Lucknow, the city of Nawabs, has never ever lost its relevance in the Indian history and culture. The city inspires manner in a way that people who have not experienced in, yearn for it. Lucknow has always ruled as one of the most important centers of Muslim cultural influence in South Asia along with Delhi, Lahore and Hyderabad. Courtly manners, Charbagh, Qauwwali, Chikankari embroidery, Kabobs and the contributions of poets patronized by Lucknow Nawabs are well known all over.

The history of the city is as vivid as itself. It is believed that the city has been named after Lakshman, the younger brother of Lord Rama. The city was earlier called Lakshman Pore that later turned in to Lucknow.

Moti Mahal : There are three beautiful buildings on the fringes of the Gomti. The main one is the Moti Mahal or the Pearl Palace constructed by Nawab Saadat Ali Khan. The other two include Mubarak Manzil and the Shah Manzil. They were mainly constructed for the Nawab and his courtiers to watch animal combats from the balconies of the buildings, which were held at the other side of the river. The Nawabs also used these buildings to view the birds in flight.

Rumi Darwaza : The Rumi Darwaza leads to the outer section of the Bara Imambara and is widely believed to be a facsimile of one of the gates of Constantinople. Also known as the Turkish Gateway, it is a brilliant example of Avadh architecture.

Bara Imambara : Built in the year 1784 by the champion of charity Nawab Asaf ud Daula, the Bara Imambara provided food to the famine stricken subjects of the Nawab. It is said that once even the rich persons worked here as laborers in the construction of this impressive monument. They worked at night to avoid the embarrassment of being noticed. The monument is known for its simplicity of style, sheer proportion and symmetry. To the left of the Imambara is a grand mosque. To the right is a row of cloisters concealing a huge well known as the Baoli.

Chattar Manzil : The Umbrella Palace is an imposing façade with huge underground rooms and a beautiful dome surrounded by a gilt umbrella. The European influence can clearly be seen in the architecture of this beautiful building. Today it houses the Central Drug Research Institute (CDRI).

How to get there

Air : Lucknow Amausi airport is 14 kms. away from the centre of town, with regular flights to Delhi, Patna, Calcutta and Mumbai.

Rail : The Northern and North-Eastern railway networks connect Lucknow with the important cities within the country.

Road : Lucknow is on the crossroads of National Highways 24, 25 and 28 running east, west and south. It is well connected by road with major cities like Agra (363 km), Allahabad (225 km), Calcutta (985 km), Delhi (497 km), Kanpur (79 km) and Varanasi (305 km).