Things To Do
in Lucknow
Lucknow, the capital city of Uttar Pradesh in India, is renowned for its rich cultural heritage, encompassing exquisite Mughal-era architecture, intricate handicrafts, and a storied history of music and poetry. The city is a culinary paradise, famous for its kebabs, biryanis, and other Awadhi cuisine, which reflect the blend of Hindu and Muslim culinary traditions.
Lucknow exudes an old-world charm while steadily embracing modernity, making it a fascinating destination for travelers seeking to experience the coexistence of traditional elegance and contemporary dynamism.
- "kiddan" - How are you?
- "shukriya" - Thank you
- "tuhada naa ki hai" - What is your name?
- "ki haal chaal" - How are things?
- "chalo" - Let's go
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $10 - $50
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $2 - $10
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.20 - $0.50
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $15 - $30
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $10 - $30
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the iconic Charminar, which offers stunning architecture and rich history. Enjoy a breakfast of local delicacies nearby.
Afterward, head to the nearby Laad Bazaar for some shopping. Don't forget to pick up traditional bangles and other handicrafts.
As the sun sets, visit Hussainabad Clock Tower for picturesque views. End your day with a leisurely stroll along the banks of the river.
Begin your day at Bara Imambara, a magnificent historic site known for its intricate designs. Explore the maze-like passages and learn about its fascinating history.
Enjoy lunch at a nearby café and then visit the Chota Imambara to admire its beautiful chandeliers. The serene gardens are perfect for a relaxing stroll.
As evening approaches, try local street food in the area. Experience the vibrant nightlife of Lucknow by visiting local marketplaces.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage and history
- Delicious and unique cuisine, especially Awadhi dishes
- Beautiful architecture, including historical landmarks like Bara Imambara and Rumi Darwaza
- Vibrant festivals and celebrations throughout the year
- Warm and hospitable people
- Traffic congestion in urban areas
- Air pollution and environmental concerns
- Infrastructure challenges, such as inadequate public transport
- Occasional issues with safety and crime
- Limited job opportunities in certain sectors
Best Activities in Lucknow
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the beautiful architecture and historical significance of this grand monument.
Experience the local flavors and vibrant atmosphere while trying Lucknow's famous street food.
Enjoy a serene boat ride along the scenic Gomti River with picturesque views of the city.
Tours
Uncover the best of Lucknow with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Lucknow
Visit one of these nice places.
An architectural marvel with a panoramic view of Lucknow city
Iconic historical gate offering great photo opportunities
Vast landscaped gardens and beautiful architecture for scenic views and photography
Historic clock tower providing a unique angle for photographs
Food in Lucknow
Lucknow Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Spicy and succulent kebabs made of finely minced meat, seasoned with a blend of over 160 spices, and served with roomali roti or naan. Must-try at the original Tunday Kababi outlet in Aminabad.
Must-Try!
Soft, melt-in-the-mouth kebabs made of minced meat and a mix of aromatic spices. Visit old and renowned eateries like Idris or Dastarkhwan for an authentic experience.
A fragrant rice dish cooked with tender pieces of meat, infused with saffron, and garnished with fried onions and mint. Sample the best at Wahid Biryani in Chowk or Lalla Biryani in Hazratganj.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Lucknow better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
The bustling streets of Chowk offer a wide array of street food including chaats, kebabs, sweets, and refreshing beverages, providing a true taste of Lucknawi street food culture.
This vibrant market is a hub for street food vendors selling delectable chaats, kulfis, and traditional snacks, giving visitors a chance to savor authentic street delicacies.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Lucknow, it is important to greet others with respect, such as using the traditional greetings 'namaste' or 'adab' to show politeness and courtesy.
Respecting elders is an important cultural norm in Lucknow. It is customary to show deference and seek blessings from older individuals as a sign of respect.
When in Lucknow, it is important to observe and respect the local customs and traditions, such as removing shoes before entering homes and religious places, and following dining etiquettes.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Lucknow with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Lucknow
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping in Lucknow, India is not mandatory, but it is appreciated in restaurants, hotels, and for other services. A tip of 5-10% is commonly given if the service has been satisfactory.
In Lucknow, India, cash is widely used for everyday transactions, especially in local markets and small businesses. However, major credit and debit cards are accepted in many establishments, especially in larger cities and tourist areas. Mobile payment methods are also becoming increasingly popular.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Lucknow.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
The best time to visit Lucknow is during the winter season when the weather is cool and pleasant. This is also the peak tourist season, so you can expect more crowd and higher prices for accommodations and attractions. However, you will be able to enjoy festivals and events such as Diwali and Lucknow Mahotsav during this time.
The summer season in Lucknow is quite hot and dry, with temperatures often reaching high levels. It is not the best time to visit if you are sensitive to heat, but you can still explore indoor attractions such as historical sites and museums to avoid the extreme weather.
Lucknow experiences a monsoon season with heavy rainfall, which can lead to humidity and occasional flooding. While the city looks lush and green during this time, outdoor activities may be limited due to the weather. However, if you enjoy the refreshing rain and quieter tourist spots, this could be a good time to visit.
Lucknow at Night
Hiking in Lucknow
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
While primarily a zoo, the surrounding areas offer pleasant walking trails and green spaces, ideal for light hiking and nature walks.
Located about 200 km from Lucknow, this national park offers beautiful trails for hiking through its rich flora and fauna.
Approximately 110 km from Lucknow, this sanctuary has trails where visitors can hike while enjoying bird watching and the natural scenery.
A scenic park in Lucknow along the Gomti River, offering walking paths and the possibility to enjoy nature in an urban setting.
About 350 km from Lucknow, this expansive national park features various hiking trails that allow visitors to explore its diverse ecosystems.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Lucknow through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Lucknow by plane.
Located in Delhi, approximately 500 kilometers from Lucknow, this is the primary international airport serving the Delhi National Capital Region.
Located in Mumbai, around 1400 kilometers from Lucknow, this is one of the busiest international airports in India.
Located in Kolkata, approximately 600 kilometers from Lucknow, this airport serves as a major international hub in Eastern India.
Located in Hyderabad, around 800 kilometers from Lucknow, this is a major international airport serving southern India.
Located in Ahmedabad, approximately 1200 kilometers from Lucknow, this airport serves as a key international gateway for Western India.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest religious group in Lucknow, comprising approximately 80% of the population, with a rich cultural and historical background in the region.
The second largest demographic group in Lucknow, making up around 18% of the population, with a significant influence on the city's culture and heritage.
A small percentage of the population includes Christians, Sikhs, Jains, and others, contributing to the city's diversity.
The Soul of Lucknow
Discover the essence of Lucknow through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Cricket is the most popular sport in Lucknow, with a significant following and numerous local clubs and teams participating in various tournaments.
Football has a growing fan base in Lucknow, with several clubs and local leagues, attracting both players and fans.
Badminton is widely played in Lucknow, with many schools and sports clubs offering facilities and coaching for players of all ages.
Kabaddi, a traditional Indian sport, has a strong local following, with local tournaments held regularly in the city.
Field hockey has a historical significance and continues to have a loyal following, with various clubs promoting the sport in Lucknow.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Lucknow.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Lucknow offers a wide range of delectable vegetarian dishes including Lucknawi dal, paneer ki subzi, and vegetable biryani, ensuring a satisfying dining experience for vegetarians.
While a few traditional Lucknawi dishes are inherently vegan, it's advisable for vegan visitors to communicate their dietary preferences clearly at local eateries to ensure a suitable meal.
Certain local specialties like kebabs and biryanis can be found in gluten-free variations, and many restaurants offer gluten-free rotis and breads to accommodate gluten intolerant individuals.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Lucknow with these cultural adventures.
