zag pass. Visitors are advised to visit only with authorized guides. Within the compound of the Imambara is the grand Asafi Mosque. Shahi Baoli is another attraction here.

Timing : Sunrise to Sunset
Entry fee : Rs. 25.00 (Indian)
Rs. 300.00 (Foreigner) (inclusive of Bara Imambara, Chhota Imambara, Picture Gallery, Shahi Hamam) 

Chhota Imambara

Though Popularly called as the Chhota Imambara, the Hussainabad Imambara stands to the west of Bara Imambara. Built by Nawab Mohammad Ali Shah (1837-42), it is more ornate in design with exquisite chandeliers, gilt-edged mirrors, silver mimbar and colourful stuccos which adorn the interiors. A golden dome and fine calligraphy on the exterior of the building makes it a truly exceptional monument of Mughal architecture (open : 0600 hrs to 1700 hrs.).

Jama Masjid

The construction of Jama Masjid, to the north-west of Hussainabad Imambara, was started in 1832 AD during the reign of Mohammad Ali Shah but was completed after his death by his begum, Nawab Malika Janah. It is entirely free from the pseudo-Italian art then in vogue in Lucknow and reflects the Mughal style of architecture.

Clock Tower & Picture Gallery

Near Rumi Darwaza, this 221 ft. high Clock Tower was built in 1887 to mark the arrival of Sir George Couper, the first Lieutenant Governor of the United Province of Awadh.

Hussainabad Picture Gallery

Nawab Mohammad Ali Shah built it as a 'Baradari' - literally meaning 'having 12 doorways.' It is now used as a gallery for display of life size portraits of the Nawabs of Avadh (Open : 0800 hrs to 1700 hrs.).

Near the Clock Tower, housed in an imposing building, is a picture gallery which has a fine collection of portraits of the rules of Awadh.

Shahnajaf Imambara

This white domed mausoleum owes its existence to Ghazi-ud-din Haider, who on the bank of the Gomti near Sikanderbagh reproduced a copy of Hazrat Ali's burial at Najaf in Iraq. Ghazi-ud-din Haider, and later his three wives, were buried here. The silver tomb of Ghazi-ud-din Haider lies in the centre of this building and is flanked by the more imposing silver and gold tomb of Mubarak Mahal on one side.

Residency

Built for the British Resident during 1780-1800, it was originally a large complex of many buildings. It was the scene of dramatic events during the first war of independence in 1857. The main building overlooks the river Gomti and is surrounded by terraced lawns and gardens. Today, only the scarred ruins bear witness to the turmoil of 1857. SOUND & LIGHT SHOW is an added attraction here. Entry fee : Rs. 5.00 (Indian), Rs. 100.00 (Foreigner). Tel. 2328220.

Kaiserbagh Palace Complex

The construction of the Kaiserbagh palace complex was started in 1848 by Nawab Wajid Ali Shah and was completed in 1850. The buildings on three sides of the Kaiserbagh quadrangle, once provided quarters for the ladies of Wajid Ali Shah's harem. In the centre stands the white Baradari, a grand white stone edifice which was earlier paved with silver.

Tombs of Saadat Ali Khan & Khurshid Zadi

The imposing twin tombs of Nawab Saadat Ali Khan and his wife Khurshid Zadi, stand near the historical Begum Hazrat Mahal Park.

Shaheed Smarak (Martyrs' Memorial)

On the bank of the river Gomti, stands in a beautiful park, this white marble memorial, dedicated to the martyrs who laid down their lives during the Freedom Movement of India.

Dilkusha

Dilkusha Kothi set amidst lush green, was built in the Gothic style. The Kothi and its adjoining magnificent garden were created by Nawab Saadat Ali Khan. It is almost an exact replica of an English country house called Seation Delavel, built in 1721.

Lord Human Temples of Aliganj

There are two highly revered Lord Hanuman temples in Aliganj locality, one built in 1783 and the other built in 1798 by Chhatar Kunwar, the queen mother of nawab Saadat Ali Khan. "Bara Mangal" fair (May -June) is held here on a grand Scale.

Charbagh Rrailway Station

Overpowering in dimensions yet aesthetically designed, Charbagh railway station built in 1914 incorporates the best of Rajasthani and Mughal architecture. It gives an ideal traditional warm welcome to every visitor.

Vidhan Sabha Bhawan (The Council House)

Its foundation was laid in 1922 by Sir Harcourt Butler and the construction was completed in six years. Its octagonal shaped chamber has a domed roof decorated with peacocks in fully plumed splendor.

Gurudwara At Yahiyaganj

This Gurudwara is associated with the memories of Guru Teg Bahadurji and Guru Govind Singhji who had stayed here in 1671 and 1672, respectively. An art gallery depicting various events of Sikh Panth has been established here.

National Botanical Research Institute

Located at Sikanderbagh, where a pitched battle was fought during the first war of independence in 1857. The botanical garden is open to public from 9.30 a.m. to 6.00 p.m. Closed on Saturday and Sunday. Tel : 2205831

La Martiniere

The Finest and the largest example of European funerary monument in the subcontinent, La Martiniere is associated with its rather strange and romantic past. Built and designed by French soldier turned architect-Claude Martin, It incorporates the features of Italian architecture, fusing them with native architectural attributes of Hindu and Mughal architecture. Today it houses one of the leading educational instructions of the city.

Churches

Christ Church, All Saints Church, St. Joseph's Cathedral Church, Assembly of God's Church, Lalbagh Church, Isabella Thoburn Church, St. Agnes Church.

Jain & Buddha Temples

There are several Jain temples in the city. Prominent among them are the Lord Shantinath and Lord Padma Prabhu Temple in Churivali Gali locality, the Lord Parshwanath Temple in Sondhitola, Lord Sambhawnath Temple in Phulwali gali (Chowk), five temple in Dadabari premises at Thakurganj and the Jain temple in Daliganj-Besides Jain temples, Buddha temples on Gautam Buddha Road and at Risaldar Park are worth visiting.

Indira Gandhi Planetarium

Situated at Suraj kund Park, it is a novel attraction of the city. The Saturn shaped building of the planetarium is unique of its kind. This completely air-conditioned planetarium has a state of art projection system, which gives special effects while projecting. Art projecting system, digital sound and lift-ramp for handicapped persons are the other worth mentioning facilities available here. Show timings (40 minute duration-based on title "Our world & beyond") : 01.00 pm to 1.40 pm- reserved for school bookings. 2.00 p.m. (in English), 3.00 p.m., 4.00 p.m., 5.00 p.m., 6.00 p.m. (all in Hindu). Closed on Mondays. Entry fee : Rs. 25.00 (for public), Rs. 15.00 (for students if they come through the schools in a group of 100 or more). No entry fee for handicapped. Tel: 2629176, 2627416

Other places of interest include Maharaja Bijli Pasi Quila, Nadan Mahal, Chhatar Manzil, Moti Mahal, Alambagh Palace, Bari Kaliji Temple, Kalibari, Koneshwar Temple, Siddhanath Temple, Chhachhi Kuan Temple, Tikait Rai Talab, Buddha Park, Neebu Park, Hathi Park, Globe Park, Begum Hazrat Mahal Park, Surya Kund, Buddheshwar Temple, Mankameshwar Temple, Baba Bhutnath Temple, Ram Krishna Math, Pandit Deendayal Upadhyay Smritika, Dr. Ram Manohar Lohia Park, Chandrika Devi Temple, etc. 

Dr. Ram Manohar Lohia Park

Dr. Ram Manohar Lohia Park is constructed by LDA in Gomtinagar, Lucknow. This park is devoted to Dr. Ram Manohar Lohia who was a great Socialist and Philosopher. This park is designed and constructed by Lucknow Development Authority and is spread over Eighty acres of land.
An artificial lake is developed in the area of 15,000 Sq. Meters of land having one attractive tower in the park. The park is constructed under the norms and guidelines of ecology accordingly trees are planted all over in the garden.

Entrance Fee: Rs. 5/- per head (Fee unto 12 years children)
Parking Fee: Rs. 10/- Car, Rs. 5/- Scooter, Rs. 2/- Cycle
Park Timing: 6:00 am to 10:00 pm

Sikandar Bagh

Derives its name from one of the begums of Nawab Wajid Ali Shah, Sikandar Mahal. It was 120 square yards in area surrounded by a high wall, with a summer house in its centre. The place had also been associated with the war of independence activities. The National Botanical Garden has been set up here after independence.

Chhatar Manzil

The "Umbrella Palace" stands near the present Hanuman Setu. It derives its name from the guilt dome with a covering umbrella, which gives a special magnificence to the complex, constructed by Nawab Ghazi-ud-din Haider and completed by his son Nasir-ud-din Haider. Today it houses the Central Drug Research Institute (C.D.R.I.).

Kukrail Reserve Forest

On the outskirts of Lucknow, it has been developed by the Forest Department. Kukrail houses a deer park and one of the nurseries of the endangered species of Crocodiles in India. One of the favorite picnic spots in Lucknow, it boasts of a Children's Park, Cafeteria and Rest House. A variety of birds and Black Bucks can also be seen in their natural habitats.

Museum and Galleries

State Museum / Zoo

On the outskirts of Lucknow, it has been developed by the Forest Department. Kukrail houses a deer park and one of the nurseries of the endangered species of Crocodiles in India. One of the favorite picnic spots in Lucknow, it boasts of a Children's Park, Cafeteria and Rest House. A variety of birds and Black Bucks can also be seen in their natural habitats.

Motilal Nehru Children Museum, Charbagh

A multipurpose museum for children between the age group of four to fourteen years. Visiting hours: 10.30 a.m. to 5.00 p.m. Closed on Monday. Tel: 2636133

Lokkala Sangrahalaya

Established by the Department of Culture, U.P. Govt., it preserves a rare collection of 1600 artifacts which includes numerous photographs. It also houses a rich library. It is now situated in its new building next to the state Museum. Timing: 10.00 a.m. to 5.00 p.m. Closed on Monday. Tel. No. 2274638

Gandhi Museum

Situated near Residency, the Gandhi Museum gives an insight into the different aspects of Mahatma Gandhi's life. There is a rich library in the same premises having a collection of some 18,000 books. Timing: 10.00 a.m. to 5.30 p.m. Closed on Sunday. Tel: 2625396

Regional Science City

Regional science centre, set up in 1989, by the National Council f Science Museum on as sprawling 10 acre land at sector 'E' (Ekta Vihar, Aliganj Ext.), has now been upgraded to a Regional Science City. An aesthetically designed new sing has been built in the midst of the lush green surroundings of the science park. Three large exciting galleries on the themes 'UNDERWATER EXPLORATION BIOTECHNOLOGICAL REVOLUTION' and 'BEING HUMAN' have been set up in the new wing along with the state of art facilities like a large format Scimax Theatre and a 3-D Science Show. TEL./FAX: 2321804

Kalagaon (Arts Village), Anora

Kalagaon's goal is to gift awareness to the people for village tourism, country life, folk tradition, folk art & craft, culture, music, and the festivals of the country life. The guests are also served with traditional meals (Jeyee-Leyee), sitting on the 'patas'- on the ground, so that they enjoy the traditional Indian village life. It is situated at Anora, Faizabad Road, Lucknow. Tel.: 9305672691, 9336450334.