The Bara Imambara of Lucknow is one of the most famous monuments in the city. The Imambara is primarily known for its incredible maze, known as Bhul Bhulaiya locally, which is located on the upper floor of the monument. It is said that there are 1024 ways to get inside the maze but only 2 to come out. Also known as Asfi Imambara, after the name of the Nawab of Lucknow who got it constructed, it is an important place of worship for the Muslims who come here every year to celebrate the religious festival of Muharram. Said to be the world's largest structure that is unsupported by beams, Bara Imambara is considered a marvel of engineering and a fine specimen of Mughal architecture. The Imambara has a unique style of construction. Moreover, no wood or metal has been used in the construction of this mosque. One can also have a view of the grave of Nawab Asaf-Ud-Dowlah and his crown, which is kept in the central hall, which is said to be the largest vaulted chamber in the world.
The Chhota Imambara, or the Imambara of Hussainabad, is one of the most beautiful and attractive buildings in the old city of Lucknow in Uttar Pradesh. This imposing monument lies to the west of Bara Imambara and is a true sight to behold. The Chhota Imambara was initially a congregation hall for Shia Muslims that was built by Muhammad Ali Shah, who was the third Nawab of Awadh, in 1838. The Imambara was to serve as his own mausoleum as well as that of his mother, who is buried beside him in this prestigious monument. The Imambara is beautifully adorned with decorations and chandeliers at the time of special festivals, especially Muharram. In fact, this 19th-century building is also referred to as the 'Palace of Lights' by European visitors and writers because of the profuse decorations of the monument at specific events. It is a beautiful amalgam of Charbagh, Indo-Islamic and Persian structural and architectural designs. The exterior is complete with Quranic verses which are written in Islamic calligraphy on the walls of the monument. However, it is not just the exterior of the Imambara which catches the fancy of the eager visitors. Even the interiors of the monument are designed and maintained with intricate details and utmost care.
Janeshwar Mishra Park is an urban park located in Gomti Nagar, Lucknow. It was built in the memory of late Samajwadi Party leader Janeshwar Mishra. The park was inaugurated on 5 August 2014 and opened to the public. It has been conceptualized and designed as a multifunctional environmental and recreational green which will not only provide permanent habitat for various species of birds but will also provide a major entertainment and recreation center for all sections of the society. Janeshwar Mishra Park is spread over an area of about 376 acres. The architecture and development blueprint of the park has been prepared by the New Delhi-based School of Planning and Architecture.The park has a long meandering path. There is a special running cycle track with cycle parking facility Apart from this, there are also jogging tracks which can be used by professional athletes. 1. The park has been developed on the lines of Hyde Park in London. The park has plants, jogging treks, golf courses, an open gym as well as a great swing for children. 2. Apart from exercise, the park also houses some souvenir stores and eateries. 3. The design direction for the park is focused on a strategy of sustainable development that aims to promote harmony between humans and between humanity and nature. 4. Dense greenery and beautiful natural surroundings provide relief to frayed nerves and relax the mind.
Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar Memorial Park, situated in Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, India, is a sprawling memorial complex dedicated to the memory of Dr. Bhimrao Ramji Ambedkar, popularly known as Babasaheb Ambedkar. This architectural marvel serves as a tribute to his contributions to social justice, equality, and the upliftment of marginalized communities in India. The memorial park spans several acres and is adorned with majestic structures, grand monuments, and intricately designed gardens, making it one of the largest memorial parks in Asia dedicated to a single individual. The park's design and layout are inspired by Buddhist architectural motifs and principles, reflecting Dr. Ambedkar's deep-rooted connection to Buddhism and his role in advocating for the rights of Dalits (formerly known as untouchables). One of the most striking features of the Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar Memorial Park is the central stupa, a towering structure that symbolizes peace, enlightenment, and social harmony. Surrounding the stupa are numerous sculptures, statues, and reliefs depicting significant events from Dr. Ambedkar's life and the struggles of the Dalit community. The memorial park also includes several pavilions, meditation halls, and exhibition galleries showcasing artifacts, documents, and photographs related to Dr. Ambedkar's life, teachings, and legacy. Visitors to the park can explore these exhibits to gain a deeper understanding of his monumental contributions to Indian society and the ongoing quest for social justice and equality.
At a distance of 7 km from Lucknow Junction, Gomti Riverfront is a newly constructed park on the banks of River Gomti in Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh. Situated near Ambedkar Park, it is one of the wonderful places to visit as part of Lucknow tour packages. Inaugurated in 2016, Gomti Riverfront Park was constructed with the concern of preservation and development of River Gomti which is considered as the lifeline of Uttar Pradesh. The river originates from Madhav Tanda in Pilibhit, crosses Lucknow, and eventually merges with the River Ganga at Jaunpur. Stretches over an area of 2 km, the major attraction of the park is the musical fountain that is very huge and can be seen from both sides of the river that lures hundreds of tourists. Besides, the other facilities include a huge Amphitheater(around 20,000 seats), cycling and jogging tracks, boating, a play area for children, etc. The place allows the visitors to experience the beauty of River Gomti and because of its peaceful environment, it is also one of the great hangout places for individuals, friends, and family.
Ayodhya, town in northern India that is known as a sacred city and the birthplace of Rama in Hinduism and as a historical center of Buddhism. On a site significant to both Hindus and Muslims was a Mughal-era mosque, the Babri Masjid, which was destroyed in 1992 amid interreligious tensions. After a 2019 Supreme Court verdict granting the site to Hindus, a new Ram temple was built, opening on January 22, 2024. Ayodhya lies on the Ghaghara River, also known as Sarayu or Sarju in the lower course, just east of Faizabad in south-central Uttar Pradesh state. An ancient town, Ayodhya is regarded as one of the seven sacred cities of the Hindus, revered because of its association in the great Indian epic poem Ramayana with the birth of Rama and with the rule of his father, Dasharatha. According to this source, the town was prosperous and well fortified and had a large population.
World's oldest living city, Varanasi - also known as Kashi (City of Life) and Benaras, is the spiritual capital of India. It is one of Hinduism's seven holy cities. The old city of Varanasi lies along the western banks of the Ganges, spread across a labyrinth of narrow galis. Be prepared to walk on foot and encounter some holy cows! Temples at almost every turn engulf Varanasi but the Kashi Vishwanath Temple is the most visited and the oldest of the lot. Benaras is known as the city of Lord Shiva for a reason, and rightfully so. Varanasi is considered an auspicious place to die, as it is believed to grant moksha or liberation from the cycle of life and death. One of the city's most iconic features are the 80 ghats along the Ganges, where daily life unfolds against the backdrop of rituals, ceremonies, and spiritual practices. Dashashwamedh Ghat, the main ghat, witnesses the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti, a captivating ritual where priests offer prayers to the river with the rhythmic movement of lamps, fire, and chants. The boat ride along the Ganges during sunrise or sunset provides a serene and immersive experience, allowing visitors to witness the city's timeless beauty. The narrow winding lanes of Varanasi, known as galis, house numerous shrines, shops, and eateries, creating a maze that leads to hidden gems like the historic Sarnath, where Lord Buddha gave his first sermon. The city is a kaleidoscope of colors and sounds during festivals, especially during Diwali and Holi. The vibrant ghats, adorned with thousands of diyas (lamps) during Diwali, create a mesmerizing spectacle. Varanasi's local markets, such as the Vishwanath Gali and Thatheri Bazaar, offer an array of handcrafted silk, brassware, and traditional Banarasi sarees
The Taj Mahal was built by the Mughal emperor Shah Jahān (reigned 1628–58) to immortalize his wife Mumtaz Mahal (“Chosen One of the Palace”), who died in childbirth in 1631, having been the emperor’s inseparable companion since their marriage in 1612. India’s most famous and widely recognized building, it is situated in the eastern part of the city on the southern (right) bank of the Yamuna (Jumna) River. Agra Fort (Red Fort), also on the right bank of the Yamuna, is about 1 mile (1.6 km) west of the Taj Mahal. Did You Know? The Taj Mahal is one of the new Seven Wonders of the World. What are the other six? In its harmonious proportions and its fluid incorporation of decorative elements, the Taj Mahal is distinguished as the finest example of Mughal architecture, a blend of Indian, Persian, and Islamic styles. Other attractions include twin mosque buildings (placed symmetrically on either side of the mausoleum), lovely gardens, and a museum. One of the most beautiful structural compositions in the world, the Taj Mahal is also one of the world’s most iconic monuments, visited by millions of tourists each year. The complex was designated a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1983.
