Destination: Lucknow
About the Drop Location
A trip from Delhi to Lucknow offers a unique blend of history, culture, and cuisine, making it a fascinating travel experience. Lucknow, the capital city of Uttar Pradesh, is renowned for its rich Mughal and Awadhi heritage, traditional chikan embroidery, and famous cuisine (such as kebabs, biryani, and tunday kebab).
Famous Food and Cuisine in Lucknow:
Tunday Kebabs: The most famous delicacy of Lucknow, made from minced meat and spices.
Lucknawi Biryani: A flavorful, fragrant biryani made using traditional methods.
Galouti Kebab: Known for its tenderness, these kebabs are made from finely ground meat and spices.
Petha: A sweet made from pumpkin, popular as a dessert.
Chikan embroidery: While not a food, it’s an essential part of the city’s heritage and a must-buy for those looking for traditional Lucknawi clothing.
Key Details
1. Distance and Travel Time:
Distance: The distance between Delhi and Lucknow is approximately 550-600 km, depending on the route.
Travel Time:
By road: Around 8-12 hours.
By train: 6-8 hours.
By flight: 1 hour.
2. Travel Options from Delhi to Lucknow:
By Road (Car/Taxi/Private Vehicle):
Duration: The journey takes about 8-12 hours depending on traffic and road conditions.
Route Overview:
Delhi to Lucknow: The most common route is via NH 19 (Yamuna Expressway), NH 44, or Agra-Lucknow Expressway.
Delhi to Agra (via Yamuna Expressway): Approx. 3.5-4 hours.
Agra to Lucknow: Approx. 4-5 hours.
Road Conditions: The roads are generally well-maintained, especially the Agra-Lucknow Expressway, but can get crowded during peak hours. The Yamuna Expressway is a good choice for smoother, faster travel.
Travel Tip: Start early in the morning to avoid heavy traffic, especially while crossing towns like Agra.
Places to Visit
1. Bara Imambara:
Location: Located in the heart of Lucknow.
Description: An iconic monument built by Asaf-ud-Daula, the Nawab of Lucknow. The Bara Imambara houses the Bhool Bhulaiya (a labyrinth of passages) and the Asfi Mosque. It’s a great place to learn about the architectural grandeur and history of Lucknow.
2. Chota Imambara:
Location: Close to Bara Imambara.
Description: Also known as the Imambara of Husainabad, this beautiful building is a tomb of the Nawab’s family. The interiors are adorned with stunning chandeliers and artwork, and it’s especially beautiful during the night when it’s lit up.
3. Rumi Darwaza:
Location: Near the Bara Imambara.
Description: A grand gateway, also known as the Turkish Gate, is a symbol of Awadhi architecture. It was constructed by Nawab Asaf-ud-Daula and stands at a height of about 60 feet.
4. Ambedkar Memorial Park:
Location: In the Gomti Nagar area.
Description: A large park dedicated to the memory of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar and other social reformers. The park has several statues, fountains, and is a calm and peaceful place for relaxation.
5. Lucknow Zoo:
Location: Near Bhoothnath Market.
Description: A well-maintained zoo housing a variety of animals and birds. It’s a good spot for families and nature lovers.
6. Hazratganj Market:
Location: In the city center.
Description: The main commercial area of Lucknow, Hazratganj is famous for its shopping, dining, and colonial-era architecture. You can shop for chikan work, zari, garments, and sweets like Lucknowi petha and makhan malai.
7. Nawab Wajid Ali Shah Zoological Garden:
Location: Located near Bhoothnath.
Description: This is another well-known zoo in the city and offers a variety of flora and fauna.
8. Dilkusha Kothi:
Location: Near The Residency.
Description: A historic building and the remains of a royal palace built by the Nawabs. It was partially destroyed during the 1857 uprising but remains a significant part of Lucknow’s history.
9. The Residency:
Location: On the banks of the Gomti River.
Description: A historical complex and the site of heavy fighting during the 1857 Indian Rebellion. Today, the ruins and a memorial offer insight into British colonial history.