WEAVER'S WORLD / LUCKNOW / PLACES TO VISIT -1

WEAVER'S WORLD / LUCKNOW / PLACES TO VISIT -1

Built & designed by Asaf-ud-Daula, the Nawab of Awadh in 1784, this architectural marvel is the key attraction to the city of Lucknow. An Imambara is a holy shrine for the followers of Islamic faith. Apart from most of the old city, also designed by Asaf-ud-Daula, this is a really good place to visit. The labyrinth is a bonus to the really great design considerations & marvels. Also, not just architectural, this is also an acoustic marvel. The historic feel of Lucknow and the amazing architecture is the essence of this place. The complex also includes the large Asfi mosque, the bhool bhulaiyya (the labyrinth), and bowli, a step well with running water. Two imposing gateways lead to the main hall. The complex reflects the maturation of ornamented Mughal design, namely the Badshahi Mosque - it is one of the last major projects not incorporating any European elements or the use of iron. The main imambara consists of a large vaulted central chamber containing the tomb of Asaf-ud-Daula. At 50 by 16 meters and over 15 meters tall, it has no beams supporting the ceiling and is one of the largest such arched constructions in the world. There are eight surrounding chambers built to different roof heights, permitting the space above these to be reconstructed as a three-dimensional labyrinth with passages interconnecting with each other through 489 identical doorways. This part of the building, and often the whole complex, may be referred to as the Bhulbhulaya. It is a great place to visit with friends and family.

Asaf-ud-Daula also erected the 18 meter (59 foot) high Rumi Darwaza, just outside. This portal, embellished with lavish decorations, was the Imambara's west facing entrance.

Crowded buildings of heritage, cultural and iconic, it is a good market for shoppers. especially bargain shopping. From local Lucknavi flavours and style to the branded goods, from street style markets to branded outlets this heart of the city gives a thrill to shoppers and sightseers alike. Food and architecture to keep the visitor engaged at all times. In local parlance it is termed as visiting and doing ‘Ganjing’. Considered the ‘happening’ place of Lucknow, it has shops having almost any brand, there are plenty of eateries, there are the roadside stalls, shops and wares to engage your attention. Big stores for books, clothes, this that and you name it - items ranging from jewelry, handicrafts, handlooms to electronics, automobiles. you have malls, restaurants, movie theatres, and even a library.

This is not really a tourist spot but never the less interesting and somewhat amusing, to find a traditional British public school founded by a Frenchman. It looks like a palace from heaven given its size and magnificence. This old school has a beautiful gothic building which is now being redone to its old glory. It would add to the old time charm of Lucknow.

Visit this famous British Residency of Lucknow. The site was the residence of the British Resident General which was stormed during the battle. The structure though in ruins after the battle has still been preserved till date with the bullet grazed walls and is surrounded by gardens which attracts tourists. It has been declared a protected monument by the Archaeological Survey of India.

Constantia House is an architectural feat built in the shape of a wedding cake. It belongs to La Martiniere College, one of the most prestigious schools in the city. It demonstrates the pre-independence era architecture in India. The grand building of the Constantia House is probably one of the most majestic structures of Lucknow. The main building of the sprawling La Martinere College, Constantia House makes you "feel" history through its corridors and beautiful arch ways. Designed by the famous French architect Claude Martin, who founded schools in Lucknow and Kolkata, the heritage building has a running college and beautiful lawns all around. It is in one of the most beautiful locations of Lucknow.