Embark on a four-day immersive journey through Lucknow
Explore Lucknow, the city of Nawabs, where Mughal grandeur and colonial façades meet exquisite crafts and the aromas of Awadhi cuisine in a celebration of Mehman-Nawazi. Renowned for its mastery of gracious hospitality, Lucknow invites you to immerse yourself in its rich history, intricate crafts, and culinary heritage.
The journey unfolds through grand architecture, hands-on artisan workshops, and kitchens where centuries-old recipes are perfected, accompanied by experts who offer unique insight into these enduring practices.
Discover the essence of Nawabi Lucknow
From the moment you arrive, Lucknow’s living history surrounds you. The Bara Imambara stands at its heart, a vast 18th-century complex whose soaring central hall and intricate labyrinth, the Bhul Bhulaiyaa, showcase the ambition and ingenuity of the Nawabi era.
Nearby, the mosque on Lakshman Tila offers a quieter reflection of the city’s spiritual and architectural heritage. No less striking is the Rumi Darwaza, a monumental gateway rising in graceful arches – long regarded as the emblem of Lucknow’s cultural pride.
Step into the narrow lanes of Phoolwali Gali, once the city’s flower market, where artisans still craft delicate garlands in the same way their ancestors did. Here, tradition endures not as a relic of the past but as an integral part of daily life, linking centuries of artistry with the present moment.
"The city’s living traditions unfold through immersive encounters with its celebrated crafts."
Explore Lucknow’s timeless heritage and living crafts
Journey through Lucknow’s three defining eras – medieval, colonial, and contemporary – tracing the architecture, narratives, and cultural influences that have shaped the city’s identity.
In Hazratganj, the colonial marketplace brims with character, its grand façades framing boutique shops and cafés, humming with activity and the aroma of fresh brews. Step into private havelis such as Sheesh Mahal, where the patina of aged wood and the gleam of gilded antiques reveal rare Nawabi artefacts, period costumes, and centuries-old heirlooms preserved with care.
The city’s living traditions unfold through immersive encounters with its celebrated crafts. Watch master artisans bring Chikankari embroidery to life, transforming hand-blocked patterns into gossamer motifs. Observe the shimmer of Kaamdani and Mukaish embroidery, or the meticulous artistry of Naqqashi metalwork, each piece reflecting skills passed down through generations.
Your journey continues with a visit to a remarkable organisation that champions artisans through collaborative design and equitable recognition – a rare opportunity to meet craftspeople and witness the evolving story of heritage crafts. This is followed by a visit to a boutique run by an enterprising collective of local women, presenting handwoven textiles and traditional crafts from across India, offering both a glimpse of heritage and a perspective on its future.
Savour the flavours of Lucknow
The city’s story is inseparable from its cuisine.
Enjoy an intimate Awadhi dining experience one evening within a heritage home, where time-honoured recipes are cherished and prepared as they have been for centuries. Savour dishes seldom found beyond family kitchens, offering a genuine taste of Lucknow’s culinary heritage, served with the warmth and graciousness of true Mehman-Nawazi.
You’ll also have the opportunity to wander the old city’s lanes on a guided food walk, tasting iconic traditional dishes such as Kaleji kebabs, Pasanda with sheermal and the legendary Tundey kebab.
Where you’ll stay in Lucknow
With its timeless sophistication and attention to detail, the Taj Mahal Hotel ensures classic Awadhi hospitality and contemporary luxury amid lush gardens overlooking the Gomti River.
The hotel offers refined rooms and suites, discreet service, and exceptional dining that showcases the region’s rich culinary heritage. Its tranquil atmosphere provides a welcome retreat after exploring Lucknow’s grand architecture, vibrant bazaars, and cultural landmarks.
Why travel with us?
What makes this experience exceptional is the access it provides. With our trusted connections, step inside private havelis, workshops, and cultural spaces usually closed to the public, and meet the custodians and connoisseurs who keep these traditions alive. Every encounter is crafted to offer depth and authenticity, revealing a Lucknow that few travellers ever experience. Our specialists could extend our tiger safari journey, “Big Cat Strut” to include a stay in Lucknow. Explore the itinerary for inspiration.
Extend your luxury holiday to northern India
Lucknow, the capital of Uttar Pradesh, combines perfectly with destinations that showcase northern India’s rich cultural and natural heritage. Take a short journey to Varanasi, where private boat rides on the Ganges offer a deeply spiritual encounter with India’s oldest living city.
For wildlife enthusiasts, Dudhwa Tiger Reserve or Chambal Safari Lodge provide exceptional opportunities for tiger safaris and observing rare species. Search for species such as the gharial (fish-eating crocodile) and Gangetic dolphin in pristine habitats, all while staying in charming, conservation-minded lodges.
Opt to head east to Kolkata to discover its colonial architecture, vibrant markets, and refined Bengali cuisine, or to the west to experience New Delhi’s seamless blend of history, art, and luxury hospitality.
