Kotwara Insight: A Visit to Muzaffar and Meera Ali's Home in Lucknow

Lucknow , India

Kotwara Insight: A Visit to Muzaffar and Meera Ali's Home in Lucknow

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For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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About this experience

Kotwara House is owned by Muzzaffar and Meera Ali. Muzzaffar is an Indian filmmaker, fashion designer, poet and artist. He belongs to the Muslin Rajput royal house of Kotwara and is the current Raja of Kotwara. His wife, Meera Ali is an architect and fashion designer. They have created an international couture label, “The House of Kotwara”. On this tour, you will see their workshop for their label and interact with highly skilled artisans. Clips from Muzaffer’s classic films are shown as you have a cup of tea/coffee.

Highlights: -
• Kotwara Fashion Label Insight
• Interact with artisans
• Tea at Kotwara House

Available options

1-8 Travelers

Price per person for 1-8 travelers<br/>Pickup included

What's included

Bottled water

Pick up / drop off within Lucknow city center.

Enjoying tea at Kotwara house.

Visit Kotwara House and their workshop.

Coffee and/or Tea

02 bottles of mineral water

Private Air conditioned Vehicle.

Detailed itinerary

You will be picked up from your hotel in Lucknow city center at 02:30 PM and will be escorted in your air-conditioned vehicle to Kotwara House.

Muzaffar and Meera’s couture fashion brand was established in 1990. They wanted to showcase the traditional craft of the Awadh region. Kotwara house is now a living center for craft with design and restoration inputs from Muzaffar and Meera Ali. The couple has revived the traditional craftsmanship of Lucknow. You will have the opportunity to see their workshop of Chikan, Zari and Mukaesh for their label, ‘Kotwara’. Admire each piece being readied and interact with highly skilled artisans at work. We also get to see the collected artifacts, some great works of calligraphy and paintings. Also enjoy short dance clips from Muzaffar’s landmark films including Umrao Jaan over a cup of hot tea/coffee. Upon conclusion of the tour, you will be driven back to your hotel in Lucknow.

What's not included

Gratuities

Food and drinks, unless specified

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 5.0

1 reviews

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Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Prior appointment is required before booking

Children under 15 must be accompanied by an adult

Important notes

Hotel pickups commence approximately 30 - 60 minutes prior to this time

Hotel pickups commence prior to this time, you must contact the local service provider to verify your exact pickup 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