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Lucknow!

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Population

2.8 million

schedule

Best Time

October to March

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Time Needed

2-3 days minimum

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Currency

Rupee (₹)

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location_on Uttar Pradesh map North India 🗺️ Offbeat Lucknow Uttar Pradesh Awadhi Cuisine Nawabi Culture Travel Guide

Lucknow, the capital of Uttar Pradesh, is known as the 'City of Nawabs' for its rich cultural heritage and refined lifestyle. It's a city where history blends seamlessly with modernity, offering a unique glimpse into the past while embracing the present.

Lucknow offers a taste of old-world charm with its historical monuments, delectable Awadhi cuisine, and elegant manners. However, be prepared for traffic congestion and pollution, which can be overwhelming. Visit if you appreciate history, culture, and food, but consider the environmental factors before planning your trip.

A trip to Lucknow requires at least 2-3 days to explore the major attractions. Getting around is relatively easy with auto-rickshaws, ride-sharing apps, and the metro. Consider booking accommodations and popular restaurants in advance, especially during peak season.

When To Visit

Best Time

October to March

10-25 degrees C

Pleasant and dry weather makes it ideal for sightseeing. The days are sunny and the nights are cool.

Why Visit:

The weather is perfect for exploring historical sites and enjoying outdoor activities. Several cultural festivals also take place during this time, offering a vibrant experience. It's the best time to savor the delicious street food without the discomfort of extreme heat.

Tip: This is peak tourist season, so expect higher prices and larger crowds. Book accommodations and transportation well in advance.

Shoulder Season

July to September

28-35 degrees C

Monsoon season with occasional heavy rainfall. Humidity levels are high.

Why Visit:

The landscape turns lush green, and the city looks refreshed. You can find discounted rates on accommodations and enjoy fewer crowds at attractions.

Tip: Heavy rainfall can disrupt travel plans and make it difficult to explore outdoor attractions. Some activities may be limited.

Avoid

April to June

35-45 degrees C

Extreme heat and dry winds make it unbearable to be outdoors. This is the peak of summer in Lucknow.

Why Avoid:

Avoid visiting during this period due to the scorching heat. It's difficult to enjoy sightseeing or outdoor activities.

Note: Unless you have a specific reason to visit during this time, it's best to postpone your trip.

Top Sights - Top Attractions!

Bara Imambara

⏱ 2-3 hours ₹50 (Indians), ₹500 (foreigners)

Bara Imambara is a historical complex built by Asaf-ud-Daula in 1784, featuring a large Asfi mosque, the Bhul-bhulaiya (a labyrinth), and a stepwell. ...

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Chota Imambara

⏱ 1-2 hours ₹30 (Indians), ₹300 (foreigners)

Chota Imambara, also known as the Hussainabad Imambara, is an elegant monument built by Muhammad Ali Shah in 1838. It houses the tombs of Muhammad Ali...

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Rumi Darwaza

⏱ 30 minutes Free

Rumi Darwaza is an imposing gateway built in 1784, modeled after the Sublime Porte in Istanbul. It serves as an entrance to the old city of Lucknow....

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British Residency

⏱ 1-2 hours ₹25 (Indians), ₹300 (foreigners)

The British Residency is a historical site that witnessed the Siege of Lucknow during the 1857 Indian Rebellion. The ruins serve as a reminder of the ...

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Hazratganj Market

⏱ 2-3 hours Free

Hazratganj is a bustling shopping district in the heart of Lucknow. It's a place where you can find everything from traditional chikankari embroidery ...

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Ambedkar Memorial Park

⏱ 2 hours ₹20 (Indians), ₹200 (foreigners)

Ambedkar Memorial Park is a large public park dedicated to B.R. Ambedkar, an Indian jurist, economist, and social reformer. It features several impres...

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Things To Do

attractions

Chikankari Embroidery Workshop

⏱ 3-4 hours 💰 ₹1500-2500 per person

Learn the intricate art of chikankari embroidery, a traditional Lucknowi craft. A skilled artisan will guide you through...

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attractions

Cooking Class: Awadhi Cuisine

⏱ 4-5 hours 💰 ₹2000-3000 per person

Discover the secrets of Awadhi cuisine, known for its rich flavors and elaborate preparations. Learn to prepare dishes l...

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attractions

Hot Air Balloon Ride over Lucknow

⏱ 1-2 hours 💰 ₹8000-12000 per person

Take a hot air balloon ride over Lucknow and enjoy panoramic views of the city's landmarks. Experience the beauty of the...

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attractions

Heritage Walk in Old Lucknow

⏱ 2-3 hours 💰 ₹500-1000 per person

Explore the narrow lanes and historical buildings of Old Lucknow on a guided heritage walk. Learn about the city's rich ...

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Cultural Experiences

celebration

Attend a Kathak Performance

2-3 hours | ₹500-1500

Kathak is a classical Indian dance form that originated in Uttar Pradesh. It's characterized by intr...

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celebration

Visit a Local Perfume (Ittar) Shop

1 hour | ₹100-500

Lucknow is known for its traditional perfumes called ittar, which are made from natural ingredients ...

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celebration

Attend a Qawwali Session

2-3 hours | Free

Qawwali is a form of Sufi devotional music that is popular in South Asia. It's characterized by pass...

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celebration

Participate in a Kite Flying Festival (Basant)

Full day | ₹200-500

Basant is a spring festival celebrated with kite flying. The sky is filled with colorful kites of al...

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celebration

Visit a Traditional Paan Shop

30 minutes | ₹20-50

Paan is a preparation of betel leaf with various fillings, such as areca nut, lime, and spices. It's...

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celebration

Experience a Tanga Ride

1 hour | ₹300-500

A Tanga is a horse-drawn carriage, offering a nostalgic way to see the city. It evokes a sense of ol...

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View all cultural experiences

Eat This!

Must-Try Dishes

Tunday Kababi
Tunday Kababi

renowned for its melt-in-your-mouth galouti kebabs (Aminabad).

Idris Biryani
Idris Biryani

famous for its flavorful and aromatic biryani (Chowk).

Prakash Kulfi
Prakash Kulfi

try the creamy and delicious kulfi faluda (Aminabad).

Ratimlal's Poori
Ratimlal's Poori

enjoy the crispy and flavorful poori sabzi (Hazratganj).

Where to Eat

Dastarkhwan

Dastarkhwan

₹₹

Awadhi

📍 Hazratganj

A popular restaurant serving authentic Awadhi cuisine. The atmosphere is casual and the food is delicious. Expect a wait during peak hours.

Mutton BiryaniChicken Masala

₹600-800 for two

The Terrace - Renaissance Lucknow Hotel

The Terrace - Renaissance Lucknow Hotel

₹₹₹

Multi-cuisine

📍 Gomti Nagar

Offers a wide variety of dishes in a buffet setting. The atmosphere is upscale and the service is excellent. A good choice for a special occasion.

Buffet

₹1500-2000 for two

Street Food Spots

Aminabad Market

Aminabad Market

💰 Budget: ₹100-300 per person

⚠️ Tips: Be mindful of hygiene and choose vendors with a good reputation. Visit in the evening when the market is bustling.

🍽️
Discover More on
Foodie Finder: Lucknow

More restaurants & dishes from Lucknow

Where To Stay ?

Best Neighborhoods

Hazratganj

A central location with shopping, dining, and historical sites nearby. Good for first-time visitors, but can be crowded.

Best For: Shoppers, sightseers

Gomti Nagar

A modern area with upscale hotels, restaurants, and shopping malls. Ideal for business travelers and those seeking a quieter environment.

Best For: Business travelers, families

Accommodation Options

Budget

💰

₹1500-2500/night

La Place Sarovar Portico

📍 Hazratganj

A comfortable hotel with essential amenities and a convenient location. Good value for money.

₹1500-2500/night

Hotel Deep Avadh

📍 Near Charbagh Railway Station

A basic but clean hotel close to the railway station. Suitable for budget travelers.

₹1200-2000/night

Mid-Range

🏨

₹3000-5000/night

Golden Tulip Lucknow

📍 Gomti Nagar

A modern hotel with comfortable rooms and good facilities. Offers a pleasant stay.

₹3000-5000/night

Clarks Avadh

📍 Hazratganj

A well-established hotel with a central location and good service. Provides a comfortable and convenient stay.

₹3500-5500/night

Luxury

₹8000+/night

Taj Mahal, Lucknow

📍 Vipin Khand, Gomti Nagar

A luxurious hotel with elegant rooms and excellent dining options. Offers a premium experience.

₹8000+/night

Hyatt Regency Lucknow

📍 Vibhuti Khand, Gomti Nagar

A stylish hotel with modern amenities and spacious rooms. Provides a comfortable and sophisticated stay.

₹7000+/night

View all stay & eat options

How To Get There ?

flight

By Air

Airport: Chaudhary Charan Singh International Airport (LKO), 15km from city

train

By Train

Stations:

Lucknow Charbagh (LKO)

Main railway station, connects to major cities. Located centrally.

Lucknow Junction (LJN)

Another major station, handles trains to different destinations. Near Charbagh.

Routes:
  • From Delhi: 6-8 hours (₹500-2000)
  • From Mumbai: 20-24 hours (₹1000-3000)

Booking: IRCTC or 12Go.asia

directions_bus

By Bus

Terminals:
  • Alambagh Bus Terminal
  • Kaiserbagh Bus Terminal
Routes:
  • From Kanpur: 2 hours (₹200-300)
  • From Delhi: 8-10 hours (₹800-1200)

Note: Trains more comfortable

Getting Around

local_taxi

Auto-rickshaw

💰 ₹50-200

Best for: Short distances and navigating crowded areas.

Bargain the fare before starting the ride. Be aware of traffic.

subway

Metro

💰 ₹10-60

Best for: Traveling between major areas and avoiding traffic.

Purchase a travel card for convenience. Check the metro route map.

directions

Ride-sharing apps (Uber/Ola)

💰 ₹100-400

Best for: Comfortable and convenient transportation.

Check the surge pricing during peak hours. Ensure the driver follows the route on the app.

Practical Tips

checkroom

What To Wear

Light and breathable clothing is recommended, especially during the summer months. Dress modestly when visiting religious sites.

payments

Money

Daily Budget: Budget: ₹1500, Mid: ₹3000, Luxury: ₹5000+

ATMs: Widely available

Cash vs Card: Cash is preferred for small transactions, while cards are accepted at larger establishments.

Bargaining: Expected in markets and with auto-rickshaw drivers.

health_and_safety

Health

Water: Drink bottled or filtered water to avoid stomach problems. Avoid ice from unknown sources.

Food: Eat at reputable restaurants and avoid street food that looks unhygienic. Be cautious of spicy food if you're not used to it.

Common Issues: Heatstroke during summer, stomach infections, and air pollution. Bring sunscreen, insect repellent, and any necessary medications.

sim_card

Communication

SIM Cards: Available at the airport and in the city. Airtel and Vodafone are popular networks. You'll need a passport and visa.

WiFi: Available at most hotels and some restaurants.

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Language & Tipping

Language: Hindi is the primary language, but English is spoken in tourist areas. Learning a few basic Hindi phrases can be helpful.

Tipping: Restaurant: 5-10%, drivers: ₹20-50

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