Dilkusha Kothi, Lucknow - Best Season to Visit, Things to Do

At a distance of 5 km from Lucknow Junction, Dilkusha Kothi is the remains of the 18th-century palace located in the Dilkusha area of Lucknow in India. It is one of the lesser-known historical places in Lucknow, and among the best Lucknow sightseeing places.

Dilkusha Kothi was built in the 18th century by Major Gore Ouseley, the British resident and a good friend to the then ruler of Oudh, Nawab Saadat Ali Khan. It was initially built as a hunting lodge for the Nawabs and was later used as a summer resort. Because of its close proximity to the Gomti River, the house was also used as a place where the Begums (wives of Nawabs) came to relax, unwind and enjoy a picnic. The house was shelled during its involvement in the Lucknow siege in 1857 together with the Residency and the nearby school of La Martiniere.

The design of this structure bears a striking resemblance to Seaton Delaval Hall, an amazing country house located in Northumberland, England. This 18th-century monument was originally a three-storeyed structure that also housed a mini-basement. There were four ornamental octagonal towers whose entrance was marked by an impressive flight of steps. These then led to a central doorway that rested on tall pillars which are as high as the roof of the second storey. Another notable feature of the structure that lent it a similarity to Claude Martin, was the presence of female statues near the balustrades. The perfectly manicured gardens outside the Kothi greatly add to its beauty. The building went further changes under the rule of Nawab Wajid Ali Shah, the last Nawab of Awadh.

Maintained by the Archaeological Society of India, today there are only a few towers and external walls as a monument, though the extensive gardens remain. Besides, there is another mansion that lies northeast of this building, which was built in an Indo-European style and brilliant architecture. Made of Lakhauri bricks and lime mortar, this double-storied building is built to serve as pleasure resorts and hunting lodges since the surrounding area were covered with dense jungles and ferocious wild animals earlier.

Timings: 8 AM - 6 PM

Entry: Rs. 5 for Indians & Rs. 100 for Foreigners