About Lucknow
Lucknow is one of the largest cities in the north of India. The former power centre of Awadh is now the state capital of Uttar Pradesh. In the centre of the city lies the Rumi Darwaza, the gateway which was built way back in the Mughal era. Near the Rumi Darwaza is located the Bara Imambara, an 18th-century shrine. The Victorian Husainabad Clock Tower, which was built in 1881, is a grand landmark from colonial times.
Lucknow is one of the few cities of India that still holds the architecture of the Mughal and British Empires besides all its new-age modern buildings. This gives a unique look to Lucknow.
Lucknow is also famous for its Awadhi cuisine, which comprises kebabs, biryanis and whatnot. You can experience the best Awadhi cuisine in this city.
Popular things to do in Lucknow
- Take a temple tour of Lucknow: Lucknow is a place of numerous religious temples. The Hanuman Setu Mandir, Mankameshwar Temple, Sheetala Devi Mandir and Bhootnath Temple are some of the famous temples in the city.
- Enjoy a picnic at the Indira Dam: If you are a river lover, then the Gomti River and the Indira Dam will certainly be your favourite picnic spot. The vegetation near the river and the birds make the place an enticing destination.
- Go to the Bara Imambara: One of the largest Imambaras of India, Bara Imambara is a living embodiment of the fine Awadhi architecture. Nawab Asaf-ud-Daula was the one who commissioned the construction of this complex. Spending some time here can be a calming experience. The Bara Imambara has a huge hall which has an arched shape. If you go upstairs, then there is a Bhool Bhulaiya or a maze.
- Visit the iconic Rumi Darwaza: Another great Awadhi Architecture and one of Lucknow’s prominent tourist places, Rumi Darwaza was also constructed by Nawab Asaf-ud-Daula in 1784. About 60 feet tall, it is situated between Bara Imambara and Chota Imambara. It is a must-visit historical place in Lucknow.
- Chattar Manzil: The famous Nawab of Lucknow, Gazi Uddin Haider, was the one who started the construction of Chattar Manzil. The architecture of this palace is fascinating and something that will mesmerise you. So, your Lucknow visit must include a trip to this umbrella palace where the Nawabs of Awadh resided.
- Try local Lucknow cuisines: If you are in Lucknow, then make sure you have tried the legendary Galouti kebab, which melts in the mouth. Also, try the Shami kebab, which is another legendary dish. For the best kebabs, you can visit the Aminabad Chowk or the Qaisar Bagh Chowk.
Lucknow airport information
Lucknow Airport is officially known as Chaudhary Charan Singh International Airport. The IATA code of the airport is LKO, and the ICAO code is VILK. The international airport serves Lucknow and its surrounding areas. The airport is located in Amausi, and it is about 15 km away from the city centre.
It was known as Amausi International Airport and was then renamed after Indian 5th Prime Minister Chaudhary Charan Singh in 2008.