10 Best Activities To Do in Lucknow for an Unforgettable Experience

Lucknow, known as the ‘City of Nawabs’ or the ‘Golden City of the East,’ elegance flows in the air of Lucknow giving you the feeling of a city stuck in time. Its royal door slowly opens to the regal city of Lucknow, a cultural gem settled in the heart of Uttar Pradesh. In this royal city, with our complete guide for you through the best things to do in Lucknow along with the places to shop for souvenirs. Don’t miss to check on our India tour packages to discover more exciting and offbeat places to visit in India. Tourists mostly step into this enchanting royal city through the fair, you will find yourself immersed in a world where the past gracefully meets the present.

You will experience the best things in Lucknow, with its majestic architecture, rich palaces, and vibrant markets. It is sure to have you embark on a journey through time with the Top Lucknow activities to do. The city’s intricate history, deeply rooted in the Mughal and Awadh dynasties, unfolds through its glorious monuments and charming busy streets. For best activities to do in Lucknow, one can start from the iconic Bara Imambara to the resplendent Rumi Darwaza, every corner of Lucknow whispers stories of a bygone era. So let us dive into all the things to do in Lucknow, the famous Nawabi city in India.

History of Lucknow

Lucknow, the Nawabi capital of Uttar Pradesh, has a long history that will take you back to ancient times. It was founded by Nawab Saadat Khan in 1722. It is a great offbeat place to visit in India. They played a crucial role in shaping the city’s cultural and architectural legacy. In the 18th and 19th centuries, Lucknow became a centre of artistic and intellectual pursuits. But beyond its royal heritage, the city also witnessed significant historical events during the Indian Rebellion of 1857. Post-independence, Lucknow continued to evolve, blending its rich heritage with modern developments. At present, the best things in Lucknow is a blend of cultures, existing both as a heritage and modern city at the same time.

Some Amazing Facts about Lucknow

Under the covers of the captivating culture and history the city of Lucknow is a treasure of natural beauty, cultural heritage, historical significance, art and much more. As you travel through the city for the best activities to do in Lucknow, you will encounter the many interesting facts that contribute to its unique allure and culture. Here are some interesting facts about Lucknow that are sure to help you understand the city better.

1. City of Nawabs

Famously known as the ‘City of Nawabs,’ Lucknow earned this title during the reign of the Nawabs of Awadh. The city’s regal past is reflected in its exquisite architecture, refined manners, and culinary legacy that continues to enchant travellers.

2. Nawabi Architecture

Apart from seeing hints of the Nawabi history in the food, the city boasts architectural marvels that are among the best things in Lucknow. Wonders like the Bara Imambara, Chota Imambara, and Rumi Darwaza showcase the grandness of Nawabi architecture. These structures, with their complicated detailing and historical significance.

3. Mango City

The western belt of India is famous for its mango fruit. Lucknow surprisingly earned the title of the ‘Mango City’ due to its flourishing mango orchards and unique mango fruit. The city’s love affair with mangoes is celebrated during the annual Mango Festival.

Here is the list of best things to do in Lucknow

There are so many best activities to do in Lucknow and best things to do in Lucknow. This city, with its royal history and warm hospitality, invites and attracts travellers to immerse themselves in a tapestry of experiences. Indulge yourself from mouthwatering kebabs to admiring the architectural wonders, Lucknow has something for every kind of visitor. Let us dive into a list of must-do activities that will make your visit to this ‘City of Nawabs’ truly memorable. Here are some of the best things in Lucknow:

1. Savour the Awadhi Delicacies

Make sure to begin your Lucknow journey with a culinary adventure. It is one of the best things to do in Lucknow. Food all over Lucknow is mouth-watering but make sure to head to the bustling streets and savour the legendary Awadhi cuisine. The food is amongst the best things about Lucknow. 

From the juicy Galouti kebabs at Tunday Kababi to the aromatic biryanis at Idris Biryani, Lucknow’s street food scene is a delight that you simply cannot miss. The place is a heaven for all the food lovers. Tasting these delicacies is amongst the top things to do in Lucknow.

2. Explore the Bara Imambara

The Nawab city is one place to immerse yourself in the historical richness of Lucknow by visiting the Bara Imambara.It is amongst the best things to do in Lucknow.  This architectural wonder, built by Nawab Asaf-ud-Daula, boasts the world’s largest arched construction unsupported by pillars. This is amongst the best things about Lucknow. Also, when in Lucknow, do not forget to explore the mystical Bhool Bhulaiya maze, a unique experience that will add an element of adventure to your cultural journey.

3. Walk through the Old City’s Heritage Walk

This is amongst the best things about Lucknow . Looking to do something after a heavy meal? Take a walk through Lucknow’s old city and let the narrow lanes transport you back in time. Walking on the road at night is one of the best activities to do in Lucknow. It is amongst the top things to do in Lucknow. It is amongst the  very famous things to do in Lucknow.

It is one of the best things to do in Lucknow. The heritage walk takes you past charming havelis, ancient mosques, and bustling bazaars where stories of the older times come to life in front of your eyes. It’s a perfect way to admire the city’s history while enjoying the vibrant street life.

4. Check the Elegance of Rumi Darwaza

It is one of the best things to do in Lucknow. No visit to Lucknow is complete without standing in wonder of the iconic Rumi Darwaza. This massive gateway, inspired by the Sublime Porte in Istanbul, which adds a touch of magnificence to the city’s skyline.  Do check the other historical places in India.

This is amongst the best things about Lucknow. It is also advised to visit during the evening when the monument is beautifully illuminated with different lights, creating a captivating sight. This is also one of the best photographed places in the world and the best place to visit in Lucknow.

5. Experience the art at Chikankari Workshops

This is amongst the best things about Lucknow. Lucknow is blessed with the amazing art of chikankari embroidery which can be seen in kurtas, sarees and more. Checking the beautiful designs is one of the best things to do in Lucknow. And what is better than engaging in a hands-on experience by visiting one of the many chikankari workshops in the city? You can also learn about this complex craftsmanship directly from the artisans. 

6. Attend a Classical Kathak Performance

Staying and checking this is amongst the best things about Lucknow. Lucknow is a culturally rich town and immersing yourself in the cultural rhythms of the Nawabs by attending a classical Kathak dance performance is one of the best ways to spend an evening. Attending the dance when you are in Lucknow, is amongst the famous things to do in Lucknow. Apart from this there are so many places to visit in Lucknow in one day.

The city has a rich tradition of this graceful dance form, and witnessing a live performance is an enchanting way to appreciate the artistic heritage of Lucknow.  Attending a classical Kathak performance is one of the best activities to do in Lucknow.

7. Shop for Traditional varieties at Hazratganj

Shopping is one of the best activities to do in Lucknow. You can also indulge in some retail therapy at Hazratganj, Lucknow’s premier shopping destination, where you can find all the trending styles from the city. Exploring the vibrant markets filled with chikankari garments, traditional jewellery, and handicrafts is amongst the best things about Lucknow. 

Don’t forget to pick up a piece of Lucknawi ‘tehzeeb’ (elegance) to carry the city’s charm back home.

What are the Shopping places in Lucknow?

Here are the list of some must-visit places for an unforgettable shopping experience in Lucknow:

1. Hazratganj

It is also known as the shopper’s paradise, Hazratganj stands as the heartbeat of Lucknow’s shopping scene. It is one of the best things to do in Lucknow. You can shop from traditional chikankari garments to modern fashion brands. The place offers a delightful mix of the old and the new. 

2. Aminabad

Better known as the heritage market of Lucknow, Aminabad is a treasure trove for those seeking an authentic Lucknawi shopping experience. Shopping here is one of the best things to do in Lucknow. Aminabad is famous for its traditional bazaars and narrow lanes filled with trendy shopping stores. This is also where you will discover the finest chikan embroidery, zari work, and Lucknow’s signature ‘ittar’. 

3. Chowk

Chowk is the traditional craftsmanship hub of the Nawab city. It is a heaven for those craving a glimpse into Lucknow’s rich cultural heritage, Chowk is the place to find it all.  Shopping here is one of the best things to do in Lucknow. This market area finds itself rooted in history, and its narrow lanes have shops selling intricate chikankari, handcrafted jewellery, and antique artefacts that are relevant and known as the best things in Lucknow. As you navigate through Chowk, you will feel like you have stepped back in time.

Conclusion

All these are the best activities to do in Lucknow and provide a comprehensive glimpse into Lucknow’s rich cultural, historical, and culinary landscape, ensuring an unforgettable experience in the City of Nawabs. As Lucknow is in Uttar Pradesh, you can also check things to do in Uttar Pradesh.

So, Hurry Up and plan your trip today to experience and indulge in these amazing things which you can explore in Lucknow.