Know Your City | Time-travel to the days of yore; visit THESE 5 museums in Lucknow

The City of Nawabs has a history, as fascinating as this title given to it. And if you want to explore the captivating narratives and cultural diversity of this land, you've gotta pay a visit to these 5 museums in Lucknow.

These cultural gems not only narrate intriguing tales of the city but also stand as architectural marvels, contributing to Lucknow's unique identity. So, whether you're a tourist or a resident of Lucknow, a visit to these museums promises a journey through different epochs and an enriching experience that goes beyond history lessons!

Nestled within Hazratganj's historic General Post Office (GPO) building, which dates back to the British era, the Philatelic Museum underwent a gothic aesthetic transformation in 1929. Serving as a living chronicle of India's historical events, this museum pays homage to global figures through an extensive collection of stamps.

The exhibits within the museum showcase thematic stamps covering diverse subjects such as sports, culture, wildlife, literature, eminent personalities, and more. These stamps are elegantly presented in hundreds of frames, offering visitors a captivating glimpse into the rich world of philately.

Visiting hours: 10 AM to 6 PM (Sunday closed)

The ancestral home of the late Pandit Birju Maharaj is now transformed into the Kathak Museum. Better known as Kalka-Bindadin ki Dyodhi, the museum boasts a timeless architectural style.

Right from the entrance displaying a mesmerizing 3D mural of dancers, and an ancient well that adds a touch of historical charm, each space of this museum is decked up in a way to give the visitors a feel of the old times.

Visiting hours: 10:30 am to 4:30 pm (Monday closed)

Established in 1863 within Lucknow Zoo, the State Museum is a multi-purpose institution with a rich artefacts collection. This four-storey musuem features diverse galleries showcasing exhibits from natural history and even the Stone Age.

A day's trip is not enough to soak in all the info available here. The galleries here showcase Jain art, Indian sculpture and archaeology, art from the times of Nawabs, the making of coins, Egyptian history, metal art, natural history, and so much more.

Visiting hours: 10:30 AM to 4 PM (Monday closed)

Built-in 1838 by Nawab Muhammad Ali Shah, the Baradari (having 12 doorways), was initially a regal pavilion. Now a Picture Gallery, it displays life-sized portraits of the Nawabs of Awadh, opulent costumes and jewellery worn by the Nawabs.

Creating a heritge arc, the iconic stairwell, Clock Tower and Satkhanda, and the Picture Gallery make for a beautiful sight. While all the other creations charm visitors with their intricacies and beautiful design, the Picture Gallery tells tales of the times gone by!

Visiting hours: 10 AM to 4 PM

Dedicated to folk arts, the Lok Kala Sangrahalaya was established in Qaiserbagh, Lucknow in February 1989. The museum boasts a diverse collection of approximately 1600 rare and exceptional folk art pieces, including displays of folk dances, musical instruments, literature, jewellery, masks, terracotta, pottery, toys, costumes, woodcraft, stonecraft, and metal artefacts.

The museum's galleries represent cultural regions like Braj, Bhojpur, Avadh, Bundelkhand, and Rohilkhand, showcasing the traditional architecture and lifestyle.

Visiting Hours: 10 AM to 5 PM (Monday closed)

Now while you visit the above-mentioned museums, we'll get back to preparing another list of places, for the explorer in you! Keep a watch on this spot for updates.