Top 8 Famous Temples in Lucknow to Visit

Though more often celebrated for its Nawabi heritage, intricate monuments, and the eloquence of its Awadhi culture, Lucknow also houses several temples that stand as a testament to the city's diverse religious fabric and architectural splendour.

Apart from being places of spiritual solace, these temples offer a glimpse into the artistic and cultural ethos of the region.

Explore the list of 8 famous temples in Lucknow that guide you through the spiritual heartland of India; here are those 8 temples:

1. Sri Venkateswara Temple | Banthra Sikander Pur

The temple honouring Lord Balaji, a manifestation of Lord Vishnu, is constructed in classic Dravidian architecture and features the intricately sculpted and vibrantly painted Gopur, a 50-foot-tall pyramidal entry tower.

• Best Time to Visit: November to February.
• Temple Timings: 7 a.m. to 12 p.m. and 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. - Every day.
• Nearby Places: Naimisharanya, Dewa Sharif, Nawabganj's Bird Sanctuary, and Bithoor.

2. Chandrika Devi Temple | Khantwara

The temple's architecture and surroundings offer a serene and spiritual ambience, attracting devotees and tourists. Many visitors come to seek solace, offer prayers, and participate in various religious ceremonies and rituals conducted within the temple.

• Best Time to Visit: October to December.
• Temple Timings: 5 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 2 p.m. to 11 p.m.- Every day.
• Nearby Places: Gomti Riverfront Park, Lucknow Zoo, Bara Imambara, and Ambedkar Memorial Park.

3. Aliganj Hanuman Temple | Aliganj

Those who question India's secular principles ought to be aware that Begum Janab-e-Alia, the third wife of Shuja-ud-Daulah, the third Nawab of Lucknow, allegedly established this temple! The centre of the festivities is Bada Mangal.

• Best Time to Visit: May to June.
• Temple Timings: 24 hrs - Every day.
• Nearby Places: Sainiks Statue, Bada Imambara, Rumi Darwaza, and Kudiya Ghat.

4. Hanuman Setu Mandir | Babuganj

Neem Karoli Baba of Kainchi, Uttarakhand, founded the temple in the 1960s on the banks of the Gomti River. The temple is divided into two portions, one with an idol of Lord Hanuman and the other with one of Neem Karoli.

• Best Time to Visit: October to November.
• Temple Timings: 4 a.m. to 11 p.m. and 4 p.m. to 7 p.m.- Every day.
• Nearby Places: Chhatar Manzil, Gomti River, and Satkhanda.

5. Mankameshwar Temple | Mukarimnagar

Located on the banks of the Gomti River, the 1000-year-old Mankameshwar Temple is one of Lucknow's most important historical sites. Legend has it that at this location, Lord Lakshman prayed to Lord Shiva; a temple was subsequently built there.

• Best Time to Visit: October to March.
• Temple Timings: 7 a.m. to 12 p.m. and 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. - Tuesday to Sunday.
• Nearby Places: Akbar Fort, Khusro Bagh, All Saints Cathedral, and Chandrashekar Azad Park.

6. Sheetala Devi Mandir | Mehndiganj

Sheetala Devi Temple is thought to be one of Lucknow's oldest temples, having been around since the Nawabs' reign. It is reported that the idol of Goddess Sheetala was found in a nearby pond after it was smashed by some unidentified intruders.

• Best Time to Visit: March to April.
• Temple Timings: 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. - Every day.
• Nearby Places: Gomti River Front Park, Lucknow Zoo, and Ambedkar Memorial Park.

7. Bhootnath Temple | Indira Nagar

This temple, which is primarily devoted to Lord Shiva, also known as Bhootnath, also contains the idols of several other deities, including Lord Hanuman, Goddess Parvati, and Lord Shiva's steed, Nandi.

• Best Time to Visit: March to April.
• Temple Timings: 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. - Every day.
• Nearby Places: Chota Imambara, British Residency, Lucknow Zoo, and Hazratganj.

8. Nageshwar Shiva Temple | Aliganj

The temple has a far longer history than 300 years. The story goes that Kush, the son of Lord Ram, developed feelings for a snake-woman named Nag Kanya, whom he fell in love with because she was a devoted follower of Lord Shiva.

• Best Time to Visit: November to February.
• Temple Timings: 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. - Every day.
• Nearby Places: Gulacheen Mandi, Janeshwar Mishra Park, and Rumi Darwaza.

Whether you're seeking divine blessings, architectural inspiration, or simply a glimpse into Lucknow's cultural tapestry, these temples stand as testaments to the city's enduring legacy. So, when in Lucknow, don't miss the opportunity to explore these sacred sites that have been integral to the city's identity for centuries.