Kaiserbagh Palace, Lucknow in Lucknow
Summer: March-June (21°C - 45°C)
Winter: December-February (5°C - 32°C)
Monsoon: July-September
Best time to visit:
October-March
Opening Time: 08:00 a.m.
Closing Time: 08:00 p.m.
Weekly Holiday: N/A
Entry Fees for Indians
Adults: N/A
Children:
N/A
Cameras: N/A
Video Camera: N/A
Entry Fees for Foreign Nationals
Adults:
N/A
Children:
N/A
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Video Camera:
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Described as the soul of Lucknow, Kaiserbagh Palace today stands just as a reminiscent of the original glory it once boasted of. Built from 1848 to 1850 by Nawab Wajid Ali Shah, the palace once became the foremost glory of the region called Awadh. Wajid Ali, who was the last ruler of the region, was a great poet and an eager admirer of art and architecture and the palace was his biggest contribution in boosting the region’s tourism value.
Unfortunately, the region fell into the hands of British, who considering the palace as the stronghold of local rulers decided to raze it completely. Most of the structures and sections within the complex were destroyed in 1857-58. Today, however, huge numbers of tourists visit the ruins to explore minarets, Hindu cenotaphs, columns, banisters and pediments among other leftovers.
Two massive gateways (called lakhi doors because each was constructed using hefty cost of a lakh) with astounding images of fishes and mermaids greet the visitors. A white stone structure called Baradari, which was once entirely covered with silver, is the biggest highlight here. It is indeed an outstanding experience to wander through these ruins that speak a ton about the magnificence of the city.
Connectivites
Road:
The ruins of Kaiserbagh Palace are located within the city limits and accessible from Mahatma Gandhi Road. The route is in good condition and can be travelled in local buses, taxis, auto-rickshaws and cycle-rickshaws.
Railway:
Lucknow City Railway Station is less than 1 km. from the palace. It is possible to walk this distance without any hassle, though you may like to hire a cycle-rickshaw.
Airway:
Lucknow has a domestic airport which is about 15 km. from this tourist attraction. For convenient access from the airport, local buses, taxis and auto-rickshaws are the best options.