Visiting Lucknow–the city of Nawabs and the very famous kebabs

Lucknow, being the capital of Uttar Pradesh, is also one of the most developed cities in the vast state. The city has seen the era of Nawabs and Britishers, and its culture and architecture is thus influenced by both. A trip to Lucknow would do justice to your time, provided you know what to see and do even in a small time window.

This is a major landmark site in Lucknow, made in the year 1784 by the fourth Nawab of Awadh, Asaf-ud-Daula. It was made to offer relief from famine to the people during that time. Unlike other structures, this building has no European architectural elements. Bara Imambara is a part of the Asaf-ud-Daula Imambara complex, and its central hall is the largest arched hall in the world. It is also popular for the amazing maze known as Bhulbhulaiya, having labyrinthine passages.

What makes this zoo in Lucknow special is the fact that it educates visitors about the importance of preserving the environment and wildlife. The zoo is home to the Royal Bengal tigers as well as white tigers, lions, wolves, Himalayan black bears, and Indian rhinoceros. There is a lot more to look forward to at this zoo.

Hazaratganj is a shopping hub established in 1810 by Nawab Saadat Ali Khan. This market was named after Hazrat Ali, the fourth caliph, and it used to be visited by artists and connoisseurs of music and poetry. It is an ideal place to shop for a traditional Chikankari dress.

Lucknow's USP is also its food. Both vegetarians and meat-eaters are spoilt for choice when it comes to relishing the local food in the city. Vegetarians should try Bajpai ki Poori, kachoris at Netram, Rattilal and chappan bhog, chole bhature at Shri Lassi Centre, basket chaat at Royal Cafe in Hazratganj, and the all-time favourite kulfi at Chanakya in Parivartan chowk and Prakash Kulfi in Aminabad.

On the other hand, non-vegetarians should visit Idrees Biryani at Chowk, Tunde Kababi at Chowk/Aminabad for Galawati kebab and ulte tawe ke paranthe and Dastarkhwan at Lalbagh near Tulsi theatre, for Chicken Kaali Mirch.