Location: Close to the Machchhi Bhavan, along the Husainabad Trust Road
‘Imambara’ means a congregation hall of Shia Muslims where various religious and commemorative ceremonies, particularly those related to Muharram such as ‘Azadari’ are held. ‘Bara Imambara’, meaning ‘Big Imambara’ of Lucknow situated close to the Machchhi Bhavan, along the Husainabad Trust Road is an Imambara Complex that was established under the patronage of the 4th Nawab of Lucknow; Nawab Asaf-ud-Daula in 1784 AD. Also known as the ‘Asafi Imambara’ after its founder, the Bara Imambara; one of the foremost landmarks of the city accommodates the grandiose Asfi Mosque, the Bhulbhulayah (the labyrinth) and the Bowli (the step well) within its all-embracing premises. The architecture of this Imambara Complex of Lucknow echoes the ornamental Mughal designs employed in the Badshahi Mosque of Lahore. Two daunting gateways lead to the central chamber of the Imambara where the sepulcher of Asaf-ud-Daula is placed under an enormous dome. This 15 meters tall enclosure measuring 50 by 16 meters it is total area happens to be one of the largest arched constructions of its kind in the world that bears no beams supporting the ceiling.
The main chamber is surrounded by eight lesser chambers above which a three-dimensional maze (Bhulbhulayah) is built. The Bhulbhulayah; probably the only existing maze of India comprises innumerable interconnecting passages linked with one another through 489 identical doorways. The 18 meter tall gateway of Imambara that serves as its west facing entrance is named ‘Rumi Darwaza’ that is tremendously admired for its extravagant embellishments. The Bara Imambara was designed by an eminent architect named Kifayatullah who also lays buried in the main hall right next to the Asaf-ud-Daula’s crypt. It is said that several underground tunnels originating at the Bara Imambara open up at distinct locations including the banks of the Gomti River, Faizabad, Allahabad and Delhi, however they remain sealed today. The chronicles suggest that the Bara Imambara was built by Asaf-ud-Daula in order to provide employment to his subjects during the period of a fatal famine of 18th century. Both the famine as well as the construction of the Imambara continued for almost a decade.

Location: Just 1.3 kilometers away from the Bara Imambara in the Daulatganj area of the Lucknow City
‘The Chhota Imambara’, meaning ‘the Small Imambara’ of Lucknow, also reckoned by its moniker; ‘the Husainabad Imambara’ is yet another baroque monument and a historical milestone of this ‘City of Nawabs’ that was erected under the sovereignty of the 3rd Nawab of Awadh; Muhammad Ali Shah in 1838 AD. Also renowned as the ‘Palace of Lights’ owing to its flamboyant illuminations during the festive seasons, the Chhota Imambara is located just 1.3 kilometers away from the Bara Imambara in the Daulatganj area of the Lucknow City. The Imambara houses the catacomb of Muhammad Ali Shah himself and his family members. Also built during the famine period, the Chhota Imambara too provided employment to thousands of workers. The structural design of the Imambara presents a splendid amalgamation of Char Bagh, Persian and Indo Islamic architectural orders. Crowned with a gilded white dome topped with a slender upright spire, the exteriors of the Imambara are garlanded with a number of smaller turrets and minarets. The interiors of this edifice are festooned with the chandeliers specially imported from Belgium while the walls are bedecked with florid Arabic calligraphy. Satkhanda; the celebrated watch tower of Lucknow stands right next to the Chhota Imambara Complex that was erected for the purpose of moon watching. It is to be noted that the Non Muslims are not granted an entrance inside the Chhota Imambara Premises.

Location: To the west of the Bara Imambara
The Rumi Darwaza of Lucknow, also acknowledged by its sobriquet ‘the Turkish Gate’ is a magnificent gateway that serves as the west facing entrance to the Bara Imambara. Constructed in the year 1784 under the benefaction of the 4th Nawab of Lucknow; Nawab Asaf-ud-Daula, the Rumi Darwaza; modeled after the ‘Sublime Porte’ of Istanbul is regarded as the peerless paradigm of Awadhi Architecture. This sixty feet tall entryway adorned with several steeples and minarets and ornamented with intricately carved flower buds and other motifs once served as one of the doorways to the fortified Lucknow city. Earlier a huge lantern used to be mounted atop this commanding edifice so as to light up the structure as well as the surrounding areas at night. A number of tiny fountain pumps were placed on the edges of the arches from where little squirts of water used to gush out and create teensy weensy fountains. The topmost portion of the Rumi Darwaza can be reached through a flight of stairs where an eight faceted umbrella is placed. George Russell; a reporter of the ‘New York Times’ who alighted at Lucknow in 1858 subsequent to the First War of Independence of 1857 said that the expanse from the Rumi Darwaza to Chattar Manzil is so spectacular and striking that all the avenues of Rome, London, Paris and Constantinople look diminutive before it.

Location: Along the Mahatma Gandhi Marg in the Kaisarbagh area of the city close to the Gomti Riverbanks
The Chattar Manzil of Lucknow positioned along the Mahatma Gandhi Marg in the Kaisarbagh area of the city close to the Gomti Riverbanks is yet another imperial architecture that boasts of the transcendental grandeur and structural augustness achieved during the epoch of the leonine Nawabs of Awadh. Greatly sought after by the tourists, this magisterial edifice derives its name ‘Chattar Manzil’ after its umbrella (chhatri) shaped central cupola. The construction of the Chattar Manzil Palace commenced during the ascendancy of Nawab Ghazi Uddin Haider and it reached completion after his demise during the governance of Nawab Nasir Uddin Haider; the son and successor of Nawab Ghazi Uddin Haider. This imposing structure consisting of multiple large underground rooms reveals certain elements of European order of architecture that indicates the clear influence or interference of the European structural design on it. Various Indian, English and Italian photographers viz. Darogha Ubbas Alli, Samuel Bourne, Thomas Rust, Felice Beato, have clicked some amazing photographs of the Chattar Manzil Palace. At present, the Central Drug Research Institute (CDRI) is housed within the Chattar Manzil Palace.

Location: Right opposite the ‘Husainabad Imambara’ or the ‘Chhota Imambara’ of Lucknow
Satkhanda, an ostentatious 67 meters tall watchtower built out of red-brick and an epitome of the medieval splendor commemorates a dream of a Nawab that remained unfulfilled due to his untimely death. Raised right opposite the ‘Husainabad Imambara’ or the ‘Chhota Imambara’ of Lucknow, this swanky edifice exhibits a supreme unison of French and Italian orders of architecture. The Satkhanda Tower was constructed during the supremacy of Nawab Muhammad Ali Shah between 1837 and 1842. Although it is called ‘Satkhanda’, meaning ‘seven storeys’, this monolith holds only four storeys, since the construction was terminated with the sudden demise of Muhammad Ali Shah in May 1842. The Nawab wanted to erect a tower as lofty and swaggering as the Qutb Minar of Delhi or the Leaning Tower of Pisa. Honored to be the tallest tower existing in India, the skyscraper of Satkhanda is supposed to be dedicated to Sir George Couper; the Lieutenant Governor of the North-Western Provinces and Chief Commissioner of Oudh. From the top of the Satkhanda Tower the panoramic view of the erstwhile Lucknow city could be perceived. Moreover, people also used to ascend this tower to watch moon. Though in ruins today, the eloquent structure of Satkhanda and its exquisite designs can not abstain from vouching for the architectural ingenuity achieved during the bygone ages.

Location: Close to the Ghanta Ghar Talab along the Girdharilal Mathur Road in Husainabad area of Lucknow City
The Husainabad Clock Tower of Lucknow also known as the ‘Husainabad Ghanta Ghar’ is an additional dazzling jewel in the historical and architectural casket of this Shiraz-i-Hind. Located close to the Ghanta Ghar Talab along the Girdharilal Mathur Road in Husainabad area of Lucknow City, this aerial clock tower measuring about 67 meters in its height is commended amongst the most captivating mementoes of this ‘City of Nawabs’. Erected in the year 1881 under the sponsorship of Nawab Nasir Uddin Haider, the Husainabad Clock Tower; the tallest clock tower of India bears the biggest clock studded upon it that cost the government about 1.75 lakhs INR at that time. Applauded as one of the British signposts in Lucknow, the Husainabad Clock Tower or the Ghanta Ghar was designed by an eminent British architect Roskell Payne. Reflecting the Victorian-Gothic orders of structural designs, the clock of this Ghanta Ghar was fabricated out of gun metal. The dial of the clock is configured in the silhouette of a twelve petalled flower with bells around it while the clock has a gigantic pendulum that dandles at the length of nearly 14 feet.

Location: Located in the south-east corner of the Chattar Manzil
Wajid Ali Shah; the 5th King of Oudh and the 10th and last Nawab of Lucknow who is celebrated worldwide for his remarkable contribution in poetry and music was the progenitor of the Kaiserbagh Palace of Lucknow who envisaged it as the 8th wonder of the world. The Kaiserbagh Palace to be found in the south-east corner of the Chattar Manzil was built in the year 1847 soon after the coronation of Wajid Ali Shah who had visualized an integrated palace complex where all the niceties of a paradise garden would be present. Distinguished for its extraordinary architectural excellence, the flamboyant Kaiserbagh Palace is ornamented with umbrellas, columns, Moorish minarets, banisters, pediments and lanterns. Two identical gateways, both known as ‘Lakhi Gate’ lead us inside the premises of the Kaiserbagh Complex. The chief quadrangle reckoned as ‘Baradari’ is placed at the center of the palace complex which was built out of white stone and entirely gilded with silver.
This quadrangle is enclosed by three yellow colored buildings. ‘Paree Khana’; a two storied edifice with large courtyards and no windows opening outside is placed close to the main garden which served as the residing quarters of the Queens and the royal ladies. The Paree Khana is in ruins today. Meena Bazaar and Kaptan Bazaar were two markets inside the Kaiserbagh Complex exclusively meant for the royal women. The eye-catching demeanor of the Kaiserbagh Palace is fundamentally complimented by the European style statues, Mughal style pavilions and gilt crowns. After the First War of Independence in 1857, the British ordered the demolition of this palace when most of the southern and northern walls were knocked down; however, the incredible glory and grandeur of this astounding citadel didn’t remain concealed and it still allures its beholders with its infinite splendor.

Location: Parked close to the Sikander Bagh on the southern banks of the river Gomti
Shah Najaf Imambara of Lucknow parked close to the Sikander Bagh on the southern banks of the river Gomti is a grandiose mausoleum gracefully cuddled in the midst of an attractively landscaped garden. Established in 1816- 17 AD during the governance of Nawab Ghazi Uddin Haider, this cenotaph resembles the sepulcher of Hazrat Ali; the son-in-law of Prophet Muhammad located at Najaf in Iraq. Also known by the epithet ‘Najaf-e-Ashraf’, the Shah Najaf Imambara, a marvelous white domed structure houses the tombs of Nawab Ghazi Uddin Haider himself and his three consorts, one of them being the Begum Mubarak Mahal; Ghazi Uddin Haider’s European wife. Out of these four crypts, three are covered in silver plates whereas the grave of Begum Mubarak Mahal is coated in gold. The interiors of the Shah Najaf Imambara contrary to its comparatively plain exteriors are ornately bejeweled with fabulous chandeliers. It is supposed that once upon a time the domes of the Imambara were gilded in pure gold. Moreover, it is also believed that during the First War of Independence in 1857, the crusaders used to find shelter inside the Shah Najaf Imambara building. Presently, the row material of the ‘Tazia’ is stored within the Shah Najaf Imambara from where Tazias are hosted on the occasion of Muharram. This Imambara, one of the most visited tourist attractions of Lucknow is open to public from 8 in the morning to 6 in the evening.

Location: On the banks of the river Gomti in the Dilkhusha area of the city
The Dilkhusha Kothi of Lucknow nestled on the banks of the river Gomti in the Dilkhusha area of the city is an ancient edifice, now in ruins, that was constructed in the year 1800 by the British Major Gore Ouseley; a friend of the then Nawab of Oudh - Nawab Saadat Ali Khan. Resembling the Seaton Delaval Hall of Northumberland in England to a great extent, the Dilkhusha Kothi was originally proposed as a hunting lodge for the Nawabs, nevertheless it was later used as a summer resort as well. The Kothi, remarkably undersized in its stature had patterned walls and lacked inner courtyard. During the Mutiny of 1857, the Dilkhusha Kothi was held by the Indian Freedom Fighters and as a result this building along with its neighbors La Martiniere and the Residency of Sir Henry Lawrence received heavy bombardment from the British. The British forcibly recaptured the area but during the course the Kothi lost all its majesty. The Dilkhusha Kothi remained at the centre of the British military activity during the later half of the year 1857 at the time of the ‘Uprising in Lucknow’. Presently, only the vestiges of this 18th century English styled house including a few towers and external walls are in existence, yet, the extensive garden enclosing the edifice still charms its visitors. The Archaeological Society of India has carried out small repairs and undertaken a considerable amount of gardening to avoid further decay and bring the Kothi back into the glare of publicity in the tourism industry. E. M. Forster’s celebrated novel ‘A Passage to India’ refers to the Dilkhusha Kothi of Lucknow as a replica of certain English baronial home.

Location: On the banks of the River Gomti along the Rana Pratap Road near Hazratganj and positioned flanked by the Mubarak Manzil and the Shah Manzil
The Moti Mahal stationed on the banks of the River Gomti along the Rana Pratap Road near Hazratganj and positioned flanked by the Mubarak Manzil and the Shah Manzil of Lucknow is a royal alcazar that was erected during the reign of Nawab Saadat Ali Khan. The chateau receives its name Moti Mahal i.e. ‘Pearl Palace’ after its palatial pearly white exteriors. Designed as a citadel, this building used to serve as a watch tower for the royal family from where they used to enjoy the sports of animal combats held on the other side of the Gomti River. Moreover, from the Moti Mahal, the royalty of Lucknow also used to indulge in bird watching and the soldiers kept watch on the enemy operations as well from here. The Shah Manzil and the Mubarak Manzil were later added by the Nawab Ghazi Uddin Haider on both the sides of the Moti Mahal Palace. Presently, the Pearl Palace of Lucknow houses some of the governmental offices while the extensive lawns of the palace are used for organizing various parties, marriage functions and exhibitions.

Location: Close to Lucknow amidst thick woods
Taal Katore-ki-Karbala of Lucknow established by Meer Khuda Buksh in the year 1800 is an important and highly venerated pilgrim destination of Shia Muslims as the tomb of a great Shia Martyr; Hazrat Hussain’s Rauza is reposed here. This mediaeval monument noted for its grandiose structural design festooned with three lofty minarets and a central dome surpasses all the modern architectures in its exemplary artwork. Adding to that, the luxuriant woods those enfold the monument render the environs calm, composed and exceedingly picturesque. This holy shrine receives deluge of devotees particularly on the occasion of Muharram Festival.

Location: On the banks of the river Gomti just one and half kilometer away from the Kaiserbagh Palace
The Residency or the Residency Complex of Lucknow situated on the banks of the river Gomti just one and half kilometer away from the Kaiserbagh Palace is an ancient mansion presently in ruins that stood witness to India’s First War of Independence of 1857. Built under the aegis of the Nawab of Awadh; Nawab Saadat Ali Khan in 1800 AD, this assemblage of houses originally served as the residing quarters of the British Resident General who functioned as the Company Representative in the court of Nawab. In June 1857 the early freedom fighters of India laid siege on the Residency Complex when approximately 3,000 British inhabitants of Lucknow found shelter inside the Residency. The incessant shelling between the British forces and the Indian revolutionaries lasted for about a month and claimed the lives of thousands of people. However, eventually the legendary ‘Siege of Lucknow’ was eased by the British Military troops under the command of Sir James Outram, Sir Henry Havelock and Sir Colin Campbell. The constant gunfire caused significant devastation to the Residency and the marks of the bullets and the cannonballs can still be spotted here.
Now in ruins, the Residency Complex has been declared a protected monument by the Archaeological Survey of India and it has been converted to a museum. The complex houses the graves of over 2000 British soldiers who lost their lives in the uprising of 1857. Moreover, several governmental offices also function within the premises of the Residency Complex. The Residency Museum exhibits a wide collection of paintings dating back to 16th century AD and several ancient gold coins. Other noteworthy historical attractions of Lucknow sited adjacent the premises of the Residency include the tombs of Nawab Saadat Ali Khan and his family members, the Kaiserbagh Palace, the Tarawali Kothi, the Nur Baksh Kothi and the observatory. The ruins of the Residency Complex nestled amidst the luxuriant lawns and charming flowerbeds today beckon myriads of tourists from near and far. The entry fee that is charged here comprises 5 INR for Indians and 100 INR for foreigners.

Location: Placed opposite the Residency Complex on the way to the Imambara against the magnificent backdrop of the Gomti River
The Shaheed Smarak of Lucknow placed opposite the Residency Complex on the way to the Imambara against the magnificent backdrop of the Gomti River is an imposing marble tower erected by LDA (Lucknow Development Authority) to commemorate the invaluable sacrifice made by thousnds of anonymous freedom fighters in the First War of Independence in 1857. The Shaheed Smarak, a tribute to the champions of India’s First War of Independence was raised to mark the first centenary of the Sepoy Mutiny of 1857. Set up in the midst of a beautiful garden, this impressive memorial recalls Lucknow’s momentous contribution in the revolt of 1857.

Location: In the Gomti Nagar area of Northern Lucknow
The Ambedkar Memorial, also referred to as ‘Dr Bhimrao Ambedkar Samajik Parivartan Prateek Sthal’ is a commemorative plaque that is dedicated to the memory of various historical Dalit leaders and social reformers namely Jotiba Phule, Shahuji Maharaj, Narayan Guru, Baba Saheb Ambedkar, Kanshi Ram and many others. Being the first of its kind in the whole world that celebrates the glory of the great Dalit forebears and stands as an emblem of Dalit empowerment and dignity, the Ambedkar Memorial located in the Gomti Nagar area of Northern Lucknow is established under the patronage of Mayawati; the Dalit Queen and the present Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh. Spread over an extensive area of 107 acres and still under construction at several places, this enormous memorial entirely fabricated out of red sandstone specially imported from Rajasthan will be completed at the estimated expense of about 7 billion rupees.
The memorial complex houses the ‘Ambedkar Stupa’, the ‘Pratibimb Sthal’, impressive stone mementoes, splendidly landscaped gardens studded with dazzling fountains and dozens of effigies of the distinguished Dalit icons, figurines of Mayawati herself, and many other aureate sculptures. The Ambedkar Stupa placed right at the heart of the memorial is a massive edifice designed in the shape of a gargantuan flower flanked with four petals. Accessible through four entryways opening into four opposite directions, the Ambedkar Stupa houses a number of statues illustrating the biography of Dr. B. R. Ambedkar; the father of Indian Constitution. A remarkable statuette of Baba Saheb Ambedkar portrayed seated in a chair facing towards the two domes bears a message written in Hindi; “Mera Jeevan Sangharsh hi Mera Sandesh Hai” meaning, “the struggle of my life itself is my message”. The Pratibimb Sthal is the main entrance to the Ambedkar Memorial from where a promenade guarded by 62 huge sculptures of elephants on both the sides leads to the central stupa.
The entry to the memorial complex is free. Police forces are always all set there to prevent any kind of sabotage to the property or any squabbles.

Location: Sited in the center of the city
The Juma Masjid of Lucknow sited in the center of the city and also reckoned as the ‘Jami Masjid’ is a marvelous paradigm of Mughal architecture in India and also a pompous testimony of the grandiloquent Nawabian Epoch of Lucknow. The construction work of the Juma Masjid began in 1423 AD during the supremacy of Sultan Ahmed Shah while it was later completed by his wife subsequent to his demise. Entirely fabricated out of yellow sandstone and commended for its baroque structural design, exemplary artwork and its spectacular architecture, the domineering Juma Masjid of Lucknow is an outstanding specimen depicting the supreme fusion of Hindu, Jain and Mughal styles of architectonics. The exquisite carvings and engravings of the mosque and the elaborate calligraphy on the external walls demonstrate the lucid influence of Hindu and Jain temples while the interiors sumptuously decorated with silver pulpits, brilliant chandeliers, gilded mirrors and eloquent fresco paintings disclose the distinctive Mughal approach of ornamentation. Covering an all-embracing area of 4950 square meters, the Juma Masjid is divided into two portions; the western chamber and the eastern chamber. The western chamber is crowned by 15 arched domes of distinct altitudes those stand supported by 260 flamboyantly bejeweled pillars whereas the eastern chamber houses the sepulcher of Sultan Ahmed Shah himself.

Location: At the distance of about 42 kilometers from Lucknow in the Barabanki District
Deva Shariff, stationed at the distance of about 42 kilometers from Lucknow in the Barabanki District is a Muslim pilgrim destination where the mortal remains of a Sufi Saint; Haji Syed Waris Ali Shah lays buried. Haji Syed Waris Ali Shah; venerated for his message of universal love and brotherhood was born in the 26th generation of Hazrat Imam Hussein and his family was distinguished for their piousness, wisdom and learning. The date of his birth is a subject of dispute. Haji Syed Waris Ali Shah is held in high esteem both by the Hindu and the Muslim devotees who regard him to be a perfect Sufi and an ardent follower of Vedanta. Every year in the month of October or November, an ‘Urs’ is organized at the sacred Mazar of Haji Waris Ali Shah. A big fair known as the ‘Dewa Mela’ is celebrated annually in the consecrated memory of the great Sufi Saint when pilgrims from all over the country alight at Deva Shariff and offer homage at the feet of Haji Syed Waris Ali Shah and his father Qurban Ali Shah. The most noteworthy highlight of the Dewa Mela Fair is the big cattle market that resembles the Pushkar Mela of Rajasthan. A number of cultural programs are organized by the State Waqf Board in collaboration with the Government of Uttar Pradesh during the 10 days long fair of Dewa Mela.

Location: On the banks of the Gomti River right in the heart of the city
The Council House of Lucknow, presently serving as the Vidhan Sabha Bhawan of the state of Uttar Pradesh is a commanding edifice positioned on the banks of the Gomti River right in the heart of the city. The foundation stone of the Council House was laid by the hands of Sir Harcourt Butler in the year 1922 whereas the construction reached completion after six years in 1928 AD. Erected at the total expenditure of about 18 lakhs, the Council House is acclaimed as one of the most spectacular and most pictorial edifices of the Lucknow city. Constructed out of the Mirzapur stones those yield the edifice the most glamorous and aesthetically elegant demeanor, the Council House of Lucknow is especially distinguished for its theatrical interiors and its staggering exteriors. Designed in the brilliant octagonal shape and topped with an ostentatious dome festooned by the motifs of peacock, the Council House of Lucknow totally mesmerizes its beholders.

Location: Parked about 6 kilometers away from the Lucknow Railway Station
La Martiniere College of Lucknow parked about 6 kilometers away from the Lucknow Railway Station is a private educational institute that operates two separate schools on two different campuses for boys and girls. The Boy’s College was founded in the year 1845 while the Girl’s College was founded in the year 1869. The La Martiniere was established by a French adventurer Major General Claude Martin. The La Martiniere Boy’s College of Lucknow happens to be the only school in the world that has been conferred upon the royal battle honors for its vital contribution in defending Lucknow Residency during the Uprising of 1857. While the Lucknow Residency was held under siege by the Indian freedom fighters for eighty-six days, the students of the La Martiniere Boy’s College apart from actual fighting ran errands within the Residency compound like taking care of sick and injured, getting the medical aid, maintaining the telegraph connection between the Residency and the Alam Bagh and other domestic duties. The boys even configured an amateur semaphore atop the Residency Tower from where General Outram could give instructions to the army commanders. Not only that, La Martiniere also assisted the Residency in its secret evacuation. La Martiniere celebrated its centenary in 1945 AD.

Location: Set up in the midst of a sprawling campus of 200 acres that houses the La Martiniere Boy’s College within its premises
The Constantia, a section of the La Martiniere Complex of Lucknow is a grand edifice set up in the midst of a sprawling campus of 200 acres that houses the La Martiniere Boy’s College within its premises. This expansive estate also accommodates the Golf Course of the Lucknow Golf Club, the Martin Purwa Village and a portion of the Lucknow Zoo. The Constantia stands upon a landscaped terrace which overlooks what was once a lake at the center of which ‘the Laat’ is positioned. The Laat; a solid fluted column measuring about 125 feet in its height and topped with a Moorish cupola is believed to be either a lighthouse or a commemorative plaque marking the grave of Claude Martin’s horse. The Constantia, comprehensively decorated with innumerable sculptures chiseled both in older antique as well as modern technique, is constructed in a peculiar architectural order delineating a unique mixture of diverse styles. The rooms of the Constantia are decked out with dazzling bas-reliefs, intricate arabesques and other atypical Italian styled embellishments while the library and the chapel are adorned with the plaster of Paris plaques depicting an assortment of classical and mythological motifs.
Apart from that, the interiors of the Constantia are also decorated with imported French carpets, large mirrors, inlaid marble tables and rare paintings by eminent artists. The edifice of Constantia has been described as, “Part English mansion, part Nawabi fantasy and part Gothic colonial barracks. The facade mixes Georgian colonnades with the loopholes and turrets of a medieval castle; above, Palladian arcades rise to Mughal copulas.” Philip Davies in ‘Illustrated London News’ of May 1982 wrote about Constantia, “Built in the 1790s it is a bizarre building in a country renowned for extravagant eccentricities. Even more incongruously it now houses an eminent Indian Public school blessed with all the tribal rituals of Eton or Harrow. It is a disturbing building of the most peculiar design. The central tower has bridge links and the entire central range has a strange array of statues dominated by two huge lions whose eyes were supposedly lit by red lanterns.”

Location: At Purana Haidarabad of Hasanganj Area close to the banks of the river Gomti
Colvin Taluqdars’ College of Lucknow located at Purana Haidarabad of Hasanganj Area close to the banks of the river Gomti is one of the oldest public schools of India that was established in the year 1889 under the direction and guidance of Sir Auckland Colvin; the then Lieutenant Governor of Awadh and Agra. Originally meant for the children of the British Administrators and the Landed Aristocracy (Taluqdars), this public school was actually opened to general public only in 1947 AD after the Independence of India. The Colvin Taluqdars’ College of Lucknow is affiliated to the ‘Council for the Indian School Certificate Examination’, New Delhi. The college has three boys’ hostels namely, Avadh, Anjuman and Hind, and five houses namely Ajanta, Nalanda, Sanchi, Taxila and Ujjain. The week long annual sports and alumni day of the college i.e. the ‘Darbar Day’ is celebrated in the month of December every year. Some of the eminent personalities of India including Muzaffar Ali, Javed Akhtar, Salman Akhtar, Chaudhary Ajit Singh, Jitendra Prasad, Baba Sehgal, Khalid Hameed Baron Hameed, etc have studied at the Colvin Taluqdars’ College of Lucknow.

Location: Housed within a two storied pink and terracotta colored Baradari
The Taluqdar Hall of Lucknow housed within a two storied pink and terracotta colored Baradari that was erected during the governance of the 3rd King of Awadh; Mohammed Ali Shah is a picture gallery where antique oil paintings and photographs of the erstwhile Nawabs of Lucknow are displayed. This edifice received its name ‘the Taluqdar Hall’ when it was relinquished by the British to the Anjuman of the Taluqdars of Awadh. The portraits of the Nawabs exhibited in this gallery were painted by several visiting European artists such as Dawling, Harrison, Gravet, D. S. Singh, etc between 1882 and 1885 AD. The most unique feature of these portraits is that the eyes, the tip of the sword and the boot of the Nawabs would be pointed towards the viewer no matter from which angle the spectator looks at it.

Location: Along the Mahatma Gandhi Marg in the Hazratganj area of the city
The Cathedral School of Lucknow located along the Mahatma Gandhi Marg in the Hazratganj area of the city is an educational institution established as well as administered by the Catholic Diocese of Lucknow; a religious & charitable society that is engaged in educational, social and medical work in about 8 districts of Lucknow. Founded in the year 1950 under the benefaction of the Cathedral of St. Joseph, this unaided catholic school fundamentally meant for the Christians admits the students from all social backgrounds irrespective of their religion, cast or creed. Affiliated to CBSE Board, the Cathedral School of Lucknow conducts classes from Nursery to Standard XII.

Location: Adjacent the Suraj Kund Park along the mahatma Gandhi Marg
The Indira Gandhi Planetarium of Lucknow located adjacent the Suraj Kund Park along the mahatma Gandhi Marg is a government operated planetarium that was established by the Government of Uttar Pradesh with an objective of providing basic information on various aspects of astronomy, developing the interest of students in this domain of science, arranging the astronomical shows, exhibitions, quiz and competitions for the advantage of school children and common man and maintaining the link with other Indian and foreign planetariums and observatories. Built in beautiful Saturn shape, this planetarium was founded on 28th February 1988 by the hands of the then Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh Hon. Late Veer Bahadur Singh, while the ready to function planetarium was inaugurated by the present Chief Minister Hon. Ms Mayawati on 8th May 2003. Enclosed by the five rings of the Saturn, this spherical structure measuring 21 meters in its diameter is rested atop a platform which is mainly designed to inform about the crater formation of the celestial bodies. This platform is surrounded by a water pool with several fountains. The ground floor and first floor of the planetarium house the exhibition galleries where the models and displays based on Indian Satellites and astronomy are exhibited. The main auditorium where the planetary shows are organized is placed on the first floor that measures 15 meters in its diameter and has the capacity of accommodating about 168 people at a time. The planetarium possesses the Model G-1518 with thirteen panorama scenes projector and many special effect projectors imported from Japan and two video CRT projectors integrated with the projecting system brought from Belgium. Daily shows are organized 4 times a day, at 1:00 pm, 2:30 pm, 4:00 pm and 5:00 pm. An extra show is also conducted at 6:00 pm during the summer vacations. The planetarium remains closed on Mondays. 25 INR are charged here per head as the entry fee.

Location: At Vivekanandapuri in the Nirala Nagar area of the city
The Ram Krishna Math of Lucknow, also known as ‘the Ram Krishna Mission Sevashrama’ and located at Vivekanandapuri in the Nirala Nagar area of the city is a Hindu religious and spiritual organization that functions in association with the Ram Krishna Math and Mission of Belur. Founded in early 20th century the Ram Krishna Math has been imparting their dedicated services to the people of this region for past 70 years. The activities of the Math have been exclusively directed towards medical and health care and they render services to ailing and sick through their Vivekananda Polyclinic; a multi facility hospital. Not only that, the Ram Krishna Math also organizes various rural health programs in the neighboring villages adjoining the Lucknow city. Aside from that, the Ram Krishna Math is also engaged in expanding the religious, spiritual and cultural activities following the principles and doctrines propounded by Sri Ram Krishna Paramhansa, Mother Sharada and Swamy Vivekananda.

Location: In Gomti Nagar of Lucknow
The Rammanohar Lohiya Park of Lucknow christened in the revered memory of Mr. Rammanohar Lohiya; one of the leading Indian freedom fighters, a great socialist, political leader and revolutionary thinker, is a stunningly pulchritudinous garden landscaped in the Gomti Nagar locality of Lucknow. Covering an extensive area of approximately 82 acres, the Rammanohar Lohiya Park is designed and developed by LDA (the Lucknow Development Authority). This park comprises a resplendent artificial lake within its periphery that is developed in the total area of about 15,000 square meters. Exceedingly favorite amongst the vacationers, picnickers and morning walkers of Lucknow, this park carpeted with verdurous lawns and teeming with a wide range of distinct species of trees and flower beds is created according to the ecological guidelines. Apart from that, the garden is also adorned with an attractive tower that bears a statue of Rammanohar Lohiya atop it. A very nominal entry fee of rupees five is charged at the park. Always swarming with the tourists and local visitors, the Rammanohar Lohiya Park is opened to the public from 6 in the morning to 10 in the night.

Location: Right in the heart of the city close to the crossing of B.H.M. opposite the hotel Clarks Avadh
Begum Hazrat Mahal; the first wife of Nawab Wajid Ali Shah, also reckoned as the ‘Begum of Awadh’ was an extremely courageous Queen of Nawab Era who applied her valor, gallantry and leadership qualities and rebelled against the British East India Company during the First War of Independence of 1857. Begum Hazrat Mahal Park of Lucknow is a beautiful garden of the city that commemorates the valuable contributions made by this Begum in building up the air of rebellion and the will of free nation amongst the early freedom fighters. Originally a Victorian garden, the Begum Hazrat Mahal Park was christened after Begum Hazrat Mahal after the Independence of India when she was posthumously honored in this park on 15th August 1962 for her crucial role during the first freedom movement of India. A marble memorial, festooned with strings of flowers and illuminated with multi-colored bulbs and neon tubes was inaugurated by the State Government on this day in the well-regarded memory of Begum Hazrat Mahal.
Furthermore, a marble tablet was also inaugurated that is adorned with four round brass plaques bearing the Coat of Arms of Awadh Royal Family. The Begum Hazrat Mahal Park, located right in the heart of the city close to the crossing of B.H.M. opposite the hotel Clarks Avadh once functioned as a rally ground where many festivals of Lucknow city were hosted and Ravanas were burnt during the Dusshera celebration. The present day Begum Hazrat Mahal Park completely differs in its façade than its earlier demeanor. Bejeweled with several interwoven pathways garlanded with lush green lawns, flower beds and lofty trees, this park has rendered itself a walker’s paradise today. The park is bustling with morning walkers at the dawn while in the evening when the fountains are illuminated the garden creates a truly awe inspiring manifestation. The Begum Hazrat Mahal Park of Lucknow is one of the must visit destinations of the city where one can feel an intense synthesis of beauty with patriotism.

Location: Situated sandwiched between the Bara Imambara and the Shaheed Smarak (Martyrs Memorial)
The Gautam Buddha Park of Lucknow situated sandwiched between the Bara Imambara and the Shaheed Smarak (Martyrs Memorial) is a majestic garden that offers the visitors the finest opportunities of unwinding and merrymaking in the vicinity of the mementoes of Lucknow’s grand Nawabi heritage and India’s great Struggle of Independence. The appealing environs, the charming ambience and the soothing atmosphere of the Gautam Buddha Park fascinate the visitors to no limit. The kids fall head over heals for the park when they enjoy the big rides and other recreational activities on the sports ground here while the adults love to enjoy the paddle boating in the canal. The Gautam Buddha Park has something to offer to everybody and this is one of the most cherished picnic destinations of the city to be visited along with family or friends. Nowadays the Gautam Buddha Park is also used for various political events such as organizing rallies and meetings. The Hati Park, yet another popular recreational center of the city is sited in the close proximity with the Gautam Buddha Park of Lucknow.

Location: Close to the Sikander Bagh Chouraha off the Ashok Marg and Rana Pratap Marg of Lucknow
Originally established by the Nawab Saadat Ali Khan of Awadh in 1800 AD approx. as a royal garden and later developed as a summer retreat by the last Nawab of Awadh; Wajid Ali Shah, the Sikander Bagh of Lucknow is an extravagant garden of this ‘City of Nawabs’ spread over an extensive land of about 4.5 acres. Situated close to the Sikander Bagh Chouraha off the Ashok Marg and Rana Pratap Marg of Lucknow, the Sikander Bagh girdled by a swanky fortification intertwined with several gateways, corner bastions and loopholes holds a tiny pergola right at the center of the lawns. During the Nawab Rule, this pavilion had been a witness to countless eye dazzling performances of the Kathak dances, Ras Leelas and Mushayaras or Mehfils of poetry recitation and other musical and cultural events conducted for the pleasure and entertainment of the Nawabs and the royal families. The name of the garden is assumed to be coined either from the name of Emperor Sikander i.e. Alexander the Great or from the name of Begum Sikander Mahal; the beloved wife of the Nawab. The Sikander Bagh of Lucknow has also been an eyewitness to the ghastly man slaughter during the First War of Independence of 1857 when over 2200 Indian freedom fighters who had made the Sikander Bagh their operational headquarters at the time of the ‘Siege of Lucknow’ were killed by the bullets and cannonballs fired by the British Forces. Presently, the Sikander Bagh of Lucknow houses the National Botanical Research Institute of India.

Location: Close to the Begum Hazarat Mahal Park
The Globe Park of Lucknow positioned close to the Begum Hazarat Mahal Park is a beautiful garden developed around a magnificent monument depicting the globe held by an axis embellished with the sculpture of a fish. A noteworthy feature of this globe is that all the continents and the oceans marked upon it are written in Hindi. Earlier, this globe used to rotate around its spindle; however, presently the Globe Park is comparatively neglected and less visited by the tourists.

Location: Right in the heart of the city
The Lucknow Zoo to be found right in the heart of the city is an animal repository administered by the Zoo Advisory Committee that is functioning since 1921 AD. Covering the total area of 71.6 acres, this large zoo provides a protected haven to over 440 mammals, 261 birds and 40 reptiles of different 97 species. Some of the most noteworthy residents of the Lucknow Zoo include Lion, Royal Bengal Tiger, White Tiger, Himalayan Black Bear, Hoolock Gibbon, Wolf, Indian Rhinoceros, Asiatic Elephant, Zebra, Giraffe, Hog Deer, Barking Deer, Swamp Deer, Black Buck, Common Otters, Giant Squirrels, Hill Mynahs, Golden Pheasant, Silver Pheasant, Great Pied Hornbill, and many others. Presently, the Lucknow Zoo is successfully breeding various species of animals such as White Tiger, Swamp Deer, Hog Deer, Barking Deer, Indian Wolf, Black Buck, Pheasants, etc. The Zoo receives approximately 9 lakh visitors every year. The additional attractions of the Lucknow Zoo are the Toy Train, the Vintage Train of British Era and the Uttar Pradesh State Museum. Some of the most important exhibits of the Uttar Pradesh State Museum are; a wine jar bearing the inscription of Aurangzeb’s name, a green chamakali dated 1036 AD with Jahangir’s name, a 16th century painting depicting a scene from the Kalpasutra, etc.

Location: At Kukrail about 9 kilometers away from Lucknow
The Crocodile Sanctuary of Kukrail, also referred to as the ‘Kukrail Reserve Forest’ is a Crocodile Conservatory located at Kukrail about 9 kilometers away from Lucknow. Functioning since 1978 AD and subsidized by the Uttar Pradesh Forest Department in association with the Ministry of Environment and Forests India, the Crocodile Sanctuary of Kukrail was conceived when only 300 crocodiles were left in the whole of the Uttar Pradesh State. The Crocodile Center of Kukrail aside from breeding the crocodiles here also collects crocodile eggs from the river banks of Ramganga, Girwa, Suheli and Chambal rivers which are artificially hatched at the sanctuary. When the baby crocodiles come out of the eggs, they are looked after and fed until they are strong and capable enough to defend themselves against other carnivores. Later they are released back into the Ramganga, Girwa, Suheli and Chambal rivers. The Crocodile Sanctuary of Kukrail has significantly contributed in the conservation of crocodiles not only in Uttar Pradesh but also in Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh states. The crocodile captive-breeding program of Kukrail happens to be one of the two accomplished wildlife conservation programs flourishing in India.

Location: Situated on the banks of the river Gomti just one and half kilometer away from the Kaiserbagh Palace
The Residency of Lucknow; now in ruins, which stood witness to the legendary ‘Lucknow Uprising’ of 1857 is declared a protected monument and preserved in the very same condition as a remembrance of the ‘First War of Independence’ of India. Situated on the banks of the river Gomti just one and half kilometer away from the Kaiserbagh Palace, the Residency Complex close to the main Residency building houses an 1857 Memorial Museum that was predominantly designed to demonstrate the visual version of the freedom struggle of 1857. This memorial museum comprises a replica of the Residency, numerous old photographs, paintings, lithographs, documents, antique armory of bygone era including swords, shields, guns, cannons, the military rank badges, medals and other rare historical exhibits. The old paintings and dioramas displayed in this museum illustrate the great battle of 1857 fought in and around the premises of the Residency and other important events occurred during that period of time.
The portraits of the local heroes who fought with tremendous gallantry and laid their lives for the Mother Land are also exhibited in this museum. Several maps disclosing the strategic locations of Lucknow during the 1857 Rebellion and the map of the Residency are also showcased here. The exhibits at the museum narrate the entire story of the 1857 struggle in the chronological order. The 1857 Memorial Museum is divided into two sections; basement and ground floor. The Basement consists of seven displaying galleries while the ground floor comprises four galleries. Lately a new gallery has been added to the basement section where the artifacts discovered during the excavation in the southern part of the Residency complex have been put up on display. They include a loaded revolver, cannon balls, terracotta human and animal figurines, terracotta roof tiles, fragments of wine bottles, silver plated whisk fly, porcelain wares, etc. The 1857 Memorial Museum is open for the visits from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm from Tuesday to Sunday. An entry fee of rupees 5 is charged here.

Location: Situated right in the heart of the old Lucknow city
Aminabad, situated right in the heart of the old Lucknow city is a large shopping market similar to the Chandni Chowk of Delhi where the famous Chikankari clothes of Lucknow are sold in galore. Existing since the Nawab Era of Lucknow, the congested and always hustling bustling Aminabad Market is noted for selling the daily use items, ornaments, fashion clothes 7 jewellery, Chikan garments, footwear, new and old books, wedding accessories, other fancy items and delectable Lucknowi cuisine.

Location: Close to the Aishbagh Eidgah in the Aishbagh area of Lucknow city
The Farangi Mahal located close to the Aishbagh Eidgah in the Aishbagh area of Lucknow city was originally owned by a French businessman named Neal. The building along with his entire trade and belongings was confiscated by the state as per certain royal pronouncement. Subsequently, during the reigns of the Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb, the Farangi Mahal was handed over by Aurangzeb to his Islamic consultant Mullah Asad bin Qutab Shaheed and his brother Mullah Asad bin Qutabuddin Shaheed. These two brothers developed the Farangi Mahal into a full fledged Islamic school that was valued in the lines of the Oxford and the Cambridge Universities. In 18th century AD, the Farangi Mahal burgeoned into a leading Islamic institution that momentously contributed in the preservation and propagation of the age old tradition of rich Islamic culture. The Farangi Mahal even maintained the religious and cultural curriculum of Islam in the form of a well-oriented and extensive syllabus. It is believed that the heads of this historical institution also assisted and supported the Muslims of India to beat the trauma of colonial exploitation and preserve their spiritually and morally oriented lifestyle. The Farangi Mahal of Lucknow, exceedingly exalted by the Muslim Community of the city is a must visit destination during your trip to this ‘Constantinople of India’.