Lucknow , India

Wajid Ali Shah Walk through Kaiserbagh

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About this experience

Kaiserbagh Palace indeed did not have any parallel anywhere in the world. Kaiserbagh Palace Complex was in fact the most well planned works of grandeur by Wajid-Ali-Shah, the last ruler of Awadh, who himself was a great connoisseur of art in all its forms and the same innate personality reflected in his palace. Kaiserbagh later became a victim of British revenge, after the failed uprising in 1858, when the British recaptured sieged Lucknow and the ruler Wajid-Ali-Shah was deposed to Calcutta. As a consequence and revenge of the toughest time that the British forces had here, Kaiserbagh was unmindfully demolished.

Today sadly, only a few structures remain to be seen and it is indeed very hard to imagine that once it was, the world’s most beautiful palace complex. On this walking tour we explore the Kaiserbagh Palace Complex, reconstruct the area with the help of old pictures and maps and as a cherry on the cake, we treat you over a cup of tea

Available options

Wajid Ali Shah Walk through Kaiserbagh

What's included

Headsets to hear the guide clearly

Light refreshments

Bottled water

All taxes, fees and handling charges

Professional art historian guide

Coffee and/or Tea

Detailed itinerary

• Explore & virtually reconstruct Wajid Ali Shah's palace complex of Kaiserbagh on this 2 hour walking tour with a specialist walk leader.
• Curated photographs and maps are shown to guests, to help understand the construction of the complex.
• Wajid Ali Shah's personality as a ruler and as a person is narrated in the form of a story about his life in Lucknow.
• The walk ends with a refreshing cup of tea and a clip from a film shot in this area about the extinct culture is shown at a private home that is within a portion of this destroyed palace complex.
• Watch Chikan & Zari (embroidery) artisans at work at a private studio within the Kaiserbagh Palace Complex.
• Jute Walking bag with bottled water, notes on the subject and an old map too is included as a giveaway.
• The walk starts at 3 pm from UP Press Club, near Hotel Gemini Continental, Rani Laxmi Bai Marg, Lucknow.
• Everyday except Sunday and a few festival holidays.

What's not included

Hotel pickup and drop-off. This can be arranged at an extra cost.

DVD (available to purchase)

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Children must be accompanied by an adult

Dress code is smart casual

If Hotel pickup is requested, please note that pickup time will be prior to 3 pm.

Meeting point

Walk Leader will be stationed here with a paging.

Important notes

• Do not wear revealing clothes, living up to local customs and traditions.
• Do not carry luggage, as this is a walking tour.
• Comfortable walking shoes are recommended

Hotel pickups commence prior to this time

About Lucknow

Lucknow, the capital of Uttar Pradesh, is renowned for its rich cultural heritage, exquisite cuisine, and historic architecture. Known as the 'City of Nawabs,' it offers a blend of Mughal and British colonial influences, making it a fascinating destination for history buffs and food enthusiasts alike.

Top Attractions

Bara Imambara

Bara Imambara is a grand imambara complex built by Asaf-ud-Daula in 1784. It is known for its massive central hall, the Bhulbhulaiya (labyrinth), and the stunning view from the top.

Historical/Architecture 2-3 hours INR 50 (Foreigners: INR 500)

Chota Imambara

Chota Imambara, also known as Hussainabad Imambara, is a beautiful imambara built by Muhammad Ali Shah in 1838. It is known for its intricate design, stunning chandeliers, and the tombs of Muhammad Ali Shah and his family.

Historical/Architecture 1-2 hours INR 10 (Foreigners: INR 100)

Rumi Darwaza

Rumi Darwaza is a magnificent gate built by Asaf-ud-Daula in 1784. It is a prime example of Awadhi architecture and serves as an entrance to the Bara Imambara complex.

Architecture 30 minutes Free

Hazratganj

Hazratganj is a bustling commercial area in Lucknow known for its colonial-era buildings, shopping, and dining options. It is a great place to experience the city's vibrant atmosphere and local culture.

Shopping/Cultural 2-3 hours Varies depending on shopping and dining

Kaiserbagh Palace

Kaiserbagh Palace was built by Wajid Ali Shah, the last Nawab of Awadh. It is a grand palace complex that reflects the opulence and grandeur of the Nawabi era.

Historical/Architecture 1-2 hours Free (Some areas may require an entry fee)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Kebabs

Lucknow is famous for its kebabs, which are made from minced meat and marinated in a blend of spices. The most popular varieties include Galouti kebabs, Shami kebabs, and Boti kebabs.

Main Course Non-vegetarian

Biryani

Lucknow biryani is a fragrant and flavorful rice dish cooked with spices, meat, and sometimes vegetables. It is a must-try for any visitor to the city.

Main Course Non-vegetarian (Vegetarian options available)

Nihari

Nihari is a slow-cooked meat stew that is traditionally eaten for breakfast. It is made with beef or mutton and is flavored with a blend of spices.

Main Course Non-vegetarian

Sheermal

Sheermal is a sweet saffron-flavored bread that is often served with kebabs or curries. It has a soft and fluffy texture and a delicate sweetness.

Bread Vegetarian

Popular Activities

Exploring the Bhulbhulaiya at Bara Imambara Visiting local markets and street food stalls Taking a guided tour of the city's historical sites Enjoying a cup of traditional chai at a local tea stall Visiting the beautiful gardens and parks in the city Taking a leisurely stroll in Hazratganj or Gomti Nagar Attending a local festival or event Visiting the city's museums and art galleries

Best Time to Visit

October to March

This is the best time to visit Lucknow as the weather is pleasant and ideal for sightseeing. The city hosts several cultural festivals during this period.

15°C to 30°C 59°F to 86°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Hindi
Widely spoken: English, Urdu
English: Moderately spoken

Currency

Indian Rupee (INR)

Time Zone

GMT+5:30 (Indian Standard Time)

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Exercise caution

Lucknow is generally a safe city for tourists, but it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip. Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and scams, can occur in crowded areas and tourist sites, so it's important to be vigilant and keep your belongings secure.

Important Precautions:

• Be cautious when using public transportation and taxis, and always agree on the fare before starting the journey
• Keep your belongings secure and be vigilant in crowded areas and tourist sites
• Be cautious when exchanging money and only use authorized exchange centers

Getting there

By air

Chaudhary Charan Singh Airport • 15 km from city center

By train

Lucknow Junction, Lucknow Charbagh

By bus

Kaiserbagh Bus Station, Awadh Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

The Lucknow Metro is a modern and efficient way to get around the city. It is clean, air-conditioned, and offers a comfortable ride.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Ola

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Hazratganj Old City Gomti Nagar Aminabad

Day trips

Faizabad

125 km from Lucknow • Full day

Faizabad is a historic city in Uttar Pradesh known for its rich cultural heritage and religious significance. It is home to several important religious sites and offers a glimpse into the region's history and culture.

Ayodhya

135 km from Lucknow • Full day

Ayodhya is a sacred city in Uttar Pradesh known for its religious significance and historical importance. It is believed to be the birthplace of Lord Rama and is home to several important religious sites and temples.

Kanpur

75 km from Lucknow • Full day

Kanpur is a major city in Uttar Pradesh known for its industrial and historical significance. It is home to several important historical sites and offers a glimpse into the region's rich cultural heritage.

Festivals

Lucknow Mahotsav • November-December Eid • Varies (Islamic calendar) Diwali • October-November (Hindu calendar)

Pro tips

Try the local cuisine, particularly the kebabs, biryanis, and sweet dishes, which are considered some of the best in India
Visit the city's historical sites and landmarks, such as the Bara Imambara, Chota Imambara, and Rumi Darwaza, to learn about its rich cultural heritage
Explore the city's shopping and dining options, particularly in Hazratganj and Gomti Nagar, which offer a mix of local and international brands, as well as traditional crafts and souvenirs
Take a guided tour of the city's historical sites and landmarks to gain a deeper understanding of its history and culture
Visit the city during the winter months (October-March) for a pleasant and comfortable experience, as the weather is generally mild and dry