Dilkusha Garden, Lucknow: A Beautiful Piece of History

Dilkusha Garden, also known as Dilkusha Kothi, is a historic place in Lucknow that reflects the grandeur of the 18th century. Built by the Nawabs of Lucknow, this garden and palace were designed for their leisure and hunting activities. The name “Dilkusha” means “heart-pleasing,” and it is a perfect description of the beauty and charm of this historical place.

Dilkusha Garden Lucknow Address

Dilkusha Garden is located near Charbagh Railway Station in Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh. The exact address is:
Dilkusha Garden, Near Charbagh Railway Station, Neil Lines, Cantonment, Lucknow. It’s easy to reach and is near other important places in the city.

Dilkusha Garden Lucknow Entry Fee and Timing

Here are the details for visiting Dilkusha Garden:

Entry Fee: No Entry Fee
Timing: Dilkusha Garden is open from 6 AM to 6 PM every day.

Architecture of Dilkusha Garden

The architecture of Dilkusha Garden is inspired by European styles, particularly from England and France. During the time of the Nawabs, British rule was also present in India, and this influenced the design of many buildings, including Dilkusha Kothi. The structure of the Kothi was designed by a British architect, Gomez, during the reign of Nawab Saadat Ali Khan (1797–1814).

The grand staircases, columns, and European-style walls make Dilkusha Garden stand out and show the mix of European and Mughal architecture. The design reflects the Nawabs’ luxurious lifestyle and their close relationship with British officials.

The Impact of the 1857 Revolt

During the 1857 Revolt, Dilkusha Kothi suffered significant damage due to the fighting. The British soldiers fired artillery at the Kothi, causing parts of it to collapse, especially the upper floors. Even today, the signs of this damage are still visible in the structure, serving as a reminder of the turbulent history during the revolt.

Historical Importance of Dilkusha Garden Lucknow

The walls and architecture of Dilkusha Kothi resemble buildings from Northumberland, England. The European-inspired design blends beautifully with Indian architecture, reflecting the Nawabs’ lavish lifestyle and the influence of the British during that time. Visitors who come to this site can experience the unique mixture of European and Indian design styles that tell the story of Dilkusha Garden’s rich history.

Changes Made by the Nawabs

The Nawabs of Lucknow made several changes to Dilkusha Kothi over the years. Nawab Haider Ali added staircases, expanded the courtyard, and constructed additional walls. The last Nawab of Lucknow, Wajid Ali Shah, made significant changes, particularly to the back portion of the Kothi, where he created a training ground for his military. However, the British government disapproved of these changes and stopped the construction. Later, during the 1857 Revolt, the Kothi was heavily damaged by artillery shells.

Dilkusha Garden is a beautiful representation of Lucknow’s royal history and architecture. If you’re visiting Lucknow, don’t miss the opportunity to visit Dilkusha Kothi. It offers a unique look into the past, showcasing the luxurious lifestyle of the Nawabs and their architectural brilliance.

How to Reach Dilkusha Garden Lucknow

By Train: The nearest railway station to Dilkusha Garden is Charbagh Railway Station, which is just 1.5 km away. From the station, you can hire a taxi or auto-rickshaw to reach the garden easily.

By Metro: The nearest metro station is Charbagh Metro Station, which is around 2 km from the garden. You can take an auto-rickshaw or a short cab ride from the metro station.

By Bus: There are several local buses that connect various parts of Lucknow to the Charbagh area, from where the garden is just a short distance away.

By Car: You can hire a taxi or rent a car for a direct drive to Dilkusha Garden, as it is well connected by road.