Over the years, Lucknow has expanded with countless new upgrades. From luxury residential buildings to commercial sky-scrappers, the city’s skyline has become the perfect setting for a long drive. But there are some buildings that are especially unique in their architecture.
So, we decided to go on a drive across the city to compile this list of unique buildings in Lucknow. Read on and remember to let us know which one’s your favorite? Also, drop in your suggestions for more such buildings you might have spotted in Lucknow!
Jahaz Wali Kothi
Believed to be the only building of its kind in all of India, Lucknow’s Jahaz Waali Kothi catches the eye of everyone who passes by. In fact, this residential building is so popular that you don’t need navigation to reach it. All you need to do is ask and people in the surrounding areas will happily show you the way.
The house was commissioned in the year 1955 and took three years to be completed. Currently, the place is home to the 5th generation of Rastogi family. It must be a great feeling living one of city’s most famous houses, wouldn’t it?
Where: 28, Subhash Marg, Lucknow
Indira Gandhi Planetarium
One look at the Indira Gandhi Planetarium in Lucknow and you get a clear idea of what to expect inside. Opening for the public in 2003, this building resembles Saturn with its five rings. In addition to that, surrounded by water on all sides, it legit looks like its floating!
The Planetarium in Lucknow is open for the public on all days of the week except Monday. With state-of-the-art projection and special effects, shows in the planetarium are a true delight to visitors.
Where: Nabiullah Road, Qaiserbagh, Lucknow
Imambara
Built in 1784, Bada Imambara stands to this day as one of the top attractions in Lucknow. The monument itself is unique because no wood or metal has been used to construct this marvel of architecture. Furthermore, the place also houses the largest vaulted chamber in the world.
It’s traditional architecture might not appear as unique as many other buildings on our list. But, how can we list buildings and monuments in Lucknow without mentioning this marvel?
Where: Hussainabad Trust Road, Machchhi Bhavan, Lucknow
Police Headquarters
Lucknow’s skyline while you’re driving on Shaheed Path is a treat to watch. And the Police Headquarters make the sight even more amazing! This unique building in Lucknow is brimming with facilities on the inside and its swanky architecture makes it stand out in terms of aesthetics, as well.
Given that we don’t see such style and experimentation with government buildings, this one is a breath of fresh air! Take a quick drive encircling the building and you’ll fall deeper in awe with this building.
Where: Police Headquarters, 9th Floor, Tower 2, Gomtinagar Ext., Shahid path Lucknow.
JPNIC (Jai Prakash Narayan International Center)
Many people in Lucknow call JPNIC (Jai Prakash Narayan International Centre) the Stark tower. Yes Yes! The one where Iron Man lived. Why? Because no matter how high buildings in Gomti Nagar have gotten lately, JPNIC still stands tall as ever in the area!
Originally, the building was designed as an extension to the Ram Manohar Lohia Park. Currently, the building is not operational but did you know it houses an Olympic size swimming pool, a luxury hotel, and a helipad?
Where: Vipin Khand, Gomti Nagar, Lucknow
Oranje Castle
Last on the list but up there with any buildings in the city in terms of style is Oranje Castle. Another architectural marvel that makes the drive on Shaheed Path fun, Oranje brings the European lifestyle to the city of nawabs.
An ultra-luxury residential project, Oranje offers simplexes and duplexes along with opulent sky bungalows and penthouses. Overlooking the Gomti river, this new residential building in Lucknow is what a “dream home” is all about!
Where: Oranje Castle, Emaar Gomti Greens, Sector 7, Gomti Nagar Extension, Lucknow
Houses in Old Lucknow
If there’s one place that sets Lucknow apart, it is the nawabi heritage of old Lucknow. Build over a century ago and more, unique houses in the area stand to this day. The elegant architecture in these houses, including delicate ‘jaali’ work with a Persian touch, is only one of the enthralling aspects in these structures.
Often, the construction process and the building material used also shocks visitors. Just like the Imambara, houses here too have been built using things like urad dal, tree gum, and jaggery.
