Lucknow’s historic Chhatar Manzil, a magnificent Nawabi-era palace, is set to get a glamorous makeover as a luxury heritage hotel. The Uttar Pradesh Tourism Department has entrusted the project to Golden Triangle Fort and Palace, renowned for running premium heritage stays like Suryagarh (Jaisalmer), Narendra Bhawan (Bikaner), and Mary Budden (Binsar).

The two-year restoration aims to preserve the palace’s original Awadhi architecture while transforming it into a wedding and event destination akin to Rajasthan’s heritage properties. Initial work includes clearing overgrowth, repainting, and structural assessments. Architects and engineers will begin detailed restoration from May 2025.

But Chhatar Manzil isn’t alone, Kothi Roshan-ud-Daula, Kothi Iram, and Farhat Bakhsh Kothi are also slated for revival under a public-private partnership (PPP) model. The project promises to boost local employment, promote Awadhi cuisine, and showcase Lucknow’s handicrafts.

Tourism Minister Jaiveer Singh highlighted that the initiative will both preserve the region's rich history and stimulate the local economy. He also assured that the iconic banyan trees within the complex will be preserved, with only the dry ones being removed.

Chhatar Manzil, or the "Umbrella Palace", is a stunning blend of Indo-European and Nawabi architecture built by Nawab Ghazi-ud-din Haider and completed by his son. Once a Nawabi residence, the palace features gilt domes ('chattras') and overlooks the Gomti River. Only the larger Bari Chhatar Manzil survives today, with its unique design of twin underground floors and three towering stories. It played a key role during the 1857 revolt and later housed the CDRI.