- How to Get There
- Bara Imambara
- Jama Masjid
- Lucknow Residency
- Chota Imambara
- Clock Tower
- Chatter Manzil
- Aminabad
Lucknow : City of the Nawabs
Lucknow
Lucknow : City of the Nawabs
The city of Lucknow has been liberally dotted with some of the most spectacular historical monuments to be found in India. The history of the city is reflected gloriously in it heritage and culture.
The city of Lucknow is filled to the brim with glorious buildings some of which were the creation of the Nawabs of Oudh while others were the efforts of the British Raj. However, it is the association with the Nawabs that has made an indelible mark on the landscape and culture of Lucknow. The grand monuments and stunning parks are the results of that association. Additionally, the Nawabs were patrons of art especially the culinary arts. Even now, the delicious aroma of the famous Lucknow style of biryani wafts down its meandering streets.
How to Get There
By Air :
The Amausi airport in Lucknow gets flights from Delhi, Patna, Varanasi, Calcutta and Mumbai.
By Rail :
Lucknow railhead is a major one in North India and hence all major trains come to this city. Direct trains are available from Mumbai, Kolkata, Delhi and Chennai to reach this city.
By Road :
Lucknow is well connected via road to all cities of the state and one can easily reach Lucknow by road as many state buses and private buses run from various cities to here.
Bara Imambara
The magnificent tomb called the Bara Imambara is an experience of its own. It looks spectacular but a visit will be incomplete without a trip through the fascinating labyrinth of corridors that is located on the upper floors. You will enter the huge complex through two gateways that are also appropriately gigantic. The labyrinth is the primary fascination here. it is called the Bhulbhulaiya in the native tongue and is an exciting maze of narrow passageways. You can end in various places such as the balconies through this maze.
Jama Masjid
The Jama Masjid of Lucknow was constructed in the year 1423 by Sultan Ahmed Shah. You will be amazed at the architecture of the mosque which has been created with yellow sandstone entirely. The design is stunningly intricate as well. It is often considered to be among the most beautiful mosques to grace the landscape of India.
Lucknow Residency
The British managed to create a stupendous piece of architecture called the Residency. The Residency hosts a large and amazing collection of ruins and gardens. It was constructed in the year in 1800. The Residency was also the scene of an historic battle during the events of the First War for Independence in 1857. The walls still showcase the brutality of war with is marks left by cannon balls and bullets.
Chota Imambara
Although smaller than the Bara Imambara, the Chota Imambara is no less grand. The Chota Imambara contains the tomb of Mohammed Ali Shah who built it in 1832. A tomb of his mother is also present here. The Chota Imambara is decorated with some fine pieces of calligraphy. The atmosphere is more serene than the Bara Imambara as well. There are some exquisite artifacts here such as the silver throne and the red crown of Ali Shah.
Clock Tower
The spectacular Clock Tower looks particularly ravishing against the blue skies with its red brick construction. The Clock Tower is 67 meters tall and was built sometime in the 1880s. It is also the tallest clock tower in India.
Chatter Manzil
The Chatter Manzil stands spectacularly on the banks of the River Gomti. Originally, there were two parts to the palace but the larger one has been lost to time. The architecture of the Chatter Manzil is incredible and shows a blend of the three distinct styles of Indian, European and Nawabi. The dome of the palace is adorned by a stunning gilt umbrella.
Aminabad
The colorful bazaar of Aminabad is a slice of the true Lucknow spirit. It has been operating since the era of the Nawabs. You will find busy shops here selling the local products of the region. The most interesting of them are the garments which are embroidered in the chikan style for which Lucknow is quite famous.
