Lucknow: The City of Nawabs and kebabs!!

India is and was always known for its rich culture and tradition. The prosperity of India forced global attention towards it in the early 16th and 17th century. An era which is considered as a golden era in the Indian history is the era of Nawabs. City synonymous with Nawabs is Lucknow!!!!!!

Welcome to Lucknow

The City of Nawabs, Lucknow is the capital city of Uttar Pradesh and known for its grand monuments, clothing and cuisine, that carry forward with themselves the grandeur of Mughal supremacy.I Discovered the city's cultural treasures with my Bestie. We planned to visit this city and fell in love with its history and architectural monuments. Somehow it represents a combination of old reflected in Imambara and Residency monuments and contemporary reflected in the atmosphere of Ambedkar Memorial. 

The beautiful city of Lucknow and the people are known to charm their visitors with their impeccable manners and hospitality. Located on the banks of the river of Gomti, Lucknow is also home to the classical dance form of Kathak. Traces of rich historical and cultural past are elegantly exhibited through local architectural styles, handicrafts and the laid back Lucknowi way of living.The pretty skyline of the city and magnificent monuments make Lucknow a delight for history and photography enthusiasts. The city of Lucknow has stood the test of time and is emerging as a unique blend of ancient and modern.If you are in the Eastern part of India and plan a trip to this city, here is a list of places to visit in Lucknow in one day

Bara Imambara

This is one of the most impressive monuments I’ve visited in North India. Built by the ruler Asaf-Ud-Daula, this complex includes the main hall, mosque, labyrinth and bowli (an ancient step well with running water). Lucknow old constructions reflect Mughal architecture and style. Take an audio/real guide with you to get a deeper insight into each part of the complex.A few hundred meters from Bara Imambara there is Rumi Darwaza. It is another architectural masterpiece that marks the beginning of the old city.

The Residency in Lucknow

If you are a fan of ruins, this is a site for you. It’s a historical monument dating back to 1770s when the capital shifted from Faizabad to Lucknow.  The residency was built to host British residents stationed in that area. The complex consists of several houses, banquet hall, mosque, museum, lawns and main building of residency itself.

Lucknow Zoo

The Lucknow Zoo is one of the city’s main tourist attractions. Frequented by locals and outsiders alike, this zoo has been instrumental in educating Lucknow’s masses about the importance of the environment and preserving wildlife. The Lucknow Zoo is home 447 mammals, 348 birds, and 57 reptiles, and between those many creatures you’ll find 97 different species of wild animals. Their most popular inhabitants include the Royal Bengal tigers and white tigers, as well as lions, wolves, Hoolock gibbons, Himalayan black bears, and Indian rhinoceros. Those drawn to the zoo’s birdlife may find golden pheasants and silver pheasants roaming together, or catch a glimpse of the Great Pied Hornbill. This Zoo features ‘Touch Table Programmes’ on Fridays organized by The Nature Interpretation Centre. This tactile educational experience is a hands-on chance to learn about the skins of various animals, the eggs of birds and pheasants, the tusks of elephants, and much more. Since 1969, the zoo has also operated a Toy Train for family entertainment.

Ambedkar Memorial

This is a grand monument dedicated to all those who have devoted their lives to social justice, equality and humanity. The entrance is guarded by 62 stone elephants that lead you to a huge walking area and a museum. I felt I could just sit and watch the site vies for hours. It’s a very clean place filled with peaceful atmosphere.

I would suggest visiting it around 4-5 PM. In this case, you will catch the park view in the daylight and see the evening panorama with lights.

Tunday Kababi

One taste of Lucknow which has served the taste buds of millions and still continues to do so is Tunday Kababi. Traditional Lucknow Kebabs which is also a very famous brand of food in Lucknow. If you happen to visit Lucknow try your best to not miss this place. You find hundreds flocking this place for Kebabs everyday and has few branches spread across Lucknow.

If you are an architecture and history fan or a foodie willing to discover new tastes, you will love this city and Guys, if you happen to go to Lucknow make sure you have at least two days in hand to explore this amazing city.