Living (somewhat unfairly) in the shadow of Agra and Varanasi, Lucknow is perhaps one of the most underrated tourist destinations of Uttar Pradesh. Standing along the banks of Gomti River, Lucknow is the state capital and boasts of a rich tradition of culture, art, poetry, music and food. Lucknow owes its rise to prominence to the Nawabs of Avadh (Oudh) who patronized dance and music as well as the culinary arts.
The city itself derives its name from Lakshman Teela where Lord Rama’s brother is believed to have stayed after having returned from exile giving the city one of its earliest names — Lakhanpur. From 1350 AD to Independence, the Delhi Sultanate, the Mughal Empire, the Nawabs of Awadh, the East India Company and the British have ruled Lucknow. People of Lucknow participated actively in India’s Independence movement. The pact of 1916 between the Congress and the Muslim League was negotiated in Lucknow to increase pressure on British for greater autonomy.
BEST PLACES TO STAY IN LUCKNOW
Ranging from luxury to mid-range to budget, there are many options for accommodation in Lucknow. Most of the hotels and guest-houses are located close to Charbagh Railway station. The UP Tourism Board also maintains hotels in Lucknow. If you are traveling on a budget and checking into a lodge, make sure you check it thoroughly before you move in.
BEST PLACES TO EAT IN LUCKNOW
A visit to Lucknow is incomplete without a visit to Tundey ke Kebab to savor the eponymous beef kebabs. Indeed, kebabs of all types — Kakori, Shami, Galawati — are Lucknow’s specialty and can be sampled near the Chowk area. Besides kebabs, biriyani, dal gosth, salans and kulfi are famous Lucknow delicacies as is the Lucknowi chaat.
BEST TIME TO VISIT LUCKNOW
The average minimum and maximum temperature of Lucknow is as given below. The best time to visit Lucknow is also specified.