Tourists Places in Lucknow

Historical Places in Lucknow:

Bada Imambara :

The Bada Imambada or Asafi Imambada was built by Nawab Asaf-ul-Daula in 1784 as a relief work during the terrible famine that year. the interior vaulted hall which is 162 feet in length, 53 feet in width and 50 feet in height, is said to be one of the largest apartments of its kind in the world. From the outside, a staircase leads to a series of artfully designed labyrinths (bhoolbhulaiyan) where it is very easy to get lost.

Chota Imambara :

Also known as the Husainabad Imambara is a father's parting 'gift' to his daughter. It was built by the third Nawab, Muhammad Ali Shah for his deceased daughter Jenabasia, in 1840 A.D. The appeal of this structure lies in its furnishings comprising exquisite chandeliers of Belgium glass. The glittering brass-domes and ornate architecture of this building made a Russian Prince call it the "Kremlin of India". A small bazaar, known as the Gelo Khana or "Decorated Place", lies inside the imposing entrance of the Imambara and is the home of chikan and bidri workers and of those who make the small clay figures typical to Lucknow. Opposite the entrance is a similar structure, the Naubat Khana, where seven musicians play three times a day in honour of the dead.

Shah Najaf Imambara:

Situated on the south bank of river Gomti towards the west of Sikandar Bagh, the building is almost an exact replica of the tomb of Hazrat Ali, the son-in-law of Prophet Muhammad, at Najaf Ashraf in Iraq. It contains the remains of Ghazi Uddin Haider and his three wives Mubarak Mahal, Mumtaz Mahal and Sarfraz Mahal. Earlier the entrance of the mausoleum was from the Gomti side which has been abandoned now for the south one.

Saddat Ali Tomb:
In front of the famous Begum Hazrat Mahal park are the tombs of Saddat Ali and his Begum Khurshidzadi. These tombs are built in the Italian style and are marvels of architecture. The tombs were built by Gaziuddin Haidar, the son of Saddat Ali. The lush green lawns around the tomb were witness to fierce rebel fighting at the time of the 1857 revolt.

Residency :

Lying in ruins near Hazratganj area, which is the centre of the city, the Lucknow Residency reminds one of the British presence in this city. The Residency was built in 1780-1800 for the British Resident in Avadh. During the Mutiny of 1857, the Residency was besieged by the rebels and it became the centre of the conflict in this area.

Clock Tower Lucknow:

The Tower is located very near to the Rumi Darwaza. Built in 1881 by the British. Features of tower are based on European style artwork. The part of the clock is built of pure gunmetal and the pendulum hangs 14 feet.

Chattar Manzil Lucknow:

The construction of Chattar Manjil was started by Nawab Gazi-ud-din and completed by his son Nasir-ud-din. The name is derived from Chhatra, a gilt umbrella atop the dome shaped minaret. Today the Chhattar Manjil today houses the Central Pharmaceutical Reasearch Centre.

Deva Sharif Lucknow:

This pilgrimage town is 25km from the city is the birthplace of Halli Waris Ali Shah, a highly revered sufi saints in the country. This place occupies an important place in the history of Awadh region known for its secular milieu.Both Hindu and Muslims hold this place in high esteem.

Nawabganj Bird Sanctuary :

The bird sanctuary has a lovely natural lake where innumerable number of migratory birds like Graylog Goose, Red Crested Pochard and a whole lot more assemble.

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

Sikandar Bagh:

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.

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

Museums in Lucknow:

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

Other Tourist Places:

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

Parks in Lucknow:

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

Gautam Buddha Park:

Situated in between the Bara Imambara and the Martyrs Memorial, this park has been a recreation ground for children. Rides, similar to those in the Appu Ghar of Delhi, are a big draw. It is also used by political parties to hold rallies now. Nearby is the Elephant or the Hati Park, another recreation park. The lemon park or the Nibu Park of the Bara Imambara is also very popular.

DR. B.R. Ambedkar Samajik Parivartan Sthal:

This major attraction of modern Lucknow, spread over 107 acres of land in Gomti Nagar, is dedicated to the memory of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar.As one passes through the gateway erected on the Gomti river, this architectural splendor beautifully unfolds itself. In the heart of this sprawling complex, stands a 112 ft. high memorial resembling a Stupa with a 18 ft. high bronze statue of Dr. Ambedkar. The various buildings such as Dr. Bhimrao Ambedkar Smarak, Samajik Parivartan Sangrahalaya, Samajik Parivartan Gallery, Pratibimb Sthal, Drishya Sthal, Gautam Buddha Sthal, Samajik Parivartan Stambh, expansive forecourt, Monumental elephant gallery, bronze fountains, Ashokan Columns & urns, entrance plazas can also be seen within this grand monument, Its lush gardens & lanes with a 20 ft. wide canal surrounding the memorial and the serene atmosphere leave the visitors spell bound. This memorial also comes alive at night when Sprawling Campus is illuminated with beautiful lighting.This enchanting sight a must see for every visitor to Lucknow.

Parking facility, cafeteria and public toilets are available. One can also enjoy delicious snacks at the UPSTDC Restaurant situated in front of the Dr. B.R. Ambedkar Samajik Parivartan Sthal.

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.

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.

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

State Museum And Zoo:

Lucknow zoo is spread in 71.6 acres area.It is situated in mid of the city near Hazaratganj.The Lucknow Zoo in the Banarsi Bagh has a large collection of animals The museum houses a large collection of artifacts and memorabilia There are also statues of Queen Victoria kept in the garden area of the museum complex.

Water parks in Lucknow:

Anandi Water Park:

Anandi Water Park situatedon Faizabad Road near Indira Dam, established in Lucknow during the year 2002, will convince you that it's a unique water park for fun and adventure for all ages and everybody. It is probably Northern India's biggest water park with maximum number of slider and events. The Park's lush green beautiful lawns with natural greenery around it,  make it most desirable place in the Lucknow city as well as the nearby cities.

Aamrapali Water Park:

This water park is just 18 kms away from Lucknow, 5 kilometres before Malihabad on the Lucknow-Hardoi highway.The main feature of Aamrapali Water Park 18 water slides, imported floats, dance floor, non stop DJ, AC Cottage, snacks, camel ride, theme  parties, paddle boating etc.

Four Seasons Fun City:

This fun zone located a few kilometres off the Lucknow-Rae Bareli Road, seven kms ahead of SGPGI has become a star attraction. Set across 30 acres of landscaped environs, the park boasts of North India's only racing reverse multi-lane slide. The venue is also the location for the Farm Fresh Country Club which is already a weekend haven for the city elite replete with snooker and pool tables, a card room, outdoor sports facility, a dance floor and restaurant.

Shivgarh Resort:

This resort is situated on Rai Bareli Road also offers a few water slides besides a giant swimmimg pool. Revellers can have a day long vacation in the other indoor and outdoor sports available at the well-equipped resort.