Extending along the banks of Gomti Raver, Lucknow is a famous cultural and historical city in the north Indian state of Uttar Pradesh. Priding on the sobriquet of ‘City of Nawabs’, it’s the capital city of the state that blends colonial architecture and Islamic traditions with great finesse. A tourist destination of immense worth, the city is where the timelessness of the past superbly coalesces with cultural treasures of the yore.

Having been the seat of many kingdoms and dynasties make Lucknow very rich in history and cultural heritage. From the Delhi Sultans to the formidable Mughals, from the Nawabs of Awadh to the cunning British Empire – the city has varied imprints easily noticeable in historical landscapes dominated by some magnificent monuments and buildings. Founded by Nawab Asaf-ud-Daula, the city’s fame also lies in its pioneering status of Urdu poetry and courtly diction.

The artistic side of Lucknow reached the pinnacle during the time of Wajid Ali Shah, but soon, the ‘British web’ captured the city to witness some loss of the sheen. At present, the landscape here is rich in the remnants of a glorious past, which invites tourists from the world over. The old-world charms are still retained here, and the 17^th century ‘Bara Imambara’ – a major attraction -- is just one of its many symbols.

The British Residency Lucknow is another historical landmark here, and you should not miss the architectural brilliance of the Chattar Manzil. The intricately styled and architecturally superior 14^th century Jama Masjid and the 17^th century Rumi Darwaza with its superb Awadh architectural style, are other notable tourists sites in the city. Once here, don’t forget to visit Clock Tower, Moti Mahal, Lakshmana and Hussainabad Imambara.

Lucknow is also popular in the world for its delectable Awadhi and Mughlai food. More so, the fine thread embroidery – the chikan – also gives city fame. Tourists here would soak in the rich cultural life on offer, blending superbly with regular musical recitals and festival celebrations. In overall, a trip to Lucknow enriches one with a sense of culture, history and timelessness of the past!

By Air
The presence of an airport gives Lucknow direct air connectivity with the rest of India. Regular domestic flights are available for major destinations of the country.

By Rail
The railway station here has trains to virtually every big cities of India. Mail, express, super-fast, Rajdhani express and Shatabdi express trains are available here.

By Road
A good network of roads and highways links Lucknow to rest of the country. Private and government-run buses are available to reach any part of the country.