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.
List of Temples in Lucknow
Following is the list of renowned temples in Lucknow that are conveniently accessible via the nearby Lucknow Junction Railway Stations, Lucknow, Nepalganj, Dhangarhi, and Allahabad Airport and Kheria Airport, and Lucknow, Awadh, and Charbagh Bus Station:
Know more about:
8 Best Temples to Visit in Lucknow
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.
FAQs about Temples to Visit in Lucknow, India
Are there any festivals or special events celebrated at these temples?
Yes, these temples often host various festivals and events throughout the year. Major Hindu festivals like Maha Shivaratri, Hanuman Jayanti, and Navratri are celebrated with great fervour, drawing large crowds of devotees to participate in rituals, ceremonies, and cultural programs.
Are there any rituals or customs unique to these temples?
Yes, each temple may have its own set of rituals and customs observed by devotees. For example, the Mankameshwar Temple is known for its significance in fulfilling devotees' wishes, so offerings and prayers associated with fulfilling desires are common.
What makes the Hanuman Temple special in Lucknow?
The Hanuman Temple, also known as Hanuman Setu Mandir, is revered for its colossal idol of Lord Hanuman. It's a significant pilgrimage site for devotees, especially on Tuesdays and Saturdays, when worshippers throng to seek blessings and offer prayers.
Which temple is famous in Lucknow?
In Lucknow, Chandrika Devi Temple is among the most famous temples.
Which South Indian style mandir is in Lucknow?
Constructed in 1851, the 30-meter-tall Rangaji Temple features an Italian-inspired colonnade, an entrance gate designed in the Rajput style, and a classic Gopuram modelled after South Indian architecture.
Which God is famous in Lucknow?
Hanuman is a highly venerated deity in Lucknow, where the Hanuman Temple is situated in Aliganj.
Which is the oldest temple in Lucknow?
Chandrika Devi Temple, Lucknow. It is a sacred temple dedicated to one of the many forms of Hindu Mother Goddess Durga. It is a prominent pilgrimage site for locals and interstate people.
What is the significance of Mankameshwar Mandir in Lucknow?
Mankameshwar Mandir is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is believed to fulfil the wishes of devotees who visit the temple with pure intentions and devotion.
Can you provide some information about the Hanuman Temple in Aliganj, Lucknow?
The Hanuman Temple in Aliganj is one of the oldest and most revered temples in Lucknow. It is dedicated to Lord Hanuman, the monkey god known for his devotion to Lord Rama. The temple sees a large number of devotees, especially on Tuesdays and Saturdays, who come to seek blessings and offer prayers.
What is special about the Chandrika Devi Temple in Lucknow?
Chandrika Devi Temple is dedicated to Goddess Chandrika, believed to be an incarnation of Goddess Durga. The temple is known for its beautiful architecture and serene ambience, attracting devotees seeking blessings and spiritual solace.