A city of kebabs and nawabs, of architecture and history, of literature and culture, Lucknow the capital and the largest city of Uttar Pradesh is situated on the banks of river Gomti. A slice of rich colonial history to modernised museums, this artistic hub of Awadh region beautifully brings together the opulence of a glittering past and the simplicity of a modern city. As the capital of Awadh, the city was ruled by the Nawabs during the 17th and 18th centuries. The city has established its unique place on a global platform for its tehzeeb (manners), poetry, music, dance, beautiful gardens, grand architecture, old markets and fine cuisine. Home to some commendable and renowned buildings, including the Bada Imambara, Chattar Manzil, The Residency and Rumi Darwaza, the city is also a gastronome’s delight, especially for non-vegetarian fare. It has a special appeal among food lovers because of its succulent kebabs and fragrant biryanis. The people of Lucknow are known for their courtly manners and endearing ‘pehle aap’ (you first) culture, which always leaves behind a smile on the faces of its visitors. A perfect amalgamation of Indian aesthetics and colonial charisma, Lucknow has maintained its old world charm. Rumi Darwaza, the Mughal Gateway built in the centre of the capital divides Lucknow into ‘Old Lucknow’ which is ancient, and more crowded, and the ‘New Lucknow’ which is urban and one of the most planned cities of Asia. Most of Old Lucknow is well-known for its bustling vibrant streets, authentic, mouth-watering kebab and biryani outlets, lakhnavi chikan market, and the wholesale jewellery stores..