Things To Do
in Lucknow
Lucknow, the capital of Uttar Pradesh, is a city of Nawabi charm, refined heritage, and culinary finesse. Its grand mosques, bunting markets, and elegant courtyards reflect a fusion of Mughal, Awadhi, and British influences. The streets pulse with aromas of biryani, kebabs, and chaat, while chikankari embroidery adds delicate artistry to fashion.
Visitors can wander historic lanes, savor iconic dishes like galouti kebabs, and experience the famed hospitality of Lucknowites.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day with a visit to the magnificent Bara Imambara, an iconic monument showcasing the grandeur of Awadhi architecture. Wander through its vast courtyards and discover the fascinating Bhool Bhulaiya, a labyrinth of passageways. Enjoy a traditional breakfast at a nearby eatery, savoring local dishes like kachori and chai.
After lunch, head to the nearby Chota Imambara, known for its stunning chandeliers and intricate decorations. Take a leisurely stroll along the banks of the Gomti River, enjoying the scenic views and the serene atmosphere. As you explore, keep an eye out for local artisans showcasing their crafts.
Conclude your day with a visit to the vibrant Hazratganj market, where you can shop for traditional clothing and handicrafts. Relish a delicious dinner at one of the famous restaurants, trying signature dishes like biryani and kebabs. As night falls, enjoy a leisurely walk, soaking in the charm of the illuminated buildings and lively streets.
Start your day at the State Museum, where you can explore a rich collection of artifacts that depict the history and culture of Lucknow. Spend time learning about the art, history, and archaeology of the region through various exhibits. Don’t forget to take a moment to appreciate the museum's architecture, which is a blend of traditional and colonial styles.
Visit the Lucknow Residency, an important site from the First War of Independence, and walk through the well-preserved ruins. Engage with the history by exploring the museum inside that narrates the tales of the past conflicts. Enjoy a packed lunch at the residency grounds, basking in the historical ambiance.
As the sun sets, attend a cultural performance at the nearby Rang Mandal or another local theatre, where you can experience traditional dance and music. Post-performance, treat yourself to some street food at a local stall, trying out dishes like chaat and paani puri. Reflect on the day's experiences while enjoying the vibrant atmosphere of the city.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $3-6 |
| 🍽️Three-course meal for two (mid-range restaurant) | $12-25 |
| 🧋Coffee or tea | $1-3 |
| 🚗Taxi starting fare (local ride) | $1-3 |
| 🏠Rent for 1-bedroom apartment (city center, per month) | $200-350 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich Nawabi heritage and architecture
- World-class Awadhi cuisine and street food
- Warm hospitality and walkable heritage zones
- Good value for money and thriving markets
- Heavy traffic in central areas
- Limited nightlife compared to larger cities
- Wi-Fi and mobile reception can be spotty in crowded lanes
- "Namaste" - Hello / Greetings
- "Aap kaise hain?" - How are you?
- "Dhanyavaad" - Thank you
- "Kripya" - Please
- "Mujhe madad chahiye" - I need help
- "Kitne ka hai?" - How much is this?
- "Sahi jagah hai?" - Is this the right place?
- "Mujhe vegetarian khana chahiye" - I want vegetarian food
- "Bohot accha" - Very good
- "Namakkal" - Goodbye
Places to Visit in Lucknow
Visit one of these nice places.
A towering gateway that epitomizes Lucknow’s Indo-Islamic architecture; dramatic at dusk with warm lights.
Impressive 18th-century complex with grand arches, courtyards, and the labyrinth Bhool Bhulaiya.
A luminous mausoleum with dazzling chandeliers and decorative minarets, ideal for evening photography.
Historic compound with atmospheric ruins and reflective ponds that echo the colonial era.
Photo-worthy streets and arcades with vintage storefronts and lively street scenes.
Food in Lucknow
Lucknow Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A melt-in-the-mouth kebab crafted with finely minced meat and aromatic spices; iconic to Lucknow.
Must-Try!
Fluffy, skewered kebabs renowned for their tender texture and subtle spice.
Fragrant basmati rice layered with meat and saffron, lighter than many other biryanis.
Slow-cooked beef or lamb stew served with bread such as sheermal.
A soft, mildly sweet saffron bread that pairs perfectly with kebabs and gravies.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling traditional market known for spices, dry fruits, and street snacks.
Historic lanes offering a range of kebabs, chaat, and sweets; ideal for tastings and photography.
Colonial-era shopping street with cafes, bakeries, and curated eateries.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with Namaste or a polite head nod; dress modestly, especially in religious sites; remove shoes when required and ask permission before photographing people.
Safety
Tipping in Lucknow
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, a 5-10% tip is appreciated if a service charge is not included. For taxis and street food stalls, small change or rounding up is common.
Cash remains widely used, but UPI, cards, and mobile wallets (Paytm, Google Pay) are increasingly accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
March to May can be extremely hot (often 35-45°C). Stay hydrated, wear light clothing, and plan outdoor activities for early mornings or late evenings.
July to September brings humidity and seasonal rainfall. Carry a light rain jacket and waterproof footwear; some streets may flood after heavy showers.
November to February is cool and pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 8-22°C. A light jacket is usually enough for evenings.
Lucknow at Night
Hiking in Lucknow
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Nature trails and birdwatching moments just outside Lucknow; a calm nature escape from the city bustle.
Airports
How to reach Lucknow by plane.
Located about 14–20 km from central Lucknow; well-connected by road and rail to the city.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Part of Lucknow's historic culture with Nawabi influences and architectural heritage.
Central to Lucknow’s culinary and architectural identity; strong presence in markets and mosques.
Growth in education and service sectors keeps the city lively and affordable.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Cricket is the dominant sport; the region supports local leagues and the Lucknow Super Giants in the IPL.
Popular in schools and local clubs; matches are common during the season.
Widely played in community centers and gyms; participate in local leagues when possible.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Lucknow.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many vegetarian options exist in Lucknow; look for dal, paneer dishes, chole, sabzi thalis, and paneer biryani. Request no meat gravies or ghee if needed, and opt for fresh breads like roti or naan with vegetables.