Lucknow, the capital of Uttar Pradesh, is a city that boasts of a rich and glorious past. It was the seat of the Nawabs of Awadh, who ruled over a large part of northern India in the 18th and 19th centuries. The Nawabs were patrons of art, culture, and cuisine, and left behind a legacy of magnificent monuments, exquisite craftsmanship, and delectable dishes. Lucknow is also known for its role in the Indian freedom struggle, especially the 1857 revolt against the British rule.
If you are staying at Hotel Uday Raj Palace Lucknow, you are in luck, as the hotel is conveniently located near some of the best cultural attractions in the city. Here are some of the places you must visit to experience the charm and beauty of Lucknow:
- Bara Imambara: This is one of the most iconic landmarks of Lucknow, built by Nawab Asaf-ud-Daula in 1784 as a famine relief project. It is a grand complex that houses a mosque, a labyrinth, a stepwell, and a large hall with a unique vaulted ceiling that is supported by no pillars. The hall is also known as the Bhool Bhulaiya, as it has a maze of corridors and passages that can confuse anyone. You can also climb up to the rooftop and enjoy a panoramic view of the city.
- Rumi Darwaza: This is a majestic gateway that stands at the entrance of the Bara Imambara. It was also built by Nawab Asaf-ud-Daula in 1784, and is inspired by a similar structure in Istanbul, Turkey. It is also known as the Turkish Gate, as it resembles the architecture of the Ottoman Empire. The gate is 60 feet high and has an octagonal shape. It has intricate carvings and decorations, and a huge lantern on top that used to light up the gate at night.
- Chota Imambara: This is another splendid monument built by Nawab Muhammad Ali Shah in 1838 as his mausoleum. It is also known as the Hussainabad Imambara, as it is located in the Hussainabad area of the city. It is a complex that consists of a mosque, a courtyard, a clock tower, and a beautiful hall that houses the tombs of the Nawab and his mother. The hall is adorned with chandeliers, mirrors, and lamps, and is especially dazzling during the festival of Muharram, when it is illuminated with thousands of lights.
- British Residency: This is a historical site that witnessed one of the most fierce and bloody battles of the 1857 revolt. It was the residence of the British Resident General, who was the representative of the East India Company in Awadh. It was besieged by the Indian rebels for almost six months, and suffered heavy damage and casualties. The site is now a museum that displays the relics and artifacts of the siege, such as weapons, photographs, paintings, and documents. You can also see the bullet marks and cannon holes on the walls and buildings of the complex.
- Hussainabad Clock Tower: This is a striking structure that stands tall in the Hussainabad area, near the Chota Imambara. It was built by Nawab Nasir-ud-Din Haider in 1881 to mark the arrival of Sir George Couper, the first Lieutenant Governor of the United Provinces of Agra and Oudh. It is the tallest clock tower in India, with a height of 221 feet. It has a Gothic style of architecture, and a 14-feet diameter clock that was imported from London.
These are some of the cultural attractions that you can explore in Lucknow, and learn more about the history and heritage of the city. You can also enjoy the local cuisine, such as the famous Lucknowi biryani, kebabs, chaat, kulfi, and more. You can also shop for some handicrafts, such as the chikankari embroidery, the zardozi work, the attar perfume, and more.
Hotel Uday Raj Palace Lucknow is the perfect place to stay if you want to experience the best of Lucknow. You can book your room online through the hotel’s website or by calling +91-9918831999. You can also avail the hotel’s special offers and discounts, and enjoy the hotel’s amenities and services. Hotel Raj Palace Lucknow is more than just a hotel, it is a destination.
