Read More on Rumi Darwaza
History
The gigantic Rumi Darwaza was once the ray of hope for many residents. The circumstances which lead to the construction of the Rumi Darwaza were nerve-wracking. It was built under the supervision of the Nawab in the 1780s. In 1748 the Awadh region and a few regions close by were badly affected by a famine which further lead to the spread of depression amongst the people.
After seeing his people struggle for bread and butter the Nawab named Asaf-Ud-Daula decided to get the Rumi Darwaza made. He came up with the construction project and generated employment for the people who were interested to work. This helped the commoners get rid of the depressive mentality as their minds had something new to think about. It helped the economy too, he actively participated in the construction of the Bada Imambada and the Rumi Darwaza. The structure was complete within two years and turned out to be an architectural marvel.
Architecture
The Rumi Darwaza Lucknow is an architectural gem in itself. It stands tall with all its might, an ancient structure that has stood the test of time. It even acts as a major landmark in the city, the Rumi Darwaza was built by Nawab Asaf-ud-Daula.
This structure has intricate carvings on the wall and the Nawab School of Architecture has been trying its best to preserve Mughal architecture. The coating of lime used in the construction of the Rumi Darwaza is the reason behind the detailing that the structure has, the picturesque flowers, and the floral designs. The Darwaza was built using bricks and lime and it was the first specimen of the Awadhi or Lakhnawi style of architecture. One of the most interesting facts here is that the huge structure is beamless.
The uppermost section of the Darwaza has a 60 feet high small octagonal area which is referred to as the chhatri. The gateway has four minarets one on each corner. There is a staircase that leads up to this area which is at present closed to the general public. The massive door has three slightly smaller gates that have beautifully carved archways. Summing it all up the Rumi Darwaza does not seem to be a gateway it is more of a building with many gates.
Activities
- Click some of the most Instagram-worthy pictures here.
- Drive from one of the arches in Rumi Darwaza.
- Indulge yourself in shopping from the nearby local market.
- Do not forget to try the street food available around the Rumi Darwaza.
Tips for visiting
- While clicking pictures beware of the vehicles around.
- Do not cause any kind of harm to the structure.
- Do not litter around the Rumi Darwaza.
- Take some time off and through your eyes take in the beauty of this gigantic gateway.
- If you are an architectural photographer then you must watch the sunlight dance around this architectural marvel. It is a treat for sore eyes.
Best time to visit
Anytime between September to March is considered a good time to visit Lucknow. The heat here is harsh and may end up giving you skin rashes so avoid being here in summers. The rainy season makes the place look really beautiful as all the historical monuments get washed off.
The best time of the day to visit the Rumi Darwaza Lucknow is either during the early morning hours or during the evening hours. During the morning hours, you can capture beautiful pictures, ones in which the road won’t be filled with vehicles whereas during the evening you will get a glimpse of the well-lit Rumi Darwaza. The lights make it seem even more gorgeous and celebratory.
Nearby Atractions
- Bara Imambara
- Chota Imambara
- The Residency
- Chhatar Manzil
- Dilkusha Kothi
- Aminabad Market
Nearby market/ shopping places
Aminabad: A paradise for people who love to shop at places that do not have fixed prices. At this market, one can hone their bargaining skills and purchase some of the famous items like jewelry, chikan sarees, chikan kurtas, wedding dresses, fashion garments, kitchen utensils, and home accessories. While shopping here one can stop by and enjoy snacks from Alamgir, and Kalika Chat House.
Chowk: This market is a place where one can shop to their heart's content. Name it and you will get it here. Make sure to have ample time and you should also be good at judging the quality of fabrics. The market is closed on Thursdays. While in Chowk you can purchase handicrafts, perfumes, flowers, footwear, chikankari fabrics, and zardozi garments. Here you can even order custom designs of chikankari. They will customize it according to your preferences.
Nearby Hotels
- Hotel Continental
- Radical palace
- Arif Castles, Lucknow
- Ecotel Hotel
- The Maple Leaf
- La Palace Sarovar Portico