Hello travel enthusiasts, Madhupriya here !!!
Welcome to my journey to the multicultural city, Lucknow. Watching Vir Das’ Destination Unknown, the Rumi Gate really caught my attention. Its grandeur in the middle of the road was captivating, prompting a strong desire to visit. As a solo traveller, that was good motivation, so I booked my tickets for my birthday week and set off on my trip!
How to reach lucknow :
I travelled to Lucknow from Kolkata by flight. It was a convenient and time-saving mode of transportation, allowing me to reach my destination quickly and comfortably.
Ultimate 4 days in Lucknow itinerary :
- Day 1 : Exploring the charm of City of Nawabs
Reached Lucknow early, had breakfast at the airport, then reached the hotel by 11:30 am. Freshened up and took a running auto to Rumi Gate, changing several autos along the way. Awestruck by its grandness, I took lots of pictures.
Explored Husainabad area on foot, saw the Clock Tower and Picture Gallery, then took a rickshaw to Bada Imambara. Highlight was exploring the Bhul-bhulaiya with a guide, stunning view from the rooftop. Missed Chota Imambara due to renovation. Took another auto to Aminabad for shopping and mouth watering Galouti Kebab, Roti, Firni at Tunday Kebabi. Just melted in my mouth!
- Day 2 : Discovering wonderful places The Residency, Saadat Ali Khan’s tomb and Hazratganj
This time, I visited the stunning Charbagh metro station, designed like a chessboard. Then, took the metro to “The Residency”. Also I kept this day relaxed, exploring The Residency and its museum in the afternoon, and seeing Saadat Ali Khan’s tomb on the way. Later, went to Hazratganj for some kulfi at Moti Mahal. Returned to the hotel early as I was meeting a friend the next day.
- Day 3 : A day out with my dear friend
Met my friend at Hazratganj and did some shopping. Got my favourite itar from Sugandhco. It was fun testing and shopping for itar. Then indulged in the beloved Basket chaat at Royal. Hazratganj is always bustling with high energy. My friend also took me to see St. Joseph’s Cathedral, the iconic Sahu cinema, and we visited Lucknow University. We even went to Sanatkada for some handicrafts shopping.
- Day 4 : Returned to Kolkata after a satisfying short trip
The entire trip cost me around Rs.15,000, covering flight fare, hotel, food, transport, tickets, and shopping expenses. Excluding shopping, it should be around Rs.13,000. Solo trips tend to be pricier since there’s no one to split expenses with, especially for cabs or hotels.
Best time to travel in Nawabo ki Nagri , Lucknow:
The ideal time to visit Lucknow, the capital city of Uttar Pradesh, India, is during the winter months, from October to February. I visited in the month of October only with pleasant weather.
Necessary things to pack for artistic hub of Lucknow:
- Carrypepper spray, dry food, water, band aid, moisturiser, necessary meds, sunglasses in your bag while travelling.
- Also pack summer clothes and comfortable shoes.
Some tips for solo travelling to Lucknow:
- Always book hotels and transport after checking ratings and reviews.
- Try to use public transport or app cabs instead of private taxis.
- Dress up according to the place
- Talk to locals for direction but always double check with 3-4 people. Prefer to follow Google Maps also.
My trip was amazing and I always opt for solo rooms in budget hotels instead of dorms because safety and privacy are top priorities while travelling.Experience mesmerising travel stories at https://sowl.in/stories and let them kindle your love for adventure! Safe travels, explorers!
