Lucknow - लखनऊ

Lucknow, the capital of Uttar Pradesh, extends along the banks of the River Gomti. The creator of Lucknow as it is today was Nawab Asaf ud Daula. The city became known as a centre for Urdu poetry and courtly diction, and reached its zenith during the reign of Wajid Ali Shah who was a connoisseur of music and poetry. It was during his reign that the British appropriated Awadh. Today, the city is dotted with remnants of its rich historic past. Lucknow is also known for its elaborate cuisine and 'Chikankaari' or exquisite shadow-work embroidery on fine muslin cloth.

Lucknow is the old capital of the nawabs of Awadh was culture, courtesy and courtly lifestlye regned supreme. The imperialistic splendour and magnificence of the Nawabi era has been glorified and eulogised down the ages by writes, poets and historians alike. Conte,porary Lucknow is a far cry from the elegance and class of the old Awadh. Now, the city is very much a reflection of modern India with unplanned traveller can still have a glimpse of the aura of those heady days in the old monuments, ruins and the inner city lanes and alleyways. Located 516 km east of New Delhi on the southern bank of River Gomti, this city of Nawabs is spread over an area of 79 km.